Sermon Outlines for
Selected Passages

Rev. David P. Horrocks, Th.M., Pastor
Christ Community Church

 

Psalm 119:33-40 (9/3/00)                                                                                 Resurrection of Jesus Christ (3/27/05)
Means of Grace (9/10/00)                                                                                 The Lord’s Table/Believer’s Baptism (6/5/05)
The Destiny of the Wicked (9/17/00)                                                               David, the Lord’s Servant (6/12/05)
Heaven (9/24/00)                                                                                                David, the Lord’s Choice (6/19/05)
Micah 5:2 (12/17/00)                                                                                         Saul, the Lord’s Disappointment (6/26/05)
Luke 1:67-79 (12/24/00)                                                                                    I Samuel 17:1-58 (7/3/05)
The Inner Person (12/31/00)                                                                             I Samuel 18:1-22:1 David, following his own heart (7/17/05)
Faith versus the World (1/7/01)                                                                       I Samuel 22:1-8, 23 (7/31/05)
Titus 2:11-15 (2/4/01)                                                                                        I Samuel 23:1-29 (8/7/05)
Selected (4/15/01)                                                                                               I Samuel 24:1-22 (8/14/05)
Selected (6/10/01)                                                                                               I Samuel 25:1-44 (9/4/05)
A Christian’s Use of Wealth (6/17/01)                                                            I Samuel 27, 28:1-2, 29 (9/11/05)
God the Father (6/24/01)                                                                                  I Samuel 30:1-31 (9/18/05)
Jesus Christ (7/8/01)                                                                                          I Samuel 28, 31 (9/25/05)
Holy Spirit (7/15/01)                                                                                          II Samuel 1:1-27 (10/2/05)
The Bible (7/22/01)                                                                                             II Samuel 2:1-5:25 (10/9/05)
Mankind (7/29/01)                                                                                              II Samuel 6:1-23; I Chronicles 13, 15-16 (10/23/05)
The Church (8/5/01)                                                                                           II Samuel 7:1-29 (11/06/05)
Missions (8/12/01)                                                                                              II Samuel 9:1-13 (11/13/05)
Being a Christian (9/2/01)                                                                                II Samuel 11:1-27 (11/20/05)
A Christian in Society (9/9/01)                                                                        II Samuel 12:1-31 (11/27/05)
A Christian and His Giving to the Lord (12/9/01)                                        II Samuel 13-18 (12/18/05)
Isaiah’s Prophetic Picture of Jesus Christ (12/16/01)                                Selected (12/25/05)
The Meaning of Christmas (12/23/01)                                                            II Samuel 22:1-51 (2/05/06)
Finding Rest in Jesus (12/30/01)                                                                     II Samuel 23:1-12 (02/26/06)
The Resurrection of Christ (3/31/02)                                                              The Communion Table (03/12/06)
The Coming of Jesus Christ for the Church (8/4/02)                                   II Samuel 24:1-25 (03/19/06)
The Doctrine of Sin (9/1/02)                                                                             King David’s Legacy (03/26/06)
The Doctrine of Salvation (9/8/02)                                                                 Faith and Finances (12/3/06)
 The Doctrine of Sanctification (9/15/02)                                                      Luke 1:46-55 – Mary’s Magnificat” (12/10/06)
Sanctification and the Bible (9/22/02)                                                           Matthew 1:1-17 – The Women in Jesus’ Lineage (12/17/06)
Holiness (12/8/02)                                                                                              The Incarnation (12/24/06)
Holiness (12/15/02)                                                                                            Ephesians 4:1-16 (12/31/06)
Psalm 147 (12/22/02)                                                                                         The Claims and Character of Christ (4/22/07)
Holiness (12/29/02)                                                                                            The Claims and Character of Christ (5/6/07)
Psalm 127 (1/5/03)                                                                                             Adam Contrasted with Christ (5/13/07)
The Resurrection (4/20/03)                                                                               Selected (8/12/07)
John 3:16 (6/15/03)                                                                                           The Resurrection of Jesus Christ (3/23/08)
Genesis 15:6 (6/22/03)
Progressive Sanctification (7/6/03)
Deuteronomy 6:5 (7/13/03)
Leviticus 19:18 (7/20/03)
Habakkuk 2:4 (8/3/03)
The Return of Our Lord for Christians [The Rapture] (8/17/03)
Worship (8/7/03)
Worship (9/14/03)
Christmas as a New Beginning (12/21/03)
Year End Review (12/28/03)
The Cross of Jesus Christ (4/4/04)
The Resurrection of Jesus Christ (4/11/04)
God’s Plan and Our Plan (5/2/04)
Selected (12/19/04)
Titus 2:11-14 (12/26/04)


 

Psalm 119:33-40 

Introduction: "They flew by their own flight plan."

I must faithfully seek and follow the Lord's instruction (33)

Godliness is an elusive achievement
It requires that the divine way be put into disciplined practice

I must correctly understand and apply the Lord's directions (34)
I need continual spiritual power in the conflict of my natures (35)
I must fight the daily conflict between godliness and possessions (36)
I must fight the daily conflict between godliness and experiences (37)
I must maintain the spiritual advantage of fearing the Lord (38)
I never underestimate the presence, power, and impact of sin (39)
I can count on God to bless my faithfulness to Him (40)

MESSAGE:
"I'M ON A QUEST FOR PRACTICAL RIGHTEOUSNESS
IN ALL OF MY LIFE - FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE."

 

  Back

 

Means of grace

Introduction: "Position open" 

The step of faith
The step of dedication
The steps of a disciplined faith

Continually live the message of your baptism (Romans 6:4)
Let the Lord's Supper celebrate Christ and calibrate your life (I Corinthians 11:26-32)
Hear the Word of God and do the Word of God (James 1:25)
Experience the community in worship (John 4:23)
Be diligent in prayer (I Thessalonians 5:17)
Have an interactive life with other Christians (Proverbs 27:17)
Proclaim the way of forgiveness to the unforgiven (Matthew 28:19)
Do good to all people (Ephesians 2:10)
Give sacrificially to the cost of ministry for others (II Corinthians 9:8)
Always choose the response of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:28)

MESSAGE:
”DETERMINE ONCE AND FOR ALL FOR GODLINESS,
AND THEN CHOOSE CONTINUALLY THE PATHS TOWARDS GODLINESS.”

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The Destiny of the Wicked

 Introduction: "What is your definition of hell?"

 Sheol in the Old Testament

The "required" place
The grave
The temporary place of departed souls 

Hades in the New Testament

The "hidden" place
It defines Sheol of the Old Testament
It is the temporary place of the departed souls of the wicked
It is the place of suffering
It is the headquarters of unrighteousness

Gehenna (hell) of the New Testament

Jerusalem city dump
Future eternal state of suffering for the wicked
Characteristics of hell

Lake of fire
Unquenchable and eternal
Retribution and not remedial
Second death
Torment and restlessness
Place of darkness
Degrees of punishment

MESSAGE:
"LET THE REALITY OF HELL CAUSE YOU TO FEAR GOD
AND MAKE CERTAIN YOUR SALVATION IN CHRIST."

 

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Heaven

Introduction: "I say heaven, you say..."

