NEW YEAR 2024
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4 Goals for the New Year
4 Goals for the New Year
Philippians 3:13-14
James 1:4;12
But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
I have been doing a lot of going over things lately.
I have been doing a lot of going over things lately.
I have come on a couple of things that have greatly disturbed me .
I have come on a couple of things that have greatly disturbed me .
Seeing my children and grandchildren not in Church and following Jesus anymore .
Seeing my children and grandchildren not in Church and following Jesus anymore .
Reason maybe 2 main reasons
Reason maybe 2 main reasons
a. Parents failure to take the biblical stand needed for our children to know the right way.
a. Parents failure to take the biblical stand needed for our children to know the right way.
b. Failure of the Church to Teach their members the doctrine that will keep them for the future.
b. Failure of the Church to Teach their members the doctrine that will keep them for the future.
2. When you get the age we are at you often look at things we must keep doing, Allow me to use Illustration from the Series on Fox Blue Bloods.
2. When you get the age we are at you often look at things we must keep doing, Allow me to use Illustration from the Series on Fox Blue Bloods.
Danny the son of Frank Reagan in the story was being Grilled for shooting a person who had killed a lot of young Girls in the story, They went to the Grave side of the younger son who was killed in the story earlier , the Statement was made by Danny to his father Frank
Danny the son of Frank Reagan in the story was being Grilled for shooting a person who had killed a lot of young Girls in the story, They went to the Grave side of the younger son who was killed in the story earlier , the Statement was made by Danny to his father Frank
“ I am not sure I have anymore to Give”
“ I am not sure I have anymore to Give”
Gal 6:9
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
This has led me to suggest at least 4 things to help us live in the times we are living as we begin this New year 2024,
This has led me to suggest at least 4 things to help us live in the times we are living as we begin this New year 2024,
1 Find some dissatisfaction
1 Find some dissatisfaction
For a church to go backward, it doesn’t require people to go backward, just to stand still.
For a church to go backward, it doesn’t require people to go backward, just to stand still.
Have you found a comfort zone in your spiritual life?
Have you found a comfort zone in your spiritual life?
We’re not talking about contentment here
We’re not talking about contentment here
Materialism—Godliness with contentment is great gain
Materialism—Godliness with contentment is great gain
Spiritually—don’t ever be content, satisfied
Spiritually—don’t ever be content, satisfied
Here’s the attitude to have: However much I read my Bible in last year, it wasn’t enough (prayed, gave, served, worshipped)
Here’s the attitude to have: However much I read my Bible in last year, it wasn’t enough (prayed, gave, served, worshipped)
I’m pressing on the upward way…new heights I'm gaining ev’ry day…higher ground!
I’m pressing on the upward way…new heights I'm gaining ev’ry day…higher ground!
We could have stayed in the way we are in our church,…but we would have to coast, we couldn’t go forward.
We could have stayed in the way we are in our church,…but we would have to coast, we couldn’t go forward.
Why do we get self-satisfied?
Why do we get self-satisfied?
We compare ourselves to others who are not making good progress.
We compare ourselves to others who are not making good progress.
Since when are inferiors our standard?
Since when are inferiors our standard?
“comparing yourselves with others is not wise”
“comparing yourselves with others is not wise”
We develop a false sense of spirituality when we compare to anyone other than our Savior...and when we do that, we quickly recognize how small we are.
We develop a false sense of spirituality when we compare to anyone other than our Savior...and when we do that, we quickly recognize how small we are.
Phil. 3:13—“brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended” (arrived)
Phil. 3:13—“brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended” (arrived)
No cruise control, put the pedal to the metal
No cruise control, put the pedal to the metal
If we’re not careful, we can allow ourselves to get to the point of complacency.
If we’re not careful, we can allow ourselves to get to the point of complacency.
(beat down with the woes of life, failures of yesterday)
(beat down with the woes of life, failures of yesterday)
Pastor pounded the pulpit… “Ignorance and complacency, that’s our problem!
Pastor pounded the pulpit… “Ignorance and complacency, that’s our problem!
You sir, on the front row, do you even know the difference between ignorance and complacency? …
You sir, on the front row, do you even know the difference between ignorance and complacency? …
“I don’t know and I don’t care”!
“I don’t know and I don’t care”!
When is a church officially dead, and when can we write Ichabod on the door?
When is a church officially dead, and when can we write Ichabod on the door?
When we’ve looked backward so long we can’t find it within ourselves to look up, and look ahead!
When we’ve looked backward so long we can’t find it within ourselves to look up, and look ahead!
find some dissatisfaction...
find some dissatisfaction...
2. Find some devotion
2. Find some devotion
Phil. 3:13—“but this one thing I do…” (one of the most important phrases)
Phil. 3:13—“but this one thing I do…” (one of the most important phrases)
Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,
To the self-righteous rich young ruler, Jesus said, “one thing thou lackest”
To the self-righteous rich young ruler, Jesus said, “one thing thou lackest”
To busy Martha, working in the kitchen, criticizing her sister Mary, Jesus said, “one thing is needful.”
To busy Martha, working in the kitchen, criticizing her sister Mary, Jesus said, “one thing is needful.”
Ps. 27:4 David said, “one thing I have desired of the lord.”
Ps. 27:4 David said, “one thing I have desired of the lord.”
One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple.
Paul said, "This one thing I do"…a statement of devotion
Paul said, "This one thing I do"…a statement of devotion
His Christianity was not a sideshow ... not a compartment of his life
His Christianity was not a sideshow ... not a compartment of his life
A wheel has many spokes, and so do we in our lives:
A wheel has many spokes, and so do we in our lives:
Work life, school life, hobbies, family life, church life
Work life, school life, hobbies, family life, church life
The spokes have nothing to do with each other
The spokes have nothing to do with each other
Your church life doesn’t show up at work, on the basketball court, to view your family life at home you’d never dream you also had that church life.
Your church life doesn’t show up at work, on the basketball court, to view your family life at home you’d never dream you also had that church life.
Jesus doesn’t want to be a spoke at all, he wants to be the hub of the wheel, out of which all the spokes grow and connect
Jesus doesn’t want to be a spoke at all, he wants to be the hub of the wheel, out of which all the spokes grow and connect
Christianity shouldn’t be a compartment of our life, it should BE our life!
Christianity shouldn’t be a compartment of our life, it should BE our life!
We need to trade some commitments of this world for commitment TO our Lord.
We need to trade some commitments of this world for commitment TO our Lord.
We’re too busy these days, it’s McDonald's every Monday, taco Tuesday, work out on Wednesday, tee-ball Thursday, fishing Friday, yard-saleing Saturday,… no wonder we’re sleeping on Sunday!
We’re too busy these days, it’s McDonald's every Monday, taco Tuesday, work out on Wednesday, tee-ball Thursday, fishing Friday, yard-saleing Saturday,… no wonder we’re sleeping on Sunday!
We need to learn to say no…be less devoted, that we may become more devoted where it counts
We need to learn to say no…be less devoted, that we may become more devoted where it counts
Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last!
Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last!
When I was a child, I laughed and wept,
When I was a child, I laughed and wept,
And time crept
And time crept
When I was a youth, I dreamed and talked,
When I was a youth, I dreamed and talked,
Time walked
Time walked
When I became a full grown man,
When I became a full grown man,
Time ran
Time ran
When older still I daily grew,
When older still I daily grew,
Time flew
Time flew
Soon I shall be traveling on
Soon I shall be traveling on
Time gone!
Time gone!
Difference between an amateur and a professional:
Difference between an amateur and a professional:
Amateur does things from time to time…in spurts
Amateur does things from time to time…in spurts
Professional devotes full time…it’s his life’s work
Professional devotes full time…it’s his life’s work
You’ll never be effective for the Lord by attending church in spurts
You’ll never be effective for the Lord by attending church in spurts
[try telling your spouse you will be faithful to them ... in spurts!]
[try telling your spouse you will be faithful to them ... in spurts!]
The Sunday morning Christian will go backward in their spiritual life week after week, and sadly, will likely never realize it.
The Sunday morning Christian will go backward in their spiritual life week after week, and sadly, will likely never realize it.
[Praying in spurts, Bible reading in spurts, giving in spurts.]
[Praying in spurts, Bible reading in spurts, giving in spurts.]
Let’s become a church of devotion, with a professional mindset, 24/7, full-time job…this one thing I do.
Let’s become a church of devotion, with a professional mindset, 24/7, full-time job…this one thing I do.
D.L. Moody, preacher, promoter, evangelist, did YMCA work, had many irons in the fire…he preached one Sunday night, and said, “Go home and think about getting saved for a week, then come back, and we’ll lead you to Christ.” Great Chicago fire killed thousands that week, including many he had preached to.
D.L. Moody, preacher, promoter, evangelist, did YMCA work, had many irons in the fire…he preached one Sunday night, and said, “Go home and think about getting saved for a week, then come back, and we’ll lead you to Christ.” Great Chicago fire killed thousands that week, including many he had preached to.
Moody decided to never preach without giving an invitation again…and that he needed to devote himself to evangelism only…"
this one thing I do!" He then shook 2 continents for God!
Moody decided to never preach without giving an invitation again…and that he needed to devote himself to evangelism only…"
this one thing I do!" He then shook 2 continents for God!
dissatisfaction, devotion...
dissatisfaction, devotion...
3. Find some direction
3. Find some direction
. Phil 3: 14, “forgetting those things which are behind…”
. Phil 3: 14, “forgetting those things which are behind…”
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Did you know that the month January got it’s name from Caesar, who named the month for the roman god Janus, the two-faced god…one face looking backward, and one forward.
Did you know that the month January got it’s name from Caesar, who named the month for the roman god Janus, the two-faced god…one face looking backward, and one forward.
In 2024, there’s no looking back…the past is passed…no man putting his hand to the plow, looking back, is fit for the kingdom of god.
In 2024, there’s no looking back…the past is passed…no man putting his hand to the plow, looking back, is fit for the kingdom of god.
No looking back at past sin…He forgives it, He forgets it, so should we!
No looking back at past sin…He forgives it, He forgets it, so should we!
It’s Satan who reminds you of those past sins, not God.
It’s Satan who reminds you of those past sins, not God.
When you think of it, thank God for forgiving you the 1st time!
When you think of it, thank God for forgiving you the 1st time!
John R. Rice, “No matter what you did in the past, your future is spotless!”
John R. Rice, “No matter what you did in the past, your future is spotless!”
No looking back at past failures…different than past sin.
No looking back at past failures…different than past sin.
“Most new year’s resolutions go in one YEAR and out the other”
“Most new year’s resolutions go in one YEAR and out the other”
Last year’s resolutions, weight loss, smoking, etc.
Last year’s resolutions, weight loss, smoking, etc.
You only fail when you stop trying!
You only fail when you stop trying!
A just man falleth 7 times and riseth up again!
A just man falleth 7 times and riseth up again!
Babe Ruth held the home run record for many years…remember his other record? …strikeouts.
Babe Ruth held the home run record for many years…remember his other record? …strikeouts.
Winston Churchill said, “Success is the ability to move from one failure on to the next.”
Winston Churchill said, “Success is the ability to move from one failure on to the next.”
Abraham Lincoln
Abraham Lincoln
1831—failed in business, went bankrupt
1831—failed in business, went bankrupt
1833—back on his feet, failed again
1833—back on his feet, failed again
1835—fiancee died
1835—fiancee died
1836—nervous breakdown
1836—nervous breakdown
1838—ran for speaker of house, was defeated
1838—ran for speaker of house, was defeated
1840—elector, was defeated
1840—elector, was defeated
1843—congress, was defeated
1843—congress, was defeated
1848—congress, was defeated
1848—congress, was defeated
1855—senate, was defeated
1855—senate, was defeated
1856—vice president, was defeated
1856—vice president, was defeated
1858—senate, was defeated
1858—senate, was defeated
1860—was elected president, one of the greatest who ever lived.
1860—was elected president, one of the greatest who ever lived.
He moved from one failure to the next without quitting
He moved from one failure to the next without quitting
Success is getting up just one time more than you fall down!
Success is getting up just one time more than you fall down!
No looking back at past bitterness.
No looking back at past bitterness.
If anyone could be bitter in the o.t. It was Joseph, betrayed by his brothers.
If anyone could be bitter in the o.t. It was Joseph, betrayed by his brothers.
Could have said, “I'm in this situation because of what others did, thru no fault of my own!” He realized forgiveness is a choice.
Could have said, “I'm in this situation because of what others did, thru no fault of my own!” He realized forgiveness is a choice.
Don’t say you can’t forgive that person who comes to your mind in bitterness…be honest and say you won’t forgive.
Don’t say you can’t forgive that person who comes to your mind in bitterness…be honest and say you won’t forgive.
Remember, bitterness never hurts the one you’re bitter toward…bitterness always turns on its creator, and poisons him.
Remember, bitterness never hurts the one you’re bitter toward…bitterness always turns on its creator, and poisons him.
No looking back at past events. [longingly]
No looking back at past events. [longingly]
ill.--we have taken a few walks down memory lane with family this Christmas, and it has been fun. And you can actually learn from the past and use it to propel forward.
ill.--we have taken a few walks down memory lane with family this Christmas, and it has been fun. And you can actually learn from the past and use it to propel forward.
Good or bad…we love to reminisce of the good old days-ok if we don’t dwell on it and allow it to affect our present!
Good or bad…we love to reminisce of the good old days-ok if we don’t dwell on it and allow it to affect our present!
We can learn from the past—but then move on!
We can learn from the past—but then move on!
what we did right/wrong
what we did right/wrong
No good comes from dwelling on people of the past either.
No good comes from dwelling on people of the past either.
But Jesus said to look on the fields white unto harvest…those who don’t yet go to Grace!
But Jesus said to look on the fields white unto harvest…those who don’t yet go to Grace!
But it’s negative/discouraging to dwell on someone you miss who’s not here…it’s painful to lose anyone…even worse, is what will result if we dwell on it…and in so doing we forget about the 4 new ones we’ve gained for each and every one lost [far above average!]
But it’s negative/discouraging to dwell on someone you miss who’s not here…it’s painful to lose anyone…even worse, is what will result if we dwell on it…and in so doing we forget about the 4 new ones we’ve gained for each and every one lost [far above average!]
Dissatisfaction, devotion, direction…
Dissatisfaction, devotion, direction…
4. Find some determination
4. Find some determination
V. Phil 3: 14 “I press toward the mark…”
V. Phil 3: 14 “I press toward the mark…”
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
“By God’s grace, I hereby pledge to focus on the goal, to die trying if necessary, to go forward for God in the new year!”
“By God’s grace, I hereby pledge to focus on the goal, to die trying if necessary, to go forward for God in the new year!”
[individual/family/church/ministry]
[individual/family/church/ministry]
Ps. 65:11—David said, “Thou crownest the year with thy goodness”
Ps. 65:11—David said, “Thou crownest the year with thy goodness”
Thou crownest the year with thy goodness; And thy paths drop fatness.
I) DEVELOP A DOCTRINAL BASE
I) DEVELOP A DOCTRINAL BASE
John 17:17
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
10 Things You Should Know about Sound Doctrine
10 Things You Should Know about Sound Doctrine
1. Sound doctrine re-tells the single story that sweeps through all of Scripture.
1. Sound doctrine re-tells the single story that sweeps through all of Scripture.
From creation, through our fall into sin, to Jesus’s saving work on the cross and the eventual restoration of God’s rule over all creation, the Bible tells a single epic narrative that spans Genesis to revelation.
From creation, through our fall into sin, to Jesus’s saving work on the cross and the eventual restoration of God’s rule over all creation, the Bible tells a single epic narrative that spans Genesis to revelation.
Sound doctrine traces the contours of this story and repeats it in simple, memorable forms.
Sound doctrine traces the contours of this story and repeats it in simple, memorable forms.
2. Sound doctrine summarizes and synthesizes the Bible’s teaching as a coherent whole.
2. Sound doctrine summarizes and synthesizes the Bible’s teaching as a coherent whole.
For all its diversity, Scripture fits together as a marvelous unity because it consists of God’s own words, revealing God’s own thoughts and acts.
For all its diversity, Scripture fits together as a marvelous unity because it consists of God’s own words, revealing God’s own thoughts and acts.
Sound doctrine brings together all of Scripture’s teaching on every subject the Bible addresses.
Sound doctrine brings together all of Scripture’s teaching on every subject the Bible addresses.
3. Sound doctrine is a guide and guard for reading and teaching the Bible.
3. Sound doctrine is a guide and guard for reading and teaching the Bible.
The goal of reading and teaching Scripture is to love God, and the way to love God is to know God.
The goal of reading and teaching Scripture is to love God, and the way to love God is to know God.
Sound doctrine tells us what God is like so that we may love him more.
Sound doctrine tells us what God is like so that we may love him more.
And sound doctrine is an important guard for interpreting Scripture.
And sound doctrine is an important guard for interpreting Scripture.
It helps ensure that we confess and delight in all that Scripture teaches, rather than setting one passage against another or drawing conclusions from one passage that contradict another.
It helps ensure that we confess and delight in all that Scripture teaches, rather than setting one passage against another or drawing conclusions from one passage that contradict another.
The goal of reading and teaching Scripture is to love God, and the way to love God is to know God.
4. Sound doctrine is God’s road map for the Christian life and the life of the church.
4. Sound doctrine is God’s road map for the Christian life and the life of the church.
We listen to the teaching of God’s Word for the purpose of living it out.
We listen to the teaching of God’s Word for the purpose of living it out.
Sound doctrine isn’t an information archive that serves only to present facts.
Sound doctrine isn’t an information archive that serves only to present facts.
Rather, it’s a road map for our pilgrimage from this world to the world to come.
Rather, it’s a road map for our pilgrimage from this world to the world to come.
5. Sound doctrine nourishes holiness.
5. Sound doctrine nourishes holiness.
Every biblical doctrine, embraced by the mind and applied to the heart, conforms us to the character of Christ.
Every biblical doctrine, embraced by the mind and applied to the heart, conforms us to the character of Christ.
Sound doctrine drives us to devote ourselves more completely to God in our thoughts, desires, attitudes, words, and actions—which is what the Bible calls “holiness.”
Sound doctrine drives us to devote ourselves more completely to God in our thoughts, desires, attitudes, words, and actions—which is what the Bible calls “holiness.”
As Jesus prayed, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth” ( John 17:17 ).
As Jesus prayed, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth” ( John 17:17 ).
Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
6. Sound doctrine is the ground and pattern of love.
6. Sound doctrine is the ground and pattern of love.
The apostle John once told a church that he loved them “in the truth,” and that all those who know the truth love them too, “because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever” ( 2 John 1-2 .
The apostle John once told a church that he loved them “in the truth,” and that all those who know the truth love them too, “because of the truth that abides in us and will be with us forever” ( 2 John 1-2 .
The elder unto the elect lady and her children, whom I love in the truth; and not I only, but also all they that have known the truth;
for the truth’s sake, which dwelleth in us, and shall be with us for ever.
Truth is the basis of the special bond of love that ties Christians’ hearts together.
Truth is the basis of the special bond of love that ties Christians’ hearts together.
And truth is the pattern of our love: we are to love one another in deed and truth, since that is how Jesus loved us (1 John 3:16-18 ).
And truth is the pattern of our love: we are to love one another in deed and truth, since that is how Jesus loved us (1 John 3:16-18 ).
Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.
But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?
My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
7. Sound doctrine is the foundation of unity in the church.
7. Sound doctrine is the foundation of unity in the church.
When the Corinthian church was torn by divisions over favored leaders, Paul shot back, “Is Christ divided?
When the Corinthian church was torn by divisions over favored leaders, Paul shot back, “Is Christ divided?
Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul” (1 Cor 1:13 ).
Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul” (1 Cor 1:13 ).
Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?
The unity of the church is grounded in the unity of the faith.
The unity of the church is grounded in the unity of the faith.
8. Sound doctrine is fuel for the fire of worship.
8. Sound doctrine is fuel for the fire of worship.
Over and over again the Bible not only tells us to worship; it tells us why to worship (Ps 95:1-7 ).
Over and over again the Bible not only tells us to worship; it tells us why to worship (Ps 95:1-7 ).
O come, let us sing unto the Lord: Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, And make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.
For the Lord is a great God, And a great King above all gods.
In his hand are the deep places of the earth: The strength of the hills is his also.
The sea is his, and he made it: And his hands formed the dry land.
O come, let us worship and bow down: Let us kneel before the Lord our maker.
For he is our God; And we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice,
Sound doctrine reminds us that God has rescued us from our sin, reconciled us to himself, and pledged himself to provide for all of our needs, now and forever.
Sound doctrine reminds us that God has rescued us from our sin, reconciled us to himself, and pledged himself to provide for all of our needs, now and forever.
All of these are reasons to praise him, adore him, make a joyful noise to him, and bow down before him in submission and obedience.
All of these are reasons to praise him, adore him, make a joyful noise to him, and bow down before him in submission and obedience.
9. Sound doctrine equips and emboldens evangelism.
9. Sound doctrine equips and emboldens evangelism.
The better you know the gospel, the better you’ll share the gospel.
The better you know the gospel, the better you’ll share the gospel.
And the better you remember that God is the one who gives life to the dead and sight to the blind (Eph 2:1-10 , 2 Cor 4:3-6 ), the more you’ll boldly preach the gospel, pray for conversions, and trust God to save sinners.
And the better you remember that God is the one who gives life to the dead and sight to the blind (Eph 2:1-10 , 2 Cor 4:3-6 ), the more you’ll boldly preach the gospel, pray for conversions, and trust God to save sinners.
And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;
Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)
And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Not of works, lest any man should boast.
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
10. Sound doctrine fills up our joy.
10. Sound doctrine fills up our joy.
Referring to all the teaching he gave his disciples on his last night with them—including some of the Bible’s richest teaching on the Trinity—Jesus says, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full (John 15:11).
Referring to all the teaching he gave his disciples on his last night with them—including some of the Bible’s richest teaching on the Trinity—Jesus says, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full (John 15:11).
These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
Because it unfolds the riches of God’s grace to us, sound doctrine brings light and hope and joy.
Because it unfolds the riches of God’s grace to us, sound doctrine brings light and hope and joy.
It fills our hearts with satisfaction in Christ because of what he has done for us.
It fills our hearts with satisfaction in Christ because of what he has done for us.
II) DRIVE WITH SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES.
II) DRIVE WITH SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES.
Spiritual Disciplines
Spiritual Disciplines
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
1: Introduction
1: Introduction
2: Grace and Discipline
2: Grace and Discipline
3: Prayer
3: Prayer
4: Silence and Solitude
4: Silence and Solitude
5: Study
5: Study
6: Fasting
6: Fasting
7: Meditation
7: Meditation
8: Submission
8: Submission
9: Service
9: Service
10: Guidance
10: Guidance
11: Confession
11: Confession
12: Worship
12: Worship
13: Celebration
13: Celebration
14: Whole Life Stewardship
14: Whole Life Stewardship
15: Spiritual Discipline – A Lifestyle
15: Spiritual Discipline – A Lifestyle
1: Introduction
Our loving God wants us to live a fulfilled life.
1: Introduction
Our loving God wants us to live a fulfilled life.
Although he does not guarantee us a trouble-free existence, he does give instructions that strengthen our bond with him.
God’s purpose is to develop a loving relationship with each one of his children.
Although he does not guarantee us a trouble-free existence, he does give instructions that strengthen our bond with him.
God’s purpose is to develop a loving relationship with each one of his children.
One powerful way to know our Lord better is through the spiritual disciplines.
Spiritual disciplines can be described as behaviors that facilitate spiritual growth.
One powerful way to know our Lord better is through the spiritual disciplines.
Spiritual disciplines can be described as behaviors that facilitate spiritual growth.
The process of spiritual growth and development begins to take place when a person encounters God, and God begins to create a new level of consciousness or awareness.
The process of spiritual growth and development begins to take place when a person encounters God, and God begins to create a new level of consciousness or awareness.
When we pursue each day as an exciting opportunity to develop a loving relationship with God, these disciplines will guide us to see our Father’s heart more clearly.
Think of someone you have viewed as a mentor, or someone you have respected in the past.
When we pursue each day as an exciting opportunity to develop a loving relationship with God, these disciplines will guide us to see our Father’s heart more clearly.
Think of someone you have viewed as a mentor, or someone you have respected in the past.
What characteristics caused you to think of this person?
What characteristics caused you to think of this person?
In what ways do you want to be like this person? Why?
In what ways do you want to be like this person? Why?
Some of us may have asked, “What are Christians expected to do on a day-to-day basis?”
Some of us may have asked, “What are Christians expected to do on a day-to-day basis?”
What would make us ask such a question?
What would make us ask such a question?
Key Scripture: John 14:5-15
In verse 7, we read, “If you really know me, you will know my Father as well.”
