Sermon Notes

Faithfulness

Text - Heb. 3:1-6

Introduction: Character Trait Definition - Faithful—Manifesting a true spirit to a person to whom one is bound by a promise, a pledge, honor, or love.

Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. (I Cor. 4:2)

Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him. (Daniel 6:4)

Heb 3:1 ¶ Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;

Heb 3:2 Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house.

Heb 3:3 For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house.

Heb 3:4 For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God.

Heb 3:5 And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after;

Heb 3:6 But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.

Theodore Roosevelt said, "It is better to be faithful than famous."

God is not interested in believers becoming famous, but He is interested in us being faithful.

Someone has said, "The world crowns success; God crowns faithfulness." That is true. In fact, there will be no spiritual success without faithfulness.

“Why We Believe the Bible”

2 Timothy 3: 15-16

Outline

1. We Believe the Bible Because of its Inspiration!

A) The Movement of God upon the Word

B) The Messengers of God with the Word

2. We Believe the Bible Because of its Revelation!

A) The First Revelation of the Word!

B) The Final Revelation of the Word!

3. We Believe the Bible Because of its Preservation!

A) The Trials that have been Endured

B) The Truths that have been Embraced

4. We Believe the Bible Because of its Application!

A) For Salvation

B) For Sanctification

C) For Satisfaction

“THE CHRISTMAS STORY”

Isa. 9:6-7

Introduction: Christmas – a story of:

A) Places B) Prophecies C) People D) Presents E) A Person

1. Christmas is more than: a) commercialism b) celebration

2. Christmas is a time to remember our Lord’s birth and the reason for it.

3. The Psalmist said, “O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together.”, Psa. 34:3.

I. CHRISTMAS IS THE STORY OF A PERSON

· “Unto us a child is born” – that is His Humanity

· “Unto us a Son is given” – that’s His Deity

· “And the government shall be upon His shoulder” – that’s His royalty

· “And His name shall be called…”

A. “WONDERFUL” – speaks of His performance

· Takes Care of the Dullness Of Life

· “Wonderful” – a miracle; full of wonder

· He is wonderful in His:

1. Conception – unbelievable – Mt. 1:18-20

2. Character – unblemished – Heb. 4:15, “…was in all points tempted like as we are, yet…”

3. Conduct – unquestionable – Acts 10:38, “…who went about doing good.”

4. Conversation – incomparable – Jn. 7:46, “Never man spake like this man.”

5. Crucifixion – undeserved – Lk. 23:41, “…but this man hath done nothing amiss.”

6. Conquest – unmatched – I Cor. 15:3-4

B. “COUNSELLOR” – speaks of His protection.

· Takes Care of the Decisions Of Life

· “Counsellor” - one who deliberates or resolves

1. As our advisor, He directs us, Prov. 3:5-6

2. As our advocate, He defends us, I Jn. 2:1

3. As our arbitrator (mediator), He decides for us, I Tim. 2:5; Heb. 9:14-15

C. “MIGHTY GOD” – speaks of His power

· Takes Care of the Demands Of Life

· “Mighty” – powerful; by implication…a warrior; champion, Josh. 5:14

· “I am” – Exo. 3:14 (Heb. 11:6, “He is”)

1. Mighty as Creator, Jn. 1:3

2. Mighty as controller, Col. 1:17

3. Mighty as champion, I Sam. 17:47

· “Champion” – one who has defeated all opponents; fights for another

D. “EVERLASTING FATHER” – speaks of His permanence

· Takes Care of the Dimensions Of Life

· “Everlasting” see Rev. 1:8, “I am Alpha and Omega…Which is (the exalted One), and which was (the eternal One), and which is to come (the expected One)…”

1. He was in the beginning with God, Jn. 1:1

2. He was begotten of God, Jn. 1:14

3. He was born of a virgin, Isa. 7:14; Mt. 1:23

a. It was a miraculous birth

b. It was a magnificent birth

c. It was a matchless birth

d. It was a mandatory birth

e. It was a memorable birth

4. He was busy about the Father’s business, Lk. 2:49

5. He was burdened for sinners, Mt. 9:36 – because of sin, Isa. 53:12

6. He was betrayed by His “own familiar friend”, Psa.41:9; Mt. 10:4

7. He was “bruised for our iniquity”, Isa. 53:5

8. He was buried “with the wicked, and with the rich”, Isa. 53:9

9. He was brought up

a. Out of the grave

b. To the right hand of God the Father

E. “PRINCE OF PEACE” – speaks of His provision

· Takes Care of the Disturbances Of Life

F. “JESUS” – speaks of His purpose, Mt. 1:21 (redemption)

· It is His human name – He is the saving One, Mt. 1:21; Lk. 19:10

· It is His manger name, Mt. 1:25

· It is His majestic name, Jn. 19:19

· It is His ministry name, Jn. 1:45

· It is His message name, II Cor. 4:5

· The name Jesus reveals His person

1. He is a personal Saviour, Psa. 55:16, “As for me, I will call upon God, and He shall save me.”

2. He is a present Saviour, Jer. 15:20; II Cor. 6:2, “…Now is the day of salvation.”

3. He is a powerful Saviour, Heb. 7:25, “Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him,…”

4. He is a patient Saviour, Rev. 3:20, “Behold I stand at…”

5. He is a pitying Saviour, Psa. 103:13, “Like as a father pitieth His children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” “Pitieth” = to love; have compassion on; have mercy.

· The name of Jesus reveals His people (Mt. 1:21) – those of national decent; those who believe and repent (Rom. 1:6).

G. “CHRIST” – speaks of His positions, Lk. 2:11, 25-32

· “Christ” – anointed

· Three groups of people anointed in the O.T.

1. Prophets, I Ki. 19:16 – Jesus was a Prophet, Deut. 18:15; Lk. 24:19

2. Priests, Exo. 28:41 – Jesus was a Priest, Heb. 2:17

3. Kings, I Sam. 15:1 – Jesus is a King, Jn. 18:37; I Tim. 6:15; Rev. 19:16

· Christ is His Hebrew name – He is the Sufficient One

·

H. “LORD” speaks of His priority, Lk. 2:11

· “Lord” is His heavenly name – He is the Supreme One

1. In many people, He is present

2. In some people, He is prominent

3. But in few people, He is preeminent, Col. 1:18

I. “KING” speaks of His preeminence – not just a King, but THE King, I Tim. 6:12-13; Mt. 2:1-2; Jn. 19:19

1. He is the appointed King, Micah 5:2.

2. He is the anointed King, Heb. 1:8-9

3. He is the assaulted King, Jn. 19:1-3

4. He is the ascended King, Acts 5:30-32

5. He is the acclaimed King, Rev. 19:11-16

J. “IMMANUEL” – speaks of His presence, Isa. 7:14; Mt. 1:22-23; Jn. 1:1-14

II. CHRISTMAS IS A STORY ABOUT PLACES

A. Scenes in the city

1. Nazareth – the city of preservation – Lk. 1:26; Mt. 2:23

a. The place where Mary & Joseph resided, Lk. 2:39

b. The place where Jesus was raised, Lk. 4:16, 2:39-40; Mt. 21:11; Mk. 1:24 – Jesus of Nazareth, Mt. 26:71, 1:9, 10:47, 16:6.