 Heaven is holiness - the perfection of the Trinity are there

The Father is there and He is holy
The Son is there in all His glory
The Holy Spirit's home is heaven

Heaven is righteousness - all that happens there is right

There is freedom from sin
There is the fulfillment of hope
There is the expression of God's will

Heaven is service - no one is idle there

The righteousness are fully conscious
There is continuity and transformation from the earth
There is the fullest expression of worship

Heaven is rewards - there will be returns on life's investments

Many will be guests at the wedding feast
Those who overcome sin will be rewarded guests of honor
Some will co-reign with Christ
Some will have great treasures waiting for them
Many will receive personal commendations

MESSAGE:
"WHEN YOU THINK HEAVEN, THINK HOLINESS,
RIGHTEOUSNESS, SERVICE AND REWARDS."

 

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Micah 5:2

Introduction: "What if we had a king?"

Context of Micah 5:2

Historical
Literary

A time of distress (5:1)
A word of hope (5:2)
A time of delay (5:3)
A list of blessings (5:4) 

Content: The word of hope of Micah 5:2

The hope of a new beginning

A covenant renewal
A revival in humility

The assurance of God's grace
The evidence of Christ's love

MESSAGE:
"REVIVAL IS RETURNING TO THE NEW CONVENANT
JESUS MADE AT THE CROSS AND IN HUMILITY
RENEWING OUR COMMITMENT TO GOD'S GRACE AND CHRIST'S LOVE."

Back

 

Luke 1:67-79

Introduction: "So you think you know Christmas!"

Context: How should be understand this event called Christmas?

God is visiting the earth in mercy
God is correcting the damage of sin
God is fulfilling His promises 

Content: Who is this one called Jesus?

He is the Lord
He is the Savior (Jesus)
He is the King (Christ)
He is the Lord the Savior-King 

Consequences: How should Christmas make a difference in our lives?

We should recognize our need and accept God's answer
Our faith should overcome our fears
We should serve the Lord out of appreciation
We should praise the Lord
We should be the peacemakers of the neighborhood

MESSAGE:
"SINCE GOD HAS FULFILLED ALL HIS PROMISES
IN THE LORD JESUS CHRIST,
WE SHOULD TRUST HIM, SERVE HIM, PRAISE HIM,
AND REFLECT HIM ALL THE DAYS OF OUR LIVES."

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 The Inner Person

 

Introduction: "Everyone should take this personally"

Context: The nature of the inner person

The old nature is alive to self and dead to God
The new nature is alive to God forever 

Content: The nurturing of the new nature of the inner person

The new nature grows strong on a diet of Scripture
The new nature can develop sight to see spiritual treasures
The new nature can develop ears to hear and heed spiritual words
The new nature can cultivate an appetite for God
The new nature can be trained for the challenges of godliness

Dedication
Discipline
Dependence
Development

The new nature grows strong through the experience of faith
The new nature must be cleansed by confession after failures 

MESSAGE:
"RESOLVE TO NUTURE YOUR NEW NATURE;
IT WILL BENEFIT YOU NOW AND FOREVER."

 

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Faith Versus the World

Introduction: "Nine in a row?"

The attack of unbelief (Mind)

Attack against the authority of the Bible
Attack on the holiness of God
Attack on the reality of miracles 

The attack of false beliefs (Will)

Materialism - God is made into possessions
Functional atheism - God is made meaningless
Absolute relativism - God is made silent
Narcissistic Hedonism - God is made earthy
Tolerant pluralism - God is made many gods
Practical pragmatism - God is made unholy 

The attack of busy schedules (Emotions)

Balancing your obligations
Fulfilling your legitimate obligations

What is important to the Lord?
What is expected by the Lord?
What is a reflection of the Lord?
What is a witness for the Lord?

MESSAGE:
"ALTHOUGH THE WORLD DEFEATS THE EARTH IN OTHERS,
DON'T LET IT DEFEAT THE EARTH IN YOU."

 

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Titus 2:11-15

 

Introduction: "Just as the 3R's are essential in a school..."

The Gospel is the essential message from the church to the world.

It is essential because the Savior who appeared will appear again.

His first appearance was to provide salvation

The unsaved live with the world but without God
The saved live with God, with His rules, and with His love 

His next appearance will be to gather those who are saved

Our faith will give way to sight
His grace will be surrounded with His glory 

It is essential because of how and why Jesus provided salvation

How did Jesus save us?

He died the death that we deserved to die
His death paid the penalty for all of our sins

Why did Jesus save us?

He is gathering His own faith-based nation
He is directing that nation to works of righteousness

MESSAGE:
"IT IS ESSENTIAL FOR YOUR LIFE AND FOR YOUR DESTINY
THAT YOU PERSONALLY RECEIVE JESUS CHRIST
AS THE LORD, YOUR SAVIOR."

 

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Selected

Introduction: "Move forward by returning to the past"

Garden of Eden (Death)

Adam lost his innocence as he fell into sin through his disobedience
Adam provided a sin nature for me

Garden of Gethsemane (Submission)

Jesus, in His righteousness, yielded Himself to our guilt through His obedience
Jesus became a sin substitute for me 

Garden Tomb (Life)

Jesus arose from death to life through God's power
Jesus became a new beginning for me

 

MESSAGE:
"WE WHO ARE SINFUL, GUILTY, AND DEAD TO GOD IN ADAM,
CAN BE FORGIVEN, APPROVED, AND ALIVE TO GOD IN CHRIST."

 

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Selected

Introduction: "The greatest need in the world is..."

 The gospel of God

The gospel comes from God who is over all
There is one gospel from God for all
The gospel offers God's grace to all
The gospel of God rescues sinners for God's approval in all 

The gospel of Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ is the subject of the gospel
Jesus Christ's work is the message of the gospel

Jesus was our substitute in punishment
Jesus is our doorway to blessings

Jesus Christ's reflection is the goal of the gospel

The gospel of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is the power behind the preaching of the gospel

He convicts the sinner of sin
He convicts the sinner of Jesus' righteousness
He convicts the sinner of future judgment

The Holy Spirit is the power behind the believing of the gospel

He calls us to faith
He empowers us to have faith
He conforms us to Christ through faith

MESSAGE:
WE ARE SAVED THROUGH FAITH BY GOD'S GRACE.
WE ARE SAVED THROUGH FAITH BY CHRIST'S CROSS.
WE ARE SAVED THROUGH FAITH BY THE SPIRIT'S POWER.”

 

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A Christian's Use of Wealth

Introduction: "You remind me of a..."

Christian virtues

The virtue of generosity

The principle of stewardship verses ownership (Psalm 24:1)

The mind of a steward
The heart of a steward 

The principle of returns on giving (II Corinthians 9:6)

Temporal for temporal
Eternal for temporal
Beware of bargaining 

The principle of proportion to giving (Luke 21:1-4)

Measured by sacrifice
Measured by love
Measured by remainder 

The principle of giving in life (Matthew 6:33)

Apprehend the spiritual and eternal
Appreciate the physical and temporal 

The principle of the reflection of Jesus (John 13:15)

What did Jesus say?
What did Jesus do?

MESSAGE:
"YOUR GENEROSITY IS A SIGHT GLASS INTO YOUR
CHRISTIAN CHARACTER AND YOUR FAITHFULNESS
AS THE LORD'S DISCIPLE."

