There are more than 125 questions found in Book of Matthew. Many of them were asked by the Lord. His questions helped men focus on things that really matter. Jesus Christ’s questions in Matthew 22:42 were asked within the last week of the His life. “What do you think about the Christ? Whose Son is He?” They said to Him, “The Son of David” (NKJV). Our Lord posed this question to people who were interested in spiritual things. Jesus addressed the central issue, “What do you think about the Christ?” If the thinking is not right at this point, it will not be right in other areas. What do we think of our relationship with Jesus Christ? If the disciples thought of Jesus only as the son of David, they would have had only a partial view of the Lord. We know the answer to our Lord’s question if we accept what the Bible says about Him. Jesus continued by expanding the initial question. He said to them, How then does David in the Spirit call Him Lord, saying: The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool? If David then calls Him Lord, how is He his Son? And no one was able to answer Him a word, nor from that day on did anyone dare question Him anymore. (Matthew 22:43-46) As God (Deity), Jesus Christ is David’s Lord, but as a man, he is David’s Son. The disciples to whom

The Book of Job teaches us that Satan is relentless in his efforts to capture men (1:7; 2:2). Peter added that Satan is constantly looking for men to devour (1 Peter 5:8). Paul indicated that he knew Satan employed a number of different devices to discourage and hold back the progress of the church (2 Corinthians 2:11). The devil sends wolves from outside to destroy God’s flock by false teaching and employs even some church leaders to teach false doctrine and draw sheep away from the truth (Acts 20:28-31; 2 Timothy 4:3-5). He also uses division into groups following after men instead of the Lord (1 Corinthians 1:10-13). Job also teaches us that human philosophy falls short (16:2-3). The prophet Jeremiah penned that man does not have the wisdom to direct his own steps (Jeremiah 10:23). It is God’s wisdom that can teach us to do good works and set us on the path to perfection (1 Corinthians 2:6-13; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). Therefore, Paul would have us to cast down human wisdom and pride (2 Corinthians 10:5). Total trust should be placed in God, as Job further demonstrates (42:1-6). The wise man of old would also instruct us to rely on God (Proverbs 3:5-7). Likewise, David, the singer of Israel, pointed to God for strength (Psalm 33:8-12). No wonder Paul asked the rhetorical question, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31). The greatest lesson in the Book of Job is that all of life’s most

In the first chapter of the Gospel according to Mark, we find three references about Jesus Christ where it reads, “He came” (Mark 1:9, 14, 31). Of course, we know this means that Jesus came from one point or place to another. The coming of the Messiah or the Christ was of great interest to the Jews and others who had any knowledge of the Old Testament. Regarding Jesus of Nazareth, John the Baptist referred to Him time and time again (Matthew 3:11; John 1:27). Other New Testament passages also focus on the first coming of Christ (Hebrews 10:5-9). His coming has been anticipated by both the prophets and the people. Yes, we, too, see His coming on the pages of the Bible. Jesus Christ came with a message (Mark 1:14-15). His focus was on an opportunity. Jesus not only addressed time, but He spoke of the fullness of time. It was the right time (Galatians 4:4). The emphasis of our Lord’s message was the kingdom. We know which kingdom. We know whose kingdom. We know of its relationship to the Gospel. The nature of the kingdom is compelling, though, some things are demanded of those who would be subjects thereof. Jesus Christ came on a mission (Mark 1:16-20). He came to say some things and to do some things. Our Lord came to call men (Mark 1:16-17). Though men view themselves as busy, Jesus knew and knows what is best for mankind. He called and calls men to other priorities, which are

Introduction: I. Moses sent the spies into Canaan (Numbers 13:18-20). II. Caleb made a fervent appeal (Numbers 13:30-33). III. A lack of faith brings destruction, whereas instead, loyalty brings reward (Numbers 14:1-10). IV. Faithful obedience to the law of right and justice brings the highest praise that can be bestowed upon a person. A. Such service always attains the richest reward for time and eternity.B. This principle of fidelity to God should govern us in the small affairs of life as well as in the larger ones.C. It is only by adhering to this principle, as well illustrated by Caleb, that true men and women are made. Conclusion:

Although Abraham may have had many trials of his faith, the trial in Genesis 22:1-13 is expressly stated as a trial of his faith. He had exhibited his faith since he first learned of Jehovah and responded to His call to leave his home in Ur of the Chaldees. We know that it is impossible to please God without faith (Hebrews 11:6). Before faith is perfected or complete, it must be tried or tested, and that takes some kind of action on the part of the individual. Yet, just any kind of action will not do; it must be action ordained by God (James 2:21-24). Abraham, as the father of the faithful, had to be tested. The purpose was not to weaken or to destroy but to purify and strengthen (Job 23:10). Abraham had to realize that Jehovah is supreme and that man’s highest duty and blessedness lies in obeying Him. He had to be absolutely certain that Jehovah could be depended on to fulfil His promises regarding Isaac, even though he was offered as a sacrifice on the altar. Hebrews 11:17a provides for us a golden text. “By faith Abraham, being tried, offered up Isaac.” The manner in which Abraham met this great test should be a great encouragement to all of us. All men of faith must be tried if their faith is to be made perfect or complete. We are no exception. Genesis 22:1-2 presents the command to Abraham. Consider first, “And it came to pass after these things, God

As Christians, we often talk of our love for God, but what does it really mean to love Him? Is your love just a feeling or an emotion? Is love a circumstance in and out of which we fall? Or, does true love for God involve action? Jesus made a statement in John 14:15 that tells how our love for God must be demonstrated. “If you love me, keep my commandments.” We can deduce from this statement that love is not just some feeling or emotion, but rather a true love requires obedience to the will of Jesus Christ. The following questions, which when answered, will test if we really love God as we say that we do. Do we put God first in our lives? If we truly love God, then we will do much more than just say it. We will seek to put Him first in our lives. Matthew 6:33 records Jesus saying, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God.” This means we are to place God in the #1 position in our lives. He comes before our families, our jobs, our hobbies and everything else that we do. He is the center of our consideration. He is at the center of all that we do. Do we enjoy giving gifts to God? This deals with our giving. We are afforded an opportunity to give a portion of our blessings to God as a sacrifice every first day of the week (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). People will sacrifice everything they own for

