Love Worth Finding | Audio Program

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All Things New

All Things New (1251) 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ Jesus, he is a new creation; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” Adrian Rogers says it this way, “A Christian is not just somebody who has become nice; he’s become new.” Acts 9 tells the story of the conversion of the Apostle Paul. His early name was Saul and he was a persecutor of Christians. Yet, in this passage, he becomes Paul, the greatest missionary and evangelist the world has ever known. He was changed by the grace of God, so much so, he even changed his name! There are five markings of this man made new, found in Acts 9:17-22. First, Saul had a new Lord. The first question Saul asked when confronted by Jesus on the road to Damascus was, “Lord, what would you have me do?” Jesus had become his Lord; immediately, he was under new management. The Bible calls Jesus, Lord 433 times. And Adrian Rogers says, “You cannot have what He gives, salvation, unless you receive what He is, and that is Lord.” Second, Paul had a new life. When you receive Jesus as Lord, you receive a new life, and a new spiritual sight. You’re able to see things you’ve never seen before. Third, Paul had a new liberty. God put His power within Paul. The Christian life is what God does in us and through us. He’s the one who gives us that liberty. Fourth, Paul had a new love. A few days before his conversion, this man was threatening the church. His heart was filled with bitterness and malevolence toward those who were called Christians. And those he once loathed he now loves. If you love Jesus, you will love what He loves. Finally, Paul had a new labor. Saul’s mission was to destroy the church. Paul’s mission was to build the church. The markings of a new life in Christ is that he shares it with others. And what God did for Saul, God wants to do for us, all. Apply it to your life Have you been made new in Christ? Does your life show that you have a new Lord, life, liberty, love and labor?

Apr 29, 2020

The Experience of Obedience

The Experience of Obedience (1241) Being a Christian is a joyous thing. The reason we are not filled with joy in this Christian life could be a matter of disobedience. Adrian Rogers says, “Obedience is the missing ingredient in so many Christians’ lives.” What does it mean to truly obey Christ? What is the expedience of obedience? In Acts 5, Peter and the other apostles have caused quite a stir by preaching about Jesus Christ. The religious authorities are trying to stop a revival they began. They command the apostles to stop preaching. Verses 29-32 says: “Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.” In this text, we are first given the reason for obedience. When God tells us to do something, we don’t have any other reasonable choice because He is a sovereign God. He has every right to instruct His children, no refusal or rebuttal about it. He is also a saving God, who suffered and died for us. Why do we obey Him? We owe it to <a href="http://Him.What" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Him.What</a> are the requirements for obedience? Understand first, we can’t obey unless we know what it is that God wants us to do. Once we know God’s will, we must be intentional about obeying it, and do so immediately. We will be held accountable for what we know. When He speaks, we must answer Him, regardless of circumstances. Only then can we see the supernatural rewards of our obedience: Power in our lives Joy in our hearts Victory in the church. When we obey God rather than men, we will see great multitudes of people come to Jesus Christ. Apply it to your life Would you like to obey, to be happy in Jesus? Would you like to have victory in your life? Know the will of God for your life and do it immediately, inflexibly and passionately.

Apr 20, 2020

The Conquest

The Conquest (1780) Acts 4 tells of the great conquest of Jesus Christ, the one who died and arose from the grave. He is still alive and well; the Christ that walked the shores of Galilee is alive through His new body, the Church, even today. Because He lives, His persecution continues. Adrian Rogers says, “When you persecute the church, you persecute Jesus.” At the beginning of Acts 4, a miracle was performed by the disciple, Peter. He claimed it was the power of Christ in Him who healed. As a result, the people were beginning to follow Jesus. The religious leaders didn’t like it, and began persecuting the Church. But because the apostles were acting as the hands and the feet of the Lord, it was Jesus who was persecuted, too. Because He lives, His preaching convinces. How did these uneducated fishermen preach and five thousand come to Christ? They were not dependent upon their power of persuasion or winsomeness to bring these people to Christ. It was the people’s encounter with Christ through the disciples that convinced them to believe. Because He lives, His power confronts. There are things happening in this world today that are undeniably done by the hand of Jesus. He is still performing miracles. Because He lives, His presence compels. After spending time with the resurrected Christ, Peter was compelled to tell others about Him. If we spend time with Jesus, we will be as bold as His disciples. His presence will compel us with a holy boldness; a knowledge that Jesus is alive and He lives through us. Finally, because He lives, His people confess. Acts 4:20 says, “For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” Anybody who has known that Christ is alive cannot keep quiet; we cannot hold it in. Because He is alive, we can wear persecution like a badge of honor. We can let Jesus convince, confront and compel others through us. Let us not be ashamed to confess what He has done in our lives. Apply it to your life Do you know that Jesus is alive? Does your life reflect this? Stay in the presence of Jesus. Like an iron in the fire, let there be a holy boldness about you. Tell someone about Jesus today.