 

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God the Father

 Introduction: "I looked at my wife and I saw the Lord"

 The testimony to God

Creation, creatures, and the human conscience
The Old Testament and the history of Israel
The life and work of Jesus Christ
Christians and the Church
Bible prophecy 

The nature of God

God is a spirit (John 4:24)
God is omnipotent (Psalm 33:8-9)
God is omnipresent (Psalm 139:7)
God is omniscient (Psalm 147:5)
God is unchanging (Psalm 90:2) 

The work of God

God's work is creation - we are responsible to Him
God's work is revelation - we must learn and obey Him
God's work is salvation - we must receive it and reflect Him 

The personality of God

God is love, and God shows wrath (I John 4/Romans 1)
God is the judge, and God is the justifier (Romans 3:26)
God is seeking, and God must be sought (Luke 19/Hebrews 11)
God is one God, and God is three persons (Matthew 28:19)

MESSAGE:
"LIVING LIFE AS IT WAS DESIGNED TO BE LIVED
REQUIRES KNOWING THE GOD WHO DESIGNED IT."

 

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Jesus Christ

Introduction: "Wrapping and unwrapping…"

Unwrapping the person of Jesus Christ (John 14)

He is God made a man
He is a man with a full human nature
He is one person 

Unwrapping the mission of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 1)

He came as a prophet to provide instruction
He came as a priest to provide salvation
He came as a king to provide freedom 

Unwrapping the cross of Jesus Christ (II Corinthians 5)

The place of the substitution sacrificed for us
The means of the blessing of imputed righteousness to us
The motive to look deep into our souls 

Unwrapping the claims of Jesus Christ (Matthew 7)

He is the Savior who wins your faith
He is the Teacher who converts your mind
He is the Lord who rules over your will

MESSAGE:
"YOU MUST FULLY UNWRAP THE JESUS OF THE BIBLE
IN ORDER TO WRAP YOURSELF FULLY IN HIM."

 

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Holy Spirit

Introduction: "Follow the plans of the designer"

The Holy Spirit is one of the persons of the Trinity

The Holy Spirit has a mind, a will, and emotion
The Holy Spirit has the attributes of God
The Holy Spirit does the actions of God
The Holy Spirit receives the ascription of God 

The Holy Spirit ministers today all over the world

He ministers to the world

He restrains sin
He recruits to faith
He regenerates to spiritual life 

He ministers to the church

He indwells us for being in Christ
He fills us to become like Christ
He equips us to do meaningful service to others

MESSAGE:
"WHEN YOU ACCEPT THE PLANS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
YOU WILL BE IN CHRIST, YOU WILL BECOME LIKE CHRIST,
AND YOU WILL PROVIDE MEANINGFUL SERVICE TO OTHERS."

 

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  The Bible

Introduction: "Annual Bible Proficiency Test"

The greatness of the Bible

The Bible is God preaching
The Bible is still a lamp and a light
God still speaks through what He has spoken 

The nature of the Bible

It is the word of God
It is the words of men
It is one living Book 

The threefold interpretation of the Bible

Look for the normal meaning
Look for the original meaning
Look for the general meaning 

The twofold application of the Bible

It was given to teachus

It teaches us about salvation in Jesus Christ
It teaches us about edification into Jesus Christ

It was given to change us

It changes us through hope
It changes us through the power of God

MESSAGE:
"GOD SPEAKS TO US IN THE BIBLE,
AND WE SPEAK BACK TO GOD
IN OUR FAITH AND IN OUR OBEDIENCE TO HIM."

 

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Mankind

Introduction: "Profiling Christians"

We have been created by God in His image

We have worth
We have equality
We have responsibility 

We have fallen under the power of sin through sin

We have lost our bearings
Death has taken hold of our bodies
Pride has taken hold of our hearts
Bad religion has taken hold of our souls 

We are being recreated into the image of Jesus Christ

We are forgiven and free in freedom
We are rescued and changed by God's grace
We are pressing on to maturity

MESSAGE:
"WE CHRISTIANS HAVE BEEN CREATED IN GOD'S IMAGE;
WE HAVE FALLEN UNDER SIN,
BUT WE HAVE BEEN SAVED TO BE RECREATED
INTO THE IMAGE OF JESUS CHRIST."

 

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The Church

Introduction: "The inspection"

The Church at worship (Temple)

Worship in spirit
Worship in truth
Worship in faith
Worship in love 

The Church at work (School)

Educating all of our parts
Edifying ourself as a body
Extending charity to all 

The Church as a witness (Embassy)

A witness to faith in the gospel
A witness to hope in Christ's return
A witness to the controlling influence of love

MESSAGE:
"OUR VALUE AS A CHURCH IS TO WORSHIP THE LORD,
TO WORK OUT OUR SALVATION,
AND TO BE A WITNESS TO THE WORLD."

 

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Missions

Introduction: "I rode the Kamikaze"

Responding to the command of the Lord
Responding to the nature of God the Father
Responding to the nature of God the Son
Responding to the nature of God the Holy Spirit
Responding to the nature of the church
Responding to the nature of the gospel
Responding to the nature of the present hour
Responding to the nature of eternity

MESSAGE:
"BEING A WITNESS FOR THE GOSPEL
IS BEING THE RESPONSIBLE CHRISTIAN
GOD HAS CALLED YOU TO BE."

 

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Being a Christian

Introduction: "Children being interviewed for acceptance?"

Question about your salvation

It is by the grace of God
It is by faith in Christ
It is forgiveness for what we were
It is freedom to become what we were meant to be
It is for keeps 

Question about your life's experience

Question of character

Love is the giving of self
Self-control is the denying of self

Question of conduct

Learn to live as if you were Jesus
Learn to treat others as if they were Jesus 

Question about your life's decision

We grow by the Scriptures
Prayer is people made by God, who are liked by God, who live for God, spending time with God
Jesus is Lord
Called to His purpose for His purpose 

Question about your plans for eternity

Anticipation is looking for the blessed hope
Transformation is developing an eternal character
Participation is storing up an eternal inheritance

MESSAGE:
"YOUR PLACE IN ETERNITY WILL BE DETERMINED
BY YOUR ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR FAITH."

 

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A Christian in Society

 Introduction: "Too many choices"

 Called to be living expressions of faith

Do you believe in the ministry of the gospel?
Do you believe in growing the family of God?
Do you believe in holding dual citizenship?
Do you believe in following personal holiness?
Do you believe in discovering God above discovering yourself? 

Called to be living examples of love

Jesus' love is a servant for the good of others
Jesus' love is a sacrificing servant for the good of others
Jesus' love is a suffering servant for the good of others
Jesus' love is an equal-opportunity servant for the good of others
Jesus' love is a focused servant for the good of others 

MESSAGE:
"WE ARE CALLED TO BE LIVING EXPRESSIONS OF FAITH
AND LIVING EXAMPLES OF LOVE."

 

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A Christian and His Giving to the Lord

Introduction: ".2% better"

Giving to the Lord is guided by a covenant

Old Covenant

Render to Caesar (Matthew 22:21)
Render to God 10% (Matthew 23:23) 

New covenant

Render to Caesar (Romans 13:1)
Render to God graciously (II Corinthians 9:7-8) 

Dangers of loving yourself with your money

Kills spiritual growth (Matthew 13:22)
Is hostility towards God (Luke 16:14-15)
Is eternally self-destructive (Matthew 19:16-22)
Will cost you God's mercy (Luke 16:19-31)
Blinds you to reality (Luke 12:16-21) 

Reasons for loving God and others with your money

Principle of source and resource (Luke 16:10-13)
Principle of the power of faith (Acts 3:1-10)
Principle of blessings and responsibilities (Luke 12:48)
Principle of eternal vision (Hebrews 11:24-26)
Principle of double love from God (II Corinthians 9:7)

MESSAGE:
"THE WAY YOU USE YOUR MONEY
SHOULD PROVE THAT YOU LOVE GOD AND OTHERS
AND NOT JUST YOURSELF."