· He was received well there as a Child, Lk. 2:52, 4:16

· He was rejected there during His ministry, Lk. 4:28-31; Mt. 13:54-58

2. Jerusalem – the city of peace (Mt. 2) – Foundation of peace – Hebrews

a. It’s past

· Called Salem, Gen. 14:18

· Called Jebus, Judges 19:10; I Chr. 11

· Called Jerusalem(first in Josh. 10; finally in I Chr. 11)

1) It is the City of the Great King

2) It was the center of government and religion. Mt. Zion – place where Ark was brought. Also known as Mt. Moriah, a place of :

· Complete obedience, Gen. 22

· Commitment, Ruth 3

· Confession, I Chr. 21:15-16

· Construction, II Chr. 3:1 – the temple site

· Crucifixion

3) It was the capital of the southern kingdom

4) It was a casualty of Roman oppression

· Her king – not a Jew but an Edomite appointed by Caesar

· Her religion – regulated by the Sanhedrin

b. Its present – praying for peace; waiting for the Prince of Peace

c. It is prophetic hope

· Psa. 48:1-2 – The city of the Great King

· The center of government and religion for the whole world.

3. Bethlehem, Mt. 2:1, 4-6, 8; Lk. 2:1-4

a. The Place

1) First mention – Gen. 35:16-19

· “Ephrath” – fruitful

· “Bethlehem” – house of bread

· Birthplace of “Benoni” – the son of my sorrow. “Benjamin” – the son of my right hand

· Burial place of “Rachael” – a ewe

2) Further mention

a) Book of Ruth – begins with a famine, ends with a feast

· Ch. 1 Ruth enters redeemer’s fold

· Ch. 2 Ruth enters redeemer’s field – Ruth meets Boaz

· Ch. 3 Ruth enters at redeemer’s family – Ruth marries Boaz. Obed>Jesse>David>Jesus Christ

b) Book of I Sam. 16:1-4, 13 – David anointed in Bethlehem

c) Book of I Kings 2:7 – kindness shown to Chimham

· Ate at the King’s table

· Apparently given land in Bethlehem, Jer. 41:17 “…the habitation of Chimham, which is by

Bethlehem…” “Habitation” = a temporary residence; to turn aside from the road for a lodging.

3) Familiar mention

B. A scene in the country, Lk. 2:8-20

1. The men, v. 8

a. their occupation – shepherds

b. their obligation – keeping watch over their flock

2. The messenger, vs. 9 – The angel of the Lord (probably Gabriel)

3. The message, vs. 10

a. good tidings

b. great joy

c. global application

4. The Messiah, vs. 11

5. The multitude, vs. 13

C. A scene in the courtyard, Lk. 2:7

1. The motel – “Inn” (Davis dictionary of the Bible) – not a cave like tradition teaches

a. Its pattern – a large quadrangular court with a well in the center and around the sides rooms for travelers, chambers for goods, and stalls for cattle

b. Its purpose – a public place of shelter for man and beast

c. Its provision – no furniture, no food, no fodder

2. The manger – Lk. 2:7, 12, 16 – not a cradle or a crib but a feeding trough. The manger reveals:

a. The humanity of the Saviour

b. The poverty of the Son

c. The depravity of society – “no room”

1) lack of compassion for the weary traveler and for those waiting delivery

2) Lack of comprehension

· Prophesied by Micah 5:2, Isa. 7:14

· Promised by Jehovah

· Yet, no great crowd

· Yet, no grand welcome

d) The accessibility of the sinner

· not a palace – only royalty could come

· not a mansion – only rich could come

· not a temple – only religious could come

· but in a courtyard – where anyone could come

e) The responsibility of the saint

· Wise men came – left a different way

· Shepherds came – made known the saying

· Angels came – praising God and proclaiming His glory

III. CHRISTMAS IS THE STORY OF PEOPLE (Notables)

A. It Is The Story Of A Man – Joseph

1. He was the progeny of a King

a. Genealogy of Jesus through Joseph, Mt. 1:1-17, esp. vs. 11, 16 (compare Mt. 1 with Gen. 5:1)

b. Gentiles in the genealogy – 4 women

1) Tamar – entered genealogy because of fault (Gen. 38)

2) Rahab – entered genealogy because of faith (Josh. 2)

3) Ruth – entered genealogy because of favor (Ruth 2:10)

4) Bathsheba – entered genealogy because of a family (2 Sam. 11) God does not cast away His children when they sin but chastens them in order to bring them back into fellowship.

2. He was the protector of the Christ

a) He was chosen by God to raise His only Begotten Son

1) He took Him to Egypt, Mt. 2:13-16

2) He taught Him a trade, Mt. 13:55; Mk. 6:3. It was not unusual for a Rabbi to have a trade—Paul was a tent maker. Jesus built a bridge – now He is building His church

3. He is a pattern for Christians

a. He had a salvation experience, vs. 19

1) “Just” by implication innocent; holy; righteous

2) There is none righteous, Rom. 3:10

3) We are justified by faith, Rom. 3:28, 5:1; Gal. 2:16; Rom. 4:1-5

b. He had a sound faith

1) He believed God’s Word, Isa. 7:14

2) He believed His espoused wife, Isa. 7:14; Mt. 1:18-19

a) “Espoused wife” – engagement that is as legally binding as marriage.

b) He could have had Mary burnt, Gen. 38:24

c) He could have had Mary stoned, Deut. 22:23-24

d) He decided to put her away privily (divorcement) Mt. 5:31; 19:7

3) He believed in one way to Heaven, Mt. 1:21. Salvation is in a person, not a plan or a program or even a plot.

c. He had a spiritual discernment

1) He discerned the will of God for himself and for his family.

2) Note four commands he obeyed immediately

a) Marry Mary, vs. 20, 24

b) Escape to Egypt, Mt. 2:13-14

c) Proceed to Palestine, Mt. 2:19-24

d) Go to Galilee, Mt. 2:22-23

B. It Is The Story Of A Maid – Mary, Lk. 1:26-56

1. She was pardoned, 1:47

2. She was privileged, vs. 28, 30, 42

a. Because of her faith, vs. 38, 45

b. Because of His favour. “Favoured” = to make accepted; indue with special honor. “Favour” = acceptable; graciousness; divine influence upon the heart and its reflection in the life; gift; grace

3. She was pure, 1:34

4. She was perplexed (confused), 1:34

5. She was promised, 1:3

a. By Messianic prophecy

b. By a messenger’s pronouncement, 1:31-33, 35

6. She was pliant, 1:38

a. Surrendered

b. Submissive

7. She was pondering – “Mary knew”, Lk. 2:19. If Mary was highly favoured, the Lord was with her, and she was blessed among women…

a. There are some things that go without saying

· We know she must have been saved.