Apr 10, 2020

The Cross

The Cross (1779) The cross of Jesus Christ is the cure for sin. 1 Peter 3:18 points out three truths about how God forgives and deals with sin through the cross. The very first truth is the vicarious suffering of the cross. The word vicarious means “in the place of another”. 1 Peter 3:18 says, “For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust....” Jesus, who is the just, sinless Son of God, died for the unjust, us. He became our substitute. He faced emotional and bodily suffering unlike anything we could possibly imagine. In the Old Testament, God instituted the ritual of the Passover Lamb. There was judgment upon the land because of sin, but God told His people to kill a perfect, spotless lamb. They were to take the blood of that lamb and put it upon the doorpost of their houses. 1 Peter 1:18-19 says, “For as much as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot...” Jesus' crucifixion bears symbolism of that of a Passover Lamb. Even then, God was using the Passover Lamb as a prophecy and a picture of the cross of Jesus Christ. Notice also the vital satisfaction of the cross. “For Christ also hath once suffered for sin....” Once; once for all. The debt has been paid in full. To say that there needs to be another sacrifice for sin is blasphemy. It is finished. We see also the victorious salvation of the cross. “He hath suffered for sin, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.” Sin separates us from a Holy God. The cross reconciles us a Holy God. Adrian Rogers says, “On that cross, Jesus took Holy God with one hand, sinful man with the other hand and by the blood of His cross, He hath reconciled God and man.” God has a way of bringing us back. “Oh, the love that thought it; oh the grace that brought it.” Apply it to your life Do you believe in the cross of Jesus Christ? The vicarious suffering, the vital satisfaction, the victorious salvation? Thank God for the sacrifice He made through Jesus Christ to bring us back to Him.

Apr 9, 2020

How to Love as Jesus Loved

How to Love as Jesus Loved (1686) The greatest need of mankind is to love and to be loved. Yet, it’s getting harder to do so than ever before. As Christians, we have been instructed to love as Jesus loved. John 13:34 says, "A new commandment I give unto you that ye love one another as I have loved you that ye also love one another." This commandment is easy to consider for those who are easy to love… but what about the ones who have hurt us, misused us or wronged us? Not only was Jesus the great teacher, He was the great example. As Jesus gave this commandment, He washed His disciples’ feet: a timely custom performed by slaves. He washed Judas’s feet, who would later betray Him. He washed Peter’s feet, the disciple who would later deny Him. And He washed Thomas’s feet, who would later doubt Him. Here is the Lord of glory doing slave labor… unto the very people who would let Him down. By doing this, He exemplified selfless love. He exemplified humility. Adrian Rogers says, “Real humility is not thinking lowly of yourself; it is not thinking of yourself.” God the Father had put everything into Jesus’ hands, yet he laid aside his garments, took a towel and washed fishermen’s feet. Jesus also exemplified steadfast love; He loves unto the end. If you want to love as Jesus loves, you’ll never stop. We love sometimes, but we only do so when everything is just right. Under pressure, we excuse ourselves from it. But even the unsaved can love that way! Adrian Rogers says, “Your character that cannot stand up under pressure and under testing is not real.” Jesus exemplified serving love. He met injury with service. Love does not give people what they deserve; it gives people what they need. Love is willing to serve at the lowest of tasks. Jesus exemplified sanctifying love. Those of us who are saved walk in a dirty world. Sometimes, we need to let Jesus wash our feet, to remind us of His love. Then, we may go and wash the feet of others. Apply it to your life Are you willing to love others with a selfless, steadfast, serving and sanctifying love? As Adrian Rogers says, “Find somebody that needs that love and give it to them.”