 

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Isaiah's Prophetic Picture of Jesus Christ

 Introduction: "Would you look in a cave to find deliverance?"

 When Isaiah spoke of a deliver…

He spoke of the Lord in heaven

The Lord is omnipresent: He is Immanuel (8:10)
The Lord is omnipotent: He is the Mighty God (10:21)
The Lord is omniscient: He is the Eternal Father (9:6)

He spoke of the Lord incarnate (in human form)

Son of God (7:14, 9:6)
Prince of Peace (9:6)
Righteous King (32:1)
Servant of the Lord (42:1)
Mighty Savior (63:1) 

When Isaiah spoke of deliverance…

He spoke of judgment from the Lord upon Israel

Judgment is upon sinners (1:4)
Judgment is by the hand of another nation (1:20)
Judgment is to purify (1:25)
Judgment has its perfect work (40:1)

He spoke of judgment from the Lord upon a substitute

A willing victim (50:6-8, 53:7)
A sin-bearer for others (53:6)
A penalty-bearer for others (53:5)
A sacrifice for sin (53:10a)
A sacrifice for intercession (53:12b)

MESSAGE:
"JESUS AND HIS CROSS IS THE HINGE ON WHICH
ALL PROPHECY AND HISTORY REVOLVE."

 

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II Timothy 1:9-10
The Meaning of Christmas

 Introduction: "Hey Saint Paul, what is the meaning of Christmas?"

 Christmas means that God is with us

The appearing of the invisible God to lead us
He is with us as our Savior to save us
He is with us as Christ to teach us
He is with us as the man Jesus to represent us 

Christmas means that God is for us

His eternal purpose includes us

To forgive people by faith in Christ
To sanctify people through faith in Christ

His eternal purpose is granted to us by His grace

Not by law but by grace
Not by works but by faith
Not by flesh but by spirit 

Christmas means that God will never leave us

Jesus' death abolished our eternal death
Jesus' resurrection introduced us to eternal life

MESSAGE:
"CHRISTMAS MEANS THAT GOD IS WITH US, GOD IS FOR US,
AND GOD WILL NEVER FORSAKE US."

 

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Finding Rest in Jesus

Introduction: "Year in review"

Matthew 11:28 - A call to salvation

Salvation is not based on your human effort
Salvation is a gift to be received by faith in Christ

Matthew 11:28-29 - A call to sanctification

Sanctification begins with the decision to become like Jesus
Sanctification is the result of being filled by the Holy Spirit 

The Holy Spirit produces Christian character
Condition: Walk by the Spirit 

The Holy Spirit supplies power for good works
Condition: Serve one another 

The Holy Spirit teaches us God's thoughts
Condition: Study the Bible 

The Holy Spirit promotes excellence in worship
Condition: Do not quench the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit gives direction to our lives
Condition: Do not resist the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit speaks to our spirit
Condition: Do not grieve the Holy Spirit 

The Holy Spirit speaks to God for us
Condition: Pray

MESSAGE:
"JESUS CALLS US TO RECEIVE SALVATION THROUGH FAITH IN HIM
AND TO FIND SANCTIFICATION BY LIVING LIKE HIM."

 

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The Resurrection of Christ

Introduction: "Five questions you should ask about the resurrection."

Is it true?

Witness of the Old Testament
Witness of Christ
Witness of the empty tomb and missing body
Witness of the apostles
Witness of changed lives
Witness of the Church
Witness of the power of God in your life

What was it like?

The same body
A changed body
A greater body
The same person

What does it say about Jesus?

Jesus is the first of more to come
Jesus is righteous and approved by God
Jesus our Savior is alive and coming again

What does it say to the world?

Christ's present is the world's future
Christ is the dividing line in eternity
Plan ahead

What does it say to me?

I should have faith in Christ
I should live with a resurrection hope!
I should live by resurrection power! 

MESSAGE:
"THE REALITY OF THE RESURRECTION
SHOULD FOCUS MY FAITH ON CHRIST,
EXPAND MY HOPE TO ETERNITY,
AND EMPOWER MY LIFE TOWARDS HOLINESS."

 

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The Coming of Jesus Christ for the Church

Introduction: "Unwrapped and able to clean"

Jesus' coming for His Church is a particular promise - Doctrine

It closes the Church age on the earth
It is the miracle of resurrection and the mystery of transformation
It is always imminent

Jesus' coming for His Church is a multipurpose promise - Theology

It moves the Church to heaven

For her marriage in heaven
For her protection from events on the earth
For her rewards for service done while in the world

It removes the worldwide restraint of the Holy Spirit

It resumes God's plans for Israel on the earth

Jesus' coming for His Church is a purifying promise - Holiness

It purifies us from unbelief to faith
It purifies us from hopelessness to comfort
It purifies us from selfishness to service
It purifies us from immorality to godliness

MESSAGE:
"JESUS' PROMISE TO TAKE US TO HEAVEN
IS AN OFFER THAT SHOULD PURIFY OUR LIVES COMPLETELY."

 

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The Doctrine of Sin

Introduction: "Tracking sin"

What is the track of sin?

Sin is lawlessness
Sin is selfishness

Where can sin be found?

Sin first appeared in Adam
Sin's power has been inherited by all of us
Sin's guilt has been charged against each of us
Sin's works are evident in everyone

What is the path of sin?

Sin damages our condition

We are separated from God
We are separated from each other
Creation is held in bondage
Death and judgment are in our future

Sin damages our character

Sin darkens our minds
Sin controls our wills
Sin distorts our emotions

Sin damages our conduct

Sin of anger
Sin of anxiety
Sin of blasphemy
Sin of coveting
Sin of disloyalty
Sin of fruitlessness
Sin of immorality
Sin of irresponsible stewardship
Sin of prayerlessness
Sin of pride
Sin of speech
Sin of being a stumbling block

MESSAGE:
"ALL THAT SIN IS, ALL THAT SIN DOES,
AND ALL THAT SIN WOULD DO THROUGH US
CAN BE TAKEN AWAY BY OUR FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST."

 

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The Doctrine of Salvation

Introduction: "Renovating requires commitment"

The need for our renovation is condemnation

The cause of condemnation is sin

The guilt of sin is against us all
The power of sin is in us all
The pattern of sin is through us all

The consequence of sin is death

Physical death (Mortality)
Spiritual death (Darkness in life)
Eternal death (Hell forever) 

The answer to condemnation by sin is salvation from sin

The solution to personal sin is found in a person

Jesus Christ is perfect humanity
Jesus Christ is undiminished deity

The correction to personal sin is accomplished at His cross

The death of Jesus is the death of our substitute
The death of Jesus is the payment for our sin
The death of Jesus satisfied God's righteous demands against sin

The salvation we need is by faith alone in Jesus Christ

By faith we have forgiveness from God
By faith we are reconciled to God
By faith we are empowered by God

MESSAGE:
"ALL THAT SIN IS, ALL THAT SIN DOES,
AND ALL THAT SIN WOULD DO THROUGH US
CAN BE OVERCOME THROUGH
OUR FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST."

 

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The Doctrine of Sanctification

Introduction: "Playing by our own rules"

Sin is our enemy

Imputed sin
Inherited sin
Personal sin

Salvation is our hope

Imputed righteousness
Implanted new nature
Forgiven and called to personal righteousness

Sanctification is our victory

Living in light

Walking in fellowship

In fellowship with the Father

The fellowship of our godliness
The fellowship of our worship
The fellowship of our prayers

In fellowship with the Son

The fellowship of glorifying the Father in all areas of life
The fellowship of serving others
The fellowship of sharing the gospel

In fellowship with the Holy Spirit

The fellowship of walking in the power of God's wisdom
The fellowship of walking in the power of God's love

 

MESSAGE:
"WE HAVE BEEN SAVED TO LIVE IN GOD'S TRUTH
AND TO WALK IN GOD'S FELLOWSHIP."