· We know she must have made a sacrifice

· We know she must have been surrendered and submissive

· We know she must have been familiar with Scripture

b. When she looked into the face of the newborn Baby…

· She knew His birth had been miraculous, Isa. 7:14; Lk. 1:35

· She knew His body would be marred, Isa. 52:14

1) Hands and feet pierced, Psa. 22:16; Zech. 12:10

2) Back smitten, Isa. 50:6, 53:4

3) Face spat upon

4) Beard plucked, Isa. 50:6

5) Wounded for our transgressions, Isa. 53:5

6) Bruised for our iniquities, Isa. 53:5

7) Scourged – “With His stripes…”, Isa. 53:5

· She knew His blood would be shed

She did not know…

1) I Pet. 1:18-19

2) Rev. 1:5

3) Rev. 5:9

4) Rev. 7:14

5) Mt. 26:28

But she did know…

1) Exo. 12:13

2) Exo. 30:10

3) Lev. 17:11

· She knew His burial would only be temporary, Mt. 28:1-6

1) Isa. 53:9

2) Psa. 16:10

3) Isa. 25:8

4) Hosea 13:14

5) Job 19:25

C. It Is The Story Of A Monarch – Herod, Mt. 2:1. Four Herods:

1. Herod the Great – rebuilt the temple

2. Herod the Tetrarch – beheaded John the Baptist (He was in power at Christ’s crucifixion)

3. Herod the King – Herod Agrippa I

a. Beheaded James

b. Imprisoned Peter

c. Eaten of worms

4. Herod Agrippa II – Listened to Paul plead his case. Note: none of the Herods were Jewish. They were Idumeans or Edomites – the descendants of Esau.

a. Jacob – twin son of Isaac – pictures the spiritual

b. Esau – twin son of Isaac – pictures the flesh

c. Gal. 5:17, “for the flesh lusteth against the spirit…and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.” As Ishmael was a “son of the flesh”, so Esau was a “fleshly son”.

d. The descendants of Ishmael (Arabs) have always conflicted with the Jews.

e. The descendants of Esau (Edomites; Idumeans) have always conflicted with the Jews.

D. It Is The Story Of A Messenger, Mt. 1:18-23; Lk. 1:5-20, 26-38; 2:8-14. Gabriel means Man of God, Dan. 9:21. Luke 1:19,

1. He was standing – commitment

a. In the presence of God

b. For the purpose of God, Dan. 1

2. He was sent – commission, Mt. 28:18-20

3. He was speaking – communication; conversation – message, Mt. 16:15; Rom. 10:17

· Fruit of our lips

4. He was showing – conduct – manner of living, Mt. 5:16

· Fruit of our life

· Note: His message to the shepherds was Lk. 2:8-

a. Personal, “Unto you” – who

b. Pointed

1) “is born” – what

2) “this day” – when

3) “in the City of David” – where

4) “a Saviour which is Christ the Lord” – why

c. Punctual, “this day” – Gal. 4:4

d. Perpetual, “to all people”, vs. 10 – every class, every age

E. It is the story of some Magi

1. Their caste

a. “Wise Men” – Greek Magos – a magician or oriental scientist; by implication a magician; wise man

b. These Magi were a priestly caste, worshipping the elements:

1) Fire, air, earth, water – problem with what to do with the dead

2) Fire temples, generally on housetops where they kept the fire burning day and night, thus easy for them to notice “His star”

3) Referred to as “kings” probably because when Persia defeated the Medes – this religious caste was numerous enough to attempt to seize the crown, though they failed.

2. Their claim

a. To be mediators between God and man

b. To be prophets, interpreting dreams and omens

3. Their course

a. What they sought

1) A man, “where is he”

2) A monarch, “King”

3) A messiah, “Of the Jews”

b. What they saw, “His star”, Num. 24:17

1) Revelation – His star. “They substituted reason for revelation – went to Jerusalem, 2:1. They exchanged prophecy for presumption – went to the house where the “young child was”

2) Adoration – the star, Rev. 2:28, 22:16. “Worship” – to kiss, like a dog licking his master’s hand; to prostrate oneself in homage; to reverence; to adore

4. Their contributions

a. “Treasures” – wealth; deposit

b. “Gifts” – present; sacrifice; offering, Rom. 12

5. Their conclusion

a. They were observant

b. They were obedient

IV. CHRISTMAS IS THE STORY OF PROPHECIES

A. A prophecy about His presence, Isa. 7:14; Mt. 1:22, 23

B. A prophecy about His provision, Micah 5; Mt. 2:6

C. A prophecy about His persecution, Jer. 31:15; Mt. 2:18

D. A prophecy about His protection, Hos. 11:1; Mt. 2:15

E. A prophecy about His place, Unknown Prophet, unrecorded prophecy – fulfilled, Mt. 2:23

V. CHRISTMAS IS THE STORY OF PRESENTS – GIFTS

· Christmas is a time set aside to commemorate Christ’s birth. It was instituted by Romanism as early as AD 336

· “Christmas” = Christ’s mass

· It was corrupted by paganism, deteriorated from a worship service to a feast marked by parties and gift giving.

· It was commercialized by humanism. Paul said it right in Rom. 1:25, “Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped the creature more than the Creator…”

· Many are teaching their children to be more concerned about what St. Nick thinks than what the Saviour thinks.

· Two specific presents I would like to mention:

A. The Unexpected Gift

1. We are told in Mt. 2:11, that the wise men followed the star and found the Saviour in a house where they

a. Opened their “treasures”; a deposit; wealth

b. And “presented unto Him gifts”; present; sacrifice; offering

2. We might have expected gold (gift for a mighty King; royalty)

3. We might have even expected frankincense (gift for a ministering priest; deity;) religion

4. Who would ever have expected myrrh (gift for a martyred prophet; humanity) rejection

a. Its price – very costly – speaks of sacrifice

b. Its purpose – used to prepare a body for burial

1) It was an antiseptic and a stimulant

2) It was a perfume, Psa. 45:8; Pro. 7:17

3) It was an ingredient of anointing oil used for priests, Exo. 30:23

4) It was to deaden pain, Mk. 15:23

B. The Unspeakable Gift

1. “Unspeakable” = not expounded in full; indescribable

a. Most peculiar gift ever given

b. Most practical gift ever given

c. Most precious gift ever given

2. Someone has put it this way:

a. An unspeakable love that thought it

1) Jn. 3:16 – God gave His Son, Isa. 9:6

2) Gal. 1:4 – The Son gave Himself, 2:20

b. An unspeakable life that brought it, Jn. 1:1-4

c. An unspeakable death that wrought it, Rom. 5:6

d. An unspeakable joy when taught it, I Jn. 1:1-4

1) God the Father gives us heaven, Rom. 6:23b; Acts 1:4; Jn. 14:2

2) God the Son gives us hope, Eph. 1:18; Col. 1:27; Tit. 2:1; I Jn. 3:1-3

3) God the Spirit gives us help

He intercedes

He instructs

He fills us; anoints us; seals us; comforts us

CONCLUSION: In light of what He has given to us:

1. What will you give to Him?

a. Your heart in salvation?

b. Your self in service and sacrifice, Rom. 12:1-2?