Man is neither pleased nor happy when he finds certain things empty. He is not happy when he finds the gas tank on his vehicle empty. He is not happy when he finds his bank account empty. He is not happy to find the cabinet or refrigerator without food. While man is not pleased or happy with these events, man can be pleased and happy that the tomb in which Jesus was buried was found empty. Jesus came, died, was buried and rose again. What can we learn from this empty tomb? The empty tomb teaches us that man is going to live again. Job asked the questions recorded in Job 14:14, “If a man die, shall he live again? All the days of my appointed time, will I wait until my change comes?” Man has always asked the question about life after death. Some believe that man does not live after death (Sadducees). There is a saying that expresses this idea: “Dead like Rover, dead all over.” However, regarding humans, this is a false idea. There is life after death for man. The Bible teaches this in John 5:28-29, where it reads, “Marvel not at this, for the hour is coming in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life, and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.” The empty tomb teaches us that man has a Living

The Attitude “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake” (Matthew 5:10). One characteristic of a citizen of the kingdom of God is that one must be ready and willing to endure persecutions (2 Timothy 3:12). This follows closely to the attitude of the peacemaker. In order to keep peace, one must be ready and willing to endure persecutions. The work of a peacemaker is not a light and easy one; it often carries with it persecutions of the world, even from those who should be restored to God. The blessing is received by those who are “persecuted for righteousness sake” and not by those who are persecuted for their opinions or their evil doings. Jesus was bitterly hated and reviled because He was seeking to please God (Mark 3:6; Luke 6:7, 11). Persecutions can manifest themselves in different ways: by misrepresenting a person, by slandering a person’s character, by trying to make a person’s motives look bad or by taking a person’s property. Persecutions are usually the result of hatred of God (John 15:20-23), ignorance of God (John 16:1-3), hatred for Christ (1 Thessalonians 2:14-15), for preaching the cross of Jesus (Galatians 5:11; 6:12) or for one’s godly living (2 Timothy 3:12). Yet, what should be the Christian’s attitude when persecutions come? A Christian should pray (Matthew 5:44), be patient (1 Corinthians 4:12), glorify God (1 Peter 4:16) and flee from it (Matthew 10:23). The Reward “For theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:10). We are to

Matthew 14:22-33 tells us about the time that Peter began to sink in the sea. There are a number of lessons that should help us when we begin to sink in sin. We even sing about “sinking deep in sin,” and this song evidently came from this section of Matthew. In this article, we will notice the storm, the Savior and the sinking. The Storm (22-25a) In thinking about the storm, I want us to notice the problem of a storm, the people of the storm and the principle of the storm. First, the disciples were facing a real problem. They were in a troubled sea. There was a problem of distance as they were in the “midst of the sea.” There was a problem of danger as the boat was “tossed with the waves.” There was the problem of darkness as it was at the “fourth hour of the watch at night.” They were right in the middle of the problem and did not see any way out. Think about the people in the storm. We expect wicked and sinful people to be troubled and have problems, and, of course, they do (Proverbs 13:15; Isaiah 57:20-21). Yet, these people were “His disciples” (22). They were following Jesus, but here they were in the midst of a real problem. Consider the principle of the storm. The principle taught here is that even disciples of Christ will sometimes find themselves in the midst of trouble and surrounded by problems. Even God’s greatest servants were not

“For if these things are yours and abound, you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins” (2 Peter 1:8-9 NKJV). We see two different Christians here: one who possesses these Christian qualities and is increasing in them and the other who lacks these Christian qualities. Why do some Christians not increase in these Christian qualities? They have forgotten that they have been cleansed from their old sins. The main reason that some Christians’ spiritual lives fall apart is they have forgotten that they have been cleansed from their old sins. They have forgotten that: To forget is to die spiritually. Some Christians are blind and cannot see far. When we do not possess the Christian qualities of 2 Peter 1 in increasing measure, we cannot see far; we are spiritually blind. Yes, we are blind, and cannot see: A good example of spiritual blindness is the church at Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-17). God help us never to forget that we have been cleansed from our old sins. If we are to see beyond this life and its troubles to the mansions of Heaven, we must possess these Christian qualifications. “But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, to knowledge self-control, to self-control perseverance, to perseverance godliness, to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly

Some things hinder our walk with God. For instance, too many business cares can hinder our walk with God. It is right and necessary for people to be engaged in the business activities of life. People cannot care for their own without being involved in business affairs (1 Timothy 5:8). However, it is entirely possible for a person to become so engrossed in the business life that he forgets God. A person can rob God of the time and worship that so rightly belongs to Him. Too many social engagements hinder many Christians in their walk with God. Time that should be spent in soul winning or personal work is hindered because of “other” personal commitments. These are things that ordinarily would be fine to engage—except when they interfere with one’s walk with God. Worldly pleasures also sometimes keep us from walking with God. Vacationing, golfing, fishing, sports, etc. are fine unto themselves, but in excess, they can interfere with a Christian’s walk with God. Jesus took time for Himself, but He did the will of the Father and walked with Him first.“Two cannot walk together, except they have agreed” (Amos 3:3). When an individual spends too much time and money on worldly pleasures, he is not in agreement with God. A person cannot walk with God while not in agreement with Him. Fleshly lusts and passions remove one from fellowship and communion with God. People do not generally take this step first. Usually, they become involved with social life