           

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Sanctification and the Bible

Introduction: "Having the right tools and the right helper"

The help of the tool of the Bible

It is crucial to your gaining new life
It is crucial to your growth in the knowledge of spiritual matters
It is crucial to your growth in the wisdom of good and evil
It is crucial to your growth in your effectiveness as a disciple

Applying the tool of the Bible

Is there an example to follow?
Is there a sin to avoid?
Is there a promise to claim?
Is there a prayer to pray?
Is there a command to obey?
Is there a condition to be met?
Is there a verse to memorize?
Is there an error, a danger, or a lie to expose?
Is there a challenge to face something in your life?

Using the tool of the Bible (Psalm 119:41-48)

Two requests

To experience the fullness of God's grace (41-42)
To endure as the Lord's witness (43)

Five promises

I will persevere in holiness (44)
I will overcome sin's power by the power of faith (45)
I will be bold in my witness (46)
I will be cheerful in my obedience (47)
I will be diligent in my duty (48)

MESSAGE:
"IF I APPLY THE WORD OF GOD TO EVERY AREA OF MY LIFE,
I WILL REFLECT THE SON OF GOD IN ALL OF MY LIFE."

 

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Holiness

Introduction: "WMD and SPD"

Salvation

Fact: Jesus Christ died for our sins and arose from the dead
Faith: If we believe in Him we will be saved

Sanctification

Definition: The process of spiritual growth toward the character image of Jesus Christ

Process

Maturity

Sanctify your life to the Lord (Romans 12:1)
Sanctify your life through the Scriptures (John 17:17)
Sanctify your life through prayer (I Thessalonians 5:17)
Sanctify your life through worship (Psalm 105:1-4)
Sanctify your life through fellowship (I Corinthians 14:26)
Sanctify your life through self-judgment (I Corinthians 11:31)

Ministry

Missions

Glorification

MESSAGE:
"THE LORD HAS CALLED US TO HIS SALVATION
SO THAT THROUGH MATURITY, MINISTRY AND MISSIONS
WE MIGHT BE SANCTIFIED AND THEN GLORIFIED."

 

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 Holiness

Introduction: "Sanctified driving"

Salvation

Fact: Jesus Christ died for our sins and arose from the dead
Faith: If we believe in Him we will be saved

Sanctification

Definition: The process of spiritual growth toward the character image of Jesus Christ

Process

Maturity (Thinking like Christ)
Ministry (Serving like Christ)

We are saved to serve

We are all called priests
To lead in the church is to serve

We are gifted to serve

We are all gifted to serve
We can all serve somewhere/someway

We are positioned to serve

We are positioned by the Lord
We are positioned for the benefit of ourselves and others

Missions (Loving like Christ)

We are extensions of Christ's life
Christ's mission has become our mission
Christ's mission must become our passion

Glorification

MESSAGE:
"THE LORD HAS CALLED US TO HIS SALVATION
SO THAT THROUGH MATURITY, MINISTRY AND MISSIONS
WE MIGHT BE SANCTIFIED AND THEN BE GLORIFIED."

 

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 Psalm 147

Introduction: "Who is the Lord behind the manger?"

The call for praise to the Lord (1a, 7, 12, 20b)

The appropriateness of praise to the Lord (1b)

The reasons for praise to the Lord (2-6, 8-11, 13-20a)

Praise the Lord for who He is (Nature) 4,5

He is powerful
He is purposeful
He is present everywhere

Praise the Lord for all that He is (Character) 6, 10-11

He cares for the humble
He brings justice to the wicked
He favors those who fear Him and trust Him

Praise the Lord for all that He is doing (Conduct) 2, 3, 8, 9, 13-20a

He continually sustains the earth by His word (15-18)
He controls creation for all of His creatures (8-9)
He establishes His servants by His word (19-20)
He blesses His servants for their service (2, 3, 13-14)

MESSAGE:
"PRAISE THE LORD FOR WHO HE IS,
PRAISE THE LORD FOR ALL THAT HE IS,
AND PRAISE THE LORD FOR ALL THAT HE IS DOING."

 

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Holiness

Introduction: "What's in it for me?"

Salvation

Fact: Jesus Christ died for our sins and arose from the dead
Faith: If we believe in Him we will be saved

Sanctification

Definition: The process of spiritual growth towards the
character image of Jesus Christ

Process

Maturity (Thinking like Christ)
Ministry (Serving like Christ)
Mission (Loving like Christ)

Glorification

Definition: The bringing of Christians to a heavenly condition
and dignity in body, soul and spirit

Goal of the Christian community

Work and joy of the Father
Mission and love of the Son
Motive of ministers of the gospel
Desire of the mature Christian

Condition of glorification

Our heavenly citizenship will be realized
The church age completed
A new body received
Freedom from the presence of sin
Existing with Christ and being like Christ
Eternal rewards presented
Reflecting the glory of the Lord

MESSAGE:
"THE LORD HAS CALLED US TO HIS SALVATION
SO THAT THROUGH MATURITY, MINISTRY, AND MISSIONS
WE MIGHT BE SANCTIFIED AND THEN GLORIFIED."

 

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Psalm 127

Introduction: "Do you need your arm to be twisted?"

All that you do, do it by faith in the Lord (1-2)

Three noble works of faith

Building a house
Protecting a city
Providing for a family

Three ignoble efforts of unbelief

Building a house but not building a life
Protecting a city but not fully protecting it
Providing for a family but not feeding their souls

Three examples

Three noble works of faith

The Lord built the house of Abraham by faith (Genesis 15:6)
The Lord protected the city of Jerusalem by faith (Isaiah 37:36-37)
The Lord gave manna to the people of Israel by faith (Exodus 16:35)

Three ignoble works of the flesh

Nimrod building the tower of Babel (Genesis 11:9)
Citizens of Jericho protecting their city from Joshua (Joshua 6:20)
The rich man who built bigger barns for his possessions (Luke 12:20)

All that you receive, receive it by faith from the Lord

Receive your children as God's treasures entrusted to you
Shape your children to be useful to the Lord
Release your children to become influences for righteousness

MESSAGE:
"ALL THAT YOU DO, DO IT BY FAITH IN THE LORD,
AND ALL THAT YOU RECEIVE,
RECEIVE IT BY FAITH FROM THE LORD."

 

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The Resurrection

Introduction: "Sudden Acute Respiratory Syndrome - SARS"
"Sudden Individual Noxious Syndrome - SINS"

The resurrection is a sign authenticating the person of Jesus Christ

He is our Lord
He is our Savior
He is our King

The resurrection is an event demonstrating the conquering power of Jesus Christ.

He conquers death (II Timothy 1:10)
He conquers sin (Hebrews 9:26)
He conquers sinners (Revelation 19:15)
He conquers demons (Matthew 25:41)
He conquers the devil (I John 3:8)

The resurrection is an example of the transforming purpose of Jesus Christ.

He transforms sinners into saints by salvation
He transforms the unholy into the holy through sanctification
He transforms the dead into the living at the resurrection
He transforms the fallen earth into the restored earth in the millennium
He transforms the old earth into a new earth for eternity

MESSAGE:
"JESUS IS OUR LORD, OUR SAVIOR, AND OUR KING
WHO CONQUERS ALL THAT IS EVIL,
AND WHO TRANSFORMS EVERY LIVING THING."