· Talents in serving others

· Time in serving Him 15

Sermon Notes

Faithfulness

PERSONIFIED

It is not enough to see it (Faithfulness) on paper, we need to see it in people. Often we think of it as a character trait or a special feature or quality about a person but in actuality, Faithfulness is Personified, incarnate, embodied, and visibly seen in people......most notably in the Lord Jesus Christ Himself!

The question for us is......can it be seen in me?

TESTIFIED

Faith, Faithful, Faithfulness from Genesis-Revelation

348 times in 324 verses

To testify is to bear witness of, give evidence of, or to confirm a thing. Where and by whom is the testimony of Faithfulness to be found?

In Scripture

Word/Phrase Match Count

faith 247

faithful 82

faithfulness 19

In Service

Consider Moses - Heb 3:5 And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony...

In Sacrifice

Consider Abraham - Gal. 3:9 So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.

CLASSIFIED

Faithfulness in: Giving, Witnessing, Preaching, Loving, Serving, in the home, on the job, in the church, etc.

FALSIFIED

Not everyone that appears faithful really is!! You cannot look at a person and tell that they are truly faithful...only God knows who the real faithful ones are!

"How God Uses Problems"

Romans 5:1-5

Introduction: “Tribulation worketh patience”... WOW! I stopped praying for patience when I read that. One preacher friend of mine said he could never be a doctor because didn’t have any “Patience.”

As a pastor I hear this complaint all of the time, sometimes it even comes from my own lips, "Why doesn't God help me in my troubles?" This is a legitimate question to ask. A lot of Christians tend to be afraid of asking God why, or earnestly seek to resolve their crisis. Thinking I do not have enough faith or I would not go through this. Or I do not want others to know, for they would think bad of me or that I caused it.

We must adjust the way we perceive life. Even as Christians, sometimes we have faulty views and expectations we pick up by listening to bad teaching and bad advice and then there is the influence of our culture. First of all bad things do happen! And they happen to good people (in the way we see good, in God's eyes of course all have sinned and there is no good, except what Christ brings us). We will go through trials, troubles, and tribulations. So what we have to do is figure out what we do when it happens.

People react to trouble in several different ways. Some grumble, others gripe, many growl, a few groan; then there are those who grieve and thank the Lord; then some grow.

The problems you face will either defeat you or develop you - depending on how you respond to them. Here are five ways God uses problems in your life:

1. To DIRECT you.

Sometimes God must light a fire under you to get you moving. Problems often point us in a new direction and motivate us to change. Is God trying to get your attention?

Proverbs 20:30 The blueness of a wound cleanseth away evil: so do stripes the inward parts of the belly.

2. To INSPECT you.

People are like tea bags. . . if you want to know what's inside them, just drop them into hot water! Has God ever tested your faith with a problem? What do problems reveal about you?

James 1:2-3 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

3. To CORRECT you.

Some lessons we learn only through pain and failure. It's likely that as a child your parents told you not to touch a hot stove. But you probably learned by being burned. Sometimes we only learn the value of something ... health, money, a relationship. . . by losing it. ". .

Psalm 119:71-72 It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes. The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver.

4. To PROTECT you.

A problem can be a blessing in disguise if it prevents you from being harmed by something more serious. Last year a friend was fired for refusing to do something unethical that his boss had asked him to do. His unemployment was a problem - but it saved him from being convicted and sent to prison a year later when management's actions were eventually discovered.

Genesis 50:20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.

Here's the whole point: God is at work in your life - even when you do not recognize it or understand it. But it's much easier and profitable when you cooperate with Him!

"Counting Our Days"

Psalm 90:12

Moses wrote about counting our days in Psalm 90:12 – “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” He was not suggesting a “short-timer’s calendar.” So, what did Moses mean by this statement?

1 -Consider the Character. Who is God? (1-2)

· He is FAITHFUL - “thou hast been our dwelling place through all generations.” In spite of the unfaithfulness of God’s people, He dwelt among them all through the Wilderness Wandering. Moses wrote Exodus 29:45 - “And I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will be their God.” He never left them. Neither will He leave nor forsake us. Heb 13:5.

· He is POWERFUL – “or ever thou hadst formed the earth.”

The writer of Hebrews 11:3 - “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God…” The powerful Creator of the universe is our Helper. By His power, God delivered Israel out of Egypt. Ex 14:13 - “Fear ye not, stand still and see the salvation of the LORD…” Ps 46:1 –

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” No matter what we face in life, God is there for us.

· He is ETERNAL – “from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.” Moses wrote Ex 33:27 – “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms…” Israel would eventually enter the Promised Land with the command to possess it. Facing them were the pagan peoples and their local and man-made deities, but Israel was the distinct people of the Eternal God. We are the same as Peter testifies-I Pet 1:9 - “But ye are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that you should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.”

2 -Consider the Condition. What is man? (3-11)

The Fall of Genesis 3 and the curse of God affects every part of God’s creation. Death entered. Romans 5:12 – “Wherefore as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.”

· Brevity of Life. Moses describes life as yesterday when it is past, and a watch in the night (4); grass which grows up, flourishes, and in evening is cut down (5-6). Sin shortened the lifespan of men to 70-80 years or less (10).

· Certainty of Death. Specifically, Moses recounted his experience in the wilderness in Numbers 26:65 – “For the LORD God had said of them, They shall surely die in the wilderness. And there was not left a man of them, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun.” Thousands of those men from age 20 and upward died and were buried (Numbers 14:29). What a reminder of the certainty of death. (Experienced Combat Chaplains know the psychological and spiritual effects of holding multiple Memorial Services.)