Almost daily, we are made aware of tragedies. Some tragedies are attributable to nature, like an earthquake. Some tragedies occur locally, such as those who die from the cold or others who die in fires. Still other people die by the hand of man, war dead, victims of terrorism or murder. The list of tragedies goes on and on. Lives are forever changed, and many lives are ruined. Tragedies of all sorts have been happening for a long time. There were present at that season some who told Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And Jesus answered and said to them, “Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. Or those eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem? I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:1-5 NKJV) Yet in all of this, the greatest tragedies of any generation are spiritual tragedies. Ignorance is a spiritual tragedy (Hosea 4:1, 6, 10). Sin was running rampant in Israel because of ignorance (Hosea 4:2). The nation was sliding like a backsliding heifer (Hosea 4:16). Israel was even described as forgetting her maker (Hosea 8:4). Ignorance will kill us! Indifference is also a spiritual tragedy (Revelation 3:14-19). The one talent man was called

The word “godliness” comes from the Greek word eusebeia and it means “a proper religious attitude of respect, reverence and devotion toward God, parents or one’s fellow man.” Its main use pertains to the reverent fear at the superiority and holiness of Almighty God and His worship that results in a careful obedience and loyalty to His Word. Eusebeia gives God the right place in one’s mind.It provides for worship and service before God in the right way. Patience (perseverance) also leads to a humble reverence and a deep respect toward God. Patience is interrelated to godliness, which by itself is such a powerful word. We must with all diligence, in our patience, add godliness (2 Peter 1:5-6) to our Christian character. Proverbs 1:7 gives us the basic idea of godliness. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, But fools despise wisdom and instruction” (NKJV). Eusebeia is basically the right attitude toward God—the attitude of reverence, superiority, worship and obedience. To please God, we must embrace the meaning of this important word. That will lead to a complete, continual and cheerful obedience of God’s commands. Christians are encouraged by Scripture to practice godliness. We are to lead a quiet life in all godliness (1 Timothy 2:2). Women are to profess godliness (1 Timothy 2:10). Great is the mystery of godliness (1 Timothy 3:16). Christians are to exercise themselves in godliness (1 Timothy 4:7). Godliness is profitable to all things (1 Timothy 4:8). Christian doctrine is according to godliness (1 Timothy 6:3). Godliness with contentment is gain

Matthew 14, Mark 4 and Luke 8 provide three accounts of the same parable. Matthew and Mark’s accounts are labeled as parables of the sower for the productive seed, the Word of God, falls on good soil and produces some 30, some 60 and some 100-fold. There is a difference in Luke’s account; the productive seed falls on the good soil, which represents good and honest hearts. With patience, the seed bears fruit. The evangelist’s heart must be right. Speaking ability is great, but without God’s love it reminds us of the clanging of a hammer on metal. Others will really never care how much we know until they know how much we care. God loved lost souls and showed how much He loved them (John 3:16). Jesus also loved lost souls and showed how much He loved them (John 10:15). He could have called twelve legions of angels to protect him (Matthew 26:53), but He gave His life while we were yet sinners (Romans 5). Our Lord endured the suffering and the shame of the cross for us (Matthew 27:32-44). He loved us so much that He was willing to take our sin upon Himself, even though because of that, God would forsake Him (Matthew 27:46). The apostles loved lost souls and went everywhere preaching and teaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. James, the brother of John, was killed with the sword because he preached the Gospel (Acts 12:1-2). Peter was thrown into prison (Acts 12:3-5), and John was exiled to the

Faith is not just knowing the will of God but having the courage to act on it. May this degree of faith be seen in you and me. One prominent Bible character had the courage to defy a king (Hebrews 11:23). Moses’ parents were courageous. They hid Moses for three months! Then his mother made a boat and set him in the river! What could cause a woman to do this with her baby? Could she not support the child any longer? Was it that the child was a burden to the family? Was he maybe an embarrassment to the family? No! The king demanded that all the Israelite newborn males be killed. What would you do for your child when you were that desperate? Moses’ mother trusted the Lord! There is more to the biblical account (Exodus 1:22-2:10). Moses had the courage to identify with his people (Hebrews 11:24-26). He courageously suffered with his people (Hebrews 11:24). Nursed by his own mother and learning of his nation’s dilemma, Moses refused to live a lie to keep material benefits. Who we are is more important than riches and pleasure! Moses suffered hardships for Christ (Hebrews 11:25-26; Exodus 2:11-14). Christ suffered immensely for us (1 Peter 1:21-23). We should be willing to suffer for Christ. Serving Christ will bring some hardships and afflictions (2 Timothy 3:12). We must stand with God’s people in times of difficulty. Suffering for Christ is superior to the seasonal pleasure of sin. The results of suffering with Christ are

And after some days, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish, he sent for Paul and heard him concerning the faith in Christ. Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” Meanwhile he also hoped that money would be given him by Paul, that he might release him. Therefore he sent for him more often and conversed with him. But after two years Porcius Festus succeeded Felix; and Felix, wanting to do the Jews a favor, left Paul bound. (Acts 24:24-27 NKJV) The message Paul spoke to Felix is a message needed today. Paul discussed three things with Felix. The first thing Paul reasoned about was righteousness. Psalm 119:172 says, “My tongue will speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.” So, righteousness means doing what is right as God’s word says. Those who do right according to God’s Word and who are righteous are accepted by God. “But in every nation he that feareth him and worketh righteousness is accepted with him (Acts 10:25). In preaching righteousness and keeping the commandments of God, Paul must have preached repentance and baptism, too (Mark 16:16; Acts 22:16). The second thing Paul reasoned about was temperance. Temperance means self-control, having one’s life in control. A Christian must be temperate in all things. “And every man shall strive for the mastery of temperance in all things. Now