 

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John 3:16

Introduction: "A road map for peace"

An Old Testament event - Numbers 21:4-9

Blessings of freedom
Wandering to learn holiness
Sin of complaining
The judgment for sin is death
The people repent of sin in confession
Deliverance is by faith

A New Testament application - John 3:1-15

Forgiveness for sin
New birth blessings from the Holy Spirit
Inclusion in the Kingdom of God
New life power from the Son of Man

The structure of John 3:1-16

John 3:1-15 - Jesus' meeting with Nicodemus
John 3:16 - John's commentary on that meeting (?)

The structure of John 3:16

God's love in giving
Man's blessings by believing

The worldview of John 3:16

God who loves, gives, and forgives
Son who is the only one of His kind
Faith is the essential relationship
Two roads on which men travel

MESSAGE:
"IN LOVE GOD PROVIDED HIS SON AS OUR SAVIOR
SO THAT BY OUR FAITH IN HIM
WE MIGHT LIVE WITH ETERNAL LIFE
NOW AND FOREVER."

 

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Genesis 15:6

Introduction:  "Systems are down!"

The death of righteousness on the earth (Genesis 3:1-11:26)

            Adam and Eve - The beginning
            The Flood - The ending
            Noah - The new beginning

The life of Abra(ha)m (Genesis 11:27-25:11)

            God's call to blessings 11:27-14:24
            God's promise of an heir 15:1-16:16
            God's mark of the covenant 17:1-21:34
            God's greatest test 22:1-25:11

The witness of Abram in his response to God's promises (Genesis 15:6)

            Believed - He believed and continued to believe
            Reckoned - To credit to an account, or to render a verdict
            Righteousness - Measuring up to God's demands

The witness of Abraham to us

            We are declared righteous in character by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
            We become righteous in our conduct by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
            We are declared righteous and we become righteous by the faith that
               trusts and obeys the Lord Jesus Christ

MESSAGE:
"WHENEVER AND WHEREVER A PERSON BELIEVES IN THE LORD,
HE WILL BE COUNTED AS A RIGHTEOUS PERSON."

 

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Progressive Sanctification

Introduction:  "We the people of the United States of America…"

By our union with Christ we have freedom from the penalty of sin

            We are forgiven of our sin by our union with His Person
            We are forgiven of our sins by our union with His sacrifice

By our more perfect union with Christ we will have freedom from the power of sin.

            We have freedom from the power of sin by our union with Christ's Spirit
            We have freedom from the power of sin by our union with Christ's Body
            We have freedom from the power of sin by our union with Christ's mission
            We have freedom from the power of sin by our union with Christ's pattern
            We have freedom from the power of sin by our union with Christ's wisdom

 

MESSAGE:
"BY OUR UNION WITH CHRIST,
WE HAVE FREEDOM FROM THE PENALTY OF SIN;
AND BY OUR MORE PERFECT UNION WITH CHRIST,
WE WILL HAVE FREEDOM FROM THE POWER OF SIN."

 

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Deuteronomy 6:5

Introduction:  "The two perfect test questions"

Do you have faith in the true and living God?

            Islam - A distant (sometimes) merciful judge who demands submission
            Judaism - A distant powerful king who must be obeyed
            Christianity - A heavenly Father who is near and seeks a love relationship
                                with all who believe

Do you love the true and living God as He should be loved?

            We should love the Lord completely

                        To love Him completely is to love Him supremely
                        To love him completely is to love Him exclusively
                        To love Him completely is to love Him sacrificially
                        To love Him completely is to love Him submissively

            We will know the Lord correctly

                        He will make Himself known to us
                        We will make Him known to our world

            We will obey the Lord consistently

                        We will become holy in our character
                        We will become holy in our conduct

MESSAGE:
"WHEN WE LOVE THE LORD COMPLETELY,
WE WILL KNOW THE LORD CORRECTLY,
AND WE WILL OBEY THE LORD CONSISTENTLY."

 

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Leviticus 19:18

Introduction:  "A return to the historic faith"

First, we should love the Lord completely

            The Lord deserves our love
            The Lord desires our love

Second, we should love our neighbor sacrificially

            Who is our neighbor?

                        People in our community
                        People around our community
                        People who are not our enemies
                        Anyone to whom we can be a neighbor

            Showing sacrificial love for our neighbor is good for our neighbor

                        It seeks peace with our neighbor
                        It promotes what is good for our neighbor
                        It is a witness for the Lord to our neighbor

            Showing sacrificial love for our neighbor is good for us

                        We reflect the conduct of the Lord
                        We develop the character of the Lord
                        We will be blessed in doing the will of the Lord

MESSAGE:
"WHEN WE LOVE THE LORD FIRST,
AND WE LOVE OTHERS NEXT,
WE PROVE THAT WE ARE THE DISCIPLES OF CHRIST."

 

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Habakkuk 2:4

Introduction:  "A division in the household"

The rule of life for the righteous is faith

            Sin rules the wicked (2:4a)
            Faith rules the righteous (2:4b)

                        Faith believes that the Lord alone is God
                        Faith believes that God has a plan for the world
                        Faith believes that God's plan is all inclusive
                        Faith believes that God controls His plan
                        Faith believes that God's plan includes evil
                         but does not involve God in evil
                        Faith believes that God's plan will lead to His praise

Lessons the righteous must learn about faith

            Faith prays to the Lord and anticipates answers
            Faith sides with the righteousness of the Lord versus
             the unrighteousness of the world
            Faith wrestles with the Lord for the cause of righteousness
            Faith trusts in the Lord when sight would doubt
            Faith holds onto the Lord in times of national calamity
            Faith rejoices in the Lord for future blessings
            Faith is never a cover for our irresponsibility

MESSAGE:
"THE RIGHTEOUS PERSON LIVES
BY HIS FAITH IN THE LORD."

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The Return of Our Lord for Christians (The Rapture)

Introduction:  "acetylsalicylic acid"

The foundation for Christian living

            Faith in the Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ
            Love for God and for others
            Hope for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ for Christians

The nature of the Christian hope

            It is a great promise with great personal value
            It is an anticipated and awesome happening
            It is a prescription for victorious and righteous living

                        It is our comfort in the face of the death of a Christian
                        It is our courage in the face of the world's opposition
                        It is our call to live righteously in the world
                        It is our confidence that our lives really matter to the Lord
                        It is our joy that is expressed in our worship
                        It is our destiny to face Jesus as Savior, Lord, and Judge
                        It is our burden to be a witness, a servant, and a disciple

MESSAGE:
"OUR HOPE FOR THE RETURN OF JESUS
SHOULD BE SHAPING OUR LIVES IN RIGHTEOUSNESS
AS WE JOURNEY TO BE WITH OUR SAVIOR."

 

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Worship

Introduction:  "The what, the who, and the why of worship."

What is worship?

            Worship means to bow down
            Worship means to bow down inside and outside
            Worship means to dialogue with the one to Whom you bow down

Whom should you worship?

            You should worship the Lord who is the most Holy One
            You should worship the Lord who is merciful to you
            You should worship the Lord who will always love you

Why should you worship?

            You were created to worship the Lord
            You were re-created to worship the Lord
            You will be resurrected to worship the Lord

MESSAGE:
"WHEN YOU CORRECTLY WORSHIP THE LORD,
WHO ALONE IS WORTHY OF WORSHIP,
YOU FULFILL GOD'S PLAN FOR YOUR LIFE AND YOUR SALVATION."