3 -Consider the Conclusion. How should we live? (12)

Pray to God. (12-16). “So teach us to number our days…”

· For wisdom. The idea is to perceive the world around us from God’s perspective. He reveals truth in His Word. David wrote similar words in Psalm 39:4 – “LORD, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am.” Unknown writer: “We can only see ourselves as we really are when we come to see God for Who He actually is.” Live life in light of eternity. No day is to be crossed off as a waste of time. God has a plan and purpose for the 365 days of the year! Wisdom seeks the will of God.

· For mercy. “O satisfy us early with thy mercy…” Moses uses one of the great words of the Old Testament – “Hesed - grace, mercy, and favor of God” which was revealed to him in Exodus 34:6 – “And the LORD passed by him, and proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.” There is little doubt that we will need the mercy of God each day of our lives.

“A Great Way To Begin The New Year”

Exodus 40:16-17

Introduction: Forbes magazine posted an article online this week entitled “A Brand New Year”. The article was about New Year’s resolutions, and it said: “Although it’s fair to say that New Year’s resolutions go in one year and out the other, people who make resolutions are ten times more likely to change than those who don’t actively make a resolution.”

The article went on to point out that 40% of those who make resolutions are usually still successful after 6 months.

With the dawning of a New Year, many people are filled with hope that the coming year will somehow be better and different from the one that has just ended. Perhaps you have started the New Year with a desire for something different. Maybe you are one of the millions of people with a couple of resolutions you hope to keep?

In Exodus 40, we read about a new year that started with an epic event for the children of Israel. Verse 17 records that, “…in the first month in the second year, on the first day of the month, that the tabernacle was reared up.”

If you know much at all about the Old Testament, and the history of Israel, then you understand the importance of the Tabernacle and the significance of this particular day.

This closing chapter of Exodus focuses almost exclusively on the figure of the Moses and the raising of the Tabernacle.

As we look at this passage, we find some examples and some pictures of the kinds of things we should strive for in the coming year.

Let’s consider Moses and his work with the Tabernacle, and draw out some things you can do to start 2018 off in the right direction. First of all, Moses challenges you to:

1. Choose Your Response To The Scriptures

A. How Carefully Moses Obeyed

B. How Completely Moses Obeyed

2. Commit To Your Relationship With The Savior

A. Learn More About The Person Of Jesus

B. Live More In The Presence Of Jesus

3. Carry On With A Reliance On The Spirit

A. We Need His Glory To Fill Us

B. We Need His Guidance To Further Us

Sermon Series:

The Book of James

Why Are We Going Through This?

Scripture: James 1:1-4

Introduction: We often think of suffering as something that happens to us apart from God’s plan. James 1:1-4 helps us see that it is part of God’s redemption.

In 1967 Joni Eareckson Tada jumped into the Chesapeake Bay. Having misjudged the depth of the water Tada emerged forever changed. She would from this point forward be a quadriplegic—living her entire life in a wheelchair. She has been an inspiration to many. She is a picture of our text in James 1:1-4. She shows that God often has a good purpose in our suffering. On one occasion Joni discussed having her wheelchair in heaven.

She said:” I hope I can take my wheelchair to heaven with me—I know that’s not biblically correct, but if I were able, I would have my wheelchair up in heaven right next to me when God gives me my brand new, glorified body. And I will then turn to Jesus and say, “Lord, do you see that wheelchair right there? Well, you were right when you said that in this world we would have trouble, because that wheelchair was a lot of trouble! But Jesus the weaker I was, the harder I leaned on you. And the harder I leaned on you, the stronger I discovered you to be. So thank you for what you did in my life through that wheelchair. And now, you can send that wheelchair to hell, if you want.”

Where does that type of joy come from? The answer is that it can only come from God. Here are 3 truths to help us have joy in the midst of trials.

I. We Will Experience Trials

James 1:2 does not say, “Count it all joy... if...” No, it says, “…when” you experience “divers” trials. Cp. 1 Pet. 4:12

a. Suffering is part and parcel of the Christian life... “fall into” This does not suggest a stupid accident. It means “to encounter, come across.” We should not manufacture trials or volunteer for them, they are coming...

• Seen in Jesus (John 16:33). • in Paul (Rom. 8:17). • in Peter (1 Pet. 4:12).

b. Suffering prepares us for all types of trials. “divers” (Different; various)

• God is Sovereign over all the “various trials”

By telling us that we will suffer the Lord is giving us grace. It keeps us from going into shock and asking foolish questions when suffering comes upon us. When we know that suffering is part of God’s plan we will be better prepared to trust His sovereign goodness. We are reminded that God knows that we are going to suffer—but he also knows that our suffering has a purpose.

II. We Will Grow From Trials

Verses 3-4 give us the reason why we should be joyful in the midst of trials.

The only way the Lord can develop patience and character in our lives is through trials. Endurance cannot be attained by reading a book, listening to a sermon, or even praying a prayer. We must go through the difficulties of life, trust God, and obey Him. The result will be patience and character.

a. Suffering reveals our approval before God

• In vs. 3 he calls it “trying” or “testing”. The word in verse 3 is one that refers to the act of proving the worth of something.

b. Suffering produces experience and endurance

c. Suffering results in our conformity to Christ

• Endurance isn’t the final goal, maturity in Christ is our final goal

• Paul speaks similarly in Romans 8. God works all things together for our good, and this greater good is Christ-likeness.

III. We Will Overcome Trials

The fact that “let patience have her perfect work” helps us see that God will finish His work. Believers will endure these trials, for our good and His glory.

A. Our Response Matters

Our joy (1:2) and cooperation (1:4) is important as we respond to suffering

B. Our Response Reveals Our Heart

Vs. 5-8 builds on this theme. Those with a God-ward orientation will trust in God in the midst of suffering. Those with double-minded hearts will doubt his goodness. Our response in the fire reveals if we have faith that will endure.

Conclusion: We will all face seasons of suffering—believers and unbelievers. Yet, none of us will experience the full weight of suffering as Jesus experienced it. He experienced suffering so that He could ultimately redeem our suffering. What is your response to suffering? It reveals something about our hearts. Do we trust in the goodness of God? Is our faith one that is strong enough to endure the furnace of suffering? If you are suffering, know in this season that God is inviting you to trust His goodness. If you are not in a season of suffering this is the time to develop a strong theology of suffering. Then don’t be surprised when God calls you to use it.

Sermon Series:

The Book of James

The Lure of Sin

Scripture: James 1:12-18

Introduction: How do you catch a rat? One particular way is to use a rat poison like d-Con. D-Con is roughly 99 percent rat food and 1 percent brodifacoum. This poison is used to thin a rat's blood so rapidly that it begins to hemorrhage. Of course you would never catch a rat if you sat out a finely decorated bowl of brodifacoum. It wouldn't appeal to it. That is why the deadly poison is masked by that which appeals to rats; namely, food. Led by their stomachs these rats eat what will slowly lead to their undoing.