Possessing a proper attitude brings about good results. One proper attitude with good results is exhibited in the biblical phrase, “Blessed are the meek” (Matthew 5:5). The meek are the mild, the gentle, the lowly, the patient and the tame. Meekness is not weakness. When the Greek word is applied to an animal, for instance, it describes a horse that is tame. A tame horse is gentle, holds no grudges, offers no resistance—even when under abuses—and works faithfully without resentment wherever it is put. The meek are those who willingly and gladly accept God’s will. They do whatever God gives them to do without complaint or disagreeing (1 Corinthians 10:10). They lose their own will by doing the will of God (Galatians 2:20). Christ completely possesses them, and because of this, they are in full possession of self. A good Bible example of meekness is Moses (Numbers 12:3). The Christian is exhorted to be a meek person. He is to do all things in meekness (Ephesians 4:2). The child of God must put on meekness (Colossians 3:12). He is to follow meekness (1 Timothy 6:11). Subsequently, the Christian instructs others in meekness, too (2 Timothy 2:25). Every child of God likewise receives the Word of God with meekness (James 1:21). When necessary, an erring Christian is restored with meekness (Galatians 6:1). Faithful or practicing Christians show their works with meekness (James 3:13) and show meekness to all men (Titus 3:12). The meek will be rewarded; they shall inherit the earth.

“The soul is a citadel which no enemy can storm without consent.” Yet, brethren give way to the devil. James gave a double warning against being “double minded” (1:8; 4:8). Such is a good description of a worldly church member who needs to be converted (4:8; 5:19-20)! Three things stand out in our text to help us in our confrontation with the devil. First, the devil is our foe. He is a personal foe. He tempted Jesus, entered Judas, desired to have Peter and hindered Paul! So is it with us, too. The devil is a powerful foe. This is demonstrated in several ways. Note the names by which the devil is known: Apollyon, Devil, Satan, Prince and Beelzebub. Observe the creatures with which Satan is associated: Serpent, lion and dragon. See the accomplishments of the devil: moral depravity and ruin of the whole human race. Therefore, divine intervention is needed to subdue him (1 John 3:8). Satan is a prowling foe (Job 1:6-7; 1 Peter 5:8). He is no mythical or cartoon character in a red jogging suit. The devil is not a personification of “evil”—with a “d” added. He is no shy, backward being (Job 2:1; Matthew 4:1; 2 Corinthians 11:14). We must fight or “resist.” What does it mean to resist? To resist is to stand against, to withstand, to argue with, reason with or plead with. Preparation is needed for such an undertaking (Ephesians 6:10-16). Other imperatives or steps needed in resisting include: You submit to God; be in subjection. You draw nigh unto God; enjoy close communion (Hebrews 10:22). You cleanse

(2 Peter 1:3-11) Brotherly kindness comes from the Greek word “philadelphia.” It is defined as, “brotherly kindness, brotherly love or love of the brethren.” Godliness produces brotherly kindness. God is our Father, and His children are our brothers and sisters. To love them is clearly and plainly taught by Jesus Himself (John 13:34-35). Furthermore, if we love God, we will love the children of the Father (1 John 5:1). According to the inspired apostle Paul, love fulfills the law (Romans 13:8-10). Christians are encouraged to practice brotherly kindness. We are to be devoted to one another (Romans 12:10). Brotherly kindness is taught by God (1 Thessalonians 4:9). Christians need to continue in brotherly kindness (Hebrews 13:1). Peter writing about the same subject wrote, we must have a sincere love of the brethren (1 Peter 1:22). The apostle John explained love of the brethren in 1 John 4:4-21. How can we grow in brotherly kindness? First, we need to ask God to help us (Matthew 7:7-8). Secondly, we can read about the life of Christ and determine to imitate Him (1 Peter 2:21). In the third place, it behooves us to carefully weigh our every thought and word (Proverbs 25:11). Fourth, observing the lives of mature Christians can greatly assist us (1 Corinthians 11:1). Fifth, we can develop the habit of exhibiting brotherly kindness by doing deeds of kindness to others (Matthew 7:12; Colossians 3:12).

“As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will cast you off forever. Consider now, for the Lord has chosen you to build a house for the sanctuary; be strong, and do it” (1 Chronicles 28:9-10 NKJV). David exhorted the people to fear God. Another record of the charge appears in 1 Kings 2:1-4, which reads: Now the days of David drew near that he should die, and he charged Solomon his son, saying: “I go the way of all the earth; be strong, therefore, and prove yourself a man. And keep the charge of the Lord your God: to walk in His ways, to keep His statutes, His commandments, His judgments, and His testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that you may prosper in all that you do and wherever you turn; that the Lord may fulfill His word which He spoke concerning me, saying, ‘If your sons take heed to their way, to walk before Me in truth with all their heart and with all their soul,’ He said, ‘you shall not lack a man on the throne of Israel.’” The servant of God must “know God.” Solomon was charged to “know the God of thy father” (2

Certainly, the search for happiness is the aim of every life. However, we may have a difference of opinion on how to achieve it. There is a difference between pleasure, sensation and happiness. Even the U.S. Constitution gives its citizens the unalienable right to “the pursuit of happiness.” We can be happy in spite of undesirable circumstances that occur in life. Persecutions may befall one in his or her life, and yet, a person can still be happy. “Blessed [happy] are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you” (Matthew 5:11-12 NKJV). On may experience some degree of poverty, and yet not despair over one’s situation. “Then Peter said, ‘Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk’” (Acts 3:6). In addition, some disappointments visit everyone from time to time. If a person cannot be happy despite disappointments, then no one could be happy, for all have some disappointments. Possessing things is not necessary to obtain happiness. The wealth of the rich often fail to insulate them from being miserable. Wisdom, the possession of an intangible, brings heaviness of mind. Sensual pursuits after which most of the world pursues is unable to bring lasting happiness. Acquiring power over others