Key Scripture: John 14:5-15
In verse 7, we read, “If you really know me, you will know my Father as well.”
Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?
Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.
Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us.
Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?
Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.
Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.
And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.
If ye love me, keep my commandments.
Why does Jesus respond to Thomas in this way?
Why does Jesus respond to Thomas in this way?
What implications does this response have for us as Christians today? (Gal 2:20
What implications does this response have for us as Christians today? (Gal 2:20
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
What did Jesus mean when He said that those who believe Him will do even
What did Jesus mean when He said that those who believe Him will do even
greater things? (verse 12)
greater things? (verse 12)
What might a nonbeliever see in a Christian that would help the nonbeliever to know Jesus or the Father?
What might a nonbeliever see in a Christian that would help the nonbeliever to know Jesus or the Father?
What are some of the activities in which Jesus regularly participated?
What are some of the activities in which Jesus regularly participated?
(These activities Willard refers to as “disciplines.”)
(These activities Willard refers to as “disciplines.”)
As a group, pray that God will lead the group in the coming discussions on the disciplines.
As a group, pray that God will lead the group in the coming discussions on the disciplines.
Almost 2,000 years later, can we truly follow Jesus Christ’s life-model, or is it simply impossible in today’s hectic world?
Almost 2,000 years later, can we truly follow Jesus Christ’s life-model, or is it simply impossible in today’s hectic world?
Challenge for growth
Challenge for growth
Meditation and prayer:
Meditation and prayer:
In the coming weeks, meditate on the importance of the spiritual disciplines in your life.
In the coming weeks, meditate on the importance of the spiritual disciplines in your life.
How have spiritual disciplines changed your life? How would you like them to
How have spiritual disciplines changed your life? How would you like them to
change your life?
change your life?
Petition God in prayer and thanksgiving to help you.
Petition God in prayer and thanksgiving to help you.
For further study
In your personal Bible study, take special notice of God’s instruction on the different disciplines.
— The Spirit of the Disciplines, Dallas Willard
— Celebration of Discipline, Richard Foster
Charles and Susi Albrecht
For further study
In your personal Bible study, take special notice of God’s instruction on the different disciplines.
— The Spirit of the Disciplines, Dallas Willard
— Celebration of Discipline, Richard Foster
Charles and Susi Albrecht
2: Grace and Discipline
Christians live in grace and by grace, not by works.
2: Grace and Discipline
Christians live in grace and by grace, not by works.
We cannot boast about our own works, no matter how good they are.
We cannot boast about our own works, no matter how good they are.
God gets all the glory, for he is the one who motivates us to do anything good.
God gets all the glory, for he is the one who motivates us to do anything good.
Even the faith we have is a gift of God.
Even the faith we have is a gift of God.
So, to ensure that God gets all the glory, should we sit back and do nothing?
So, to ensure that God gets all the glory, should we sit back and do nothing?
Should we not study unless God motivates us to feel like it, should we not pray unless he motivates us to feel like it, should we not do any good works unless he initiates them?
Should we not study unless God motivates us to feel like it, should we not pray unless he motivates us to feel like it, should we not do any good works unless he initiates them?
Does any talk of discipline take the initiative away from God, give people opportunity to boast, and become a form of legalism?
Does any talk of discipline take the initiative away from God, give people opportunity to boast, and become a form of legalism?
Is discipline an enemy of grace?
Is discipline an enemy of grace?
If it’s all of grace, what need is there for any discipline?
If it’s all of grace, what need is there for any discipline?
If God does the work, why should we try?
If God does the work, why should we try?
Parents: have you ever taught a child to do something by doing it with the child – so much so that you were actually doing all the work and the child was just following along?
Parents: have you ever taught a child to do something by doing it with the child – so much so that you were actually doing all the work and the child was just following along?
Did you want the child to try, or to quit trying? Give an example.
Did you want the child to try, or to quit trying? Give an example.
In 1 Corinthians 15:10, Paul tells us, “By the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not without effect.
In 1 Corinthians 15:10, Paul tells us, “By the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not without effect.
But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
No, I worked harder than all of them – yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.” Who was doing the working – was it God, or was it Paul?
No, I worked harder than all of them – yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.” Who was doing the working – was it God, or was it Paul?
What characteristic of God did Paul say was working in him?
What characteristic of God did Paul say was working in him?
Key Scripture: Romans 12:1-8
After Paul has explained to the Romans that salvation is by grace through faith in
Key Scripture: Romans 12:1-8
After Paul has explained to the Romans that salvation is by grace through faith in
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:
So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
Jesus Christ as our atoning sacrifice, he now begins to stress some practical applications.
Jesus Christ as our atoning sacrifice, he now begins to stress some practical applications.
Does he exhort us to be passive, to wait upon the Lord for him to work in us? Verses 1-2.
Does he exhort us to be passive, to wait upon the Lord for him to work in us? Verses 1-2.
How might Paul respond if we asked him: “You tell us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.
How might Paul respond if we asked him: “You tell us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds.
How do we go about that?”
How do we go about that?”
Is that something we do, or do we wait for God to do it?
Is that something we do, or do we wait for God to do it?
Paul says that we are members not just of Jesus Christ, but also of one another – we belong to one another (verse 5).
Paul says that we are members not just of Jesus Christ, but also of one another – we belong to one another (verse 5).
How might this affect our behavior?
How might this affect our behavior?
Paul talks about spiritual gifts – given by grace – in verses 6-8.
Paul talks about spiritual gifts – given by grace – in verses 6-8.
Do these gifts of grace do their own work in our lives, or is there something we are supposed to do with them?
Do these gifts of grace do their own work in our lives, or is there something we are supposed to do with them?
Do our efforts take anything away from God’s glory?
Do our efforts take anything away from God’s glory?
In Galatians 2:20, Paul said, “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.
In Galatians 2:20, Paul said, “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God.”
The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God.”
Who was doing the living – Paul, or Christ? (See 1 Corinthians 9:27 and Romans 15:18).
In Colossians 1:29, Paul explained how he proclaimed Christ: “To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me.”
Who was doing the living – Paul, or Christ? (See 1 Corinthians 9:27 and Romans 15:18).
In Colossians 1:29, Paul explained how he proclaimed Christ: “To this end I labor, struggling with all his energy, which so powerfully works in me.”
But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed,
Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.
Who was doing the working in Paul’s life?
Who was doing the working in Paul’s life?
Are we to strive for grace in the same way?
Are we to strive for grace in the same way?
How can we labor without taking any credit for it?
How can we labor without taking any credit for it?
John Piper says that God gives us faith, but yet it is still we who believe and trust.
John Piper says that God gives us faith, but yet it is still we who believe and trust.
“It is unbiblical and irrational to say that, because the grace of God produces in us an active trust in God, we don’t need to exert an active trust in God.
“It is unbiblical and irrational to say that, because the grace of God produces in us an active trust in God, we don’t need to exert an active trust in God.
Is it not irrational to say, ‘God enables us to trust him; therefore we don’t need to trust him?’”
Is it not irrational to say, ‘God enables us to trust him; therefore we don’t need to trust him?’”
Challenges for growth:
How can we work as hard as Paul did without being legalistic?
Challenges for growth:
How can we work as hard as Paul did without being legalistic?
Can we ask God for more zeal than we really want?
Can we ask God for more zeal than we really want?
If we don’t want that much zeal, why not?
If we don’t want that much zeal, why not?
What is more important to us than zeal?
What is more important to us than zeal?
Since we belong to one another, what is my responsibility toward you to help you in obeying Paul’s exhortations?
Since we belong to one another, what is my responsibility toward you to help you in obeying Paul’s exhortations?
Do we look on grace as a cover for wrong-doing, or as a motivation for right-
doing?
Do we look on grace as a cover for wrong-doing, or as a motivation for right-
doing?
Michael Morrison
Michael Morrison
3: Prayer
3: Prayer
Introduction
Introduction
Prayer changes us.
Prayer changes lives.
Prayer changes history.
It is a way to feel God’s heartbeat.
Knowing who God really is makes us want to conform to Jesus Christ and his way of life.
God slowly and graciously reveals himself to us while we pray, and it is during those moments that we can breathe in deeply his love.
What did James mean in James 4:3, “You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passion”?
To ask for the “right” things involves a changed heart, new passions.
We think no longer our own thoughts, but those of God’s; we desire the things God desires, we start to love and care for the things God is concerned about; we realize that God’s will for me and others is far better than my own will.
Our thoughts change, our hearts change, and we learn to see life from His point of view.
The wonderful thing about prayer is that God meets us where we are.
He comes alongside us to lead us into a deeper, more real relationship with him, not motivated by guilt, but driven by his love.
In Matthew 6:9-13, the disciples, who may have prayed for some time, asked Jesus to teach them to pray.
Jesus did then, and does now, teach us to pray.
We can become his students in prayer today, and there is no need for anyone to feel they need to understand it all better before they can start.
Instead, we can look forward to a life-long process.
Key Scripture: Matthew 6: 9-13
Instead, we can look forward to a life-long process.
Key Scripture: Matthew 6: 9-13
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.
And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.
(You might want to recite the Lord’s Prayer together as a group.)
As a child, did somebody teach you to pray, or give you a model prayer?
(You might want to recite the Lord’s Prayer together as a group.)
As a child, did somebody teach you to pray, or give you a model prayer?
Do you remember what you prayed for?
Jesus taught us to come to the Father like little children.
Do you remember what you prayed for?
Jesus taught us to come to the Father like little children.
What are some of the characteristics that a child exhibits when talking to a loving parent?
What are some of the characteristics that a child exhibits when talking to a loving parent?
(Example: honesty, openness, imagination, etc.)
(Example: honesty, openness, imagination, etc.)
When you pray, do you truly expect your prayers to be answered? Why or why
not?
When you pray, do you truly expect your prayers to be answered? Why or why
not?
In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 we read, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give
thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
In 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 we read, “Be joyful always; pray continually; give
thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Rejoice evermore.
Pray without ceasing.
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.
A lack of endurance is one of the greatest causes of defeat.
A lack of endurance is one of the greatest causes of defeat.
What can we do to motivate ourselves to stay disciplined, to endure in prayer, especially when it seems to us that God is not answering?
What can we do to motivate ourselves to stay disciplined, to endure in prayer, especially when it seems to us that God is not answering?
“One of the most critical aspects in learning to pray for others is to get in contact with God so his life and power can flow through us into others” (Richard Foster).
“One of the most critical aspects in learning to pray for others is to get in contact with God so his life and power can flow through us into others” (Richard Foster).
How can we “tune in” to God in order to pray more effectively for others?
How can we “tune in” to God in order to pray more effectively for others?
How do you listen to God?
How do you listen to God?
How does he communicate with you?
How does he communicate with you?
“Answers to prayer are wonderful, but they are secondary to the main function of prayer, which is a growing, perpetual communion.
“Answers to prayer are wonderful, but they are secondary to the main function of prayer, which is a growing, perpetual communion.
It is out of this refreshing life of communion with Jesus Christ that answered prayer comes as a happy by-product” (Richard Foster).
It is out of this refreshing life of communion with Jesus Christ that answered prayer comes as a happy by-product” (Richard Foster).
How do you feel about this statement?
How do you feel about this statement?
Let’s pretend you are meeting a new Christian, who has been in the faith only a few days.
Let’s pretend you are meeting a new Christian, who has been in the faith only a few days.
She feels that prayer is mainly intense and difficult, even frightening.
She feels that prayer is mainly intense and difficult, even frightening.
How would you assure her to continue to pray?
How would you assure her to continue to pray?
How would you respond to someone who makes the following statement: “God knows the end from the beginning, he knows what’s best for everyone, so why should I bother to pray?
How would you respond to someone who makes the following statement: “God knows the end from the beginning, he knows what’s best for everyone, so why should I bother to pray?
I’m afraid I might pray for the wrong thing.”
I’m afraid I might pray for the wrong thing.”
Do you think it is important to view prayer as a learning process? Why?
Challenge for growth
What should we do when we don’t feel like praying?
Do you think it is important to view prayer as a learning process? Why?
Challenge for growth
What should we do when we don’t feel like praying?
Give it some serious thought.
Give it some serious thought.
Try to find ways to discipline yourself to pray anyway, not out of guilt, but motivated by your love for God.
Try to find ways to discipline yourself to pray anyway, not out of guilt, but motivated by your love for God.
Here is a little experiment for you: Go through a whole day offering a silent prayer for every person you come in contact with.
Here is a little experiment for you: Go through a whole day offering a silent prayer for every person you come in contact with.
Record what you have learned from that experience.
Record what you have learned from that experience.
Many people around us do not know the Lord. Make a list and start praying for the people you know who need to know that God loves them.
Many people around us do not know the Lord. Make a list and start praying for the people you know who need to know that God loves them.
How can you share God’s love with them?
How can you share God’s love with them?
Spend more time in prayer of praise, worship and thanksgiving.
S. Albrecht
Spend more time in prayer of praise, worship and thanksgiving.
S. Albrecht
4: Silence and Solitude
4: Silence and Solitude
Introduction
Introduction
In today’s world a wide range of impulses bombards us.
In today’s world a wide range of impulses bombards us.
We have television in our homes, in our offices, and in our cars.
We have television in our homes, in our offices, and in our cars.
Our homes have access to scores of television channels and videos.
Our homes have access to scores of television channels and videos.
There are games and computers and the internet.
There are games and computers and the internet.
There are more magazines, newspapers and books than we could ever read.
There are more magazines, newspapers and books than we could ever read.
People, sounds and things are everywhere we go.
People, sounds and things are everywhere we go.
Dr. Richard Peace writes, “The spiritual disciplines keep us alert to the presence of God.”
Dr. Richard Peace writes, “The spiritual disciplines keep us alert to the presence of God.”
He continued that “the spiritual disciplines are a way of learning to hear again; a way to respond positively to God.”
He continued that “the spiritual disciplines are a way of learning to hear again; a way to respond positively to God.”
Does it seem that God has been pushed out by the sensory overload from our surroundings?
Does it seem that God has been pushed out by the sensory overload from our surroundings?
Where do you go, or, what do you do to unwind when you have had one of those hectic days?
Where do you go, or, what do you do to unwind when you have had one of those hectic days?
Why do you find this to be of comfort?
Why do you find this to be of comfort?
Scriptural theme: Luke 5:15-16; 6:12-13
Scriptural theme: Luke 5:15-16; 6:12-13
But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities.
And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.
And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.
And when it was day, he called unto him his disciples: and of them he chose twelve, whom also he named apostles;
Consider three or four of the following discussion items regarding the scriptural theme and the disciplines of silence and solitude:
Consider three or four of the following discussion items regarding the scriptural theme and the disciplines of silence and solitude:
Why are references like these recorded in the Gospels?
Why are references like these recorded in the Gospels?
Do you think Jesus was strengthened by his time on the mountain? If so, how?
Do you think Jesus was strengthened by his time on the mountain? If so, how?
Do people in today’s world find it difficult to find “quiet time?”
Do people in today’s world find it difficult to find “quiet time?”
What are things that can either hinder or encourage this type of quality time?
What are things that can either hinder or encourage this type of quality time?
It is said that solitude is a fundamental discipline.
It is said that solitude is a fundamental discipline.
Can something really be learned from spending time alone, from taking time in silence and solitude?
Can something really be learned from spending time alone, from taking time in silence and solitude?
According to Richard Foster, “Loneliness is inner emptiness.
According to Richard Foster, “Loneliness is inner emptiness.
Solitude is inner fulfillment, [and it] is more a state of mind and heart than it is a place.
Solitude is inner fulfillment, [and it] is more a state of mind and heart than it is a place.
” What are your thoughts on this perspective?
As individuals, take a few quiet minutes during the meeting to reread the theme passages silently.
” What are your thoughts on this perspective?
As individuals, take a few quiet minutes during the meeting to reread the theme passages silently.
What is God saying to you in these passages?
What is God saying to you in these passages?
Sometimes people will withdraw from their normal surroundings when searching for a quiet place.
Sometimes people will withdraw from their normal surroundings when searching for a quiet place.
How can this be beneficial?
How can this be beneficial?
Challenge for growth
Challenge for growth
During your prayers, spend some time in silence to focus on God’s nature and what he may be saying to you.
During your prayers, spend some time in silence to focus on God’s nature and what he may be saying to you.
In the coming weeks, schedule a period of time away from all the distractions in your daily life.
In the coming weeks, schedule a period of time away from all the distractions in your daily life.
Schedule a time of solitude.
Schedule a time of solitude.
Pray that God will lead you as you practice the disciplines of silence and solitude.
Pray that God will lead you as you practice the disciplines of silence and solitude.
We have outlined two popular lists of disciplines as compiled by Dallas Willard and Richard Foster.
We have outlined two popular lists of disciplines as compiled by Dallas Willard and Richard Foster.
The theme Discipline of Grace has been the focus of other authors, and has also been included in our series.
The theme Discipline of Grace has been the focus of other authors, and has also been included in our series.
5: Study
5: Study
In the spiritual discipline of study, we engage ourselves, above all, with the written and spoken Word of God.
In the spiritual discipline of study, we engage ourselves, above all, with the written and spoken Word of God.
In Romans 12:2, the apostle Paul tells us that we are transformed through the renewal of the mind, and that we cannot just simply copy the behavior of those around us.
In Romans 12:2, the apostle Paul tells us that we are transformed through the renewal of the mind, and that we cannot just simply copy the behavior of those around us.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
The discipline of study is an important vehicle by which our minds are renewed by those things that are important to God.
The discipline of study is an important vehicle by which our minds are renewed by those things that are important to God.
Study will help to release us from the bondage of fear and anxieties, and replace that with the knowledge of God’s grace, which will reach the depth of our hearts, minds and souls.
Study will help to release us from the bondage of fear and anxieties, and replace that with the knowledge of God’s grace, which will reach the depth of our hearts, minds and souls.
Jesus said in John 8:32, “You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”
Jesus said in John 8:32, “You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
Without the truth, we will not be truly free.
Without the truth, we will not be truly free.
As we all know, this principle applies to every area, whether we study biology, mathematics or science.
As we all know, this principle applies to every area, whether we study biology, mathematics or science.
But it is especially true in reference to our spiritual walk.
But it is especially true in reference to our spiritual walk.
In this discussion, we want to focus on our study of spiritual issues.
As we learn from each other, we will be able to identify pitfalls, joys and challenges. The goal is to more fully experience the liberation that study brings.
In this discussion, we want to focus on our study of spiritual issues.
As we learn from each other, we will be able to identify pitfalls, joys and challenges. The goal is to more fully experience the liberation that study brings.
Key Scripture: Philippians 4:8
Key Scripture: Philippians 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
What is your favorite time of the day?
What is your favorite time of the day?
When do you feel most energetic, alive and able to concentrate?
When do you feel most energetic, alive and able to concentrate?
In your own words, describe what “study” means to you, and what it does not
mean.
In your own words, describe what “study” means to you, and what it does not
mean.
In 1 Timothy 4:7 we read, “Don’t waste time arguing over foolish ideas and silly
myths and legends.
In 1 Timothy 4:7 we read, “Don’t waste time arguing over foolish ideas and silly
myths and legends.
But refuse profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.
Spend your time and energy in the exercise of keeping spiritually fit” .
Spend your time and energy in the exercise of keeping spiritually fit” .
Studying the right things is as important as studying in general. How
Studying the right things is as important as studying in general. How
do you determine what the right things for you to study are?
do you determine what the right things for you to study are?
Outside the Bible, what book, teacher, lecture, etc.
Outside the Bible, what book, teacher, lecture, etc.
have had the most profound impact on your spiritual life?
have had the most profound impact on your spiritual life?
Have you ever had the experience that after careful, analytical, serious study you changed your actions, opinion or even life style?
Have you ever had the experience that after careful, analytical, serious study you changed your actions, opinion or even life style?
Please share an example with the group.
Please share an example with the group.
Why does study produce joy?
Why does study produce joy?
Do you think our study affects those around us? How?
Do you think our study affects those around us? How?
In the Old Testament, the Israelites were instructed to write the laws on gates and doorposts and bind them to their wrists so that “they shall be as frontlets between your eyes” (Deuteronomy 11:18).
In the Old Testament, the Israelites were instructed to write the laws on gates and doorposts and bind them to their wrists so that “they shall be as frontlets between your eyes” (Deuteronomy 11:18).
Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes.
The purpose of this instruction was to direct their minds repeatedly and regularly towards God, and his instructions on human relationships.
The purpose of this instruction was to direct their minds repeatedly and regularly towards God, and his instructions on human relationships.
Today, we no longer take part in that practice.
Today, we no longer take part in that practice.
But how can we discipline ourselves to regularly and repeatedly study God’s words to make it easier for his laws to be written in our hearts?
But how can we discipline ourselves to regularly and repeatedly study God’s words to make it easier for his laws to be written in our hearts?
What motivates you?
What motivates you?
We live hectic, busy lives, and we are often pulled in many different directions.
We live hectic, busy lives, and we are often pulled in many different directions.
How can we positively encourage one another in the discipline of study?
How can we positively encourage one another in the discipline of study?
Prayer
Prayer
As a group, spend some time in prayer, asking God to direct and bless our personal and collective study, so that we can know our Lord better and respond to him more fully.
As a group, spend some time in prayer, asking God to direct and bless our personal and collective study, so that we can know our Lord better and respond to him more fully.
Ask God to help each member to prioritize his or her life, so we can make adequate time to seek God through study.
Ask God to help each member to prioritize his or her life, so we can make adequate time to seek God through study.
Thank God for allowing us to know him.
Thank God for allowing us to know him.
Challenge for growth
Challenge for growth
The call to study – Proverbs 1:1-9: 23:12, 23.
The call to study – Proverbs 1:1-9: 23:12, 23.
The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;
To know wisdom and instruction; To perceive the words of understanding;
To receive the instruction of wisdom, Justice, and judgment, and equity;
To give subtilty to the simple, To the young man knowledge and discretion.
A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; And a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels:
To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; The words of the wise, and their dark sayings.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: But fools despise wisdom and instruction.
My son, hear the instruction of thy father, And forsake not the law of thy mother:
For they shall be an ornament of grace unto thy head, And chains about thy neck.
The source of truth – James 1:5; Hebrews 4:11-13; 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
The source of truth – James 1:5; Hebrews 4:11-13; 2 Timothy 3:16-17.
If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
What to study – Philippians 4: 8-9; Colossians 3:1-17.
What to study – Philippians 4: 8-9; Colossians 3:1-17.
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:
In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.
But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.
Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;
And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
The value of study – Luke 10:38-42.
The value of study – Luke 10:38-42.
Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.
And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus’ feet, and heard his word.
But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.
And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:
But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
Active study – Ezra 7:10; James 1:19-25.
Active study – Ezra 7:10; James 1:19-25.
For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:
For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:
For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.
But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.
S. Albrecht Materials used:
Celebration of Discipline, Richard Foster
The Spirit of the Disciplines, Dallas Willard
Committing Ourselves to Be Changed by God, Foundation of Christian Living
S. Albrecht Materials used:
Celebration of Discipline, Richard Foster
The Spirit of the Disciplines, Dallas Willard
Committing Ourselves to Be Changed by God, Foundation of Christian Living
6: Fasting
6: Fasting
Introduction
Introduction
If you seek a closer walk with God, consider fasting.
Throughout Scripture, fasting refers to abstaining from food, or food and drink, for spiritual purposes.
Fasting is more than a diet adjustment; it involves spiritual intensity and intercession.
Fasting should always be accompanied with prayer, meditation, and Bible study.
We should never be motivated by the mistaken idea that our fasting will move God to do what we want.
Even if we wanted to, we could never manipulate God.
The purpose of our fasting is to move us closer to God and to seek his will in our lives.
One of the greatest spiritual benefits of fasting is becoming more aware of our own inadequacies and God’s adequacy; becoming more aware of our own failings and his self-sufficiency.
The purpose of all disciplines, including fasting, is to change us so that we may become more Christ-like.
Fasting helps us to listen to what God wants us to be and do.
The list of biblical personages who fasted reads like a Who’s Who of Scripture.
For example: Moses the lawgiver, David the king, Elijah the prophet, Esther the queen, Daniel the advisor to kings, Anna the prophetess, Paul the apostle, and Jesus Christ the incarnate Son.
A word of caution: Before anyone attempts to go on a fast, please consult your physician if you have health problems such as diabetes, kidney disorders, or other serious conditions.
The normal spiritual fast is going without food for a period of time during which you ingest only liquids (water and/or juice).
The duration can be one day or several days.
Some Christians fast on juice or water up to a week.
The absolute fast is abstaining from both food and water.
The duration shouldn’t exceed one or two days unless you have discussed absolute fasting ahead of time with your doctor.