 

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Worship

Introduction:  "Joshua the High Priest"

The Lord graded Cain and Abel (Genesis 4)

            Abel passed, but Cain failed
            Error in faith

Israel failed with the golden calf (Exodus 32)

            They were motivated by sight instead of faith
            Error in holiness

King Saul's idea was not so great (I Samuel 15)

            He thought that God's commands were optional
            Error in obedience

Isaiah warned an entire nation about unapproved worship

            Rituals were right, but relationships were wrong
            Error in love for the Lord

Paul warned a church about unapproved worship

            The Lord's table was observed, but love was ignored
            Error in love for other Christians

MESSAGE:
"WHEN WE WORSHIP IN SPIRIT (FROM A PURE HEART)
AND IN TRUTH (FROM A PURE RELIGION)
THEN WE ARE THE LORD'S TRUE WORSHIPERS."

 

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Christmas as a New Beginning

Introduction:  "The top ten most evil people of the 20th century?"

The beginning (First Adam)

            The origin of life is the Lord
            The purpose of life is godlikeness
            The problem of life is sin

                        Appearance of sin in Adam

                                    The blasphemer deceived Eve and tempted her
                                    The deceived Eve transgressed and tempted Adam
                                    The tempted Adam sinned

                        The universal effects of Adam's sin

                                    The fall of mankind
                                    Division of creation
                                    The purpose of a new beginning

The new beginning (Second Adam)

            At Christmas the seed of the woman appears
            On Good Friday the head of the serpent is crushed
            On Resurrection Sunday the new world order is revealed

MESSAGE:
"CHRISTMAS MARKS THE BEGINNING OF
THE NEW BEGINNING THAT RESCUES
THE WORLD FROM ITS SIN."

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Year End Review

Introduction:  "The year that was - the year that can be"

Relationship to yourself

            Warning:  Do not be proud (Romans 12:3)
            Wisdom:  Be humble (I Peter 5:5-6)

Relationship to the Godhead

            Warning:  Do not doubt (James 1:6)
            Wisdom:  Be trusting (Hebrews 11:6)

Relationship to your family

            Warning:  Do not neglect (I Timothy 5:8)
            Wisdom:  Be building (Psalm 127:1)

Relationship to the world

            Warning:  Do not love (I John 2:15)
            Wisdom:  Be witnessing (Acts 1:8)

Relationship to your church

            Warning:  Do not forsake (Hebrews 10:25)
            Wisdom:  Be a family (Galatians 6:10)

MESSAGE:
"THE RULES HAVE NOT CHANGED:
SIN WILL BE JUDGED AND HOLINESS WILL BE BLESSED."

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The Cross of Jesus Christ

Introduction:  "The gloom and the glory of 9/11"

The gloom of the cross

            Jesus was put to death by sinful men

                        He was rejected by governments
                        He was rejected by people

                                    Jews rejected Jesus
                                    Gentiles rejected Jesus

            Jesus was put to death by spiritual forces of darkness

                        He was opposed by Satan
                        He was opposed by demons

The glory of the cross

            The cross is the greatest expression of God's love
            The cross is the clearest expression of God's righteousness
            The cross is the fullest expression of God's wisdom

                        God values people
                        God values all people
                        God values all people of faith
                        God values all people of praise
                        God values all people of obedience
                        God values all people of good works
                        God values all people of sacrifice

MESSAGE:
"THROUGH NATURAL EYES WE SEE ONLY THE GLOOM OF THE CROSS,
BUT THROUGH SPIRITUAL EYES WE CAN SEE ITS GLORY."

 

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The Resurrection of Jesus Christ

Introduction:  "9/11 Commission"

Two meanings of the cross

            The solution to sin has been established once and for all
            The character of Jesus is fully demonstrated in:

                        His love for God
                        His faith in God
                        His praise for God
                        His good works for God
                        His obedience to God
                        His sacrifice for God

Two meanings of the resurrection

            The victory of the cross is confirmed for us
            The person of Jesus is commended to us

                        Jesus is the Christ, who is worthy of our faith
                        Jesus is God, who is deserving of our worship
                        Jesus is the Judge, who is always to be obeyed
                        Jesus is the Son of God, the pattern for our lives

MESSAGE:
"IN HIS DEVOTION TO GOD,
JESUS DIED FOR OUR SINS AND AROSE FROM THE DEAD,
SO THAT THROUGH FAITH IN HIM
WE WOULD BE FORGIVEN OF OUR SINS,
MADE HOLY IN OUR CONDUCT,
AND BECOME REFLECTIONS OF JESUS IN THE WORLD."

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God's Plan and Our Plan

Introduction:  "When does Gog invade Israel?"

God's future plan for Israel

            Restoration
            Tribulation
            Deliverance (Second Coming)
            Salvation
            Kingdom of holiness

God's present plan for the Church

            The physical resurrection of Christ
            The spiritual resurrection of Christians
            The physical resurrection of the Church (Rapture)

God's prophetic plan - a call for us to live holy lives

            Motive:  A watchful expectation for the Lord (Romans 13:11-12)
            Doctrine:
                        Careful in understanding of the Scriptures (II Peter 1:19)
                        Appropriate in application of the promises (Matthew 24:4,24)
            Action:
                        Zeal and fidelity to the Church Age (I Corinthians 15:59)
                        The victory of personal holiness (I John 3:3)
                        Courageous endurance of faith (II Corinthians 4:8-12)
                        Comforted by the resurrection hope (I Thessalonians 4:13)
                        Sacrificial service of love (I Peter 4:13)
                        Daily commitment to duty (Luke 21:34)
                        The personal discipline of prayer (I Peter 4:7)

MESSAGE:
"GOD HAS REVEALED HIS PATH TO THE FUTURE
SO THAT WE MIGHT FOLLOW A HOLY PATH
THROUGH THE PRESENT."

 

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Selected

Introduction:  “A king’s humility”

The humility of Jesus Christ

            Who He is
            What He did

                        He left heaven to come to the earth
                        He exchanged His divine attributes for human limitations
                        He was born in humility
                        He was born into poverty
                        He became an infant fugitive
                        He lived for 30 years in ignominy
                        He was tempted by Satan as no one ever was
                        He became an itinerate servant-teacher
                        He lived a selfless and innocent life
                        He humbled Himself before Israel and her leaders
                        He was rejected by the very people He made
                        He submitted Himself to corrupt human authorities
                        He allowed Himself to be unjustly charged
                        He submitted Himself to unjust beatings
                        He endured ridicule and abuse
                        His body was disfigured by His tormentors
                        He became the sin-offering for the guilt of others
                        He died on a cross and He died in shame
                        He prayed for the forgiveness of His killers
                        He was buried in a borrowed tomb
                        He was raised in power and glory that was restricted
                        He appeared to only a limited following
                        He ascended with limited recognition
                        He left His work in the hands of people just like us

The humility of the Christian life

            Humility is the step before salvation
            Humility is the road between salvation and sanctification

MESSAGE:
”THE HUMILITY THAT IS SEEN IN THE LIFE OF THE SAVIOR
SHOULD BE SEEN IN THE LIFE OF THE SAVED.”

 

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Titus 2:11-14

Introduction:  “Having trouble with people?”

Context:  The manner of godly conduct
Content:  The means of godly conduct

            The life of Christ brings salvation into view

                        Sin is:
                                    Living without being focused on God
                                    Living focused only on the world
                        Salvation is:
                                    Living with a balanced approach to life
                                    Living by the Bible
                                    Living by faith in God
                                    Living that way now!