(Matthew 7:21-27) Things in Common Both men in the context of Matthew 7:21-27 came and heard Jesus. That was commendable of them both. What did they hear? They both heard Christ’s words. There is a necessity of hearing (Romans 10:17; John 6:44-45). Yet, hearing alone is insufficient (James 1:27) Both men were disciples, learners or followers. Both were builders. Their intentions were honorable. They saw the necessity of building a house or a place of refuge. Many now see the necessity of religion of some kind. Some now have different reasons for religion. Work was involved in the building. Some resolve to build but abandon or procrastinate. Some start but cease their work. Both of these builders, though, continued throughout their lives, and both erected a house or completed the building on which he was working The outward appearance of the two buildings was similar. Today, many religious people profess similar religious beliefs. Often, persons don’t see the differences in religion now. All people see, for instance, is that they worship, etc. In Matthew 7, both men had a sense of security, satisfaction, security and peace of mind. However, one had a false, deceitful hope (peace with self only). Likewise, many today are satisfied to wait until judgment to test self (2 Corinthians 13:5). Both houses in Matthew 7 looked equally safe in fair weather. However, then, both had a common experience or trial. Both structures were tested by same measurement; there was one standard (John 12:48). The same is

The purpose of Paul’s first letter to Timothy was to let Timothy know how “one ought to conduct himself in the household of God” (1 Timothy 3:15). Paul wrote that letter to urge his friend to focus on certain matters where Timothy was preaching (1:3). In context, Paul’s words are those of an older preacher with much experience to a younger preacher in need of direction. How wise for a younger preacher to give ample consideration to good advice! Those who have fought the battles, maybe even learned some things the hard way and have been seasoned through years of valuable experience, sometimes have so much to offer younger preachers. In 1 Timothy, Paul’s experience was shared in what is called ‘trustworthy statements.’ These were truths Timothy could bank on, and although they were written first to a preacher, they are truths that will benefit us all. 1 Timothy 1:15 “Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners.” Jesus did not come into the world for social reform, per se. He did not come to make His disciples wealthy. He did not come to make a “name” for Himself. He did not come for political activism or to seek man’s favor or approval. He came to save sinners (Luke 19:10). Paul strengthened this statement by using himself as proof. If Jesus could save the foremost sinner of all, He can save you and me. So many people in the world today feel that they are not saved and doubt that

As it was in Malachi’s day, so it is still the case today that many are willing to put personality over principle, and because of ignorance of the Scriptures, they are apt to go in any direction.  Franklin Camp once observed, “When you leave the principle of the need for Bible authority, there is no end to where you will wind up.” Can we not see that this is true? Worship and moral issues would, then, be settled by what men want instead of what God wants (Proverbs 14:12; Jeremiah10:23; Leviticus 10:1-2; 1 John 2:3-5). God’s people came to embrace the sins of the day and wanted to find acceptance and popularity with the world. They decided to offer a truce of peace with the false religions of the day. It is no surprise, then, that we find even God’s people are readily accepting idolatry. No wonder God would ask his people, “Have you grown tired of me?” We can see the progression. Tolerance led to acceptance, and that acceptance eventually led to joint participation. My friends, these three things have not only influenced religion down through the ages, they have also had an unsettling effect on things pertaining to moral issues. We will just mention two, homosexuality and abortion. When people of our day are willing to follow the false philosophies of the world and thus plunge headlong into immorality and into religious error, then, isn’t it obvious that they also have grown tired of God (Romans 1:24-32; Proverbs

How sad it is that so many baptized believers never feel secure in their salvation. Some Christians go through life never really knowing whether they will go to hell or heaven. However, one needs to make his or her “calling and election sure” (2 Peter 1:11). The word “calling” is from the Greek word klesis, which means “a call, calling, invitation.” The Greek word for “election” is ekloge, which means “election, choice, the act of picking out, choosing.” “Calling and election” is God’s call and choice of you (Matthew 22:14; 1 Corinthians 1:9; James 2:5; 1 Peter 2:9; 2 Thessalonians 2:14). The Christian can make sure of his salvation by diligent work. Christians have the assurance of the faith. “For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day” (2 Timothy 1:12 NKJV). This “assurance” is “forever” (Isaiah 32:17). “And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end” (Hebrews 6:11). Christian hearts are assured before Jesus Christ (1 John 3:19). “These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God” (1 John 5:13). How can we know that we have assurance

I. The Book of Job teaches us that Satan is relentless in his efforts to capture men (1:7; 2:2).

A disciple is a student, learner and follower. Furthermore, a disciple conforms all of his mind, words and actions to that of his Teacher – Jesus (Luke 6:40). Jesus lives in His disciples who conform to Him (Galatians 2:20). It is the responsibility and privilege of the disciple to be like Jesus. So we ask, “What are the marks of a disciple?” First, a disciple of Christ must abide in the Word (John 8:31; 14:14, 23). There are three things involved in abiding in the Word. (1) One must receive it (Psalm 1:2). (2) One must meditate on it (Galatians 2:20). (3) One must apply it (James 1:22). Secondly, disciples of Christ must love one another (John 13:34-35). Why is it a new commandment? (1) It is new in object (John 4:20). (2) It is new in measure (Matthew 5:43-45). (3) It is new in purpose (John 13:35). It is this love one for another that attracts others to become disciples of Jesus also. Thirdly, disciples of Christ must bear fruit (John 15:5-10; 1 Corinthians 3:6-9). There are three things taught in John 15. (1) One must abide in the Father’s love (John 15:10). (2) One must keep the Father’s commandments (John 15:16). (3) A disciple must bear fruit (John 15:16). These three are like a three legged stool.  They all help support each other! In conclusion, we ask, “Do you bear the marks of a disciple?” “Is Jesus living in you so that you will make other disciples for Him?” “Are you truly a disciple of