1st key passage: Matthew 6:16-18
1st key passage: Matthew 6:16-18
Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face;
That thou appear not unto men to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret: and thy Father, which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
Does Jesus command fasting, or does he only comment on how to fast properly?
Does Jesus command fasting, or does he only comment on how to fast properly?
What should we do and how should we look when fasting? Why?
What should we do and how should we look when fasting? Why?
One key to fasting is motivation.
One key to fasting is motivation.
What are the differences in motivation between truly seeking God and fasting to gain power or admiration?
What are the differences in motivation between truly seeking God and fasting to gain power or admiration?
2nd key passage: Matthew 9:14-15
2nd key passage: Matthew 9:14-15
Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not?
And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast.
Did Jesus expect his disciples to fast after he was gone?
Did Jesus expect his disciples to fast after he was gone?
It is said that fasting brings us closer to God.
It is said that fasting brings us closer to God.
Could this be one of the reasons Jesus said his disciples would fast after he would no longer be with them?
Could this be one of the reasons Jesus said his disciples would fast after he would no longer be with them?
What are other reasons?
What are other reasons?
3rd key passage: Isaiah 58:3-10
3rd key passage: Isaiah 58:3-10
Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? Wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, And exact all your labours.
Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, And to smite with the fist of wickedness: Ye shall not fast as ye do this day, To make your voice to be heard on high.
Is it such a fast that I have chosen? A day for a man to afflict his soul? Is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, And to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? Wilt thou call this a fast, And an acceptable day to the Lord?
Is not this the fast that I have chosen? To loose the bands of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, And to let the oppressed go free, And that ye break every yoke?
Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, And that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? When thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; And that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?
Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, And thine health shall spring forth speedily: And thy righteousness shall go before thee; The glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward.
Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; Thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, The putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity;
And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, And satisfy the afflicted soul; Then shall thy light rise in obscurity, And thy darkness be as the noonday:
In this passage, Isaiah tells us that the Jews were fasting, but God was not answering their requests.
In this passage, Isaiah tells us that the Jews were fasting, but God was not answering their requests.
Why not? What kind of fast does God want?
Why not? What kind of fast does God want?
When people turn from mistreating others, to helping them with their needs, does that in itself count as fasting?
When people turn from mistreating others, to helping them with their needs, does that in itself count as fasting?
Are we to obey when we fast, obey before we fast, or obey instead of fasting?
Are we to obey when we fast, obey before we fast, or obey instead of fasting?
Is fasting a way to get God to answer our prayers? Will fasting solve our problems?
Is fasting a way to get God to answer our prayers? Will fasting solve our problems?
Will it lead to more effective evangelism?
Will it lead to more effective evangelism?
Does it solve humanitarian problems?
Does it solve humanitarian problems?
What does God promise to do if his people fast in the right way?
What does God promise to do if his people fast in the right way?
Will we gain power over sin?
Will we gain power over sin?
Some may wish to share how God has answered their prayers when they were fasting for his intervention.
Some may wish to share how God has answered their prayers when they were fasting for his intervention.
When we fast and pour our heart out to God, it’s been said that he gives us His “eyes” to see the situation or the problem as it really exists.
When we fast and pour our heart out to God, it’s been said that he gives us His “eyes” to see the situation or the problem as it really exists.
How is this beneficial to us?
During the fast, why is it helpful to read various portions of Scripture that may apply to our situation and then meditate on them?
Challenge for growth
Challenge for growth
The next time you feel the need to fast for any spiritual reason, please consider these benefits that fasting produces:
The next time you feel the need to fast for any spiritual reason, please consider these benefits that fasting produces:
1) spiritual examination and introspection;
1) spiritual examination and introspection;
2) spiritual confession;
2) spiritual confession;
3) spiritual intercession.
3) spiritual intercession.
In what way does fasting help us pray for others?
In what way does fasting help us pray for others?
7: Meditation
Introduction
7: Meditation
Introduction
When considering meditation, some people think of images such as incense, candles, dark rooms filled with people sitting cross-legged on the floor humming “Ommmm.”
When considering meditation, some people think of images such as incense, candles, dark rooms filled with people sitting cross-legged on the floor humming “Ommmm.”
There are many forms of meditation, which is part of almost every form of religion. However, Christian meditation can be virtually the opposite of Eastern meditation.
There are many forms of meditation, which is part of almost every form of religion. However, Christian meditation can be virtually the opposite of Eastern meditation.
Christian meditation is listening, sensing, and heeding the life and light of Jesus Christ.
Christian meditation is listening, sensing, and heeding the life and light of Jesus Christ.
Richard Foster puts it this way:
Richard Foster puts it this way:
In the discipline of meditation we are not so much acting as we are opening ourselves to be acted upon.
In the discipline of meditation we are not so much acting as we are opening ourselves to be acted upon.
We invite the Holy Spirit to come and work within us – teaching, cleansing, comforting, and rebuking.
We invite the Holy Spirit to come and work within us – teaching, cleansing, comforting, and rebuking.
We also surround ourselves with the strong light of Christ to protect us from any influences not of God.
We also surround ourselves with the strong light of Christ to protect us from any influences not of God.
Meditation gives us the wondrous and glorious opportunity to dwell completely on the goodness and perfection of our Lord.
Meditation gives us the wondrous and glorious opportunity to dwell completely on the goodness and perfection of our Lord.
He wants you and me to be in communion with him so that we can learn his will, realize his purpose, believe his promises, see his work and imitate his way for us.
He wants you and me to be in communion with him so that we can learn his will, realize his purpose, believe his promises, see his work and imitate his way for us.
What are the first images that come to your mind when you think of meditation?
What are the first images that come to your mind when you think of meditation?
Do you feel comfortable and confident to meditate?
Do you feel comfortable and confident to meditate?
Do you ever feel that meditation is too difficult, complicated or weird? Why?
Do you ever feel that meditation is too difficult, complicated or weird? Why?
In the midst of a very busy ministry Jesus made it a habit to withdraw many times to be alone (see Matthew 4: 1-11; 14:23; Mark 1:35; 6:31; Luke 6:12, etc.).
In the midst of a very busy ministry Jesus made it a habit to withdraw many times to be alone (see Matthew 4: 1-11; 14:23; Mark 1:35; 6:31; Luke 6:12, etc.).
Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.
And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.
And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple,
And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.
Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.
Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them;
And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.
Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.
And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone.
And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.
And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.
And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.
As you meditate on one of these scriptures, please share with the group what you think Jesus did during those important times.
As you meditate on one of these scriptures, please share with the group what you think Jesus did during those important times.
From your experience, what is the purpose for meditating on God’s Word?
From your experience, what is the purpose for meditating on God’s Word?
How do you think obedience is related to this topic? Please read what Jesus said in John 5:19; 30.
How do you think obedience is related to this topic? Please read what Jesus said in John 5:19; 30.
Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.
I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.
In your opinion, are people around us affected when we make time for the discipline of meditation? Why or why not?
In your opinion, are people around us affected when we make time for the discipline of meditation? Why or why not?
Meditation as a group
Meditation as a group
Facilitator: You may wish to choose different scriptures.
Facilitator: You may wish to choose different scriptures.
The following is just a suggestion.
The following is just a suggestion.
God greatly desires to spend time alone with us.
God greatly desires to spend time alone with us.
After all, we are his children.
After all, we are his children.
Please read John 1:12 and Galatians 3:26.
Please read John 1:12 and Galatians 3:26.
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.
Our heavenly Father wants to know us, and he wants us to know him.
Our heavenly Father wants to know us, and he wants us to know him.
Think about this: The Creator of the universe wants to meet with us alone daily.
Think about this: The Creator of the universe wants to meet with us alone daily.
What do you and God do when you are alone together?
What do you and God do when you are alone together?
To be in the presence of God is to change. How is God changing you when you are in his presence?
To be in the presence of God is to change. How is God changing you when you are in his presence?
Do you feel like a child of God?
Do you feel like a child of God?
You are not who you are because of your own or others’ opinions.
You are not who you are because of your own or others’ opinions.
You are who you are because of what God says about you.
You are who you are because of what God says about you.
In 1 Peter 1:24-25 we read, “Our natural lives will fade as grass does when it becomes all brown and dry.
In 1 Peter 1:24-25 we read, “Our natural lives will fade as grass does when it becomes all brown and dry.
For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:
But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.
All our greatness is like a flower that droops and falls, but the Word of the Lord will last forever.”
All our greatness is like a flower that droops and falls, but the Word of the Lord will last forever.”
Based on the above verses, why do you think it is important to see yourself from God’s perspective rather than the world’s?
Based on the above verses, why do you think it is important to see yourself from God’s perspective rather than the world’s?
How does meditating on God’s words change your self-image? How is it molding your view of others?
How does meditating on God’s words change your self-image? How is it molding your view of others?
Challenge for growth
Challenge for growth
As you sit down to read the Bible and spend time with God in prayer and meditation, picture Jesus sitting next to you in your living room.
As you sit down to read the Bible and spend time with God in prayer and meditation, picture Jesus sitting next to you in your living room.
Imagine he turns to you and asks you: “I love you so much.
Imagine he turns to you and asks you: “I love you so much.
Tell me what I can do for you today.”
Tell me what I can do for you today.”
Then tell him exactly what is in your heart – your desires, hopes, needs, fears, and joys.
Then tell him exactly what is in your heart – your desires, hopes, needs, fears, and joys.
When you have finished, turn now to Jesus and ask him the same question: “Jesus, I love you so much.
When you have finished, turn now to Jesus and ask him the same question: “Jesus, I love you so much.
Please tell me what I can do for you today.”
Please tell me what I can do for you today.”
As you become quiet, listen to what God is saying to you.
As you become quiet, listen to what God is saying to you.
God wants us to live out our spiritual journey in the ordinary events of our daily lives.
God wants us to live out our spiritual journey in the ordinary events of our daily lives.
This is an example of how to meditate.
This is an example of how to meditate.
God will give us many other ways to enter into a fuller life with Him through meditation.
God will give us many other ways to enter into a fuller life with Him through meditation.
S. and C. Albrecht
Materials used
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster
The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard Experiencing the Word in Your Life – Priorities for Living Experiencing God – Henry T. Blackaby & Claude V. King
S. and C. Albrecht
Materials used
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster
The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard Experiencing the Word in Your Life – Priorities for Living Experiencing God – Henry T. Blackaby & Claude V. King
8: Submission
8: Submission
Introduction
Introduction
As we examine and learn about the life of Jesus Christ, we see that his willingness to serve had roots in his confidence that God loved him.
As we examine and learn about the life of Jesus Christ, we see that his willingness to serve had roots in his confidence that God loved him.
Jesus found strength and assurance in knowing how important he was to his Father.
Jesus found strength and assurance in knowing how important he was to his Father.
This knowledge of his Father’s love enabled Jesus to serve people and ultimately demonstrate the greatest form of submission – his death on the cross.
This knowledge of his Father’s love enabled Jesus to serve people and ultimately demonstrate the greatest form of submission – his death on the cross.
The cross has since become the symbol of both submission and freedom to Christians around the world.
The cross has since become the symbol of both submission and freedom to Christians around the world.
Throughout the Bible God teaches us about submission, yet there are many misconceptions about this topic.
Throughout the Bible God teaches us about submission, yet there are many misconceptions about this topic.
Some feel that this discipline is mainly reserved for married couples and children, or people of lesser rank or status.
Some feel that this discipline is mainly reserved for married couples and children, or people of lesser rank or status.
Also, a deficient teaching and understanding on the topic of submission has manipulated, suppressed and even destroyed many people throughout the world.
Also, a deficient teaching and understanding on the topic of submission has manipulated, suppressed and even destroyed many people throughout the world.
The discipline of submission, and its consequence of freedom, is for all Christians.
The discipline of submission, and its consequence of freedom, is for all Christians.
Submission is about our recognition that we need God, our realistic evaluation of our abilities, and our humble willingness to serve.
Submission is about our recognition that we need God, our realistic evaluation of our abilities, and our humble willingness to serve.
Please read 1 Peter 5:5-7
Please read 1 Peter 5:5-7
Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
What comes to mind when you hear the word “submission”?
What comes to mind when you hear the word “submission”?
In your own words, what does submission mean? (Attitudes, actions, etc.) What is submission not?
In your own words, what does submission mean? (Attitudes, actions, etc.) What is submission not?
What value does our society place on submission? How is God’s view different?
What value does our society place on submission? How is God’s view different?
We read in verses 6 and 7: “If you will humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, in his good time he will lift you up.
We read in verses 6 and 7: “If you will humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, in his good time he will lift you up.
Let him have all your worries and cares, for he is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you.”
Let him have all your worries and cares, for he is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you.”
How does submission to God bring us freedom? Have you thought about this concept before, that is, that submission is a way to freedom? Read John 8 30-36.
How does submission to God bring us freedom? Have you thought about this concept before, that is, that submission is a way to freedom? Read John 8 30-36.
As he spake these words, many believed on him.
Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?
Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.
If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
Please read Philippians 2: 1-11
Please read Philippians 2: 1-11
If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
After carefully reading the above passage, how has Jesus exemplified submission and humility?
After carefully reading the above passage, how has Jesus exemplified submission and humility?
In verse 3 we read: “Don’t be selfish; don’t live to make a good impression on others.
In verse 3 we read: “Don’t be selfish; don’t live to make a good impression on others.
Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself.
Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourself.
Why do we tend to value and desire praise from our peers more than recognition and praise from God?
Why do we tend to value and desire praise from our peers more than recognition and praise from God?
How can we keep a balance between cultivating a submissive, humble attitude, and recognizing our priceless value in God’s sight?
How can we keep a balance between cultivating a submissive, humble attitude, and recognizing our priceless value in God’s sight?
Why is it important to keep that balance?
Why is it important to keep that balance?
Ephesians 5:21 says simply: “Honor Christ by submitting to each other.” How do you plan to demonstrate a healthy spirit of submission this week in your relationships with others?
Ephesians 5:21 says simply: “Honor Christ by submitting to each other.” How do you plan to demonstrate a healthy spirit of submission this week in your relationships with others?
Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.
Challenge for growth
Challenge for growth
Consider your relationship with God.
Consider your relationship with God.
Are there areas in your life that you have not yet submitted to God?
Are there areas in your life that you have not yet submitted to God?
Do you recognize your need for God, especially in areas where you are successful?
Do you recognize your need for God, especially in areas where you are successful?
If so, thank God for it. If not, ask God to give you a greater awareness of your need for him in your life.
If so, thank God for it. If not, ask God to give you a greater awareness of your need for him in your life.
Think of your strengths and weaknesses.
Think of your strengths and weaknesses.
You might want to list ten of each on a piece of paper. How are you using your strengths to serve God?
You might want to list ten of each on a piece of paper. How are you using your strengths to serve God?
How are you planning to develop strength from your weaknesses?
How are you planning to develop strength from your weaknesses?
Think of ways, places, or opportunities you would like to serve.
Think of ways, places, or opportunities you would like to serve.
Take a step forward this week and consider serving in one of these areas.
Take a step forward this week and consider serving in one of these areas.
Consider further study on submission, as there are many more aspects and scriptures dealing with this topic.
Consider further study on submission, as there are many more aspects and scriptures dealing with this topic.
S. Albrecht
Materials used:
The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster The Living Bible
The Busy Christian’s Guide to Experiencing God More – William Watkins
S. Albrecht
Materials used:
The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster The Living Bible
The Busy Christian’s Guide to Experiencing God More – William Watkins
9: Service
Introduction
9: Service
Introduction
When we think about the spiritual disciplines, the discipline of service may be the easiest for us to visualize.
When we think about the spiritual disciplines, the discipline of service may be the easiest for us to visualize.
In spite of this fact, the spirit of service can often go without enough consideration.
In spite of this fact, the spirit of service can often go without enough consideration.
The spiritual value in acts of service is very important for Christians to contemplate and understand, as it, in part, reveals the individual’s heart and life.
The spiritual value in acts of service is very important for Christians to contemplate and understand, as it, in part, reveals the individual’s heart and life.
Let’s discuss the profound example of service that Jesus gave us.
Let’s discuss the profound example of service that Jesus gave us.
Theme passage: Mark 10:35-45
Theme passage: Mark 10:35-45
And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto him, saying, Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire.
And he said unto them, What would ye that I should do for you?
They said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory.
But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask: can ye drink of the cup that I drink of? and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?
And they said unto him, We can. And Jesus said unto them, Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of; and with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized:
But to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not mine to give; but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared.
And when the ten heard it, they began to be much displeased with James and John.
But Jesus called them to him, and saith unto them, Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them.
But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister:
And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.
For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
When you go into a store or restaurant, what is a sign of “good service”?
When you go into a store or restaurant, what is a sign of “good service”?
What does it mean when we instruct someone to “practice what you preach”?
What does it mean when we instruct someone to “practice what you preach”?
After reading the theme passage, why does Jesus use a servant to demonstrate a person considered to be worthy of greatness?
After reading the theme passage, why does Jesus use a servant to demonstrate a person considered to be worthy of greatness?
How do you think this also describes a great person in our society?
How do you think this also describes a great person in our society?
Why does God link the themes of service and leadership, and how do you see them relate?
Why does God link the themes of service and leadership, and how do you see them relate?
Although the disciples did not want Jesus to wash their feet, he did it as a physical sign of service.
Although the disciples did not want Jesus to wash their feet, he did it as a physical sign of service.
How does Jesus serve us in our daily lives?
How does Jesus serve us in our daily lives?
Are there motivations in service that lessen or damage the service itself?
Are there motivations in service that lessen or damage the service itself?
Sometimes it is easier to serve people we know rather than strangers or people with whom we do not feel comfortable. Why is that?
Sometimes it is easier to serve people we know rather than strangers or people with whom we do not feel comfortable. Why is that?
Mark 10:45 we see the clearest statement regarding the saving grace of the Messiahship of Jesus. Why do you think this reference occurs in a passage instructing us to be a servant?
Mark 10:45 we see the clearest statement regarding the saving grace of the Messiahship of Jesus. Why do you think this reference occurs in a passage instructing us to be a servant?
For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Challenge for growth
Challenge for growth
As a group, plan a special community service project for the coming month.
As a group, plan a special community service project for the coming month.
As you approach the project, cover all aspects of it in discussion and prayer.
Spend time in service of those we may not know well, or those we may naturally find it more difficult to serve.
As you approach the project, cover all aspects of it in discussion and prayer.
Spend time in service of those we may not know well, or those we may naturally find it more difficult to serve.
C. Albrecht
Materials used
The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster
C. Albrecht
Materials used
The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster
10: Guidance
10: Guidance
Introduction
Introduction
The discipline of seeking guidance goes to the heart of walking with God.
The discipline of seeking guidance goes to the heart of walking with God.
Guidance involves us hearing God’s voice and obeying him.
Guidance involves us hearing God’s voice and obeying him.
It is not only seeking his will in a specific matter, but it is a constant way of life.
It is not only seeking his will in a specific matter, but it is a constant way of life.
God provides guidance to his people in two ways.
God provides guidance to his people in two ways.
One is individual guidance, where God gives each of his children divine instruction through Scripture, reason, circumstances, and through prompting of the Spirit in the individual’s heart.
One is individual guidance, where God gives each of his children divine instruction through Scripture, reason, circumstances, and through prompting of the Spirit in the individual’s heart.
In corporate guidance, God guides groups of people who gather in fellowship to seek the will of God.
In corporate guidance, God guides groups of people who gather in fellowship to seek the will of God.
Both aspects are important to submit to as we seek to live in response to the voice of God.
Both aspects are important to submit to as we seek to live in response to the voice of God.
How would you explain the difference between seeking the advice of a wise friend and seeking God’s guidance with the help of mature and faithful Christians?
How would you explain the difference between seeking the advice of a wise friend and seeking God’s guidance with the help of mature and faithful Christians?
Please read Matthew 18:19-20.
Please read Matthew 18:19-20.
Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.
For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
Take a moment to meditate on these words from God and ask yourself: How is fellowship with other Christians vital to seeking both individual and corporate guidance from God?
Take a moment to meditate on these words from God and ask yourself: How is fellowship with other Christians vital to seeking both individual and corporate guidance from God?
Please share your thoughts with the group.
Please share your thoughts with the group.
The Western cultures lay a heavy emphasis on individualism.
The Western cultures lay a heavy emphasis on individualism.
Do you see results of this in our churches?
Do you see results of this in our churches?
What sometimes holds us back from asking close Christian friends to help us seek God’s guidance before making a decision or entering on a new path?
What sometimes holds us back from asking close Christian friends to help us seek God’s guidance before making a decision or entering on a new path?
In 1 John 4:1 ,2-6 we read: “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
In 1 John 4:1 ,2-6 we read: “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world.”
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:
And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.
Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.
We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.
How do we test the spirits? (Read verses 2-6.)
How do we test the spirits? (Read verses 2-6.)
Please read 1 John 4:7-16 and meditate on these words for a moment.
Please read 1 John 4:7-16 and meditate on these words for a moment.
Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.
In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.
No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.
Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.
Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.
And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
Living in guidance comes through entering into a loving friendship with God.
Living in guidance comes through entering into a loving friendship with God.
When we genuinely love God and others and accept his love for us, then we are promised to “know God” (verses 7-8).
When we genuinely love God and others and accept his love for us, then we are promised to “know God” (verses 7-8).
What should you change in your life (either add or drop from your life) in order to deepen your intimacy with Christ?
What should you change in your life (either add or drop from your life) in order to deepen your intimacy with Christ?
As we seek guidance in our lives, we often ask: “What is God’s will in my life?” How will our thinking change if we would ask: “What is God’s will, and how can I adjust my life to him?”
As we seek guidance in our lives, we often ask: “What is God’s will in my life?” How will our thinking change if we would ask: “What is God’s will, and how can I adjust my life to him?”
In Philippians 2:13 we read: “It is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.”
In Philippians 2:13 we read: “It is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.”
For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
As you read these powerful words, you might want to take a moment and pray about the following points for each other in the group (you might want to break up into groups of two or three):
As you read these powerful words, you might want to take a moment and pray about the following points for each other in the group (you might want to break up into groups of two or three):
God is absolutely trustworthy.
God is absolutely trustworthy.
Jesus is the way.
Jesus is the way.
I will follow God one day at a time.
I will follow God one day at a time.
I will follow God even when he does not show me all the details of the journey. I will search for God’s will, and then live my life accordingly.
I will follow God even when he does not show me all the details of the journey. I will search for God’s will, and then live my life accordingly.
I will pray that God will show me his perspective.
I will pray that God will show me his perspective.
I will seek to live a God-centered life, not a self-centered life.
I will seek to live a God-centered life, not a self-centered life.
S. Albrecht
Materials used:
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard In Search of Guidance – Dallas Willard
Experiencing God – Henry T. Blackaby & Claude V. King
S. Albrecht
Materials used:
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard In Search of Guidance – Dallas Willard
Experiencing God – Henry T. Blackaby & Claude V. King
11: Confession
11: Confession
Introduction
Introduction
The awesome God we worship is eager to forgive us, as is revealed in the words of Psalm 103: “As far as the east is from the west, so far does God remove my sin.”
The awesome God we worship is eager to forgive us, as is revealed in the words of Psalm 103: “As far as the east is from the west, so far does God remove my sin.”
A Psalm of David.
Bless the Lord, O my soul: And all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all his benefits:
Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; Who healeth all thy diseases;
Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; Who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;
Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; So that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
The Lord executeth righteousness And judgment for all that are oppressed.
He made known his ways unto Moses, His acts unto the children of Israel.
The Lord is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.
He will not always chide: Neither will he keep his anger for ever.
He hath not dealt with us after our sins; Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
For as the heaven is high above the earth, So great is his mercy toward them that fear him.
As far as the east is from the west, So far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
Like as a father pitieth his children, So the Lord pitieth them that fear him.
For he knoweth our frame; He remembereth that we are dust.
As for man, his days are as grass: As a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.
For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; And the place thereof shall know it no more.
But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, And his righteousness unto children’s children;
To such as keep his covenant, And to those that remember his commandments to do them.
The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; And his kingdom ruleth over all.
Bless the Lord, ye his angels, That excel in strength, that do his commandments, Hearkening unto the voice of his word.
Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts; Ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.
Bless the Lord, all his works In all places of his dominion: Bless the Lord, O my soul.
With these words, he offers us a guilt-free existence.
With these words, he offers us a guilt-free existence.
But without acknowledging our sins before God and depending on his mercy to help us change, guilt and shame can constantly plague us.
But without acknowledging our sins before God and depending on his mercy to help us change, guilt and shame can constantly plague us.
Confession and forgiveness are realities that transform us, and it is a means of healing and transformation for the inner spirit.
Confession and forgiveness are realities that transform us, and it is a means of healing and transformation for the inner spirit.