            The return of Christ brings salvation into rule

                        Jesus has yet to show His glory to the world
                        Jesus has yet to show His glory through the Church

            The death and resurrection of Christ brings salvation into me

                        By His death
                                    Jesus died the death that I deserved to die
                                    Jesus paid the penalty for all my sins
                        By His resurrection
                                    Jesus releases me from the power of sin
                                    Jesus sets me free to live in God’s power

MESSAGE:
”THE LIFE OF CHRIST, THE RETURN OF CHRIST,
AND THE DEATH AND RESURRECTION OF CHRIST
ARE GOD’S PRESCRIPTION FOR OUR SALVATION.”

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Resurrection of Jesus Christ

Introduction:  “Today is the day of resurrection”

What is resurrection?

            Resuscitation from death to life to die again
            Resuscitation from death to a new life never to die again
            Resuscitation from spiritual death to spiritual life in a temporal body

Why is there resurrection?

            It is by the plan of God
            It is by the power of God

What can we learn from the resurrection of Jesus Christ?

            The resurrection is proof of His person

                        It proves Christ’s person to be divine (Romans 1:4)
                        It proves Christ’s power was from God (Acts 2:24)
                        It proves Christ’s work on the cross (Romans 4:25)
                        It proves Christ’s present ministry in heaven (Romans 8:34)
                        It proves Christ’s future ministry on the earth (Matthew 25:31)
                        It proves Christ’s starting a new religious order (II Timothy 2:8)
                        It proves Christ’s opening the eternal side of life (John 11:25)

            The resurrection is promises for my future

                        It promises my future resurrection (I Corinthians 15:20)
                        It promises my future judgment (Acts 17:31)
                        It promises my future glorification (Philippians 3:21)

            The resurrection is a pattern for my life

                        It is the pattern for my future body (I Corinthians 15:49)
                        It is the pattern for my present living (Philippians 3:10)

MESSAGE: 
“THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS CHRIST
IS PROOF OF HIS PERSON, PROMISES FOR MY FUTURE,
AND A PATTERN FOR MY LIFE.”

 

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The Lord’s Table/Believer’s Baptism

Introduction:  “Power and frequency”

Ordinance – An outward rite appointed by Christ to be administered by
the Church as a visible sign of the saving truth of the Christian faith.

The ordinance of the Lord’s Table

            It is a celebration of His life
            It is a memorial to His death
            It is a reminder of His second coming
            It is a motivation to service

MESSAGE:
THE LORD’S TABLE IS A SYMBOL
OF WHAT CHRIST HAS DONE FOR US.

The ordinance of Believer’s Baptism

            It is an outward expression of conversion to the gospel
            It is an identification with Christ

                        His death
                        His burial
                        His resurrection life
                        His ascension

MESSAGE:
BELIEVER’S BAPTISM IS A SYMBOL
OF WHAT CHRIST IS DOING IN US.

 

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David, the Lord’s Servant

Introduction:  “Total fitness”

Context:  1000 BC Israel was on a slow drift from the Lord

            The high point of faith was the crossing of the Dead Sea
            The low point of faith was King Saul’s collapse

Content:  The Lord chose a servant to lead (I Samuel 13:14)

            The heart of the Lord’s servant is full of faith (I Samuel 16:7b)

                        A person of true spirituality (II Chronicles 16:9)
                        A person of practical humility (II Samuel 7:8)
                        A person of deep rooted integrity (Psalm 78:72)

            The life of the Lord’s servant is full of obedience (Psalm 78:70-72)

                        He was obedient in solitude (Psalm 78:70-71)
                        He was obedient in obscurity (I Samuel 16:11)
                        He was obedient in duty (Psalm 78:72)
                        He was obedient in danger (I Samuel 17:34-35)

MESSAGE:
“THE LORD BRINGS CORRECTION TO THE WORLD
THROUGH HIS SERVANTS WHOSE HEARTS
ARE FULL OF FAITH AND WHOSE LIVES
ARE FULL OF OBEDIENCE.”

 

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David, the Lord’s Choice

Introduction:  “Of all the wars…, battles…, soldiers…”

The Biblical fact of the Lord’s choice

            The choice of God was made in eternity past
            The call of God comes in the progress of time
            The response of man is the obedience of faith
            The evidence of faith is in the life you live

The nature of the Lord’s choice

            God’s choice is contrary to human reason
            God’s choice is completed by a heart response
            God’s choice is characterized by the handprint of heaven

The handprint of heaven on David’s heart

            Psalm 23:1 – A heart of trust
            Psalm 23:2 – A heart of rest
            Psalm 23:3 – A heart of holiness
            Psalm 23:4 – A heart of confidence
            Psalm 23:5 – A heart of gratitude
            Psalm 23:6 – A heart of assurance

MESSAGE:
“WHOM THE LORD  CHOOSES HE CALLS,
AND WHOM THE LORD CALLS HE CHANGES,
AND THOSE WHOM THE LORD CHANGES
LIVE FOR THE GLORY OF GOD.”

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Saul, the Lord’s Disappointment

Introduction:  “The real person”

The strengths of King Saul

            His human qualities

                        His physical appearance
                        His personal temperament
                        His leadership ability

            His divine qualities

                        Chosen by the Lord
                        Blessed by the Lord
                        Anointed by the Holy Spirit

The weaknesses of King Saul

            His soul in decline

                        Causes

                                    Saul was impatient with the Lord (I Samuel 13)
                                    Saul was faithless before the Lord (I Samuel 14)
                                    Saul was disobedient to the Lord (I Samuel 15)

                        Consequences

                                    A withdrawal from a life of fellowship with the Lord
                                    A refusal to accept the principles of godly living
                                    A rejection of God’s terms for spiritual vitality

            His soul in desolation

                        The Holy Spirit of the Lord departed
                        An evil spirit from the Lord arrived

MESSAGE:
“LET HIM WHO THINKS HE STANDS
TAKE HEED THAT HE DOES NOT FALL.”

 

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I Samuel 17:1-58

Introduction:  “The crash”

The standoff (1-11)

            A conflict over land (1-3)
            A battle of representatives (4-10)
            Israel’s reluctant military (11)

The solution (12-58)

            3 ½ sons in the army (12-15)
            The 41st day (16-21)
            David encounters the giant (22-27)
            David’s resume of faith (31-37)
            David’s weapons of faith (38-40a)
            The challenger meets the champion (40b-47)
            The CRASH (48-52)
            The spoils of victory (53-58)

MESSAGE:
“FAITH IN THE LORD PRODUCES THE POWER
FOR DEFEATING GIANT PROBLEMS.”

David’s six statements of faith

I have courage…and strength…!”
I have been tried and proven!
I fight for the Lord!
The battle is the Lord’s!
Those who trust in the Lord shall never be disappointed!
The Lord will deliver me!

Conclusions

There is a God who is powerful and who can be trusted!
Small victories of faith prepare you for great victories of faith!
Life has its giant problems, but the Christian has his faith!
All Goliaths will die!
Jesus Christ is our representative!
What is your giant?

 

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I Samuel 18:1 – 22:1
David, following his own heart

Introduction:  “Blinded to life by light”

The rise of Saul and David was a work of God

The fall of Saul opened the door to the rise of David

            The relationship of Saul to David is jealousy
            The relationship of David to Saul is fear

The fall of David through doubt and sin

            David’s three lies