Mar 30, 2020

The Lamb Has Overcome

The Lamb Has Overcome (2373) Last words are very important; the last words of the Bible are vitally important. At the end of the Book of Revelation, the words are very concise. This book that deals with doom and destiny can be summed up with this beautiful assurance: the Lamb has overcome. Revelation 22 tells of Bible’s last prophecy: the Savior’s sudden return. Jesus says in verses 12-13: “Behold, I come quickly and my reward is with me, to give to every man according as his work shall be. I am the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and end, the first and the last.” Jesus is coming back suddenly, in the twinkling of an eye. He is the first ray of hope in the Book of Genesis. He is the last warning in the Book of Revelation. One of these days there will be no more days. Yet, Jesus will remain. How foolish to not to be ready! See also the Bible’s last proposal: the sinner’s satisfying choice. Revelation 22:17 says, “And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Do you want to be saved? Revelation 22 declares that whosoever will may come: Come and drink. Revelation 22 also declares the Bible’s last prohibition: the Scriptures’ sinful revision. The Bible prohibits anybody from revising the Holy Scripture, which is the very Word of God. Don’t try to revise the Bible or make it politically correct. Anybody who puts a question mark after the Word of God is doing the work of the devil; never forget it. The final words found in Revelation 22 are Bible’s last prayer: “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.” There are some who have no hope, false hope, or uncertain hope. But this is our hope: Jesus has come and He is coming again. Apply it to your life Are you ready for Jesus’s return? Have you made the choice to come to Him? Do you believe the infallible Word of God? Do you have that hope? Consider these things.

Mar 24, 2020

A Guided Tour Through Heaven

A Guided Tour Through Heaven (2371) Revelation 21:9-10 gives us a guided tour through Heaven: “And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, ‘Come hither, I will show thee the bride, the Lamb’s wife.’ And he carried me away in the spirit into a great and high mountain, and showed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of Heaven from God.” Scripture often describes the greater glories of Heaven symbolically, because the human mind could never comprehend it. But we can know without a shadow of doubt, Heaven is not symbolic. It is a very real place, indescribably beautiful and inexplicably glorious. God will rule in majesty there; He will dwell with His people. There will be no more sorrow, and no more sin. Heaven shines with the glory of God, no need for the moon or sun. Heavenly choirs will sing the song of Moses and the Lamb; we will worship God with a wonderful song of redemption. And there is room for anyone who calls upon the name of the Lord. Though the sights and sounds of Heaven are wonderful and exciting, it’s Jesus that makes Heaven, Heaven. He is the sanctuary of Heaven! It is a made-new place. Those who have been made new through salvation in Jesus Christ will be there, becoming even more like Him. It is a meaningful place. Adrian Rogers says, “What are we going to see when we go down the main street of Heaven? We’re going to see some glad people. They’re people of deep satisfaction because they’re drinking from the crystal river. And what does this river symbolize? That our deepest needs are going to be met.” Every thirst that you have that is God-given will be satisfied in Heaven. The glow of health will be upon everyone as we serve God like never before. Finally, Revelation 22:4 says, “And they shall see His face.” Heaven’s greatest reward is this: We will see Jesus, face-to-face. That, alone, is worth everything. Apply it to your life Adrian Rogers says, “Heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people.” Have you ever come to the cross? Have you ever repented of your sin? Have you trusted the Lord Jesus?

Mar 20, 2020

The Final Judgment of the Unsaved Dead

The Final Judgment of the Unsaved Dead (2367) The Book of Revelation prophecies that at the end of the Great Tribulation, Jesus comes with His saints in power and great glory to rule and reign here on earth for a thousand blessed years. Revelation 20 reveals the final judgment of the unsaved dead, where God settles the score and judges the sins of those who are not in Christ Jesus. Whether you believe in Him or not, you are going to meet Jesus Christ. He is unavoidable; He cannot be deceived, disputed or discredited. There is no escaping Him. Adrian Rogers says, “If you don’t meet Him as Savior, you will meet Him as Judge. He is the one who will be sitting upon this great white throne.” Notice those who are called to the judgment: The out and out sinner who mocks God The self-righteous who thinks he is too good for judgment The procrastinator who intended to be saved but never confirmed his salvation The unsaved church member who has religion, but not the Lord The one who has never heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ Not one sin has escaped God’s knowledge; every sin will be accounted for—secrets that have been repressed will be revealed. The evidence, the defense and then the verdict of the court will be handed down. And what waits at the end of a Christ-less life is eternity in hell. But there is good news. Romans 8:1 says, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” Adrian Rogers says, “I’m not going to stand before the great white throne and I’ll tell you why. I settled out of court. Jesus became my Savior when He died on that cross in agony and blood and with His blood He paid my sin debt.” Through the blood of Jesus, your sin can be buried in the grave of God’s forgetfulness, never to be brought up against you again. Apply it to your life Have you settled out of court? Choose to follow Him today, lest you stand before the throne of God in judgment.