Some might wonder why confession is listed as a discipline, since it is possible only through the grace of God.
Some might wonder why confession is listed as a discipline, since it is possible only through the grace of God.
Unless God gives the grace, no genuine confession can be made.
Unless God gives the grace, no genuine confession can be made.
But confession is also a discipline because there are things we should do.
But confession is also a discipline because there are things we should do.
The Bible teaches us how to confess.
The Bible teaches us how to confess.
In 1 Timothy 2:5 we read that “there is one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.”
In 1 Timothy 2:5 we read that “there is one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus.”
For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
However, we can also appreciate the teaching to “confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another that you may be healed” (James 5:16).
However, we can also appreciate the teaching to “confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another that you may be healed” (James 5:16).
Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
Through confession and the promise of forgiveness, we can look forward to a genuinely changed life.
Through confession and the promise of forgiveness, we can look forward to a genuinely changed life.
You have probably heard the saying, “Confession is good for the soul.” Why is that?
You have probably heard the saying, “Confession is good for the soul.” Why is that?
First key passage: 1 John 1: 5-10; 2:1-2
First key passage: 1 John 1: 5-10; 2:1-2
This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
Have you ever felt like you need to “clean up your life” before turning it over to Jesus Christ?
Have you ever felt like you need to “clean up your life” before turning it over to Jesus Christ?
Do you sometimes feel Jesus wants you not for who you are now, but for who you could be?
Do you sometimes feel Jesus wants you not for who you are now, but for who you could be?
After reading the above passage in the Bible, explain in your own words what it means to you that Jesus is the Advocate, the Righteous One and the Atoning Sacrifice.
After reading the above passage in the Bible, explain in your own words what it means to you that Jesus is the Advocate, the Righteous One and the Atoning Sacrifice.
Sin often comes packaged in ways that make it hard for us to identify.
Sin often comes packaged in ways that make it hard for us to identify.
To really appreciate what confession does for us, we need to see what sin does to us.
To really appreciate what confession does for us, we need to see what sin does to us.
Discuss for a moment what sin is and how it affects our lives.
Discuss for a moment what sin is and how it affects our lives.
Do you think you take your sins too seriously, too lightly, or do you feel you have a proper perspective on it? Please explain.
Do you think you take your sins too seriously, too lightly, or do you feel you have a proper perspective on it? Please explain.
In Psalm 32:1-2 and 6 we read: “What happiness for those whose guilt has been forgiven!
In Psalm 32:1-2 and 6 we read: “What happiness for those whose guilt has been forgiven!
Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, And in whose spirit there is no guile.
What joys when sins are covered over!
What joys when sins are covered over!
What relief for those who have confessed their sins and God has cleared their record….
What relief for those who have confessed their sins and God has cleared their record….
Now I say that each believer should confess his sins to God when he is aware of them, while there is time to be forgiven.
Now I say that each believer should confess his sins to God when he is aware of them, while there is time to be forgiven.
Judgment will not touch him if he does” .
Judgment will not touch him if he does” .
What is God’s part and what is your part in the confession process?
What is God’s part and what is your part in the confession process?
Second key passage: James 5:16
Second key passage: James 5:16
Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
How do you feel about this instruction?
How do you feel about this instruction?
Relieved, embarrassed, thankful, uncomfortable, not sure what to think?
Relieved, embarrassed, thankful, uncomfortable, not sure what to think?
Have you ever confessed a sin to a trusted believer and received prayers?
Have you ever confessed a sin to a trusted believer and received prayers?
Why did you feel the need to do so? Has anyone ever betrayed your trust?
Why did you feel the need to do so? Has anyone ever betrayed your trust?
Richard Foster writes:
Confession is a difficult discipline for us because we all too often view the believing community as a fellowship of saints before we see it as a fellowship of sinners.
Richard Foster writes:
Confession is a difficult discipline for us because we all too often view the believing community as a fellowship of saints before we see it as a fellowship of sinners.
But if we know that the people of God are first a fellowship of sinners, we are freed to hear the unconditional call of God’s love and to confess our needs openly before a brother or sister.
But if we know that the people of God are first a fellowship of sinners, we are freed to hear the unconditional call of God’s love and to confess our needs openly before a brother or sister.
We know we are not alone in our sin.
We know we are not alone in our sin.
The fear and pride that cling to us like barnacles cling to others also.
The fear and pride that cling to us like barnacles cling to others also.
We are sinners together. In acts of mutual confession we release the power that heals.
We are sinners together. In acts of mutual confession we release the power that heals.
Our humanity is no longer denied, but transformed. How do you feel about this statement?
Our humanity is no longer denied, but transformed. How do you feel about this statement?
Dietrich Bonhoeffer writes:
A man who confesses his sins in the presence of a brother knows that he is no longer alone with himself; he experiences the presence of God in the reality of the other person.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer writes:
A man who confesses his sins in the presence of a brother knows that he is no longer alone with himself; he experiences the presence of God in the reality of the other person.
As long as I am by myself in the confession of my sins everything remains in the dark; but in the presence of a brother the sin has to be brought into the light.
What is your reaction?
As long as I am by myself in the confession of my sins everything remains in the dark; but in the presence of a brother the sin has to be brought into the light.
What is your reaction?
How can confession benefit you in healing past wounds?
How can confession benefit you in healing past wounds?
When you feel the need to confess a sin and seek the support and love of a Christian friend, to whom would you go (what qualities does the person have)?
When you feel the need to confess a sin and seek the support and love of a Christian friend, to whom would you go (what qualities does the person have)?
What would you say and how would you react if a Christian friend asked you if he/she could confess a sin to you? How would you prepare yourself?
What would you say and how would you react if a Christian friend asked you if he/she could confess a sin to you? How would you prepare yourself?
Here are some pitfalls to be aware of:
Here are some pitfalls to be aware of:
Can’t keep a confidence
Can’t keep a confidence
Lack of empathy or understanding Horrified at the revealing of certain sins
Lack of empathy or understanding Horrified at the revealing of certain sins
Shrug off with a “that’s not so bad,” whitewashing the whole thing Trying to “fix” the person
Shrug off with a “that’s not so bad,” whitewashing the whole thing Trying to “fix” the person
Not really listening, but interrupting with own advice Not willing to pray for one another right then and there Challenge for growth
In the next few days, take some time to study the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32).
Not really listening, but interrupting with own advice Not willing to pray for one another right then and there Challenge for growth
In the next few days, take some time to study the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32).
And he said, A certain man had two sons:
And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.
And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:
For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.
Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.
And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.
And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.
And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.
And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends:
But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.
And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.
It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.
Pay careful attention to the father’s reaction and the son’s behavior.
Pay careful attention to the father’s reaction and the son’s behavior.
Then turn your thoughts toward your heavenly Father.
Then turn your thoughts toward your heavenly Father.
Consider the high cost he paid to redeem you and how fully he has forgiven you. Read Psalm 103:1-14.
Consider the high cost he paid to redeem you and how fully he has forgiven you. Read Psalm 103:1-14.
Bless the Lord, O my soul: And all that is within me, bless his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul, And forget not all his benefits:
Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; Who healeth all thy diseases;
Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; Who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;
Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; So that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
The Lord executeth righteousness And judgment for all that are oppressed.
He made known his ways unto Moses, His acts unto the children of Israel.
The Lord is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.
He will not always chide: Neither will he keep his anger for ever.
He hath not dealt with us after our sins; Nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
For as the heaven is high above the earth, So great is his mercy toward them that fear him.
As far as the east is from the west, So far hath he removed our transgressions from us.
Like as a father pitieth his children, So the Lord pitieth them that fear him.
For he knoweth our frame; He remembereth that we are dust.
Examine your life in regards to confession.
Examine your life in regards to confession.
Are there sins in your life you confessed to God, but a persistent doubt of forgiveness plagues your life?
Are there sins in your life you confessed to God, but a persistent doubt of forgiveness plagues your life?
You don’t feel released from that sin. You still feel hurt.
You don’t feel released from that sin. You still feel hurt.
You feel misery and bitterness.
You feel misery and bitterness.
Prayerfully consider whether you should confess this sin or hurt to a trusted fellow Christian, so God can show you his love and support through one of his children.
Prayerfully consider whether you should confess this sin or hurt to a trusted fellow Christian, so God can show you his love and support through one of his children.
Your pastor might be able to help you in the confession process and give you further guidance.
Your pastor might be able to help you in the confession process and give you further guidance.
Final note: Please do not think that God won’t forgive us unless we repent of every sin we have ever done.
Final note: Please do not think that God won’t forgive us unless we repent of every sin we have ever done.
No; we are unable to remember all the sins we have done, but he forgives us anyway.
No; we are unable to remember all the sins we have done, but he forgives us anyway.
Jesus died for our sins, purchased forgiveness for us, before we were even born.
Jesus died for our sins, purchased forgiveness for us, before we were even born.
“God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them” (2 Corinthians 5:19).
“God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them” (2 Corinthians 5:19).
To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
S. Albrecht
S. Albrecht
12: Worship
12: Worship
Introduction
Introduction
“The Lamb is worthy – the Lamb who was slain. He is worthy to receive the power, and the riches, and the wisdom, and the strength, and the honor, and the glory, and the blessing.”
“The Lamb is worthy – the Lamb who was slain. He is worthy to receive the power, and the riches, and the wisdom, and the strength, and the honor, and the glory, and the blessing.”
In these beautiful words from Revelation 5:12-13 we see a powerful example of worship.
In these beautiful words from Revelation 5:12-13 we see a powerful example of worship.
Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.
And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.
These inspired words are filled with wonder as they describe the reality of Jesus Christ.
These inspired words are filled with wonder as they describe the reality of Jesus Christ.
The Bible teaches us how to worship and lift up the name of God so our lives can be changed through it.
The Bible teaches us how to worship and lift up the name of God so our lives can be changed through it.
In John 4:23 we see that God is the one who seeks and draws us into worship.
In John 4:23 we see that God is the one who seeks and draws us into worship.
But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
Worship is our human response to God’s divine initiative.
Worship is our human response to God’s divine initiative.
When they think of worship, some people think of singing, attending church services or praying.
When they think of worship, some people think of singing, attending church services or praying.
These are certainly beautiful expressions of worship, but it goes beyond that.
These are certainly beautiful expressions of worship, but it goes beyond that.
Worship is what our lives ought to be – a dynamic, everlasting celebration of God. Our spiritual service of worship is ultimately giving ourselves to him gladly and sacrificially with each passing day – it is a lifestyle.
Worship is what our lives ought to be – a dynamic, everlasting celebration of God. Our spiritual service of worship is ultimately giving ourselves to him gladly and sacrificially with each passing day – it is a lifestyle.
This is our privilege, our purpose and our fulfillment.
This is our privilege, our purpose and our fulfillment.
Key passage: Romans 12:1-2
Key passage: Romans 12:1-2
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your
mind.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your
mind.
Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
what worship means to you.
what worship means to you.
Discuss with one another what may be new to you about this topic, and what you have learned in the last few months or years.
Discuss with one another what may be new to you about this topic, and what you have learned in the last few months or years.
We just read that we ought to offer our bodies “as living sacrifices.”
We just read that we ought to offer our bodies “as living sacrifices.”
What do you understand that to mean?
What do you understand that to mean?
What does verse 2 of the passage add to your understanding of true worship?
What does verse 2 of the passage add to your understanding of true worship?
In your own words, what is the difference between attending worship and living in worship?
In your own words, what is the difference between attending worship and living in worship?
How does regular fellowship with other believers help you worship God with new and fresh eagerness?
How does regular fellowship with other believers help you worship God with new and fresh eagerness?
When is it the hardest for you to concentrate on worshiping God?
When is it the hardest for you to concentrate on worshiping God?
When I’m sick or hurting
When I’m sick or hurting
When bad things happen to me or someone I love
When bad things happen to me or someone I love
When something really good is happening to me
When something really good is happening to me
When I’m really busy
When I’m really busy
Other
Other
Have you found ways that help you remain focused on God?
How can worshiping Jesus transform lives of people around us?
Have you found ways that help you remain focused on God?
How can worshiping Jesus transform lives of people around us?
Have you seen any of that kind of change in the people with whom you have had contact?
Have you seen any of that kind of change in the people with whom you have had contact?
In John 4:23 we read, “A time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.”
In John 4:23 we read, “A time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.”
But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
How does God seek you, drawing you to worship him?
How does God seek you, drawing you to worship him?
There are many different ways, forms and traditions that may aid us in worshiping God.
There are many different ways, forms and traditions that may aid us in worshiping God.
The New Testament does not tell us to follow a particular form for worship, other than to worship in spirit and truth.
The New Testament does not tell us to follow a particular form for worship, other than to worship in spirit and truth.
The forms Christians use today are not the worship, they simply help lead us into the worship.
The forms Christians use today are not the worship, they simply help lead us into the worship.
How do you see this happening in your congregation and in your personal worship?
How do you see this happening in your congregation and in your personal worship?
The first commandment Jesus gives us is to worship God above all other things: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30).
The first commandment Jesus gives us is to worship God above all other things: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength” (Mark 12:30).
And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.
Richard Foster makes the following statement about the priority of worship:
Richard Foster makes the following statement about the priority of worship:
“The divine priority is worship first, service second.
“The divine priority is worship first, service second.
Our lives are to be punctuated with praise, thanksgiving, and adoration.
Our lives are to be punctuated with praise, thanksgiving, and adoration.
Service flows out of worship.
Service flows out of worship.
Service as a substitute for worship is idolatry.
Service as a substitute for worship is idolatry.
One grave temptation we all face is to run around answering calls to service without ministering to the Lord himself.”
One grave temptation we all face is to run around answering calls to service without ministering to the Lord himself.”
Challenge for growth
Challenge for growth
Look up some passages in the Bible that especially inspire you and deal with worshiping God (for example, Matthew 4:10, Romans 11:33-36, Psalms 116, 135, 138, 139 and 145).
Look up some passages in the Bible that especially inspire you and deal with worshiping God (for example, Matthew 4:10, Romans 11:33-36, Psalms 116, 135, 138, 139 and 145).
Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.
O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counseller?
Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?
For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
I love the Lord, because he hath heard My voice and my supplications.
Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, Therefore will I call upon him as long as I live.
The sorrows of death compassed me, And the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow.
Then called I upon the name of the Lord; O Lord, I beseech thee, deliver my soul.
Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; Yea, our God is merciful.
The Lord preserveth the simple: I was brought low, and he helped me.
Return unto thy rest, O my soul; For the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee.
For thou hast delivered my soul from death, Mine eyes from tears, And my feet from falling.
I will walk before the Lord In the land of the living.
I believed, therefore have I spoken: I was greatly afflicted:
I said in my haste, All men are liars.
What shall I render unto the Lord For all his benefits toward me?
I will take the cup of salvation, And call upon the name of the Lord.
I will pay my vows unto the Lord Now in the presence of all his people.
Precious in the sight of the Lord Is the death of his saints.
O Lord, truly I am thy servant; I am thy servant, and the son of thine handmaid: Thou hast loosed my bonds.
I will offer to thee the sacrifice of thanksgiving, And will call upon the name of the Lord.
I will pay my vows unto the Lord Now in the presence of all his people,
In the courts of the Lord’s house, In the midst of thee, O Jerusalem. Praise ye the Lord.
Praise ye the Lord. Praise ye the name of the Lord; Praise him, O ye servants of the Lord.
Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, In the courts of the house of our God,
Praise the Lord; for the Lord is good: Sing praises unto his name; for it is pleasant.
For the Lord hath chosen Jacob unto himself, And Israel for his peculiar treasure.
For I know that the Lord is great, And that our Lord is above all gods.
Whatsoever the Lord pleased, That did he in heaven, and in earth, In the seas, and all deep places.
He causeth the vapours to ascend from the ends of the earth; He maketh lightnings for the rain; He bringeth the wind out of his treasuries.
Who smote the firstborn of Egypt, Both of man and beast.
Who sent tokens and wonders into the midst of thee, O Egypt, Upon Pharaoh, and upon all his servants.
Who smote great nations, And slew mighty kings;
Sihon king of the Amorites, And Og king of Bashan, And all the kingdoms of Canaan:
And gave their land for an heritage, An heritage unto Israel his people.
Thy name, O Lord, endureth for ever; And thy memorial, O Lord, throughout all generations.
For the Lord will judge his people, And he will repent himself concerning his servants.
The idols of the heathen are silver and gold, The work of men’s hands.
They have mouths, but they speak not; Eyes have they, but they see not;
They have ears, but they hear not; Neither is there any breath in their mouths.
They that make them are like unto them: So is every one that trusteth in them.
Bless the Lord, O house of Israel: Bless the Lord, O house of Aaron:
Bless the Lord, O house of Levi: Ye that fear the Lord, bless the Lord.
Blessed be the Lord out of Zion, which dwelleth at Jerusalem. Praise ye the Lord.
A Psalm of David.
I will praise thee with my whole heart: Before the gods will I sing praise unto thee.
I will worship toward thy holy temple, And praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy truth: For thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.
In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, And strengthenedst me with strength in my soul.
All the kings of the earth shall praise thee, O Lord, When they hear the words of thy mouth.
Yea, they shall sing in the ways of the Lord: For great is the glory of the Lord.
Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: But the proud he knoweth afar off.
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: Thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, And thy right hand shall save me.
The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: Thy mercy, O Lord, endureth for ever: Forsake not the works of thine own hands.
To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.
O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me.
Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, Thou understandest my thought afar off.
Thou compassest my path and my lying down, And art acquainted with all my ways.
For there is not a word in my tongue, But, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether.
Thou hast beset me behind and before, And laid thine hand upon me.
Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is high, I cannot attain unto it.
Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence?
If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: If I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.
If I take the wings of the morning, And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;
Even there shall thy hand lead me, And thy right hand shall hold me.
If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; Even the night shall be light about me.
Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; But the night shineth as the day: The darkness and the light are both alike to thee.
For thou hast possessed my reins: Thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb.
I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: Marvellous are thy works; And that my soul knoweth right well.
My substance was not hid from thee, When I was made in secret, And curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; And in thy book all my members were written, Which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.
How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them!
If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: When I awake, I am still with thee.
Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: Depart from me therefore, ye bloody men.
For they speak against thee wickedly, And thine enemies take thy name in vain.
Do not I hate them, O Lord, that hate thee? And am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee?
I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.
Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts:
And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
Sing some hymns or praise songs to God that especially move you.
Sing some hymns or praise songs to God that especially move you.
As you study these passages and sing those songs, use each as an opportunity for worship. For what can you praise God?
As you study these passages and sing those songs, use each as an opportunity for worship. For what can you praise God?
What thanks can you offer him?
What thanks can you offer him?
Look at your life and ask yourself: What can lead me to adore him more today than I did yesterday?
Look at your life and ask yourself: What can lead me to adore him more today than I did yesterday?
Restudy the key passage for this guide, Romans 12:1-2.
Restudy the key passage for this guide, Romans 12:1-2.
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
What does worshiping God include and exclude?
What does worshiping God include and exclude?
Ask yourself these questions: How am I hampering my life of worship by conforming to the world?
Ask yourself these questions: How am I hampering my life of worship by conforming to the world?
How can I encourage my life of worship by renewing my mind?
How can I encourage my life of worship by renewing my mind?
S. Albrecht The Busy Christian’s Guide to Experiencing God More – William Watkins
S. Albrecht The Busy Christian’s Guide to Experiencing God More – William Watkins
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard In Search of Guidance – Dallas Willard Seeds of Hope – Henri Nouwen
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard In Search of Guidance – Dallas Willard Seeds of Hope – Henri Nouwen
13: Celebration
Introduction
13: Celebration
Introduction
When Jesus entered the world as a human being, great celebration was taking place in heaven, as the angel announced the Savior’s birth to the shepherds:
Do not be afraid.
When Jesus entered the world as a human being, great celebration was taking place in heaven, as the angel announced the Savior’s birth to the shepherds:
Do not be afraid.
I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.
I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.
This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.
This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:10-14)
Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:10-14)
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, Good will toward men.
In the Old Testament we learn about the year of Jubilee, which was a celebration of the gracious provision of God.
In the Old Testament we learn about the year of Jubilee, which was a celebration of the gracious provision of God.
During that time debts were canceled, slaves were set free, no crops were being planted and property was returned to the original owner.
During that time debts were canceled, slaves were set free, no crops were being planted and property was returned to the original owner.
But in today’s hectic, stressful and violent world, how can we experience the true joy that comes from God?
But in today’s hectic, stressful and violent world, how can we experience the true joy that comes from God?
Can we have freedom from anxiety and care, which forms the basis for celebration? Harvey Cox has said that, “modern man has been pressed so hard toward useful work and rational calculation he has all but forgotten the joy of ecstatic celebration.”
Can we have freedom from anxiety and care, which forms the basis for celebration? Harvey Cox has said that, “modern man has been pressed so hard toward useful work and rational calculation he has all but forgotten the joy of ecstatic celebration.”
The discipline of celebration is essential in our lives.
The discipline of celebration is essential in our lives.
Richard Foster put it this way: “Celebration is central to all the Spiritual Disciplines.
Richard Foster put it this way: “Celebration is central to all the Spiritual Disciplines.
Without a joyful spirit of festivity the Disciplines become dull, death-breathing tools in the hands of modern Pharisees.”
Without a joyful spirit of festivity the Disciplines become dull, death-breathing tools in the hands of modern Pharisees.”
Let us now share in our joy, and learn how each of us celebrates the new life we have in Jesus.
Let us now share in our joy, and learn how each of us celebrates the new life we have in Jesus.
Do you enjoy God? Please describe your enjoyment to the rest of the group.
Do you enjoy God? Please describe your enjoyment to the rest of the group.
Is it easy for you to laugh at yourself?
Do you remember a time in your life when you knew you had to endure a difficult time for a while but there was going to be great joy afterwards?
Is it easy for you to laugh at yourself?
Do you remember a time in your life when you knew you had to endure a difficult time for a while but there was going to be great joy afterwards?
(For example: a woman endures labor pains, but the joy of the newborn baby is beyond words.
(For example: a woman endures labor pains, but the joy of the newborn baby is beyond words.
A newlywed couple might endure some difficulty adjusting to one another, but they look forward to a joyful life together.
A newlywed couple might endure some difficulty adjusting to one another, but they look forward to a joyful life together.
Learning a new instrument may be painful on the ear in the beginning, but after a while, the noise turns to music.)
Learning a new instrument may be painful on the ear in the beginning, but after a while, the noise turns to music.)
Please read Philippians 4:4-7.
Please read Philippians 4:4-7.
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.
Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
The joy of the Lord is not a mere good feeling, as our lives often include suffering, sorrow, disappointments and pain.
The joy of the Lord is not a mere good feeling, as our lives often include suffering, sorrow, disappointments and pain.
Please take some time discussing this passage with one another.
Please take some time discussing this passage with one another.
What does it mean to be full of joy always? What does it NOT mean?
What does it mean to be full of joy always? What does it NOT mean?
How does selfishness hinder real celebration?
How does selfishness hinder real celebration?
What role does thankfulness have in regards to celebration?
Please read Luke 11:27-28.
What role does thankfulness have in regards to celebration?
Please read Luke 11:27-28.
And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked.
But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.
Jesus said that it is an even greater blessing to live in obedience than to have been the mother of the Messiah!
Jesus said that it is an even greater blessing to live in obedience than to have been the mother of the Messiah!
Think about this profound statement Jesus made.
Think about this profound statement Jesus made.
God teaches us that joy comes through obedience to Jesus, and joy results from obedience to Jesus Christ.
God teaches us that joy comes through obedience to Jesus, and joy results from obedience to Jesus Christ.
What do you think are God’s ways of bringing his joy to your life?
What do you think are God’s ways of bringing his joy to your life?
Dallas Willard wrote this about celebration: “Holy delight and joy is the great
Dallas Willard wrote this about celebration: “Holy delight and joy is the great
antidote to despair and is a wellspring of genuine gratitude.” Have you experienced that?
“There is a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance” (Ecclesiastes 3:4).
antidote to despair and is a wellspring of genuine gratitude.” Have you experienced that?
“There is a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance” (Ecclesiastes 3:4).
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; A time to mourn, and a time to dance;
God is encouraging us to seize the season and embrace it for what it is.
God is encouraging us to seize the season and embrace it for what it is.
Dallas Willard wrote, “We dishonor God as much by fearing and avoiding pleasure as we do by dependence upon it or living for it.”
Dallas Willard wrote, “We dishonor God as much by fearing and avoiding pleasure as we do by dependence upon it or living for it.”
(We are talking about godly, wholesome and healthy pleasure.)
(We are talking about godly, wholesome and healthy pleasure.)
What do you think about this statement?
What do you think about this statement?
Why do you think we feel good after an evening with friends, filled with laughter, fun games, good music, food and drink?