A boy was knocking on doors. He knocked on one door, and a woman answered it. “Do you know Jesus?” the boy asked. The woman, unaccustomed to being quizzed about her faith, was a little befuddled. “I go to church every Sunday,” she told the boy. “Yes ma’am, but do you know Jesus?” he asked again. How well do you know Jesus Christ? Is He real to you? Philippians 3:10 reads, “that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death” (NKJV). Note verse 10 says, “that I may know Him.” How does one get to know Christ? Not by observance of the Mosaic covenant. Not by fleshly alliances. The apostle Paul would have been saved already as a Jew if the Mosaic Law or earthly circumstances were how one knows Christ; note Paul’s advantages (4-6). As a Jew, Paul did not know Jesus. How may we know Jesus better? We must make much of God’s Book. Psalms 1:1-3 teaches that happy is the man who is acquainted with God’s Book. We must take time for meditation. We need a quiet time when we can let God speak to us through His Word. By studying the Bible, we get to know more about Jesus (2 Timothy 3:14-15; Luke 24:44; Acts 18:28; 8:35). We need to get back into the Bible. We must magnify the daily habit of prayer. Jesus taught much about prayer. He taught that we should pray for

Why is it important that we please God? Let’s look at a few examples of those who did and did not please God. I think we can gain an understanding of why it is important to please Him. Some who did not please God include the following. Adam and Eve did not please God (Genesis 3). Cain did not please God (Genesis 4:1-7). Korah did not please God (Numbers 16:22-33). King Saul did not please God, though once he was pleasing to God (1 Samuel 15:22-23). Some who did please God include these. Noah pleased God (Hebrews 11:7). Enoch pleased God (Hebrews 11:5). Of course, Jesus pleased God (Matthew 17:5; Luke 2:52). To please God is to cause delight. “The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear Him” (Psalms 147:11). To fear God is to keep His commandments (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Keeping His commandments pleases Him (1 John 3:22). The results of pleasing God are as follows. God accepts our service (Acts 10:34-35). God gives us that for which we ask (1 John 3:22). God will give us a home with Him (Revelation 22:14). In conclusion, Jesus said, “I do always those things that please Him” (John 8:29). The question is, “Am I pleasing God?“ If the answer to the question is, “Yes,” then we will be among those described in Matthew 25:34. However, if the answer is, “No,” then we will be among those noted in Matthew 25:41.

The Ethiopian eunuch read from Isaiah 53:1-12 (Acts 8:26-35). Phillip used the passage as a springboard into preaching about Christ. God had in the long ago planned for Christ to suffer so that sin’s debt might be paid and we might be saved (Genesis 3:15; Ephesians 1:9-10; 2:15-16). The “we” introduced suddenly in verse 2 is the nation Israel. Verse 1 wants to know, “who has believed our report” or “who has believed the report that was common among us?” This parallels the second question, “and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed?” The word “arm” is used to designate power and might. For instance, one who made flesh his arm trusted in man’s power instead of God’s power (Jeremiah 17:5). God’s arm is strong and will break the arms of His enemies (Deuteronomy 4:34; 5:15; Ezekiel 30:21). Israel should have seen God’s power in the work of Jesus (John 20:30-31; Acts 2:22; Matthew 12:22-30; Romans 1:4; 1 Corinthians 15:1-8). Those who reject Jesus today have simply closed their eyes to the truth as revealed through that powerful display (2 Corinthians 4:3-4). Jesus grew up under God’s watchful and protective eye (Matthew 2:1-23, especially 12-13). Jesus had a lowly beginning in a land of conquered people and from a house as good as dead; thus he sprang up like a tender plant from the root of a tree cut down and now in dry ground. Yet, God had promised a Savior from the house of David (Acts 2:29-31).

There are a lot of “new” things in the Bible (2 Corinthians 5:17). This in spite of what Solomon said in Ecclesiastes 1:9-10 about there being “no new thing under the sun.” Thankfully, I am not the cynic that Solomon was. Today, there is the new birth (John 3:3, 5), the new life (2 Corinthians 5:17; Romans 6:6, 8, 17), the new hope (Titus 1:2), a new task (Matthew 6:33; Mark 5:1), a new body at the end (1 Corinthians 15) and a new home (John 14:1ff). In addition, following the conclusion of each year, as long as Christ delays His coming, we experience a new year. The old year is done, with its heartaches, disappointments, failures and sin. Whenever a new year commences, it is the time of beginning again, a time for vows, promises and resolutions to be made. God Made Vows and Promises In Genesis 9:9-13, God even announced His vow with a rainbow in the sky. In Deuteronomy 5, the Law was given again, at which time Moses spoke to people about it saying, “God made a covenant with us in Horeb.” The people responded with a vow, “…we will hear it and do it…” (v. 5). In Joshua 24:15-18, Joshua called for the people to choose, and they cried out, “…we will serve the Lord.” What Is the Value of Making Vows? Making a vow tells the world of the stand one has taken. For instance, the foreigner, on naturalization day renounces all allegiance to

There are other salvations spoken of in the Bible. Noah and his family were saved from the flood (Genesis 6:7, 9; Hebrews 11:7). Israel was saved from bondage (Exodus 14:30). The three Hebrew children were saved from the fiery furnace (Daniel 3:19-30). Those are past salvations. Today, we can be saved from the guilt of sin. The Bible tells us we are guilty. It also tells us that we can be free. What is sin? Several New Testament passages define sin for us (1 John 3:4; 5:17; James 4:17; Romans 14:23). It is transgressing or going beyond the law of God. Simply, sin is unrighteousness. Yet, sin can also result from what one fails to do. Jesus, though, is the Savior from sin (Matthew 1:21; Luke 2:8-11), and that was the purpose for which He left heaven and came into the world. It is evident from an abundance of Scripture that Jesus saves by his blood (Romans 3:24-25; 5:8-9; Ephesians 1:7; Hebrews 9:11-14; 1 Peter1:18-19; 1 John 1:7; Revelation 1:5). We contact that blood in the act of baptism (Ephesians 1:13; Galatians 3:27; 1 Corinthians 12:13; Romans 6:3-4). Thereby, we are saved from the power of sin. We are delivered from its power (Colossians 1:12-13), and we are made free from sin (Romans 6:16-18). Salvation is perfected in us through compliance with the terms of salvation offered by God the Father, revealed by God the Holy Spirit and imitating the sacrifice of God the Son (Matthew 28:19-20; Romans 6:3-5). Have