Not only is brodifacoum deadly, it is also patient, which is why it is the key ingredient in mouse poison. Because of the slowness of death mice aren't able to associate it with their demise. I doubt rats have funerals, but if they did the obituary would not read death by that tasty bowl of food that Speedy just ate. They likely would blame another culprit for their demise.

We are like those rats. Killed by our own desires we look for other sources of our demise. James1:13-18 helps us to see that God is not the one that entices us to sin; it is in fact our own natures that make sin so enticing. But, God graciously changes our natures so that we can withstand temptation.

“The magazine “Discipleship Journal” asked its readers to rank the areas of greatest spiritual challenge to them. The results came back in this order:

1. Materialism

2. Pride

3. Self-centeredness

4. Laziness

5. (Tie) Anger/Bitterness and Sexual lust

The study noted that temptations were more potent when: they neglect their time with God (81%) and when they were physically tired (57%).”

The survey also ranked the areas of greatest spiritual assets in resisting temptation to be “prayer (84%), avoiding compromising situations (76%), Bible study (66%), and being accountable to someone else (52%).”

HOW DO I RESIST TEMPTATION? James 1:13

I. THE COMMAND – vs. 13

A. Don’t blame God for your dirty old sins.

B. A young lady wanted to marry a boy who was an agnostic. The preacher warned her not to and refused to marry them, II Cor. 6. She got married any way. Three years later, she said to this preacher, I can’t understand why God ever allowed me to get into this mess. Don’t blame that on God.

C. You can’t blame God for your sin. God is not responsible for temptation.

II. THE CAUSE – vs. 14

A. Every man is tempted. Temptation is not a sin!

B. “When he is drawn away” – it means baiting of a trap, to ensnare, trap.

C. “Enticed” – it means lured by bait.

D. Lust – means desires. “Of his own lusts” - Notice the progression of sin in verse 15.

God Does Not Entice To Sin

In James 1:2 we see that trials are inevitable. In James 1:13 we see that in this age temptation is inevitable.

A. We are tempted to shift blame for our temptation

Notice the pattern in Genesis 3

Proverbs 19:3

In Matthew 7:1-5 Jesus teaches that we are more likely to look at specks in our brothers eyes than the log in our own

B. God is never the source of our temptation

God cannot be tempted

God tempts no one to do evil

This does not mean that He will not bring trials or even test us, but he does not entice anyone to do evil.

When we feel the pull towards sin and rebellion we are never allowed to shake our fist at God and say, "You made me this way". Temptation does not come from the Lord. It has another source.

III. THE CONSEQUENCE – vs. 15

1. 1 John 2:15-17: Lust of the flesh / Lust of the eyes / The Pride of life

A. Sin is the union of the will with lust.

B. If you overcome temptation, you receive a Crown of Life, vs. 12. When you give in to temptation, you receive Death, Rom. 6:23.

C. You are free to choose how you want to live, but you are not free to choose the results.

D. You are free to have your kicks, but you cannot avoid the kickbacks.

E. You are free to make your choices, but not free to avoid the consequences.

Our Natures Make Sin Enticing

We are enticed by our desires.

A. Temptation comes from within us

"Desire" is any intense longing for that which God has forbidden (Gen. 3:6)

B. Temptation is tailored to our "own desire"

It is unique to each person.

One man might be mightily tempted by something that holds no enticement over another.

C. Temptation wears a mask

"Drawn away" and "enticed" are fishing and hunting metaphors

Temptation rarely comes in the form of its grandchild (death)

D. Temptation eventually brings forth death

What begins as desire turns to sin

Sin "fully grown" births death

Sin is attractive to us because we are not yet fully redeemed. James is urging his readers to not give in to temptation because it inevitably leads to death. Thankfully God is at work to change our natures.

“James is not referring here to physical death, for then none of us would be alive. Nor is he referring to spiritual death, for then no one could be saved. The fulfillment of our lust brings about in the believer’s life a death-like existence.”

We Will Die To The Things Of God. We Will Die Inside.

Max Lucado in his book “No Wonder They Call Him Savior,” describes this state: “Guilt creeps in on cat’s paws to steal whatever joy might have flickered in our eyes. Confidence is replaced by doubt, honesty is elbowed out by rationalization. Exit peace. Enter turmoil. Just as the pleasure of indulgence ceases, the hunger for relief begins. Our vision is shortsighted and our myopic, narrow-minded life now has but one purpose – to find release for our guilt. Or as Paul questioned for all of us, “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:24

Conclusion :Apart from grace, we will have a foolish thirst for poison. Thankfully God has redeemed us from this insatiable hunger for our own destruction. We are still tempted, but through Christ sin is losing its luster. James 1:13-18 is a call to flee the lure of sin as well as a call to celebrate the new life we have in Christ.

Sermon Series:

The Book of James

Performance or Mercy?

Scripture: James 2:1-3

We all like to shift blame. In the midst of temptation we like to blame God for our struggles. Scripture shows us that the pressure of temptation comes from our own hearts. God doesn't tempt us, but He has provided rescue from our temptation. Because of what Christ has accomplished on our behalf we can withstand the onslaught of temptation.

Introduction: We are naturally drawn toward those that are either similar to us or that we believe might do us some good. Even in Christian circles we seem to rejoice more - as if our cause will strengthen - when a celebrity becomes a Christian than when a poor widow does. Jesus seems to have a different heart.

D.A. Carson asks a few probing questions:

Why is it that we constantly parade Christian athletes, media personalities, and pop singers? Why should we think that their opinions or their experiences of grace are of any more significance than those of any other believer? When we tell outsiders about people in our church, do we instantly think of the despised and the lowly who have become Christians, or do we love to impress people with the importance of the men and women who have become Christians? Modern Western evangelicalism is deeply infected with the virus of triumphalism, and the resulting illness destroys humility, minimizes grace, and offers far too much homage to the money and influence and 'wisdom' of our day. (The Cross and Christian Ministry, 29)

Our drive to place Christian celebrities on a pedestal is nothing less than the partiality that James decries in his second chapter. Our preferential treatment of those that we believe can benefit our cause is opposed to the cross-centered faith that we proclaim. In James 2:1-13 we are told not to show preferential treatment. This is no minor exhortation. It is at the heart of the gospel. There are three reasons why we are to not show partiality.

I. Partiality Is Inconsistent With God's Redemption

The word for partiality is one that combines two Greek words, one meaning "to accept" and the other meaning "judge according to one's face". Showing partiality then has to do with giving someone preferential treatment based upon their status within society.