Why do you think we feel good after an evening with friends, filled with laughter, fun games, good music, food and drink?
What are some genuine ways to promote true celebration?
What are some genuine ways to promote true celebration?
(Maybe your group has a wonderful reason to celebrate!
(Maybe your group has a wonderful reason to celebrate!
Think about it and see what everyone thinks.)
A dance of joy
Taken from The Little Book of Eternal Wisdom, by Heinrich Suso.
Think about it and see what everyone thinks.)
A dance of joy
Taken from The Little Book of Eternal Wisdom, by Heinrich Suso.
He imagines Jesus saying:
In the Godhead I play the game of bliss, Such joy the angels find in this,
He imagines Jesus saying:
In the Godhead I play the game of bliss, Such joy the angels find in this,
That unto them a thousand years But as one little hour appears.
That unto them a thousand years But as one little hour appears.
Happy is he who, in joyous security, Shall take Me by My beautiful hand, And join in My sweet diversions, And dance forever the dance of joy, Amid the ravishing delights, Of the kingdom ofheaven.
Happy is he who, in joyous security, Shall take Me by My beautiful hand, And join in My sweet diversions, And dance forever the dance of joy, Amid the ravishing delights, Of the kingdom ofheaven.
S. Albrecht
Resources used:
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard Enjoying the Presence of God – Jan Johnson
S. Albrecht
Resources used:
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard Enjoying the Presence of God – Jan Johnson
14: Whole Life Stewardship
Introduction
14: Whole Life Stewardship
Introduction
As we grow in our Christian lives, we come to a deeper and deeper realization that every good thing we receive, our Father gives us.
As we grow in our Christian lives, we come to a deeper and deeper realization that every good thing we receive, our Father gives us.
We are in a life-long process as stewards of his possessions.
We are in a life-long process as stewards of his possessions.
Whole life stewardship is a life management style; in other words, it is not some person’s way of raising money, but God’s way of raising disciples.
Whole life stewardship is a life management style; in other words, it is not some person’s way of raising money, but God’s way of raising disciples.
In three steps, we see that Christian stewardship is God’s resources, deployed through God’s people, to accomplish God’s mission.
In three steps, we see that Christian stewardship is God’s resources, deployed through God’s people, to accomplish God’s mission.
In the past week, describe something in your schedule that took the most time or emotional energy.
In the past week, describe something in your schedule that took the most time or emotional energy.
If you were to open your calendar or daily planner, what would you find in it about how your time is scheduled?
If you were to open your calendar or daily planner, what would you find in it about how your time is scheduled?
It has been said that “time wasted is forever lost.”
It has been said that “time wasted is forever lost.”
How does this make you feel? Theme passage: Matthew 25:14-30
After reading the theme passage, why do you think Jesus says that the two servants are worthy of greatness?
How does this make you feel? Theme passage: Matthew 25:14-30
After reading the theme passage, why do you think Jesus says that the two servants are worthy of greatness?
For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.
And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.
Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.
And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.
But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money.
After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.
And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.
His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them.
His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed:
And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.
His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed:
Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.
Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.
For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.
And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Take a moment to think about the talents that God has given you.
Take a moment to think about the talents that God has given you.
How effectively do you feel you are using those talents?
How effectively do you feel you are using those talents?
How would you feel if the master returned today?
How would you feel if the master returned today?
Do you think the master reacted properly to the servant who originally received one talent?
Do you think the master reacted properly to the servant who originally received one talent?
Why do you feel this way?
Why do you feel this way?
Can there be improper motivations in the way we use our talents?
According to Dallas Willard, “to trust in riches…is to count upon them to obtain or secure what we treasure most.
Can there be improper motivations in the way we use our talents?
According to Dallas Willard, “to trust in riches…is to count upon them to obtain or secure what we treasure most.
It is to think that they will bring us happiness and well- being.
It is to think that they will bring us happiness and well- being.
When we also possess the riches we trust in, we may suppose that we are secure…”
When we also possess the riches we trust in, we may suppose that we are secure…”
Why do the possessions in our home sometimes give us a feeling of security?
Why do the possessions in our home sometimes give us a feeling of security?
Seeking more and more of something can become an addiction.
Seeking more and more of something can become an addiction.
Richard Foster states, “The person who does not seek the kingdom first does not seek it at all.
Richard Foster states, “The person who does not seek the kingdom first does not seek it at all.
Worthy as all other concerns may be, the moment they become the focus of our efforts they become idolatry.”
Worthy as all other concerns may be, the moment they become the focus of our efforts they become idolatry.”
How would you summarize the Bible’s teaching on possessions?
How would you summarize the Bible’s teaching on possessions?
When you give an offering as an act of worship, what feelings do you experience?
When you give an offering as an act of worship, what feelings do you experience?
In Luke 12:13-21 we read a parable about the rich fool. Specifically, in verses 20-21 we read, “God said to him, ‘You fool!
In Luke 12:13-21 we read a parable about the rich fool. Specifically, in verses 20-21 we read, “God said to him, ‘You fool!
And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.
And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?
And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.
And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully:
And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?
And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.
And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.
But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?
So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.
This very night your life will be demanded from you.
This very night your life will be demanded from you.
Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?
Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?
This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God.”
This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God.”
What do you think it means to be “rich towards God”?
What do you think it means to be “rich towards God”?
We know that God blesses us daily.
We know that God blesses us daily.
What one thing has God given you this week that has been especially meaningful?
What one thing has God given you this week that has been especially meaningful?
Challenge for growth
Challenge for growth
In the coming week, spend a few moments each morning to think about how you will spend your time and energy that day.
In the coming week, spend a few moments each morning to think about how you will spend your time and energy that day.
Specifically ask God in prayer to use your home and possession for his work.
Specifically ask God in prayer to use your home and possession for his work.
In the following ways, make a commitment to give to God:
In the following ways, make a commitment to give to God:
a) first;
a) first;
b) systematically;
b) systematically;
c) cheerfully;
c) cheerfully;
d) regardless of your circumstances;
d) regardless of your circumstances;
e) proportionately;
e) proportionately;
f) thoughtfully; and
f) thoughtfully; and
g) eternally.
g) eternally.
– From Brian Kluth in his article “The Grace of Giving.”
– From Brian Kluth in his article “The Grace of Giving.”
C. Albrecht
Materials used
The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard
“The Grace of Giving” – Brian Kluth, www.kluth.org/people/grace.htm
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life – Donald S. Whitney
C. Albrecht
Materials used
The Spirit of the Disciplines – Dallas Willard
“The Grace of Giving” – Brian Kluth, www.kluth.org/people/grace.htm
Celebration of Discipline – Richard Foster
Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life – Donald S. Whitney
15: Spiritual Discipline – A Lifestyle
Introduction
15: Spiritual Discipline – A Lifestyle
Introduction
In concluding this part of the message on the new year on spiritual disciplines, it is our hope that this study series was helpful in your discussions and that it revealed and renewed your understanding.
In concluding this part of the message on the new year on spiritual disciplines, it is our hope that this study series was helpful in your discussions and that it revealed and renewed your understanding.
Hopefully, it helped lead us to a closer walk with Jesus Christ.
Hopefully, it helped lead us to a closer walk with Jesus Christ.
To us, it has been a bit like exploring the attic of an old house and coming across a huge trunk, loaded with priceless treasures making present life more meaningful.
To us, it has been a bit like exploring the attic of an old house and coming across a huge trunk, loaded with priceless treasures making present life more meaningful.
We realize that studying and practicing spiritual discipline is a life-long commitment, and we all need to recommit ourselves to it on a regular basis.
We realize that studying and practicing spiritual discipline is a life-long commitment, and we all need to recommit ourselves to it on a regular basis.
So much can be gained by living a life of discipline.
So much can be gained by living a life of discipline.
It gives us liberation from fear and self-interest and shows us the way into real joy.
It gives us liberation from fear and self-interest and shows us the way into real joy.
Also, it guides the way to mature Christian spirituality, having Jesus as the eternal focus in our lives.
Also, it guides the way to mature Christian spirituality, having Jesus as the eternal focus in our lives.
We need to realize that we live in grace and by grace, and not by works.
We need to realize that we live in grace and by grace, and not by works.
God gets all the glory, for he is the one who motivates us to do anything good.
God gets all the glory, for he is the one who motivates us to do anything good.
Here is a summary of the disciplines we covered:
Here is a summary of the disciplines we covered:
Introduction to Spiritual Disciplines – Behavior that facilitates spiritual growth
Introduction to Spiritual Disciplines – Behavior that facilitates spiritual growth
Grace and Discipline – Christians live in grace and by grace, notworks
Grace and Discipline – Christians live in grace and by grace, notworks
Prayer – God meets us where we are
Silence and Solitude – A way to keep us alert to the presence of God
Prayer – God meets us where we are
Silence and Solitude – A way to keep us alert to the presence of God
Study – Engaging ourselves with the written and spoken Word of God
Study – Engaging ourselves with the written and spoken Word of God
Fasting – Spiritual intensity and intercession by seeking his will
Fasting – Spiritual intensity and intercession by seeking his will
Meditation – Listening, sensing and heeding the life and light of Jesus Christ
Meditation – Listening, sensing and heeding the life and light of Jesus Christ
Submission – The ultimate act of submission – Jesus’ death on the cross
Submission – The ultimate act of submission – Jesus’ death on the cross
Service – The spirit of service reveals, in part, the individual’s heart and life
Service – The spirit of service reveals, in part, the individual’s heart and life
Guidance – Hearing God’s voice and obeying him
Guidance – Hearing God’s voice and obeying him
Confession – Acknowledging our sins and depending on God for his mercy lives
Confession – Acknowledging our sins and depending on God for his mercy lives
Worship – Our lives as living sacrifices – worship is a life style
Worship – Our lives as living sacrifices – worship is a life style
Celebration – Enjoying and celebrating the true joy that comes from God
Celebration – Enjoying and celebrating the true joy that comes from God
Whole Life Stewardship – A life-long process as stewards of his possessions
Whole Life Stewardship – A life-long process as stewards of his possessions
Conclusion – Reflection on how spiritual disciplines have, and will, change our
, how have you been able to incorporate spiritual disciplines in your life in a more intentional way?
Conclusion – Reflection on how spiritual disciplines have, and will, change our
, how have you been able to incorporate spiritual disciplines in your life in a more intentional way?
Have you made any new discoveries about yourself and your relationship with God?
Have you made any new discoveries about yourself and your relationship with God?
In John 14:15-16, Jesus said that if we love him, we are to obey him.
In John 14:15-16, Jesus said that if we love him, we are to obey him.
If ye love me, keep my commandments.
And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
When you read over the list of the above disciplines, please share with the group examples of how Jesus demonstrated them in his life.
When you read over the list of the above disciplines, please share with the group examples of how Jesus demonstrated them in his life.
How can we follow in his footsteps in a continued, conscious way?
How can we follow in his footsteps in a continued, conscious way?
What have you found to be the biggest challenge with living in greater discipline?
What have you found to be the biggest challenge with living in greater discipline?
Take time to pray for one another in this regard, petitioning God for his help and guidance.
Take time to pray for one another in this regard, petitioning God for his help and guidance.
Also, spend some time in thanksgiving for his love and guidance for us.
Also, spend some time in thanksgiving for his love and guidance for us.
In Galatians 2:20 we read Paul’s words, “I have been crucified with Christ; and I myself no longer live, but Christ lives in me.
In Galatians 2:20 we read Paul’s words, “I have been crucified with Christ; and I myself no longer live, but Christ lives in me.
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
And the real life I now have within this body is a result of my trusting in the Son of God, who loves me and gave himself for me.
And the real life I now have within this body is a result of my trusting in the Son of God, who loves me and gave himself for me.
Please share your thoughts about this passage.
Please share your thoughts about this passage.
How has Jesus living in you changed you?
How has Jesus living in you changed you?
If you like, please share in what areas of your life you pray that Jesus continues to change you.
If you like, please share in what areas of your life you pray that Jesus continues to change you.
Are there ways the group can help you and encourage you?
Are there ways the group can help you and encourage you?
Take time to pray for one another.
Take time to pray for one another.
How do you think God expects us to share this spiritually disciplined life with others?
The spiritual disciplines are best exercised and lived out in the midst of our ordinary, busy lives, filled with job, family, relationship and church responsibilities.
How do you think God expects us to share this spiritually disciplined life with others?
The spiritual disciplines are best exercised and lived out in the midst of our ordinary, busy lives, filled with job, family, relationship and church responsibilities.
May the disciplines of the spiritual life move us all further and further away from surface living into the true depths of God’s heart!
May the disciplines of the spiritual life move us all further and further away from surface living into the true depths of God’s heart!
God bless you always!
God bless you always!
“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds”
“Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds”
(Hebrews 10:24).
S. Albrecht
(Hebrews 10:24).
S. Albrecht
And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
Romans 13:11-14
Romans 13:11-14
And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.
The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
III) DISCHARGING YOUR CHRISTIAN DUTY
III) DISCHARGING YOUR CHRISTIAN DUTY
Intro: Amid the unspeakable horrors of World War I there was a certain British soldier in who was so distraught with the war that he deserted.
Intro: Amid the unspeakable horrors of World War I there was a certain British soldier in who was so distraught with the war that he deserted.
He tried to find his way to the coast so he could catch a boat and make his way back incognito to his homeland in England.
He tried to find his way to the coast so he could catch a boat and make his way back incognito to his homeland in England.
In the darkness of the night he stumbled on a road sign.
In the darkness of the night he stumbled on a road sign.
It was so pitch black and he was so lost.
It was so pitch black and he was so lost.
He had no idea where he was or what the sign said.
He had no idea where he was or what the sign said.
He decided to climb the pole.
He decided to climb the pole.
When he got to the crossbeam, he held on to read the sign.
When he got to the crossbeam, he held on to read the sign.
Taking out a match, he lit it, and looked directly in the face of Jesus Christ.
Taking out a match, he lit it, and looked directly in the face of Jesus Christ.
He had climbed an outdoor crucifix!
He had climbed an outdoor crucifix!
Stunned by what he saw, he realized the shame of his life.
Stunned by what he saw, he realized the shame of his life.
He was looking into the face of the One who had endured it all and had never turned back.
He was looking into the face of the One who had endured it all and had never turned back.
The next morning the soldier was back in the trenches.
The next morning the soldier was back in the trenches.
That soldier remembered that he had a duty to discharge!
That soldier remembered that he had a duty to discharge!
He was part of an army and that army was engaged in conflict with a determined foe.
He was part of an army and that army was engaged in conflict with a determined foe.
He had a duty and he responded accordingly.
He had a duty and he responded accordingly.
In these last few verses of Romans 13, Paul takes the place of a commanding officer.
In these last few verses of Romans 13, Paul takes the place of a commanding officer.
Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.
Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.
For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:
For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.
Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.
For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God’s ministers, attending continually upon this very thing.
Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.
Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.
For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.
The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.
Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.
He calls the true believer to remember his duty before the Lord.
He calls the true believer to remember his duty before the Lord.
Just like that soldier in WWI, every redeemed individual has a duty this morning!
Just like that soldier in WWI, every redeemed individual has a duty this morning!
A duty, which I am ashamed to say, we are not discharging very well!
A duty, which I am ashamed to say, we are not discharging very well!
Many of us are like that poor soldier, we are AWOL and have become deserters from the battle.
Many of us are like that poor soldier, we are AWOL and have become deserters from the battle.
I would just like to remind you that when you got saved, you enlisted in the greatest battle that has ever been waged, and that battle is still raging!
I would just like to remind you that when you got saved, you enlisted in the greatest battle that has ever been waged, and that battle is still raging!
There are a few of the troops who have stayed in the trenches, the rest have wandered off to do their own thing.
There are a few of the troops who have stayed in the trenches, the rest have wandered off to do their own thing.
This passage is a call for God's children to get back in the thick of the battle!
This passage is a call for God's children to get back in the thick of the battle!
Everyone in this room who claims a relationship with Jesus Christ has a duty before God.
Everyone in this room who claims a relationship with Jesus Christ has a duty before God.
Today, with His help, I want to point out what that duty is.
Today, with His help, I want to point out what that duty is.
I want to preach for a time on this thought, Discharging Your Christian Duty!
I want to preach for a time on this thought, Discharging Your Christian Duty!
I don't know about you, but I do not want to be found in dereliction of my duty to the Lord.
I don't know about you, but I do not want to be found in dereliction of my duty to the Lord.
I do not want to be named among those who have deserted my post in the heat of the battle.
I do not want to be named among those who have deserted my post in the heat of the battle.
As far as I am concerned this morning I owe everything I have and am to the Lord Jesus Christ and I want to properly discharge my duty before Him.
As far as I am concerned this morning I owe everything I have and am to the Lord Jesus Christ and I want to properly discharge my duty before Him.
I think that desire dwells within the heart of every single saved person.
I think that desire dwells within the heart of every single saved person.
Let's look together at this passage today and see where we really are in relationship to the Lord and His will for our lives.
Let's look together at this passage today and see where we really are in relationship to the Lord and His will for our lives.
Let's learn how to discharge our Christian duty.
Let's learn how to discharge our Christian duty.
I. V. 11 YOU HAVE A DUTY SO WAKE UP!
I. V. 11 YOU HAVE A DUTY SO WAKE UP!
A. We Have A Duty To Recognize The Time - The word "time" refers to a "season of time".
A. We Have A Duty To Recognize The Time - The word "time" refers to a "season of time".
This whole verse has to do with the return of the Lord Jesus Christ for His people.
This whole verse has to do with the return of the Lord Jesus Christ for His people.
The idea here is that the believer is to keep his eyes on the changing world around him and understand that the coming of the Lord is near.
The idea here is that the believer is to keep his eyes on the changing world around him and understand that the coming of the Lord is near.
Sadly, many believers cruise lazily through life not even considering the fact that Jesus might return at any moment.
Sadly, many believers cruise lazily through life not even considering the fact that Jesus might return at any moment.
Yet, all one has to do is cross-reference the daily news with the Word of God to see that His coming is near.
Yet, all one has to do is cross-reference the daily news with the Word of God to see that His coming is near.
Therefore, the advise Jesus gave in Matthew is still good advise for us today, Matt. 24:42-44.
Therefore, the advise Jesus gave in Matthew is still good advise for us today, Matt. 24:42-44.
Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.
But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.
Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.
Paul tells us that our salvation is nearer than when we believed.
Paul tells us that our salvation is nearer than when we believed.
As you know, there are three stages to salvation.
As you know, there are three stages to salvation.
We are saved, we are being saved and we will be saved.
We are saved, we are being saved and we will be saved.
At the moment of conversion, we were saved from the penalty of sin.
At the moment of conversion, we were saved from the penalty of sin.
We are being saved daily from the power of sin.
We are being saved daily from the power of sin.
We will be saved eventually from the presence of sin.
We will be saved eventually from the presence of sin.
Our salvation is fully accomplished this evening, but it being worked out daily in our lives.
Our salvation is fully accomplished this evening, but it being worked out daily in our lives.
One day, when Jesus returns for His people, we will experience the complete effects of our salvation.
One day, when Jesus returns for His people, we will experience the complete effects of our salvation.
What Paul means is that every day we pitch our tent one step closer to glory!
What Paul means is that every day we pitch our tent one step closer to glory!
He merely wants to remind us that Jesus is nearer today than He was yesterday.
He merely wants to remind us that Jesus is nearer today than He was yesterday.
Are you living your life in the anticipation of His soon return?
Are you living your life in the anticipation of His soon return?
B. We Have A Duty To Redeem The Time - Paul tells us that the time for slumber has long since passed.
B. We Have A Duty To Redeem The Time - Paul tells us that the time for slumber has long since passed.
The words "high time" mean that a specific hour has arrived.
The words "high time" mean that a specific hour has arrived.
oo many of the people of God are sleeping on the job today.
oo many of the people of God are sleeping on the job today.
Living their lives as they please without any thought for the will of God, the plight of the lost or the return of the Lord Jesus Christ!
Living their lives as they please without any thought for the will of God, the plight of the lost or the return of the Lord Jesus Christ!
Sleep is defined as, "A state of inactivity, with a loss of consciousness, and a decrease in responsiveness to events taking place."
Sleep is defined as, "A state of inactivity, with a loss of consciousness, and a decrease in responsiveness to events taking place."
In other words, the sleeping person is out of touch with the events that surround him while he sleeps.
In other words, the sleeping person is out of touch with the events that surround him while he sleeps.
While it may be fine to doze through that ball game, or to get a good nights sleep, there is no excuse for being asleep to the things of God!
While it may be fine to doze through that ball game, or to get a good nights sleep, there is no excuse for being asleep to the things of God!
However, many people in the church are in a state of inactivity when it comes to the things of God.
However, many people in the church are in a state of inactivity when it comes to the things of God.
This should not be!
This should not be!
May the Lord find us watching when He comes!
May the Lord find us watching when He comes!
May He find us awake when He returns!
May He find us awake when He returns!
(Note: we need to wake up and be sensitive to the needs that surround us! Now is not the time to be drowsy and unaware of what is going on. Now is a time for the church to be alert and active, Eph. 5:16; Col. 4:5!)
(Note: we need to wake up and be sensitive to the needs that surround us! Now is not the time to be drowsy and unaware of what is going on. Now is a time for the church to be alert and active, Eph. 5:16; Col. 4:5!)
Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
(Note: Paul is telling us that the time to sleep has well passed.
(Note: Paul is telling us that the time to sleep has well passed.
Now it is time to become active in the business of the Lord.
Now it is time to become active in the business of the Lord.
His words remind us that there is an urgency to the things of God.
His words remind us that there is an urgency to the things of God.
Everyday, people are dying without the Lord and going to Hell.
Everyday, people are dying without the Lord and going to Hell.
Everyday the forces of evil are growing stronger and working harder in the world.
Everyday the forces of evil are growing stronger and working harder in the world.
There is a tremendous need for believers everywhere to wake up from their slumber to recognize the seriousness and the lateness of the hour and to get busy serving the Lord with all of their might.
There is a tremendous need for believers everywhere to wake up from their slumber to recognize the seriousness and the lateness of the hour and to get busy serving the Lord with all of their might.
If you are planning to tell your neighbors about Jesus, the time is now!
If you are planning to tell your neighbors about Jesus, the time is now!
If you are going to tell your family about Jesus the time is now.
If you are going to tell your family about Jesus the time is now.
If you are going to go to work for the Lord the time is now!
If you are going to go to work for the Lord the time is now!
May we recognize the crisis of the hour and dedicate ourselves to being all God wants us to be in these days.
May we recognize the crisis of the hour and dedicate ourselves to being all God wants us to be in these days.
(Note: Another thought that is contained in this verse is that the reign of darkness on this earth is growing ever nearer its destined end.
(Note: Another thought that is contained in this verse is that the reign of darkness on this earth is growing ever nearer its destined end.
Since Satan knows that his time is short, Rev. 12:12, he is pulling out all the stops in our day.
Since Satan knows that his time is short, Rev. 12:12, he is pulling out all the stops in our day.
Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.
Very soon, the darkness of sin that has fallen over this world like a veil will be lifted and the glorious dawn of a new day will come.
Very soon, the darkness of sin that has fallen over this world like a veil will be lifted and the glorious dawn of a new day will come.
A day when Jesus Himself will rule and reign in righteousness and glory.)
A day when Jesus Himself will rule and reign in righteousness and glory.)
II. V. 12 YOU HAVE A DUTY SO DRESS UP!
II. V. 12 YOU HAVE A DUTY SO DRESS UP!
A. We Have A Duty To Discard The Garments Of The Night - Paul's vivid imagery is that of a man waking up in the morning and throwing off all that is associated with the night.
A. We Have A Duty To Discard The Garments Of The Night - Paul's vivid imagery is that of a man waking up in the morning and throwing off all that is associated with the night.
He throws off the bedclothes.
The removes his night wear and he gets dressed for the day.
Far too many believers are still walking around dressed in the clothing of darkness!
That is, their attitudes and actions are the same as those of the lost people around them!
When we are saved, we became "new creatures", literally, "a new creation", 2 Cor. 5:17.
At that instant of time, we were forever changed by the power of God and we are supposed to be different than we used to be, different from the world around us!
(Ill. When Lazarus came out of that tomb, having been raised from the dead, what did Jesus say? "Loose him and let him go!", John 11:44.
Why? Because he was a living man and a living man had no use for graveclothes!)
(Note: As redeemed children of the Lord, why do we want to wear the graveclothes of sin?
Why do we want to dress like the dead?
Why do wee want to talk like the dead?
Why do we want to participate in the activities of the dead men around us?
We shouldn't, but we do! May God help us to throw off the garments of the night!
By the way, the words "cast off" have the idea of "throwing something off once and for all."
A man doesn't get out of bed, get dressed and then climb back under the covers! He throws them off and gets up to stay up all day long!