Peter said, “Lord I am ready to go with thee, both into prison and to death” (Luke 22:33). Peter, though, was not ready; he just thought he was. He later denied the Lord (Luke 22:55-62). We should follow Jesus for He is our example (1 Peter 2:21). Following him necessitates self-denial (Matthew 16:24), but even a dog will follow his master. Following Jesus is like a sailor sailing under sealed orders. The question of obedience has been settled before the orders are read. “Be ye ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear” (1 Peter 3:15). It takes study to do this (2 Timothy 2:15; 4:13). It also takes the right disposition of heart to do it in the manner commanded. One might win a discussion and lose a soul. Let us win the soul as well as the discussion. “He that winneth souls is wise” (Proverbs 11:30). Paul said, “I am ready to preach the Gospel” (Romans 1:15). Why? He believed it to be “the power of God unto salvation” (Romans 1:16). He was not ashamed of the Gospel. He recognized that he was a debtor (Romans 1:14). Those same reasons will motivate us to preach the Gospel, “that they be ready to distribute” (1 Timothy 6:18). Sharing with others is a Christian principle of life; God shared His Son with us. This indicates unselfishness and kindness. It was a mark of

The Attitude: Blessed Are the Peacemakers There are many ways of being a peacemaker. One can make peace between himself and God. One can make peace between himself and family. One can make peace between himself and neighbors. One can make peace between himself and all he meets. One can make peace by helping others to obey God. One can make peace by serving as a go between of people having troubles. One can make peace by working for peace in the church. All of these are probably included in this attitude. It seems to me that Jesus is emphasizing much more than peace among men and nations. When we consider the blessing that follows, the idea of the peacemaker most assuredly extends to the person who obeys the will of God. This will result in peace with self and with others. When a person obeys the Lord, he is bringing about peace at the highest. Being a Christian is the greatest ‘peace contribution’ anyone can make (Philippians 4:7). The Christian and Peace The Christian should pursue peace (2 Timothy 2:22). Furthermore, the Christian should live in peace (2 Corinthians 13:11). In addition, the Christian must follow after things that make for peace (Romans 14:19). Things that make for peace are found in 1 Peter 3:8-13. Two great examples of peacemakers are Jesus (Isaiah 9:6) and Jonathan (1 Samuel 20:1-4). The Reward: They Shall Be Called the Children of God Without question, to be called the child of God is

“Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8 NKJV). The Attitude: Blessed Are the Pure in Heart The “heart” is regarded as being the seat of the intellect, the feeling and the will. Out of the heart comes all the issues and actions of life (Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 5:18-19). An evil heart produces evil fruits; a good heart or pure heart produces good or pure fruit (Matthew 12:34-35; Proverbs 23:7). The Greek word for “pure” here means “clean, pure, free from corruption, sincere, genuine, blameless, innocent and guiltless.” The pure in heart are those who have pure, sincere, genuine or right motives. Those who “obey from the heart,” have a pure heart and comply with God’s will (Romans 6:16-18). Paul is a good example of one who always displayed this attitude (Acts 23:1). The Christian must have a pure heart. He must love God with the heart (Matthew 22:37), believe with the heart (Romans 10:10), honor God with the heart (1 Peter 3:15) and do God’s will from the heart (Ephesians 6:6). The Reward: They Shall See God There is no doubt that the pure in heart will see God in the literal sense at the Day of Judgment and throughout eternity. Yet, I do not think this is what Jesus here had in mind. In the literal sense, no man can “see” God now (John 1:18). To “see” means to possess, to enjoy, to experience, to receive the full benefits from. We often speak

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3 NKJV). A proper understanding will help us appreciate these wonderful teachings of Jesus. “The Beatitudes” are expressions of proper attitudes with the results. To possess these attitudes we must put them into action. Rewards are connected with the attitudes. “The Beatitudes” are attitudes a child of God must possess to be happy and pleasing to the Lord. The Attitude: The Poor in Spirit “Poor in spirit” has no reference to what a person has, but what he is. It is an attitude. He is dependent in spirit; that is, he realizes that he must depend on God for all of his spiritual needs. He knows that he cannot rely on self (Jeremiah 10:23). We might describe a person “who is poor in spirit” as one who is lowly in mind (Ephesians 4:2), humble in his actions (Luke 14:11), tender in his feelings (Isaiah 66:2) and respectful in approach (Matthew 6:9). A good example of “poor in spirit” is the tax collector of Luke 18:9-14. The “poor in spirit” are those who recognize their need for the Great Physician (Matthew 9:10-12). The Reward: Theirs Is the Kingdom of Heaven The kingdom with all its blessings is theirs. It means that they gain all the benefits that come by being citizens of heaven’s kingdom. The highest values of life belong to those who are “poor in spirit.”

In the Parable of the Sower we find different kinds of soil. We do not want to be the kind that started the Christian life with joy, but after a while falls away. Neither do we want to be “choked” by the things of the world. Instead, we want to continue to be “good ground,” bringing forth “good fruit.” Why are we looking at this type of lesson today? First Corinthians 10:12 reads, “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he falls.” This may seem to be a simple matter, and one may feel that he or she may never fall away. However, Satan will try to ruin you and me. He will try to make us give up. This study is designed to help us continue to grow stronger. To be good ground and bear fruit, we must recognize the importance of daily attention to spiritual things. It will be of great benefit to establish good daily spiritual habits. Acts 17:11 notes, ‘The Bereans were more noble than the Thessalonians because they searched the scriptures daily.’ Hebrews 3:13 says to “exhort one another daily.” In the model prayer in Matthew 6:11, Jesus said, “Give us this day our daily bread.” Since food is needed every day and since the prayer was only for “this day,” Jesus implied such a prayer is needed every day. Acts 5:42 tells us how the apostles taught people daily. Acts 2:46 records that first century Christians experienced daily fellowship with other one another. We take it for granted that