A. The example of the rich and the poor (v1-3)

B. God pursues the unworthy and give them His riches

· God rescues those with nothing to give

· God's riches are what make one truly rich (v5)

C. Those that we assume will benefit us often do the opposite

· We not only usurp God's authority to judge but show ourselves to be miserable judges of what truly matters (v4)

· Rather than helping the cause of the gospel those who are highly esteemed by the world are the ones that oppress them and blaspheme Christ (vv. 6-7)

It is our natural bent to assume that man gives things to God instead of the other way around. Therefore, it is no big leap for us to assume that those who have the most to give are the ones that are most pleasing to God. God's pattern of redemption seems to be the opposite. Rather than helping those who help themselves, God seems bent towards helping those that have nothing to offer. We must reflect Him in this.

II. Partiality Is Inconsistent With God's Law

Likely "royal law" is a reference to the "Torah as fulfilled and expanded by Christ."* Those that have been redeemed by Christ will be inclined to follow after the heart of Christ. The summary of this is to "love your neighbor as yourself".

A. Discrimination breaks the Old Testament law

· "The entire law" is likely a reference to the OT law

· Showing favoritism is willfully breaking the law of God

· Breaking one point in the Law makes on a law-breaker guilty of all

B. Discrimination breaks the law of Christ

· The "law of freedom" is likely a reference to the law of Christ (similar to the royal law of verse 8)

· Believers must act and speak according to the freedom that Christ has purchased for them. Discrimination would be inconsistent with the speech and action that define this "law of freedom"

III. Partiality Is Inconsistent With God's Mercy

The activity of those who discriminate is judging upon outward appearances and what people have, it is the exact opposite of showing mercy. Judging according to mercy reflects a heart changed by the gospel. Judging according to performance reflects a heart that knows little of mercy.

A. The cure for our discriminatory hearts is to plunge deep into the mercy of God

B. The mercy of God triumphs over naturally judgmental hearts

C. Those that are redeemed must live consistent with the mercy they've been shown

Conclusion: John Newton once said, "Let us not measure men, much less ourselves, by gifts or services. One grain of grace is worth abundance of gifts." James would agree. Do you measure others by grace or by performance? The answer for our judgmental hearts is to become enamored by the mercy that we have received. This is also the answer to hearts that want to pedestal certain believers. The gospel levels. May we measure ourselves by Christ and not performance!

Sermon Series:

The Book of James

The Pressure of Words

Scriptures: James 3:1-18

Introduction: Time and again the Scriptures address the tongue. James devotes an entire chapter to controlling the tongue. When we consider the words of Jesus in Matthew 12:34 we see why the tongue is given such extensive treatment. How we handle the tongue is a great indicator of our hearts before God. Aesop shares a helpful fable to illustrate this point:

Once upon a time, a donkey found a lion's skin. He tried it on, strutted around, and frightened many animals. Soon a fox came along, and the donkey tried to scare him too. But the fox, hearing the donkey's voice, said, "If you want to terrify me, you'll have to disguise your bray." Aesop's moral: Clothes may disguise a fool, but his words will give him away.

Our words give us away. In James 3 we see that the tongue has power; that it is by nature hypocritical; and that it can only be transformed from above.

I. We Must Know The Power Of The Tongue (3:1-8)

Most people want to be heard. What better way to be heard as a believer than to be a teacher of the gospel? Yet, James urges us to consider the power of the tongue. We must not be hasty in propelling ourselves into a position where the tongue is constantly used. It is powerful and as such will incur a "stricter judgment."

A. Control the tongue, control the man

James argues from greater to lesser in verse 2. If one can control their tongue then they will be able to control the rest of the body as well.

· As illustrated by the horse (verse 3)

· As illustrated by ships (verse 4)

B. Big things come from the tiny tongue

· As illustrated by a wildfire (verse 5).... Words can build or destroy

· More than anything the tongue displays the state of our hearts

· Humanity alone cannot control the tongue

If James left us here this would be a miserable message: the tongue is a deadly poison that no man can stop. Thankfully, we aren't left to ourselves.

II. We Must Know The Pretense (Hypocrisy) Of The Tongue

The powerful tongue can be used for great good or great evil. Apart from redemption it will only tear down and destroy. Perhaps better than anything else the tongue reveals the "already" but "not yet" of Christian sanctification.

A. The Tongue Can Worship Or Curse (Verse 9-10a)

B. This Hypocrisy Should Not Be The Case (Verse 10b-12)

· James is not saying that they are unbelievers because of their hypocrisy. Note that he says "my brothers"

· James is saying that duplicity is inconsistent with a life redeemed by Christ

· Believers ought to be growing more consistent in their speech

III. We Must Know The Source Of The Tongue's Redemption

Redeemed speech only comes from godly wisdom being imparted to us. Worldly wisdom will lead to a tongue infused with bitterness that will show itself through bragging and a denial of truth. Godly wisdom will lead to pure and peaceable speech.

A. Worldly wisdom is earthly, unspiritual, and demonic

· Shows itself in bitter envy and selfish ambition that is accompanied by bragging and a denial of the truth (v14)

· It leads to "disorder and every kind of evil"

· This type of wisdom and speech is our default position

B. Godly wisdom comes from above

· Characterized by all that is pure and peaceful

· It leads to peace

· This type of wisdom only comes from God's redeeming grace

The type of wisdom and speech that governs our life displays the work of God in our hearts. Where our speech and wisdom is worldly we see that the earthly, unspiritual, and demonic is the governing authority. Where our speech and wisdom is characterized by purity and peace we see that something "from above" has taken root and is spreading through our lives.

Conclusion: Aesop was correct, our speech and the type of wisdom that governs our lives displays the state of our heart. What does your tongue reveal about your heart? Are you increasingly maturing in your speech? Or do you find your tongue a "restless evil" that you cannot control? Aesop's solution was to control your tongue. James has taught us that apart from Christ, such an exhortation is impossible. Redeemed speech and wisdom only come from the work of the Redeemer. Let us cast ourselves on the mercy of our Redeemer and pray that He will continue His work of overthrowing the demonic words that occasionally flow from our mouths.

12 Words That Will Change Your Life

“Please” and “Thank you.” When you use these three words, you are treating others like people and not things. You are showing appreciation.

“I’m sorry.” These two words have a way of breaking down walls and building bridges.

“I love you.” Too many people read “romance” into these words, but they go much deeper than that. As Christians, we should love the brethren and even love our enemies. “I love you” is a statement that can carry tremendous power.

“I’m praying for you.” And be sure that you are. When you talk to God about people, then you can talk to people about God. Our private praying for people helps us in our public meeting with people. Of course, we never say “I’m praying for you” in a boastful way, as though we are more spiritual than others. We say it in an encouraging way, to let others know that we care enough for them to meet them at the throne of grace. Give God your tongue and your heart each day and ask Him to use you to be a blessing to others.

Sermon Series:

The Book of James

Honey, Why Do We Fight

The Pressure of Conflict

Scriptures: James 4:1-10

We all face conflict. Most of us hate it. James is blunt about the source of our conflict. This is both painful and helpful. We can overcome the pressure of conflict by identifying its source and pursuing the humility that sets pleasing God as its chief aim.