Paul reminds us that the "night is far spent", that is, the time for slumber has passed!
The time of the works of darkness is over!
A new day has dawned in our hearts.
We are called upon to walk in the day!)
(Note: "Cast off" is in the middle voice. It means that you are to do it yourself! No one can cast off the works of darkness from your life but you!)
B. We Have A Duty To Desire The Garments Of The Light - Just as we are commanded to "cast off" some things, we are also commanded to "put on" others.
B. We Have A Duty To Desire The Garments Of The Light - Just as we are commanded to "cast off" some things, we are also commanded to "put on" others.
This also speaks of a once for all putting on!
This also speaks of a once for all putting on!
Just as a person does not get dressed in the morning only to immediately get ready for bed again, so the believer is to make a permanent break with the works of darkness and is to dress up in the things of the Lord to walk for Him as long as it is day!
Just as a person does not get dressed in the morning only to immediately get ready for bed again, so the believer is to make a permanent break with the works of darkness and is to dress up in the things of the Lord to walk for Him as long as it is day!
The idea of this verse is of a man rising from sleep, throwing off the bed covers and his night clothes and getting himself dressed for the day.
The idea of this verse is of a man rising from sleep, throwing off the bed covers and his night clothes and getting himself dressed for the day.
Since Paul uses the word "armor", we could say that he is speaking of a new recruit who shows up for duty in the military.
Since Paul uses the word "armor", we could say that he is speaking of a new recruit who shows up for duty in the military.
Once there, he is stripped of his civilian clothes and is dressed up in the uniform of the army. It is a change that will last for as long as he serves.
Once there, he is stripped of his civilian clothes and is dressed up in the uniform of the army. It is a change that will last for as long as he serves.
For us, the imagery is perfect.
For us, the imagery is perfect.
It speaks of the believer forever laying aside the ways of the old life and dressing up once for all in the ways of the new life in Jesus.
It speaks of the believer forever laying aside the ways of the old life and dressing up once for all in the ways of the new life in Jesus.
This is an idea that is echoed several times in the epistles of Paul, Col. 3:1-17; Eph. 6:10-18; Gal. 5:16-26.
This is an idea that is echoed several times in the epistles of Paul, Col. 3:1-17; Eph. 6:10-18; Gal. 5:16-26.
If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:
In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.
But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.
Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;
And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
God's idea of the Christian life is one of total commitment and dedication.
God's idea of the Christian life is one of total commitment and dedication.
However, most Christians see the Christian life as one of compromises.
However, most Christians see the Christian life as one of compromises.
They honor God over here while doing as they please over here.
They honor God over here while doing as they please over here.
This cannot be! God's command is for our total commitment, once for all!
This cannot be! God's command is for our total commitment, once for all!
Have you done that?
Have you done that?
Are you even willing?
Are you even willing?
III. V. 13-14 YOU HAVE A DUTY SO LINE UP!
III. V. 13-14 YOU HAVE A DUTY SO LINE UP!
(Ill. Paul calls the soldiers of the cross to get in line and march forward for the glory of God.)
A. We Have A Duty To Walk In Honesty - The phrase "walk honestly" means to "behave properly."
A. We Have A Duty To Walk In Honesty - The phrase "walk honestly" means to "behave properly."
That is, we are to live an outward life that is consistent with who we say we are on the inside.
That is, we are to live an outward life that is consistent with who we say we are on the inside.
There should be no pretense in our lives. If we say we are saved, we should live as though we are saved.
There should be no pretense in our lives. If we say we are saved, we should live as though we are saved.
We are to be sure that our practice matches our profession.
We are to be sure that our practice matches our profession.
(Note: I am convinced that the reason so many people have such a hard time staying clean and living for God is because they have never been saved to begin with.
(Note: I am convinced that the reason so many people have such a hard time staying clean and living for God is because they have never been saved to begin with.
With the new birth comes the desire to live a life that is pleasing to the Lord.
With the new birth comes the desire to live a life that is pleasing to the Lord.
A life that is honest. A life that is a living sacrifice to His glory in the world.)
A life that is honest. A life that is a living sacrifice to His glory in the world.)
Does your walk match your talk?
Does your walk match your talk?
Paul uses the phrase "as in the day".
Paul uses the phrase "as in the day".
That is, there should be nothing hidden about our lives.
That is, there should be nothing hidden about our lives.
We should be like and open book to all who look at us and see how we live.
We should be like and open book to all who look at us and see how we live.
Nothing hypocritical, nothing hidden, just a life that is open, honest and pleasing to the Lord.
Nothing hypocritical, nothing hidden, just a life that is open, honest and pleasing to the Lord.
Does that describe the life you are living?
Does that describe the life you are living?
B. We Have A Duty To Walk In Holiness - After telling how we should live, Paul turns his attention to how we should not live.
B. We Have A Duty To Walk In Holiness - After telling how we should live, Paul turns his attention to how we should not live.
He mentions six sins of the flesh that were no doubt prevalent in Paul's day.
He mentions six sins of the flesh that were no doubt prevalent in Paul's day.
The six sins are also prevalent in our day as well!
The six sins are also prevalent in our day as well!
Let's look at them for just a moment.
1. Rioting - Refers to wild parties, sexual orgies, brawling, etc.
Let's look at them for just a moment.
1. Rioting - Refers to wild parties, sexual orgies, brawling, etc.
2. Drunkenness - Refers to habitual and intentional intoxication.
2. Drunkenness - Refers to habitual and intentional intoxication.
Can speak of alcohol or drug abuse.
Can speak of alcohol or drug abuse.
It is interesting to note that the New Testament usually speaks of drunkenness and rioting together, Rom.13:13; Gal. 5:21; 1 Pet. 4:3.
It is interesting to note that the New Testament usually speaks of drunkenness and rioting together, Rom.13:13; Gal. 5:21; 1 Pet. 4:3.
Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.
Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries:
3. Chambering - This word comes from a word that means "to go to bed with someone," It refers to sexual activities that are engaged in outside of the marriage relationship.
3. Chambering - This word comes from a word that means "to go to bed with someone," It refers to sexual activities that are engaged in outside of the marriage relationship.
It is a work of the flesh and it is a sin!
It is a work of the flesh and it is a sin!
Whether it be fornication, which is any sexual activity before marriage, or adultery, which is any sexual activity after marriage with someone who is not your spouse, it is a sin!
Whether it be fornication, which is any sexual activity before marriage, or adultery, which is any sexual activity after marriage with someone who is not your spouse, it is a sin!
It doesn't matter whether or not society condones it, God does not!
It doesn't matter whether or not society condones it, God does not!
(Note: It is a sad statement of the condition of the "professing" church when sexual activity that has been forbidden by God is as prevalent in the church as it is in the world!)
(Note: It is a sad statement of the condition of the "professing" church when sexual activity that has been forbidden by God is as prevalent in the church as it is in the world!)
4. Wantonness - This word is tied to the previous word and it refers to unbridled, uninhibited sexual desire and activity.. It speaks against the casual attitude society holds concerning sex, where every form of sexual expression is indulged in and encouraged.
4. Wantonness - This word is tied to the previous word and it refers to unbridled, uninhibited sexual desire and activity.. It speaks against the casual attitude society holds concerning sex, where every form of sexual expression is indulged in and encouraged.
5. Strife - This word refers to a mind set that seeks its own way first and foremost without regard for the cost to others.
5. Strife - This word refers to a mind set that seeks its own way first and foremost without regard for the cost to others.
It speaks of those people who are constantly bickering, engage in competitive antagonism and petty disagreements.
It speaks of those people who are constantly bickering, engage in competitive antagonism and petty disagreements.
It speaks of people who are just plain mean.
It speaks of people who are just plain mean.
Always looking for a fight.
Always looking for a fight.
Walking around with an attitude and a chip on their shoulder.
Walking around with an attitude and a chip on their shoulder.
The world, and sadly the church is filled with this kind of people
The world, and sadly the church is filled with this kind of people
6. Envy - Refers to a spirit of "jealousy".
6. Envy - Refers to a spirit of "jealousy".
This is an attitude of "me first and every one else after."
This is an attitude of "me first and every one else after."
It is an attitude of the heart that seeks everything self wants without concern for the impact upon the lives of others.
It is an attitude of the heart that seeks everything self wants without concern for the impact upon the lives of others.
(Note: I find it interesting that the Holy Spirit placed envy and strife right up there alongside of sexual immorality and drunkenness.
(Note: I find it interesting that the Holy Spirit placed envy and strife right up there alongside of sexual immorality and drunkenness.
Don't you?
Don't you?
God doesn't make the same distinctions about sin that we do!
God doesn't make the same distinctions about sin that we do!
You see, there may be people in this room who would never think of committing adultery or getting drunk, but you don't give a second thought to talking about someone behind their back!
You see, there may be people in this room who would never think of committing adultery or getting drunk, but you don't give a second thought to talking about someone behind their back!
You would never use illicit drugs, but you don't think twice about taking your duty to the church and the Lord for granted!
You would never use illicit drugs, but you don't think twice about taking your duty to the church and the Lord for granted!
We need a revival of devotion to the things of the Lord! Are any of these things active in your life today?
We need a revival of devotion to the things of the Lord! Are any of these things active in your life today?
If so, there is a remedy. It is called confession and repentance. 1 John 1:9!)
If so, there is a remedy. It is called confession and repentance. 1 John 1:9!)
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
C. We Have A Duty To Walk In Humility - Paul tells us that while we are waiting in this world for the Lord to return, we should be careful that we act the right way.
C. We Have A Duty To Walk In Humility - Paul tells us that while we are waiting in this world for the Lord to return, we should be careful that we act the right way.
He tells us to "put on the Lord Jesus Christ."
He tells us to "put on the Lord Jesus Christ."
Of course, we were placed into Jesus at the moment of our conversion, 1 Cor. 12:13.
Of course, we were placed into Jesus at the moment of our conversion, 1 Cor. 12:13.
For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
Here, he means that we are to cloth ourselves in all that Jesus is!
Here, he means that we are to cloth ourselves in all that Jesus is!
We are to adopt His character as our character.
We are to adopt His character as our character.
We are to adopt His lifestyle as our lifestyle.
We are to adopt His lifestyle as our lifestyle.
He is truth, we are to walk in truth. He is light, we are to walk in light. He is faithful, we are to be faithful.
He is truth, we are to walk in truth. He is light, we are to walk in light. He is faithful, we are to be faithful.
He is holy, we are to be holy. He loves the Father, we are to love the Father.
He is holy, we are to be holy. He loves the Father, we are to love the Father.
He walked in total obedience to God, we are to walk in total obedience to God.
He walked in total obedience to God, we are to walk in total obedience to God.
The idea is encapsulated by John in 1 John 2:6.
The idea is encapsulated by John in 1 John 2:6.
He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
The idea here is a progression toward perfection! God is in the business of growing saints, Eph. 4:13.
The idea here is a progression toward perfection! God is in the business of growing saints, Eph. 4:13.
Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
He is seeking to reproduce the life of His Son in each of us.
He is seeking to reproduce the life of His Son in each of us.
Therefore, until He comes, let us determine that we will live Christlike in front of a hell-bound world.
Therefore, until He comes, let us determine that we will live Christlike in front of a hell-bound world.
We are told to make "not provision for the flesh."
We are told to make "not provision for the flesh."
The word "provision" means "forethought or planning". The idea is this, we are to avoid any and all attempts by the mind to allow for the fulfilling of fleshly lusts.
The word "provision" means "forethought or planning". The idea is this, we are to avoid any and all attempts by the mind to allow for the fulfilling of fleshly lusts.
We are guilty of assuming that sin begins with the devil.
We are guilty of assuming that sin begins with the devil.
He thinks it up and he tempts us with it. Well, that occurs occasionally.
He thinks it up and he tempts us with it. Well, that occurs occasionally.
More often, sin begins a little closer to home, James 1:14-15.
More often, sin begins a little closer to home, James 1:14-15.
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.
Long as we live in his world; there will be within us a pull toward the things of the world. However, we do not have to fall into any temptation, 1 Cor. 10:31.
Long as we live in his world; there will be within us a pull toward the things of the world. However, we do not have to fall into any temptation, 1 Cor. 10:31.
Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
We will sin, but we do not have to!
We will sin, but we do not have to!
We will be tempted. but we do not have to yield, Rom. 6:14.
We will be tempted. but we do not have to yield, Rom. 6:14.
For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
When we allow our minds, hearts, wills and emotions to rule our lives, they will make provision for the flesh, because the are still heavily influenced by, the flesh and by its wicked desires.
When we allow our minds, hearts, wills and emotions to rule our lives, they will make provision for the flesh, because the are still heavily influenced by, the flesh and by its wicked desires.
However, when we allow the Spirit of God to control our thinking, we will not do what the flesh wants, but we will do what the Spirit wants, Gal. 5:16.
However, when we allow the Spirit of God to control our thinking, we will not do what the flesh wants, but we will do what the Spirit wants, Gal. 5:16.
This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
The whole idea here is that we are to control the mind, heart, will and emotions so that they are under the power of the Spirit of God.
The whole idea here is that we are to control the mind, heart, will and emotions so that they are under the power of the Spirit of God.
We are to give no thought to the desires of the flesh. Sounds tough, but the Spirit of God is able to give us the victory in this warfare, 1 John 4:4, 1 Cor. 15:57.
We are to give no thought to the desires of the flesh. Sounds tough, but the Spirit of God is able to give us the victory in this warfare, 1 John 4:4, 1 Cor. 15:57.
Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.
But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Conc: How long has it been since you remembered that you have a duty as a believer?
Conc: How long has it been since you remembered that you have a duty as a believer?
I would just remind you that you have a duty in three areas today.
I would just remind you that you have a duty in three areas today.
1. You Have A Duty To The Savior - This is a duty to live right and to serve Him faithfully until He calls you home.
1. You Have A Duty To The Savior - This is a duty to live right and to serve Him faithfully until He calls you home.
It is a duty to be all He redeemed you to be!
It is a duty to be all He redeemed you to be!
Are you fulfilling that duty?
Are you fulfilling that duty?
2. You Have A Duty To The Saints - This is a duty to carry out your responsibilities to the church.
2. You Have A Duty To The Saints - This is a duty to carry out your responsibilities to the church.
When wejoined this church you took on the duty of supporting this work with your time, your tithes and your talents.
When wejoined this church you took on the duty of supporting this work with your time, your tithes and your talents.
You have a duty to watch after one another, to pray for one another, and to help one another along the way of life.
You have a duty to watch after one another, to pray for one another, and to help one another along the way of life.
For those of you who took positions as leaders and teachers in this church, your duty runs even deeper!
For those of you who took positions as leaders and teachers in this church, your duty runs even deeper!
You have a duty to be faithful. You have a duty to be prepared. You have a duty to be on time!
You have a duty to be faithful. You have a duty to be prepared. You have a duty to be on time!
You have a duty to set the right example of personal sacrifice and devotion to the Lord Jesus.
You have a duty to set the right example of personal sacrifice and devotion to the Lord Jesus.
Many are not fulfilling their duty this morning! Are you?
Many are not fulfilling their duty this morning! Are you?
3. You Have A Duty To Sinners - This is a duty to tell a lost and dying world about a crucified and risen Savior.
3. You Have A Duty To Sinners - This is a duty to tell a lost and dying world about a crucified and risen Savior.
There are people perishing all around this church.
There are people perishing all around this church.
When was the last time you personally told someone about Jesus Christ?
When was the last time you personally told someone about Jesus Christ?
When was the last time you discharged your duty to the lost?
When was the last time you discharged your duty to the lost?
Duty has been defined as, "An obligation: something that somebody is obliged to do for moral, legal, or religious reasons" A sense of duty to the will of God is missing from the lives of many believers today.
Duty has been defined as, "An obligation: something that somebody is obliged to do for moral, legal, or religious reasons" A sense of duty to the will of God is missing from the lives of many believers today.
They think they are saved and they think that is enough.
They think they are saved and they think that is enough.
I would say that with salvation comes a sense of responsibility to serve the Lord until He calls us home. Are you discharging your duty faithfully before the Lord?
I would say that with salvation comes a sense of responsibility to serve the Lord until He calls us home. Are you discharging your duty faithfully before the Lord?
Would you say you are everything you should be?
Would you say you are everything you should be?
Would say that you are less today than you were at some point in the past?
Would say that you are less today than you were at some point in the past?
Or, would you say that you like the soldier I told you about at the beginning of the message, totally derelict in your duty?
Or, would you say that you like the soldier I told you about at the beginning of the message, totally derelict in your duty?
Regardless of where you are, there is always room to be more like He wants you to be.
Regardless of where you are, there is always room to be more like He wants you to be.
Whatever your need might be this morning, salvation, a closer walk, repentance, etc, there is help in this place if you will come before Him.
Whatever your need might be this morning, salvation, a closer walk, repentance, etc, there is help in this place if you will come before Him.
From Doctrine to Duty
From Doctrine to Duty
Spirit Dependent Living
Isaiah 11:1-5
As we depend upon the Spirit of God,
He effectively leads us closer to Himself
and makes our lives more fruitful.
Spirit Dependent Living
Isaiah 11:1-5
As we depend upon the Spirit of God,
He effectively leads us closer to Himself
and makes our lives more fruitful.
And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and might, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;
And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: And he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, Neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, And reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: And he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, And with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.
And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, And faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
Intro
As a new Christian we hear about becoming a 'new creature' in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) and are excited at the new things God would have for our lives.
Intro
As a new Christian we hear about becoming a 'new creature' in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) and are excited at the new things God would have for our lives.
Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
This 'newness' seems to wear off rather quickly.
After a time, we are troubled to see and hear of the typical boring life of the lukewarm Christians around us.
More than often this despiteful lukewarm spirit infects us and we too are convinced that Christ is not doing very special things any more - either in our lives or in the lives around us.
It affects not only our Christian growth but also our Christian service.
The supernatural seems to be stripped from our wonderful Christian lives.
Everything seems to depend on how we drive ourselves to read the Bible, go to church and serve others.
The newness of the 'new wine' that we see occurring in Christ's life is absent.
As a sign of total lack of faith, we even tell others that a compromised Christian life is all that is to be expected.
A close study of Isaiah 11:1-5 enables us to regain a proper perspective of Christian life and service.
We gain a inside picture of what moved and motivated the Messiah Jesus Christ.
This passage brings together the connection of what empowered Christ and what empowers our own lives as His disciples.
In essence, we learn what it means to 'walk in the Spirit.'
Let's look more closely as to what it means to live a Spirit-dependent life.
Text: Isaiah 11:1-5 - On Becoming Spirit Dependent
Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, And a branch from his roots will bear fruit.
And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and strength, The spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.
And He will delight in the fear of the LORD, And He will not judge by what His eyes see, Nor make a decision by what His ears hear; But with righteousness He will judge the poor, And decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth;
And He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, And with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked.
Also righteousness will be the belt about His loins, And faithfulness the belt about His waist. (Isaiah 11:1-5, ).
Purpose
To make us more conscious of God's will and increasingly dependent upon the Holy Spirit in all that we do.
Prayer
Dear Father in Heaven, there is no doubt that I have wasted too much time looking at this world through my own eyes rather than seeing it by the Spirit's eyes.
After reading Isaiah 11 above, I sense my blindness and foolishness.
I have worked so hard but with little regard to how I need the Holy Spirit to work through my life.
Please forgive me for wasting so much time and spending it in my own strength.
I know I have let too many people down.
The world doesn't need more world in religious garments but Christ unveiled and lived out before them.
Come now Holy Spirit and fill me.
Teach me how to live like Jesus.
Let me be an instrument that is always being used by your Holy Spirit.
In Christ's glorious Name we pray, Amen.
Discussion
We spend time together in faith to be transformed by the Lord.
Our hope is that after this time together before the Lord, He will use us more effectively, wherever that might be.
We are not gaining just some knowledge about God;we are getting to know God more.
He is deepening our commitments and enriching our lives.
Do you remember how the Lord Jesus called the disciples aside?
First there was the stepping from the world and then there was the stepping into His presence.
Both happened simultaneously.
If you are preoccupied with the world, then you cannot get close to God.
Jesus asked for their whole lives. Indeed there were many that kept their original occupations, but in a true sense they had to give up that occupation and received it back.
Isaiah 11 shares the keys needed in drawing close to God.
If we are going to be effective servants of Christ, then we had better learn how to have Christ dwell in us.
We know that this is done by the Spirit of God.
We are to walk and be filled with the Spirit.
The same Spirit that anointed Jesus is to dwell within us.
This is why we are called Christians which literally means anointed ones (1 John 2:27).
God accomplished so much in the life of Christ because the Holy Spirit constantly filled Him.
The key to our effective and growing Christian lives will be to how much we understand and embrace the Spirit's work in our lives.
It is not a question as to whether we have the Spirit or not.
All of God's people have the Holy Spirit Eph 1:13-14 ).
The key is how much do we yield our lives to the wonderful Spirit of God.
After all, all our lives we have been trained to live with our eyes, ears and minds.
We need to change our orientation and live after the Holy Spirit.
In a sense one might say that our study is describing the Spirit-filled Christian.
The Spirit encourages all Christians to fully respond to God in their lives.
Let's see what this is all about.
A. Isaiah 11:1 The Life of the Christian
A. Isaiah 11:1 The Life of the Christian
And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
B. Isaiah 11:2 The Spirit in the Christian
B. Isaiah 11:2 The Spirit in the Christian
And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and might, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;
C. Isaiah 11:3-5 The Walk of the Christian
C. Isaiah 11:3-5 The Walk of the Christian
And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: And he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, Neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, And reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: And he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, And with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.
And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, And faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
A. Isaiah 11:1 The Life of the Christian
A. Isaiah 11:1 The Life of the Christian
Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, And a branch from his roots will bear fruit. (Isaiah 11:1)
Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, And a branch from his roots will bear fruit. (Isaiah 11:1)
And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
The Christian is only as strong as He is in Christ.
The Christian is only as strong as He is in Christ.
The Christian is not the root.
The Christian is not the root.
We are not the trunk.
We are not the trunk.
We are simply the branches that grow from this tree.
We are simply the branches that grow from this tree.
"I ((Jesus) am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing." (John 15:5, ).
"I ((Jesus) am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing." (John 15:5, ).
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
Power and vision for the church derives from Christ not the church herself and especially not in the organized church.
Power and vision for the church derives from Christ not the church herself and especially not in the organized church.
God's people depend upon Christ.
God's people depend upon Christ.
Isaiah 11:1 speaks about the Messianic promise of the then coming Messiah. King David was this promised son of Jesse.
Isaiah 11:1 speaks about the Messianic promise of the then coming Messiah. King David was this promised son of Jesse.
And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
Jesus of Nazareth was this promised descendant of King David, both through his father and mother.
Jesus of Nazareth was this promised descendant of King David, both through his father and mother.
The church is this great number of branches that spring out of their faith and life in this Christ.
The church is this great number of branches that spring out of their faith and life in this Christ.
God is continually working through His Spirit to fill it to its fullest measure.
God is continually working through His Spirit to fill it to its fullest measure.
Ephesians calls these people holy ones (saints) because they are set apart in Christ.
Ephesians calls these people holy ones (saints) because they are set apart in Christ.
Every genuine Christian has his or her 'faith roots' in Christ.
Every genuine Christian has his or her 'faith roots' in Christ.
B. Isaiah 11:2 The Spirit in the Christian
B. Isaiah 11:2 The Spirit in the Christian
In Isaiah 11:2 we find the key to understanding the life of Christ.
In Isaiah 11:2 we find the key to understanding the life of Christ.
And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and might, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;
When we look at His life as revealed in the Gospels, we recognize that God used Him in an amazing way ministering to the people.
When we look at His life as revealed in the Gospels, we recognize that God used Him in an amazing way ministering to the people.
Just think how many of us could step into the same situations as Christ did, but leave any real long lasting worthy impact.
Just think how many of us could step into the same situations as Christ did, but leave any real long lasting worthy impact.
We need to be more like Christ.
And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. (Isaiah 11:2)
We need to be more like Christ.
And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. (Isaiah 11:2)
And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and might, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;
Now some of us might wonder if this verse speaks about Christ Jesus, why are we saying it has to do with us?
Now some of us might wonder if this verse speaks about Christ Jesus, why are we saying it has to do with us?
There are numerous ways to answer this important question.
There are numerous ways to answer this important question.
For if we think it only has to do with the way Christ lived, then we will not seriously apply it to our lives.
For if we think it only has to do with the way Christ lived, then we will not seriously apply it to our lives.
We will choose two reasons.
1) We first see that the anointing that Christ received in sight of many at His baptism is the same anointing by the Holy Spirit that Christians receive.
We will choose two reasons.