Mar 18, 2020

The Golden Age

The Golden Age (2369) Revelation 20 speaks of the coming Golden Age—a day when the Garden of Eden will be restored. There will be no more poverty or war. Israel will be restored to her land. Jerusalem will be the world’s capital. The resurrected saints will rule and reign with the Lord Jesus Christ. We call this the millennium. Theologians have divided their thoughts about the millennium into three basic categories: amillennialism, postmillennialism and premillennialism. Amillennialists believe that the millennium is an allegory for Jesus ruling through the modern church. Postmillennialists believe there must be one thousand years of peace on earth before Jesus Christ can come back. There aren’t many postmillennialists around today, because the world is falling deeper and deeper into sin, as the Bible teaches. Adrian Rogers says, “The Gospel is not something to save civilization from wreckage. The Gospel is God’s plan to save men from the wreckage of civilization.” Therefore, the final category, premillennialism, believes that Jesus must come before we can have a thousand years of peace here on this earth. Jesus will rule and reign on earth from Jerusalem. If we believe this interpretation, we have much to look forward to about the Golden Age. First, there will be a forceful restraint of Satan. Today, Satan roams the earth like a lion. In the millennium, this roaring lion will be chained. Second, there will be the future reign of the Savior. The Lord Jesus Christ will reign on earth, and the saints will reign and rule with Him. All kingdoms on earth will be changed. Third, there will be a final rebellion of the sinners. God, who is always sovereign, will allow Satan to have one final fling; why? It is God’s final testimony to the wickedness of the human heart. Finally, we can anticipate the fixed resolution of sin. Jesus will do away with sin, cast Satan into the lake of fire and deliver the kingdom to Almighty God. We should be encouraged by this. We should anticipate Jesus’s Second Coming. We should evangelize to others so they may know the truth of the Gospel. And we should examine our hearts to make sure we have a relationship with Jesus Christ. ####Apply it to your life What does this mean for us now? Our major responsibility in this day and age is to prepare men for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ by the preaching of the Gospel.

Mar 16, 2020

The Signposts on the Road to Armageddon

The Signposts on the Road to Armageddon ####Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: Revelation 19:11-21 Look around, see what is happening in the world. Can you see the signposts on the road to Armageddon? In Revelation 19, the Apostle John has a vision of the Battle of Armageddon, fought on the Mount of Megiddo in Israel. Many great battles have been fought here, and one day, the last great war will take place here. What will lead to this last great war? First, see the detailed prophecies already fulfilled. Israel is back in the land, Europe has reunified, Former Soviet Republics and the Arab nations are gathering strength, coming together against Israel. See also the demonic passions that provoke Armageddon. In the last days, Satan will have his way in deceiving people, spirits and doctrines. Adrian Rogers says, “You will never understand what is happening in today’s society and in the news if you don’t understand behind it all, standing in the shadows, is Satan.” Satan has been careful, gathering strength, unifying the world. But halfway into the Great Tribulation, Satan will move into the temple of God and declare that he himself is God. In this blasphemous move, the sons and daughters of Abraham will no longer worship him as they have been deceived. Satan’s pride will be wounded and his rage intensified. Armageddon will be his vengeance on those who have refused to bow and worship him. The kingdom of the beast is unraveling before his eyes. Notice, finally, the divine power that predominates Armageddon. In Revelation 19, John describes Jesus’s descent from Heaven on a white horse. Verse 15 says, “And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations…” When Jesus comes in power and great glory, the battle will be won by the sword that goes out of His mouth—His words. The One who spoke them into existence will speak them into oblivion. Adrian Rogers says, “The time is coming and soon and very soon when 777 will take care of 666. And the kingdoms of this world will become the kingdoms of our Lord and His Christ.” ####Apply it to your life Are you at peace with God, or are you at war with God? Tell someone about your faith. The days are growing dark… gloriously dark.