Introduction: I usually start at the same place when doing marriage counseling. I begin by asking the couples to express the greatest source of their difficulties together. Their answers are diverse. Usually it has something to do with money, sex, children, or some other outside stressors on their relationship. Occasionally it will be more specific things like a lack of trust, spiritual differences, or extended family issues.

Most couples counseling spends a majority of the time attempting to iron out these differences. While there is value in doing this, James seems to take a different route. He gets straight to the heart of conflict. We like to blame things like our anger on something else. We think to ourselves, "If this would change then I would no longer be angry".

James would have us look at the source of our conflict instead of merely focusing on the triggers of conflict. Conflict is a result of the fall. Therefore, it - like the fall - touches every aspect of our lives. It is not only marriages that are wracked by conflict. It is every human relationship and institution. Therefore what James has to say to us is vital to everyday living. In James 4:1-10 we see the source of our conflict with man, our conflict with God, and the source of our conflict resolution.

I. The Source of our Conflict with our Fellow Man

In 4:1 James shows the source of our conflict is in the "cravings that are at war within you".

A. The source of all relational conflict is a failure to please God

· As seen in our inordinate desires (4:2)

· As seen in our lack of asking (4:2)

· As seen in our asking with the wrong motives (4:3)

B. Quote from Robert D. Jones, Pursuing Peace, page 49

"Failure to please God - our failure or the other person's or both - is the ultimate cause of all relational conflict. Bank on it: whenever there is conflict, one or both parties are not pleasing God."

This is actually really good news. Conflict is confusing. We could spend our entire lives attempting to unravel the specifics of relational conflict. Thankfully, the Scriptures make it simple. At the heart of all relational conflict is a failure to please God. This truth can redirect us to focus on what really matters; namely, pleasing God.

II. The Source of Our Conflict with God

In 4:4 James quickly moves into our conflict with the Lord. This helps us to see that the lines between conflict with God and man are often quite blurry.

A. God is in conflict with the world system

· Here "world" refers to the fallen world system

· God is opposed to the fallen and idolatrous desire of the world

B. God is in conflict with us when we make friendship with the world

· He calls it adultery

· God is to be our lover and not the fallen world system

C. God is jealous for our affections

The same disordered affections that cause our conflict with our fellow man also cause conflict with our Husband. We cannot have hearts that ask of God in order to "spend it on [our] evil desires" and still expect to be a friend of God. Scripture is clear "the world's friend becomes God's enemy."

III. The Source of Our Conflict Resolution

James outlines a few heart attitudes that will lead to conflict resolution between us, our fellow man, and God. These heart attitudes may not resolve every conflict but they will certainly put us in the favorable position of pleasing God.

A. It all begins with grace

· Grace is never received by the proud

· Grace is the balm the humble long for

B. Grace-drenched humility

· Submits to God

· Resists the devil

· Seek purity

· Directs our emotions

· Leads to exaltation

Humility is the path to resolving conflict. Humility will rightly value God above self and therefore the pull of the world system will lose its luster. Humility will also cause us to pursue godliness in the midst of conflict. It will help us confess our sin before men and God and will also assist us as we strive to continue pleasing God in the midst of inevitable human conflict.

Conclusion: In his book, Seeing with New Eyes, author and biblical counselor David Powlison reflects upon the hope of James 4.

One of the joys of biblical ministry comes when you are able to turn on the lights in another person's dark room....I have yet to meet a couple locked in hostility (and the accompanying fear, self-pity, hurt, self-righteousness) who really understood and reckoned with their motives. James 4:1-3 teaches that cravings underlie conflicts. Why do you fight? It's not "because my wife/husband..." - it's because of something about you. Couples who see what rules them - cravings for affection, attention, power, vindication, control, comfort, a hassle-free life - can repent and find God's grace made real to them, and then learn how to make peace.

The bluntness of James' diagnosis can be hard to swallow, but it is also filled with grace. May we acknowledge our role in conflict and pursue pleasing God in the midst of conflict whether we are at fault or not.

Sermon Series:

The Book of James

Retaliation or Rescue?

Scriptures: James 5:1-11

Introduction: It is natural to want justice. It is even natural to desire retaliation. Yet we know that God is going to make all things right. He will bring justice. This truth shapes the way we respond to injustice. When we are wronged the Scriptures encourage us to respond with patient endurance instead of sinful retaliation.

In times of great distress we can be tempted to pursue our own retaliation. Yet the truth that God is going to set all things right charts for us a different course. There are three implications from this truth that James outlines in this text. First, because God is making all things right we must be sure that we are not on the wrong side of His bringing of justice. Secondly, we must trust in His coming rescue and not our own feeble attempts at retaliation. Lastly, in the midst of suffering we must strengthen our hearts.

I. Be on the right side of God's rescue (5:1-6)

James addresses the rich. He likely is not actually speaking to the wealthy but to them who benefit from the oppressed believers present. It is a warning not to be on the wrong side of God's rescue.

A. Those who trust in riches will suffer the same fate as their fading treasures (5:1-3)

· Ruined & moth-eaten

· Corroded

B. Mere wealth isn't the problem here, extortion is (5:4-6)

· Unfair wages

· Living in luxury in a day of slaughter

· Condemnation and murder of the righteous

For God to bring justice it means that oppressors and wrongdoers will be condemned. Such a truth urges us to turn to Christ in repentance and belief.

II. Trust in God's rescue (5:7-8a)

Those that are presently oppressing the believers in James' day will eventually come to justice. In light of this truth we are to trust in God's rescue and not pursue our own means of retaliation.

A. Be patient because the Lord is coming (5:7)

· As seen in the farmer

B. His rescue will be precious (5:7)

· As the precious fruit that the farmer so patiently waits for

· This also implies working as we wait

III. Strengthen our hearts as we wait for God's rescue (5:8b-11)

Not only must we wait but we also must strengthen our hearts.

A. The coming of the Lord is at hand (5:8b)

· This implies that we must be ready for His coming and not found sleeping and inactive

B. Not complaining (5:9)

· We are tempted to complain as we wait for rescue

· Such complaining puts us on the wrong side of God's rescue

C. Consider examples (5:10-11)

· Consider the prophets (5:10)

· Consider Job (5:11)

· Consider the Lord's character (5:11)

Conclusion: When we pursue our own retaliation it reveals a heart that does not trust in the Lord's ultimate rescue. The same is true if we find ourselves in bitter despair when we experience oppression. The Lord Jesus faced a great injustice than we ever will. During this time He absolutely trusted in the Lord. By doing this He secured our rescue. May we continue to trust Him and His rescue instead of fighting for our perceived "rights"!