1) We first see that the anointing that Christ received in sight of many at His baptism is the same anointing by the Holy Spirit that Christians receive.
The Holy Spirit is the Holy Spirit mentioned above in Isaiah 11:2.
"But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you all know". (1 John 2:20).
The Holy Spirit is the Holy Spirit mentioned above in Isaiah 11:2.
"But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you all know". (1 John 2:20).
And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and might, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;
But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.
2) Secondly, we saw that when the disciples displayed a filling of the Holy Spirit in early Acts, that they acted in a way that marked them to be of Christ.
2) Secondly, we saw that when the disciples displayed a filling of the Holy Spirit in early Acts, that they acted in a way that marked them to be of Christ.
This was not limited to the twelve apostles but was upon all of the disciples.
This was not limited to the twelve apostles but was upon all of the disciples.
This Spirit walk was from then on a characteristic of God's people.
This Spirit walk was from then on a characteristic of God's people.
"If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit." (Galatians 5:25).
"If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit." (Galatians 5:25).
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
Instead of wondering whether we are to be Spirit led, let us think what it means for us to be Spirit filled.
Instead of wondering whether we are to be Spirit led, let us think what it means for us to be Spirit filled.
Let us first make some general statements and then discuss these seven marks in a little detail.
Let us first make some general statements and then discuss these seven marks in a little detail.
Walking in the Spirit
Walking in the Spirit
Like the air animates a person, so the Spirit of God is to animate our lives.
Like the air animates a person, so the Spirit of God is to animate our lives.
Air and spirit are the same words in both Hebrew and Greek.
Air and spirit are the same words in both Hebrew and Greek.
If we merely walk with physical air, our beings can function but very impaired.
If we merely walk with physical air, our beings can function but very impaired.
We need the Spirit of God to move and animate our spiritual beings.
We need the Spirit of God to move and animate our spiritual beings.
Those without the Spirit of God are spiritually dead.
Those without the Spirit of God are spiritually dead.
That spiritual aspect of their lives is not functioning.
And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. (Ephesians 2:1,2, ).
That spiritual aspect of their lives is not functioning.
And you were dead in your trespasses and sins, in which you formerly walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons of disobedience. (Ephesians 2:1,2, ).
And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;
Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
When a person becomes a Christian, the Spirit of God rushes in and makes the spiritual nature function.
When a person becomes a Christian, the Spirit of God rushes in and makes the spiritual nature function.
The physical and spiritual functions were designed to work jointly but because we have been so used to using our physical features, we place all our confidence in them.
The physical and spiritual functions were designed to work jointly but because we have been so used to using our physical features, we place all our confidence in them.
The body is good for opening a can of sauce or bringing to ones lips, but the spiritual nature dominated by the Spirit of God is needed to accomplish spiritual activities.
The body is good for opening a can of sauce or bringing to ones lips, but the spiritual nature dominated by the Spirit of God is needed to accomplish spiritual activities.
These spiritual matters are clearly mentioned in Isaiah 11:3-5.
These spiritual matters are clearly mentioned in Isaiah 11:3-5.
And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: And he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, Neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, And reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: And he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, And with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.
And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, And faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
Here in Isaiah 11:2, however, we see the way the Spirit of God works in a person.
Here in Isaiah 11:2, however, we see the way the Spirit of God works in a person.
And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and might, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;
One can debate whether a capital 'S' (Spirit) or a small 's' (spirit) should be used.
One can debate whether a capital 'S' (Spirit) or a small 's' (spirit) should be used.
It is rather immaterial. I think it is clearer for English speakers to use 'Spirit.'
It is rather immaterial. I think it is clearer for English speakers to use 'Spirit.'
The word is used four times and it is the same each time.
The word is used four times and it is the same each time.
The Hebrew does not have capital and small letters.
The Hebrew does not have capital and small letters.
Even if one wants to capitalize the first usage of 'Spirit' and make the others 'spirit,' we will still say that it is the same Spirit doing these things.
Even if one wants to capitalize the first usage of 'Spirit' and make the others 'spirit,' we will still say that it is the same Spirit doing these things.
This is undeniable and it is confirmed in the way the Holy Spirit imparts gifts to His people (cf. 1 Corinthians 12).
This is undeniable and it is confirmed in the way the Holy Spirit imparts gifts to His people (cf. 1 Corinthians 12).
Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.
Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.
Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.
Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
For the body is not one member, but many.
If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
And if they were all one member, where were the body?
But now are they many members, yet but one body.
And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:
That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
Our far bigger problem is to train ourselves to be attentive to and follow the Spirit of God.
Our far bigger problem is to train ourselves to be attentive to and follow the Spirit of God.
Most of us live in a very secular state.
Most of us live in a very secular state.
We are often insensitive to the Spirit's working.
We are often insensitive to the Spirit's working.
If we prayed and sought our Father's will like Jesus, we would better learn how to walk in the Spirit.
If we prayed and sought our Father's will like Jesus, we would better learn how to walk in the Spirit.
Seven Spirit-dominated areas of Life
As we go through this list, we will note that things like wisdom, understanding, etc. are things we can have to some degree without the Spirit of God. In Isaiah 11 we are being introduced to another kind of wisdom, understanding and counsel. There is a physical strength but because of the Holy Spirit there is a spiritual strength. There is a counsel from man but also a counsel from the Spirit of God. The following chart helps outline the difference of the Holy Spirit's work in each of the seven areas mentioned.
Spirit of God
at work in man
Spirit of God
at work in man
The presence of God occupies a person and influences His thoughts, decisions and relationship with others.
The presence of God occupies a person and influences His thoughts, decisions and relationship with others.
Special ability from God to connect the consequences of what has been done with what is being or will be done.
Special discernment from God enabling a person to grasp the proper perspective of a certain situation.
Special ability from God to connect the consequences of what has been done with what is being or will be done.
Special discernment from God enabling a person to grasp the proper perspective of a certain situation.
Special words of wisdom from the Spirit of God enabling one to bring special words of comfort, healing and warning.
Special words of wisdom from the Spirit of God enabling one to bring special words of comfort, healing and warning.
.Special divine strength given to those in need to empower them to do God's will when their physical bodies would otherwise give up.
.Special divine strength given to those in need to empower them to do God's will when their physical bodies would otherwise give up.
Special insight brought to ones attention that is needed to handle a certain situation properly.
Special insight brought to ones attention that is needed to handle a certain situation properly.
The special awe of God providing guidance and caution in times of temptation leading a person always to trust in the Lord.
The special awe of God providing guidance and caution in times of temptation leading a person always to trust in the Lord.
Areas of Work
God's presence
Areas of Work
God's presence
Wisdom
Wisdom
Understanding
Understanding
Counsel
Counsel
Strength
Strength
Knowledge
Knowledge
Fear of the LORD
Fear of the LORD
Dependent on Man's resources without God
Dependent on Man's resources without God
The absence of God (spiritually dead) leaves only the body and a darkened mind (flesh) to dictate all decisions.
The accumulation of discernment built up over the years of experience and knowledge.
Grasping an acceptable perspective of a situation by ones accumulated knowledge of a circumstance.
The absence of God (spiritually dead) leaves only the body and a darkened mind (flesh) to dictate all decisions.
The accumulation of discernment built up over the years of experience and knowledge.
Grasping an acceptable perspective of a situation by ones accumulated knowledge of a circumstance.
Words and advice stemming from what one has learned and experienced in the world
Words and advice stemming from what one has learned and experienced in the world
The ability to do what my body and stress levels tolerates.
The ability to do what my body and stress levels tolerates.
Guessing what is needed from ones learning and experience.
The fear of man influences their decisions rather than what God says or is doing.
Guessing what is needed from ones learning and experience.
The fear of man influences their decisions rather than what God says or is doing.
On the left we see a person functioning in this world but is also living within God's dimension.
On the left we see a person functioning in this world but is also living within God's dimension.
He is able to equally function in both worlds at the same time.
He is able to equally function in both worlds at the same time.
The person on the right is the non-Christian or resistant Christian who functions without the Spirit of God in his life.
The person on the right is the non-Christian or resistant Christian who functions without the Spirit of God in his life.
What we see in the Book of Acts is the way the church should be operating when His people are dependent on the Spirit of God.
Are you conscious of God's supernatural strength, wisdom and understanding for circumstances that go beyond our regular comprehension and abilities?
What we see in the Book of Acts is the way the church should be operating when His people are dependent on the Spirit of God.
Are you conscious of God's supernatural strength, wisdom and understanding for circumstances that go beyond our regular comprehension and abilities?
God has equipped us, but we need to put away our sins and sincerely seek Him for help in learning how to walk in the Spirit.
God has equipped us, but we need to put away our sins and sincerely seek Him for help in learning how to walk in the Spirit.
This dependence is increased as we live by the spiritual disciplines of praying, fasting and meditating on God's Holy Word.
This dependence is increased as we live by the spiritual disciplines of praying, fasting and meditating on God's Holy Word.
C. Isaiah 11:3-5 The Walk of the Christian
C. Isaiah 11:3-5 The Walk of the Christian
Isaiah 11:3-5
If we share in the anointing, then we share in the works that stem from that anointing.
Isaiah 11:3-5
If we share in the anointing, then we share in the works that stem from that anointing.
When a person is Spirit–dependent, he will live life differently.
When a person is Spirit–dependent, he will live life differently.
Although we might treat Isaiah 11:3-5 as only applying to the life of the Savior Jesus Christ, we are expected to make the logical conclusion that if we share in the anointing, then we share in the works that stem from that anointing.
Although we might treat Isaiah 11:3-5 as only applying to the life of the Savior Jesus Christ, we are expected to make the logical conclusion that if we share in the anointing, then we share in the works that stem from that anointing.
We are to live as Christ's disciples.
We are to live as Christ's disciples.
The disciple of Christ not only has his Master's knowledge but also power.
The disciple of Christ not only has his Master's knowledge but also power.
When Jesus sent the seventy forth to evangelize, He expected them to live as He lived.
When Jesus sent the seventy forth to evangelize, He expected them to live as He lived.
They were His appointees in training.
They were His appointees in training.
In a similar way we are His ambassadors.
In a similar way we are His ambassadors.
Let's note the changes in ones life when He is spiritually alive and alert.
Let's note the changes in ones life when He is spiritually alive and alert.
We will categorize them into four life changes.
We will categorize them into four life changes.
And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: And he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, Neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, And reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: And he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, And with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.
And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, And faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: And he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, Neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, And reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: And he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, And with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.
And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, And faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
God Sensitive
God Sensitive
He will delight in the fear of the LORD
He will delight in the fear of the LORD
The Spirit-filled person does not live in fear but in delight of the awesomeness of God.
The Spirit-filled person does not live in fear but in delight of the awesomeness of God.
He is glad he dreads any disobedience on his part.
He is glad he dreads any disobedience on his part.
They keep him from evil.
Today while driving I the lane was cut off so I pulled in.
They keep him from evil.
Today while driving I the lane was cut off so I pulled in.
The Spirit cautioned me that I went too far ahead and then cut in and should have cut in earlier.
The Spirit cautioned me that I went too far ahead and then cut in and should have cut in earlier.
In this way I would not have been the subject of the murmurs of others.
In this way I would not have been the subject of the murmurs of others.
I could have ignored the Spirit's word with me, but by His grace I confessed my aggressiveness and asked for wisdom to know when it is best to cut over in future situations.
I could have ignored the Spirit's word with me, but by His grace I confessed my aggressiveness and asked for wisdom to know when it is best to cut over in future situations.
I delighted in God's work in my soul for otherwise I would have gone on unneccesarily giving offense to others.
I delighted in God's work in my soul for otherwise I would have gone on unneccesarily giving offense to others.
Although I wrestled in my heart at His prompting, I was glad in the end that He was working in my life.
Although I wrestled in my heart at His prompting, I was glad in the end that He was working in my life.
Many Christians cannot think clearly about this topic.
Many Christians cannot think clearly about this topic.
Because of bad teaching, they either are too friendly with God or too distant.
Because of bad teaching, they either are too friendly with God or too distant.
1) Those that are too friendly only know God as love.
1) Those that are too friendly only know God as love.
They wrongly conclude that they can buddy up to God and have Him ignore some of their 'quirks.'
They wrongly conclude that they can buddy up to God and have Him ignore some of their 'quirks.'
These same people do not tolerate the wrath of God.
These same people do not tolerate the wrath of God.
2) The other group has a hard time grasping the delightfulness of the fear of God.
2) The other group has a hard time grasping the delightfulness of the fear of God.
They usually tremble under the fear of man.
They usually tremble under the fear of man.
They cannot see God's love and goodness but only His awesome and mighty power.
They cannot see God's love and goodness but only His awesome and mighty power.
One group is too close; the other too far.
One group is too close; the other too far.
They both stem from poor doctrine.
They both stem from poor doctrine.
The fear of the Lord combines a good respect for God and yet sense His love and goodness at the same time.
The fear of the Lord combines a good respect for God and yet sense His love and goodness at the same time.
The first group will not use the phrase 'the fear of the Lord.' It is out of style to them.
The first group will not use the phrase 'the fear of the Lord.' It is out of style to them.
The second group cannot understand why they should delight in the fear of Jehovah.
The second group cannot understand why they should delight in the fear of Jehovah.
This is incomprehensible.
God's true servant, though, finds God's goodness expressed through the cautious spirit given to a man that causes him to observe God's command and seek His blessing.
This is incomprehensible.
God's true servant, though, finds God's goodness expressed through the cautious spirit given to a man that causes him to observe God's command and seek His blessing.
He refrains from disobedience out of fear of the coming consequences.
He refrains from disobedience out of fear of the coming consequences.
God is real in His life.
God is real in His life.
Like the reigns of a horse, the fear of the Lord control and lead the Christian into the most effective and fulfilled life possible.
Like the reigns of a horse, the fear of the Lord control and lead the Christian into the most effective and fulfilled life possible.
Righteous Judgment - Decisions
Righteous Judgment - Decisions
He will not judge by what His eyes see, nor make a decision by what His ears hear; but with righteousness He will judge the poor, and decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth.
He will not judge by what His eyes see, nor make a decision by what His ears hear; but with righteousness He will judge the poor, and decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth.
The resources a person depends upon to make decisions will ultimately control what decisions he makes.
The resources a person depends upon to make decisions will ultimately control what decisions he makes.
The source of information controls a person's thinking.
The source of information controls a person's thinking.
We see this early on when Eve went counter to the Spirit and rested on her own judgment.
When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate. (Genesis 3:6).
We see this early on when Eve went counter to the Spirit and rested on her own judgment.
When the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was desirable to make one wise, she took from its fruit and ate; and she gave also to her husband with her, and he ate. (Genesis 3:6).
And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
Note how her eyes led her into faulty thinking.
Note how her eyes led her into faulty thinking.
We cannot trust our senses to give us a right mind to judge matters.
We cannot trust our senses to give us a right mind to judge matters.
The mind forms the battleground where the world battles the Spirit.
The mind forms the battleground where the world battles the Spirit.
The world does its best by influencing our senses to control our lives.
The world does its best by influencing our senses to control our lives.
The Spirit of God combats this by working through the mind of God established by the Word of God.
The Spirit of God combats this by working through the mind of God established by the Word of God.
Lust lives on sight and hearing.
Lust lives on sight and hearing.
Lust is the flesh observing what or who it can use.
Lust is the flesh observing what or who it can use.
Lust is simply desire but these desires are inflamed by our senses.
Lust is simply desire but these desires are inflamed by our senses.
By seeing or hearing what can or might be obtained our stomach's appetite is stimulated, our sexual senses are aroused and our imaginations are filled with all sorts of thoughts.
By seeing or hearing what can or might be obtained our stomach's appetite is stimulated, our sexual senses are aroused and our imaginations are filled with all sorts of thoughts.
Our senses serve our bodies but unfortunately they pay service to our flesh nature and bring evil into our lives.
Our senses serve our bodies but unfortunately they pay service to our flesh nature and bring evil into our lives.
Truly, any man that is influenced by what is around him, he cannot truly serve others.
Truly, any man that is influenced by what is around him, he cannot truly serve others.
His flesh rules him.
His flesh rules him.
He is unrighteous.
He is unrighteous.
He is a man of the earth.
He is a man of the earth.
The man of the Spirit has information that is feeding his spiritual nature.
The man of the Spirit has information that is feeding his spiritual nature.
This is the opposite of what has been said.
This is the opposite of what has been said.
Of course, his physical senses still serve his body, but he limits them for higher principles that are given in God's Word.
Of course, his physical senses still serve his body, but he limits them for higher principles that are given in God's Word.
He is not a glutton.
He is not a glutton.
He does not look with lust upon women.
He does not look with lust upon women.
He does not subject himself to heavy beats and rhythms.
He does not subject himself to heavy beats and rhythms.
Instead he pays full attention to what the Spirit of God is leading him to do.
Instead he pays full attention to what the Spirit of God is leading him to do.
When a man lives by principles of God's Word, he is necessarily not living by the Spirit.
For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. (Galatians 5:17, ).
When a man lives by principles of God's Word, he is necessarily not living by the Spirit.
For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please. (Galatians 5:17, ).
For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
Righteous judgment and decisions come from living by God's Word rather than by ones subjective judgment.
Righteous judgment and decisions come from living by God's Word rather than by ones subjective judgment.
Counselors who deny their subjects the truth of God are false prophets.
Counselors who deny their subjects the truth of God are false prophets.
The spirit of the world steps and interferes with God's judgments.
The spirit of the world steps and interferes with God's judgments.
So the client walks away without God's principles guiding his life.
So the client walks away without God's principles guiding his life.
Proper concern for the poor only comes about when ones own flesh desires are not rewarded.
Proper concern for the poor only comes about when ones own flesh desires are not rewarded.
Otherwise, the poor will be taken advantage of because of their lack of resources and knowledge.
Otherwise, the poor will be taken advantage of because of their lack of resources and knowledge.
It is a great shame to think how women have been oppressed through the centuries because men serve their own needs above their wives and children.
It is a great shame to think how women have been oppressed through the centuries because men serve their own needs above their wives and children.
God's principles call the man to stand up for the needs and rights of the oppressed.
God's principles call the man to stand up for the needs and rights of the oppressed.
Righteous decisions and judgments will be made to the degree God's Word affects ones heart.
Righteous decisions and judgments will be made to the degree God's Word affects ones heart.
Fight Evil
Fight Evil
He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, And with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked.
He will strike the earth with the rod of His mouth, And with the breath of His lips He will slay the wicked.
The Spirit of God strives against evil. We see this early on in Genesis 6:3.
Then the LORD said, My Spirit shall not strive with man forever, because he also is flesh; nevertheless his days shall be one hundred and twenty years.
The Spirit of God strives against evil. We see this early on in Genesis 6:3.
Then the LORD said, My Spirit shall not strive with man forever, because he also is flesh; nevertheless his days shall be one hundred and twenty years.
And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years.
(Genesis 6:3, ).
This fight has continued on from the Garden of Eve when Satan captured mankind.
(Genesis 6:3, ).
This fight has continued on from the Garden of Eve when Satan captured mankind.
And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years.
Jesus was not tolerant of evil. Christ's response was still constrained under the rule that He came to save and not to judge (cf. John 3:17).
Jesus was not tolerant of evil. Christ's response was still constrained under the rule that He came to save and not to judge (cf. John 3:17).
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
Judgment would have been easier but He stayed faithful.
Judgment would have been easier but He stayed faithful.
However, He was very patient and gracious to those who repented from their sins but spoke harshly against those who used righteous words to hide their evil.
However, He was very patient and gracious to those who repented from their sins but spoke harshly against those who used righteous words to hide their evil.
Let's just take a look at a few verses in which the word 'viper' or poisonous snake is used.
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, You brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (Matthew 3:7; Luke 3:7).
Let's just take a look at a few verses in which the word 'viper' or poisonous snake is used.
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, You brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (Matthew 3:7; Luke 3:7).
But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
?You brood of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak what is good?
?You brood of vipers, how can you, being evil, speak what is good?
For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart. (Matthew 12:34).
For the mouth speaks out of that which fills the heart. (Matthew 12:34).
O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.
You serpents, you brood of vipers, how shall you escape the sentence of hell? (Matthew 23:33).
You serpents, you brood of vipers, how shall you escape the sentence of hell? (Matthew 23:33).
Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?
We think of Jesus Christ speaking words of love, but we seem to forget He knew how to rebuke evil.
We think of Jesus Christ speaking words of love, but we seem to forget He knew how to rebuke evil.
They were tempered by the context of His redemptive purpose, but they were still there.
They were tempered by the context of His redemptive purpose, but they were still there.
He brought threats against these people and stated judgment against Jerusalem.
And He answered and said to them, Do you not see all these things?
He brought threats against these people and stated judgment against Jerusalem.
And He answered and said to them, Do you not see all these things?
Truly I say to you, not one stone here shall be left upon another, which will not be torn down. (Matthew 24:2, ).
Truly I say to you, not one stone here shall be left upon another, which will not be torn down. (Matthew 24:2, ).
And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
We should note that after this redemptive day, Christ will speak and shake this earth.
And in His right hand He held seven stars; and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength. (Revelation 1:16, ).
And then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming; (2 Thessalonians 2:8, ).
We should note that after this redemptive day, Christ will speak and shake this earth.
And in His right hand He held seven stars; and out of His mouth came a sharp two-edged sword; and His face was like the sun shining in its strength. (Revelation 1:16, ).
And then that lawless one will be revealed whom the Lord will slay with the breath of His mouth and bring to an end by the appearance of His coming; (2 Thessalonians 2:8, ).
And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength.
And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:
Throughout the NT we see the Spirit–filled men proclaiming God's glory against the wicked.
Throughout the NT we see the Spirit–filled men proclaiming God's glory against the wicked.
We need only read through the Epistle of Jude or the epistles of John.
We need only read through the Epistle of Jude or the epistles of John.
There are many statements being brought against the wicked, those who know the truth but have turned from it.
There are many statements being brought against the wicked, those who know the truth but have turned from it.
Although living in a tolerant age can make it difficult, we must force ourselves to follow up the application in our own lives.
Although living in a tolerant age can make it difficult, we must force ourselves to follow up the application in our own lives.
We need to be careful not to break the redemptive purpose of this age by speaking words of judgment.
We need to be careful not to break the redemptive purpose of this age by speaking words of judgment.
Jesus restrained Himself and so must we.
Jesus restrained Himself and so must we.
But they did come forth when the evil ones were actually confusing those seeking the truth.
But they did come forth when the evil ones were actually confusing those seeking the truth.
It is in this context that we find judgment coming forth.
It is in this context that we find judgment coming forth.
Do we confront others?
Do we confront others?
Why is it hard to speak to them?
Why is it hard to speak to them?
How do we deal with those who spread evil against God's people.
How do we deal with those who spread evil against God's people.
Think through the Book of Acts and you will find 1 or 2 examples of how the Spirit led God's servants to bring judgment even in this era of redemption.
Think through the Book of Acts and you will find 1 or 2 examples of how the Spirit led God's servants to bring judgment even in this era of redemption.
Godly Qualities
Godly Qualities
Righteousness will be the belt about His loins, And faithfulness the belt about His waist
Righteousness and faithfulness are often used together and represent the integrity of the one filled by God's Spirit.
Righteousness will be the belt about His loins, And faithfulness the belt about His waist
Righteousness and faithfulness are often used together and represent the integrity of the one filled by God's Spirit.
Let's just look at a few of these verses to gain a better sense of their strength.
The Rock! His work is perfect, For all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, Righteous and upright is He. (Deuteronomy 32:4, ).
Let's just look at a few of these verses to gain a better sense of their strength.
The Rock! His work is perfect, For all His ways are just; A God of faithfulness and without injustice, Righteous and upright is He. (Deuteronomy 32:4, ).
He is the Rock, his work is perfect: For all his ways are judgment: A God of truth and without iniquity, Just and right is he.
Before the LORD, for He is coming; For He is coming to judge the earth.
Before the LORD, for He is coming; For He is coming to judge the earth.
He will judge the world in righteousness, And the peoples in His faithfulness. (Psalms 96:13, ).
He will judge the world in righteousness, And the peoples in His faithfulness. (Psalms 96:13, ).
Before the Lord: for he cometh, For he cometh to judge the earth: He shall judge the world with righteousness, And the people with his truth.
(A Psalm of David.) Hear my prayer, O LORD, Give ear to my supplications! Answer me in Thy faithfulness, in Thy righteousness! (Psalms 143:1, ).
(A Psalm of David.) Hear my prayer, O LORD, Give ear to my supplications! Answer me in Thy faithfulness, in Thy righteousness! (Psalms 143:1, ).
Hear my prayer, O Lord, Give ear to my supplications: In thy faithfulness answer me, and in thy righteousness.