The attitude: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness.” Hunger and thirst are two of the most pressing drives of the human body. Jesus used an example that man understands. Here they show how great our desire must be for righteousness. Righteousness is doing right or doing God’s will. Righteousness can be described as ‘the condition acceptable unto God.’ Righteousness results from doing right or doing God’s will. God commands only that which is right. Therefore, when we do what God commands, we are doing right. When we do right as God gives the right, we are doing righteousness. The Christian and Righteousness: Those that are born of God practice righteousness (1 John 2:29). The new man is created in righteousness (Ephesians 4:24). Righteousness comes by faith (Hebrews 11:33; Philippians 3:9). God loves righteousness (Hebrews 1:9). The righteous shall inherit eternal life (Matthew 25:46). A Christian must desire righteousness. That desire must be intense or great. A Christian’s attitude toward truth and right will determine the kind of character he will become. The attitude on which Jesus pronounces a blessing is that of hungering and thirsting for a higher life, a spiritual life and a life that is in Christ. The reward: They shall be filled. They will be satisfied with righteousness. The righteousness of God is revealed in the Gospel (Romans 1:16-17). God has a divine plan for bringing sinners to the state of righteousness (John 8:32). Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness will find that

Often times an autopsy is performed when someone dies to determine the cause of death. What would an autopsy reveal about a Christian? A Christian has observant eyes, rather than having “eyes full of adultery” (2 Peter 2:14). The Christian is to focus his attention on the harvest of lost souls around him (John 4:35). By looking for ways to serve the Lord, the Christian will find open doors of opportunity (1 Corinthians 16:9). A Christian has helping hands. Christians need to be seen as a caring community of believers. In the first century, Christians were quick to respond to the needs of their brethren (Acts 11:17-30). Today, we need to “do good” to those in or out of the church (Galatians 6:10). A Christian has a tender heart. Christians need to have compassionate hearts that motivate them to respond to the needs of their brethren (Acts 11:17-30). When we are tenderhearted, we are able to be kind and giving to one another (Ephesians 4:32). Christians are concerned spirits. Sin should stir the spirits of Christians (Acts 17:16). We cannot afford to ignore or minimize the effects of sin in a person’s life. We have a responsibility as “watchmen” to warn the erring (Ezekiel 3:17). Would an autopsy of your life show these qualities? Your life can be a good influence if you have these qualities.

The way to heaven is straight and narrow (Matthew 7:13-14), but wrong ways may seem right to those who do not know or believe the truth (Proverbs 14:12; 21:2; 28:26). However, there is a way revealed in the Bible that is right and cannot be wrong.  It is also the way of peace and unity (John 17:20-21; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Romans 14:9). It cannot be wrong to accept the Bible as an infallible and all-sufficient guide in all matters of religion (2 Timothy 3:15-17; 2 Peter 1:3). Faith in Christ as the Son of God cannot be wrong (Matthew 16:13-18; Acts 2:36-41). In addition, it cannot be wrong for sinners to repent of all sins (2 Peter 3:9; 2 Corinthians 7:10; Acts 3:19; 17:30). It cannot be wrong to be baptized upon a confession of faith in Christ to become simply a member of the Lord’s church (Romans 10:9-10; Acts 8:36-39; 2:37-41, 47; 22:16; Mark 16:15-16). It cannot be wrong to baptize penitent believers instead of unbelieving infants (Acts 2:36-41). It cannot be wrong for proper subjects to be immersed – buried and raised – in baptism (Romans 6:3-4; Colossians 2:12; Acts 8:38-39). It cannot be wrong to wear the name of Christ, the name “Christian” rather than some sectarian name (1 Peter 4:14-16; Acts 11:26; 26:28; James 2:7). It cannot be wrong to obey Christ in all things (Acts 3:22-23; Hebrews 5:8-9; 1 John 2:3-4; Luke 6:46). Faithful attendance at all services of the church cannot be wrong (Hebrews 10:25;

Someone has said, “If you want good government, be a good citizen.” If we want a better church, the place to begin is with ourselves. Jesus died for the church so it could be a better church. If we want a better church, we must realize that we are important! We must realize that we are important no matter what we can or cannot do (Romans 12:20-26). The Lord depends on us to do our part (Ephesians 4:15-16). The Lord depends on us to help the church to grow and function. If we want a better church, we must do something for the church. One can be kind, tenderhearted, forgiving and ready to help one another (Ephesians 4:31-32; Galatians 6:1-2). We can help the church by building up the church rather than being critical of what the church is trying to do (1 Corinthians 10:10; Hebrews 12:1). One of the best ways we can help the church is to guard our lives daily against doing or saying anything that would bring shame or reproach on the church for which Jesus died (Ephesians 5:15). If we want a better church, we must invite others to share our blessings. The Christian life is the best life and the most rewarding life that one can live. A Christian is blessed materially and spiritually. A Christian is blessed in unlimited ways. When we bring a friend to Bible classes and worship, we help that friend understand that God has provided many blessings for those in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).

Given by Jonathan Edwards in 1758 when he was president of College of New Jersey (now Princeton University), his famous sermon “Sinners in the Hand of an Angry God” was preached several years before (1741) in Enfield, Connecticut. This was not a sermon, but I feel that we as Christians could very easily adopt these five resolutions and give scriptural support for them. Resolved: To live life with all my might while I live. Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes 9:10 that there is no work or thought or knowledge in the grave! In Ecclesiastes 12:14, Solomon again penned that God will bring every deed [work] into judgment whether good or bad! Thessalonians 2:16-17 reads, “Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation, and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and establish you in every good word and work.” Jesus said, “I must work the works of Him who sent me…” We note the work of Christians whenever we sing the song “To the Work.” In Revelation 14:13 we find, “And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead, which die in the Lord from henceforth, Yea, saith the Spirit, that they shall rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.” Faithful Christians live their lives with all their might as long as they live! Resolved: Never to lose one moment of time, but to improve it in any way we can [a