Five times these parallel words were used in Isaiah alone including this one (Isa 1:21, 26; 11:5, 16:5, 26:2).
Five times these parallel words were used in Isaiah alone including this one (Isa 1:21, 26; 11:5, 16:5, 26:2).
How is the faithful city become an harlot! It was full of judgment; righteousness lodged in it; But now murderers.
And I will restore thy judges as at the first, And thy counsellers as at the beginning: Afterward thou shalt be called, The city of righteousness, the faithful city.
And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, And faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
And in mercy shall the throne be established: And he shall sit upon it in truth in the tabernacle of David, Judging, and seeking judgment, and hasting righteousness.
Open ye the gates, That the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.
Righteousness characterizes living by God's righteous principles here on earth.
Righteousness characterizes living by God's righteous principles here on earth.
He would always do what was right and benefited mankind.
He would always do what was right and benefited mankind.
Faithfulness is the commitment to the truth of God.
Faithfulness is the commitment to the truth of God.
He is utterly true to what God has promised.
They serve as a summary of living completely holy before God, perfect integrity with the will and purpose of God.
He is utterly true to what God has promised.
They serve as a summary of living completely holy before God, perfect integrity with the will and purpose of God.
The belt about his loins or waist is difficult for us to grasp since few of us wear robes.
The belt about his loins or waist is difficult for us to grasp since few of us wear robes.
For a warrior the belt, would bring all his weapons and clothing together so that he could properly fight.
Those filled with God's Spirit will be men of righteousness and faithfulness.
For a warrior the belt, would bring all his weapons and clothing together so that he could properly fight.
Those filled with God's Spirit will be men of righteousness and faithfulness.
God's Word will dictate their actions, decisions and words rather than the spirit of the world.
God's Word will dictate their actions, decisions and words rather than the spirit of the world.
We see this so clearly in Christ's life as well as those who have been near Him.
We see this so clearly in Christ's life as well as those who have been near Him.
We might ask why other attributes were not mentioned.
We might ask why other attributes were not mentioned.
One could speculate, but it seems that these two are meant to summarize the essential qualities upon which all others are built.
One could speculate, but it seems that these two are meant to summarize the essential qualities upon which all others are built.
Righteousness speaks of God's standards; faithfulness speaks of integrity before God.
Righteousness speaks of God's standards; faithfulness speaks of integrity before God.
These are the qualities that a good society are built upon.
These are the qualities that a good society are built upon.
Many need to use force to compel the nation to conform.
Many need to use force to compel the nation to conform.
But here, God's Spirit conforms people to the ways of God, that is, the kingdom of God.
But here, God's Spirit conforms people to the ways of God, that is, the kingdom of God.
Selected Projects
Week Study: "Ministering in the Spirit"
Purpose
Selected Projects
Week Study: "Ministering in the Spirit"
Purpose
Increase your awareness and dependence upon the Holy Spirit in your life, ministry and teaching.
Increase your awareness and dependence upon the Holy Spirit in your life, ministry and teaching.
Means
Means
By reflecting on Christ's ministry through a comparison of Isaiah 11:1-5 and the gospels.
By reflecting on Christ's ministry through a comparison of Isaiah 11:1-5 and the gospels.
Assignments
Preparation #1
Read through John 15:1-16 and study the usage of the word 'abide.'
Assignments
Preparation #1
Read through John 15:1-16 and study the usage of the word 'abide.'
I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.
If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.
These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.
Read through at least 15 of the 'Abiding in Christ' series.
Read through at least 15 of the 'Abiding in Christ' series.
Note down all the different ways Jesus Christ was sensitive to His Father's will.
Note down all the different ways Jesus Christ was sensitive to His Father's will.
Preparation #2
Each day this week, choose a gospel passage and meditate on it.
Preparation #2
Each day this week, choose a gospel passage and meditate on it.
Ask the Spirit to teach you from that passage.
Ask the Spirit to teach you from that passage.
Especially note what Christ's disciples would learn through that circumstance.
Especially note what Christ's disciples would learn through that circumstance.
Seek the Lord for at least one daily application.
Seek the Lord for at least one daily application.
Daily Study: Spirit-Dependent Teaching
Daily Study: Spirit-Dependent Teaching
We are simply amazed at the teaching of Jesus Christ.
We are simply amazed at the teaching of Jesus Christ.
Read through the SPIRIT-DEPENDENT TEACHING page.
Read through the SPIRIT-DEPENDENT TEACHING page.
List the 7 principles on excellent teaching.
List the 7 principles on excellent teaching.
What practical steps can you take to renew your teaching skills?
What practical steps can you take to renew your teaching skills?
What does it mean to have the Spirit teach us?
What does it mean to have the Spirit teach us?
How can we depend more on the Holy Spirit teaching those we are teaching.
Note when you minister to others, how much you have been praying and seeking for help.
How can we depend more on the Holy Spirit teaching those we are teaching.
Note when you minister to others, how much you have been praying and seeking for help.
What steps can you take to implement three suggestions.
What steps can you take to implement three suggestions.
Extra: If you have access to Bruce Wilkinson's "The 7 Laws to Learning," view that video series or read the book. Answer accompanying questions.
Daily Study: Gifts of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12)
Extra: If you have access to Bruce Wilkinson's "The 7 Laws to Learning," view that video series or read the book. Answer accompanying questions.
Daily Study: Gifts of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12)
Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.
Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.
Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.
Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
For the body is not one member, but many.
If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
And if they were all one member, where were the body?
But now are they many members, yet but one body.
And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:
That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
Isaiah 11 speaks about the anointing of the Spirit of God.
Isaiah 11 speaks about the anointing of the Spirit of God.
And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and might, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;
And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: And he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, Neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, And reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: And he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, And with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.
And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, And faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, And the leopard shall lie down with the kid; And the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; And a little child shall lead them.
And the cow and the bear shall feed; Their young ones shall lie down together: And the lion shall eat straw like the ox.
And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, And the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice’ den.
They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: For the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord, As the waters cover the sea.
And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, Which shall stand for an ensign of the people; To it shall the Gentiles seek: And his rest shall be glorious.
And it shall come to pass in that day, That the Lord shall set his hand again the second time To recover the remnant of his people, Which shall be left, from Assyria, And from Egypt, and from Pathros, And from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, And from Hamath, and from the islands of the sea.
And he shall set up an ensign for the nations, And shall assemble the outcasts of Israel, And gather together the dispersed of Judah From the four corners of the earth.
The envy also of Ephraim shall depart, And the adversaries of Judah shall be cut off: Ephraim shall not envy Judah, And Judah shall not vex Ephraim.
But they shall fly upon the shoulders of the Philistines toward the west; They shall spoil them of the east together: They shall lay their hand upon Edom and Moab; And the children of Ammon shall obey them.
And the Lord shall utterly destroy the tongue of the Egyptian sea; And with his mighty wind shall he shake his hand over the river, And shall smite it in the seven streams, And make men go over dryshod.
And there shall be an highway for the remnant of his people, Which shall be left, from Assyria; Like as it was to Israel In the day that he came up out of the land of Egypt.
Christ did not alone have the Holy Spirit but so do Christians.
Christ did not alone have the Holy Spirit but so do Christians.
Read 1 Corinthians 12 and discuss how the Spirit of God should impact a Christian's life.
Read 1 Corinthians 12 and discuss how the Spirit of God should impact a Christian's life.
Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.
Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.
Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.
Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
For the body is not one member, but many.
If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
And if they were all one member, where were the body?
But now are they many members, yet but one body.
And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:
That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
List the different manifestations of the Holy Spirit (12:7-11).
List the different manifestations of the Holy Spirit (12:7-11).
Compare this list with the list in Isaiah 11:2-3 and make some conclusions.
Compare this list with the list in Isaiah 11:2-3 and make some conclusions.
And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and might, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;
And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: And he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, Neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
What ways have you seen the Spirit of God manifest Himself in your own life?
What ways have you seen the Spirit of God manifest Himself in your own life?
Explain in your own words the difference between Spirit-given wisdom and normal wisdom.
Explain in your own words the difference between Spirit-given wisdom and normal wisdom.
Explain the difference between Spirit-given knowledge and normal knowledge.
Explain the difference between Spirit-given knowledge and normal knowledge.
Extra: As you do this study, write down some questions that you would like answered.
Extra: As you do this study, write down some questions that you would like answered.
Check out the answers in Carson's "Showing the Spirit" book on 1 Corinthians 12-14 by Baker publishing.
Check out the answers in Carson's "Showing the Spirit" book on 1 Corinthians 12-14 by Baker publishing.
Daily Study: Fear of the Lord
Daily Study: Fear of the Lord
The fear of the Lord is often misunderstood, but we discover that it is key to a good ministry.
The fear of the Lord is often misunderstood, but we discover that it is key to a good ministry.
Read through the 'Fear God Not Man' series and answer the following questions.
Read through the 'Fear God Not Man' series and answer the following questions.
What is the fear of the Lord?
What is the fear of the Lord?
Why is the fear of the Lord so important to a good ministry?
Why is the fear of the Lord so important to a good ministry?
How do you see Christ demonstrating the fear of God?
How do you see Christ demonstrating the fear of God?
How do we grow in the fear of the Lord? What place does the Word of God have with the fear of the Lord?
How do we grow in the fear of the Lord? What place does the Word of God have with the fear of the Lord?
Lastly, relate one or two incidences where the fear of the Lord was very important in some circumstance in your life.
Lastly, relate one or two incidences where the fear of the Lord was very important in some circumstance in your life.
Discuss how the fear of the Lord will help a parent properly discipline a child.
Daily Study: Waiting on God for Ministry
Discuss how the fear of the Lord will help a parent properly discipline a child.
Daily Study: Waiting on God for Ministry
Guidance takes a number of unexpected turns in our lives.
Guidance takes a number of unexpected turns in our lives.
For some, full time ministry is clear from early on.
For some, full time ministry is clear from early on.
They need to wrestle with obedience and how to follow through on their calling.
They need to wrestle with obedience and how to follow through on their calling.
Others are in the midst of a career and are sensing the Spirit of God leading them.
Others are in the midst of a career and are sensing the Spirit of God leading them.
They need to take some large steps of faith to serve the Lord.
They need to take some large steps of faith to serve the Lord.
Regardless of the case, God often has special surprises for us as we ready ourselves for serving Him.
Regardless of the case, God often has special surprises for us as we ready ourselves for serving Him.
Read the Waiting on God for Ministry page and related scripture.
Read the Waiting on God for Ministry page and related scripture.
Check out the special lessons God had for David.
Check out the special lessons God had for David.
Discuss at least two lessons that you could benefit from.
Discuss at least two lessons that you could benefit from.
Daily Study: Study on Righteousness
Daily Study: Study on Righteousness
When the Spirit of God works in our lives, we see changes in the way we conduct our lives.
When the Spirit of God works in our lives, we see changes in the way we conduct our lives.
Read through the series on Righteousness and answer the following questions.
Read through the series on Righteousness and answer the following questions.
What is righteousness?
What is righteousness?
What words do we use in our language that carries the same meaning?
What words do we use in our language that carries the same meaning?
What does it mean to have the 'righteousness of Christ?'
What does it mean to have the 'righteousness of Christ?'
How can we obtain this righteousness?
How can we obtain this righteousness?
How does a spirit of toleration ruin righteous living?
How does a spirit of toleration ruin righteous living?
How about compromise?
How about compromise?
Discuss one area of toleration or compromise that you need to eliminate in your own life.
Discuss one area of toleration or compromise that you need to eliminate in your own life.
What practical steps will you take to do this?
Themes:
What practical steps will you take to do this?
Themes:
The church is subject to Christ, the head.
The church is subject to Christ, the head.
The Spirit of God is on Christ the same way it is upon His church (except in degree perhaps).
The Spirit of God is on Christ the same way it is upon His church (except in degree perhaps).
God's people need to depend upon the Lord for wisdom and understanding.
God's people need to depend upon the Lord for wisdom and understanding.
Many of God's people depend upon godless counsel rather than Spirit-counsel.
Many of God's people depend upon godless counsel rather than Spirit-counsel.
The fear of the Lord is essential to godly living.
The fear of the Lord is essential to godly living.
God's Spirit makes a change on the way His people perceive the world.
God's Spirit makes a change on the way His people perceive the world.
God's Spirit will always care about the poor, humble and those that are afflicted.
God's Spirit will always care about the poor, humble and those that are afflicted.
A godly person, or Spirit-controlled person, hates sin and its effects.
A godly person, or Spirit-controlled person, hates sin and its effects.
A Spirit-guided person is characterized by righteousness and faithfulness.
A Spirit-guided person is characterized by righteousness and faithfulness.
Error Detection
The church is not dependent upon the Lord for help or guidance except in emergencies.
Error Detection
The church is not dependent upon the Lord for help or guidance except in emergencies.
The church often hobbles about in its own resources.
The church often hobbles about in its own resources.
She doesn't rely on Christ.
She doesn't rely on Christ.
It would be similar to a boy trying to live his life without his parents' resources.
It would be similar to a boy trying to live his life without his parents' resources.
We need to understand that the church is the fruit of Christ's work.
We need to understand that the church is the fruit of Christ's work.
She is totally dependent upon her Lord.
She is totally dependent upon her Lord.
Many churches live in a secular mindset only asking God to bless her work rather than to lead her in the work.
Many churches live in a secular mindset only asking God to bless her work rather than to lead her in the work.
This is always catastrophic.
This is always catastrophic.
One can measure ones dependence usually by how one prays dependently upon the Lord.
One can measure ones dependence usually by how one prays dependently upon the Lord.
Serve without being Spirit-reliant.
Serve without being Spirit-reliant.
We trust our resources, knowledge and experience.
We trust our resources, knowledge and experience.
Many so-called Christian books are only reworked secular books.
Many so-called Christian books are only reworked secular books.
They do not drive people to their knees on dependence upon the Lord but instead try to build up their self-confidence.
They do not drive people to their knees on dependence upon the Lord but instead try to build up their self-confidence.
We are not trying to say there are no methods, but some take these methods that God has used and stripped God out of them.
We are not trying to say there are no methods, but some take these methods that God has used and stripped God out of them.
Spiritual gifts become natural giftings.
Spiritual gifts become natural giftings.
Church plants become something a big church just does through its resources.
Church plants become something a big church just does through its resources.
We train others to be self-sufficient rather than Spirit-dependent.
Instead of leaning on the close leading of the Holy Spirit as in Isaiah 11:1-5, many are being trained at a great cost in how to handle things on their own.
We train others to be self-sufficient rather than Spirit-dependent.
Instead of leaning on the close leading of the Holy Spirit as in Isaiah 11:1-5, many are being trained at a great cost in how to handle things on their own.
They leave out all the embarrassing humble moments of waiting upon God and instead run through statistics, charts and man's counsel to do what seems noble and good.
They leave out all the embarrassing humble moments of waiting upon God and instead run through statistics, charts and man's counsel to do what seems noble and good.
God gets no glory at what man does on his own.
God gets no glory at what man does on his own.
Where is the teaching and training of how to wait on God in prayer?
Where is the teaching and training of how to wait on God in prayer?
Where do they train you how to submit to authority?
Where do they train you how to submit to authority?
We assume the life of Christ is not to be imitated by Christians because they cannot do the same thing.
We assume the life of Christ is not to be imitated by Christians because they cannot do the same thing.
Many have considered Christ's life as merely a symbol of victory rather than a means to obtain a victory.
Many have considered Christ's life as merely a symbol of victory rather than a means to obtain a victory.
They do not see Christ's holiness and 'Father' dependent to be their way of living.
They do not see Christ's holiness and 'Father' dependent to be their way of living.
They are not trying to imitate Christ's prayer life.
They are not trying to imitate Christ's prayer life.
They do not seek God's day to day living.
They do not seek God's day to day living.
If anything, this is disdained and rejected for a modern so-called Christian lifestyle that has no crosses and is personal rewarding.
If anything, this is disdained and rejected for a modern so-called Christian lifestyle that has no crosses and is personal rewarding.
Questions for Transformation
Questions for Transformation
A) Isaiah 11:1 The Life of the Christian
A) Isaiah 11:1 The Life of the Christian
And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, And a branch from his roots will bear fruit." (Isaiah 11:1)
Then a shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse, And a branch from his roots will bear fruit." (Isaiah 11:1)
And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
Who is Jesse?
Who is Jesse?
Why is he referred to?
Why is he referred to?
Write down the verses in 2 Samuel 7 that gives us a prophecy concerning this matter.
Write down the verses in 2 Samuel 7 that gives us a prophecy concerning this matter.
And it came to pass, when the king sat in his house, and the Lord had given him rest round about from all his enemies;
That the king said unto Nathan the prophet, See now, I dwell in an house of cedar, but the ark of God dwelleth within curtains.
And Nathan said to the king, Go, do all that is in thine heart; for the Lord is with thee.
And it came to pass that night, that the word of the Lord came unto Nathan, saying,
Go and tell my servant David, Thus saith the Lord, Shalt thou build me an house for me to dwell in?
Whereas I have not dwelt in any house since the time that I brought up the children of Israel out of Egypt, even to this day, but have walked in a tent and in a tabernacle.
In all the places wherein I have walked with all the children of Israel spake I a word with any of the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to feed my people Israel, saying, Why build ye not me an house of cedar?
Now therefore so shalt thou say unto my servant David, Thus saith the Lord of hosts, I took thee from the sheepcote, from following the sheep, to be ruler over my people, over Israel:
And I was with thee whithersoever thou wentest, and have cut off all thine enemies out of thy sight, and have made thee a great name, like unto the name of the great men that are in the earth.
Moreover I will appoint a place for my people Israel, and will plant them, that they may dwell in a place of their own, and move no more; neither shall the children of wickedness afflict them any more, as beforetime,
And as since the time that I commanded judges to be over my people Israel, and have caused thee to rest from all thine enemies. Also the Lord telleth thee that he will make thee an house.
And when thy days be fulfilled, and thou shalt sleep with thy fathers, I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom.
He shall build an house for my name, and I will stablish the throne of his kingdom for ever.
I will be his father, and he shall be my son. If he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men, and with the stripes of the children of men:
But my mercy shall not depart away from him, as I took it from Saul, whom I put away before thee.
And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be established for ever.
According to all these words, and according to all this vision, so did Nathan speak unto David.
Then went king David in, and sat before the Lord, and he said, Who am I, O Lord God? and what is my house, that thou hast brought me hitherto?
And this was yet a small thing in thy sight, O Lord God; but thou hast spoken also of thy servant’s house for a great while to come. And is this the manner of man, O Lord God?
And what can David say more unto thee? for thou, Lord God, knowest thy servant.
For thy word’s sake, and according to thine own heart, hast thou done all these great things, to make thy servant know them.
Wherefore thou art great, O Lord God: for there is none like thee, neither is there any God beside thee, according to all that we have heard with our ears.
And what one nation in the earth is like thy people, even like Israel, whom God went to redeem for a people to himself, and to make him a name, and to do for you great things and terrible, for thy land, before thy people, which thou redeemedst to thee from Egypt, from the nations and their gods?
For thou hast confirmed to thyself thy people Israel to be a people unto thee for ever: and thou, Lord, art become their God.
And now, O Lord God, the word that thou hast spoken concerning thy servant, and concerning his house, establish it for ever, and do as thou hast said.
And let thy name be magnified for ever, saying, The Lord of hosts is the God over Israel: and let the house of thy servant David be established before thee.
For thou, O Lord of hosts, God of Israel, hast revealed to thy servant, saying, I will build thee an house: therefore hath thy servant found in his heart to pray this prayer unto thee.
And now, O Lord God, thou art that God, and thy words be true, and thou hast promised this goodness unto thy servant:
Therefore now let it please thee to bless the house of thy servant, that it may continue for ever before thee: for thou, O Lord God, hast spoken it: and with thy blessing let the house of thy servant be blessed for ever.
Please explain the relevancy of this prophecy to the Messiah and the kingdom of God.
Please explain the relevancy of this prophecy to the Messiah and the kingdom of God.
Draw a picture of a tree with both roots and branches.
Draw a picture of a tree with both roots and branches.
Identify the parts of the picture connected to Isaiah 11:1.
Identify the parts of the picture connected to Isaiah 11:1.
And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
Which part is more important?
Which part is more important?
Why?
Why?
Is the Christian dependent on the church or God?
Is the Christian dependent on the church or God?
How is John 15:1-5 connected to this verse?
How is John 15:1-5 connected to this verse?
I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.
Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.
Make sure you comment on 'bearing fruit.'
Make sure you comment on 'bearing fruit.'
B) Isaiah 11:2 The Spirit in the Christian
B) Isaiah 11:2 The Spirit in the Christian
And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and might, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;
And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. (Isaiah 11:2)
And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and strength, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. (Isaiah 11:2)
And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and might, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;
List the 7 marks of this special person as listed in Isaiah 11:2.
List the 7 marks of this special person as listed in Isaiah 11:2.
And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, The spirit of wisdom and understanding, The spirit of counsel and might, The spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;
Do you think that this passage can also refer to Christians walking full of God's Spirit?
Do you think that this passage can also refer to Christians walking full of God's Spirit?
Why or why not?
Why or why not?
Make sure you connect the passage of 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 with your answer.
Make sure you connect the passage of 1 Corinthians 12:7-11 with your answer.
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
Describe your personal struggle to live full of God's Spirit since you have become a Christian.
Describe your personal struggle to live full of God's Spirit since you have become a Christian.
How has what other Christians taught you either helped or hurt you in living by the leading of the Holy Spirit?
How has what other Christians taught you either helped or hurt you in living by the leading of the Holy Spirit?
What experiences has God used to build up your dependence upon the Holy Spirit?
What experiences has God used to build up your dependence upon the Holy Spirit?
Is this process related to your spiritual disciplines at all (e.g. devotions, prayer, fasting, meditation, etc.)?
Is this process related to your spiritual disciplines at all (e.g. devotions, prayer, fasting, meditation, etc.)?
List your strongest and weakest area out of the list of seven.
List your strongest and weakest area out of the list of seven.
1) Thank the Lord for the strongest area.
1) Thank the Lord for the strongest area.
Describe why that is your strongest area.
Describe why that is your strongest area.
2) Thank the Lord that He wants to make you stronger in this weakest area.
2) Thank the Lord that He wants to make you stronger in this weakest area.
Write out at least two ways you would respond differently if you were led by the Lord more in this area.
Write out at least two ways you would respond differently if you were led by the Lord more in this area.
Write out a prayer asking Him to help you grow in this area.
Write out a prayer asking Him to help you grow in this area.
C) Isaiah 11:3-5 The Walk of the Christian
C) Isaiah 11:3-5 The Walk of the Christian
And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: And he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, Neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, And reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: And he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, And with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.
And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, And faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
Isaiah 11:3-5, .
Isaiah 11:3-5, .
And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: And he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, Neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, And reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: And he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, And with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.
And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, And faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
List the characteristics of those whom the Spirit of God rests.
List the characteristics of those whom the Spirit of God rests.
Mention any patterns that one might notice in this list.
Mention any patterns that one might notice in this list.
Identify at least three phrases, concepts or words one is unfamiliar with.
Identify at least three phrases, concepts or words one is unfamiliar with.
Look them up and do your best at capturing their meaning or usage.
Look them up and do your best at capturing their meaning or usage.
How is the fear of the Lord?
How is the fear of the Lord?
What attitude should one have as he thinks upon the fear of the Lord? Why?
What attitude should one have as he thinks upon the fear of the Lord? Why?
Explain how one can make a wise decision if he does not go by what he sees and hears.
Explain how one can make a wise decision if he does not go by what he sees and hears.
What is God's treatment of the poor?
What is God's treatment of the poor?
In what way has the church consistently cared or not cared for the poor?
In what way has the church consistently cared or not cared for the poor?
Explain the tension between proclaiming a redemptive message of love and bringing judgment to others.
Explain the tension between proclaiming a redemptive message of love and bringing judgment to others.
How shall God's people find a good balance?
How shall God's people find a good balance?
How did Jesus do it?
How did Jesus do it?
And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord: And he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, Neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:
But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, And reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: And he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, And with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.
And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, And faithfulness the girdle of his reins.
Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.
Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.
Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.
Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
For the body is not one member, but many.
If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
And if they were all one member, where were the body?
But now are they many members, yet but one body.
And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:
That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.
Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.
For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.
But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.
When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.
But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort.
He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.
I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.
Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine?
And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?
For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?
So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.
There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification.
Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me.
Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.
Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.
For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.
What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.
Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?
For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified.
I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:
Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue.
Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.
In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.
Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.
If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?
But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all:
And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.
How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.
If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.
But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.
Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.
If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace.
For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted.
And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.
For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law.
And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church.
What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?
If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.
But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.
Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.
Let all things be done decently and in order.