Mar 12, 2020

The Coming of the King

The Coming of the King (2361) Revelation 19 confirms that Jesus is coming again, and soon. We are not waiting for any more prophecies to be fulfilled. He could come at any moment. We cannot be ignorant or indifferent as we wait for the Second Coming of the King. His return is both a mystery and full of majesty. Yet, Revelation 19 gives us a glimpse of what we can expect. Jesus will come visibly; we will see Him. Revelation 1:7 says, “Behold, He cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see Him.” Matthew 25:6 says, “And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him.” Just as God put Noah in the ark before the flood came, He will take the church out of this world before the Great Tribulation. Adrian Rogers says, “There are two aspects to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. The Rapture is when Jesus Christ comes for His bride, the church. The Revelation is when Jesus Christ comes with His bride.” Jesus will come victoriously. He is the Most High; there are things we will only be able to learn about Him after the Rapture. Still, there is a mystery about Him that we will never fathom, even in Heaven! The Ministry of His crucifixion also serves His victorious coming. The victory that Jesus will win over the antichrist is based on the blood of the Lamb. Finally, Jesus will come vengefully. God is a God of love, but He is also a God of wrath. He is the righteous judge who makes wrong things right. Therefore, sin must be punished. If you want to be saved, you can be saved. If you want mercy, you may have it. But there is coming a time if you refuse Jesus as your personal Savior, you will face the wrath of God. Jesus is coming again very soon; are you ready? ####Apply it to your life What can we do about the Coming of the King? Learn of it; we cannot afford to be ignorant. Look for it; we’re not waiting on some prophecy to be fulfilled. Long for it; “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” Live for it; we should be found faithful when He comes.

Mar 11, 2020

The Marriage of the Lamb

The Marriage of the Lamb (2360) In Revelation 19, the great tribulation has come to a dramatic close and the church—the Bride of Christ—comes to the most climatic time in all of its history: her Wedding. There are several reasons to anticipate this glorious Marriage of the Lamb. First, the music will be magnificent. ‘Hallelujah’ means, ‘Praise the Lord!’ Revelation 19 begins with four stanzas of praise for God from his servants. Hallelujah for the redemption of the Saints. We have been redeemed by Jesus Christ. Hallelujah for the retribution of the Sinner. There is a God who will make wrong things right. Hallelujah for the relationship of the Saved. Praise God that we can say: I am His and He is mine. He is my God, and I am His servant. Hallelujah for the reign of the Savior. Jesus Christ is King of kings and Lord of lords. Every knee will bow and the shouts of His praise will be through all of heaven. Secondly, the bride will be beautiful. At redemption, we receive the inner nature of Christ. At the rapture, our sinful flesh will be left behind. And at the judgment seat of God, we will receive, according to the deeds that we have done. Thirdly, the guests will be glad. Those who were redeemed before Jesus came to earth (Old Testament saints), or after the rapture will be in attendance. Finally, the groom will be glorified. As beautiful as the Bride will be, the wedding is really about the Groom. Adrian Rogers says, “If you read the Book of Revelation and you don’t come to know and love and see Jesus more, you’ve missed it all. It is the revelation of Jesus Christ. It is the unveiling of Jesus Christ. And the spirit of prophecy is Jesus.” Though we have not seen Him, we, the Bride, love Him. And it may not be long until we meet Him. As the old hymn goes, “Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight and the clouds roll back as a scroll. The trump shall resound and the Lord shall descend, even so, it is well with my soul.” ####Apply it to your life The wedding is not far off. At any moment, Jesus may come. Are you betrothed to Him? If you are saved, remain faithful to Jesus Christ until the wedding.

Mar 10, 2020

Goodbye to Babylon

Goodbye to Babylon (2359) The Bible has a lot to say about Babylon, much about her history and iniquity, but also her prophecy. The city was built long ago by a man named Nimrod, whose very name means “rebel.” Nimrod was an Old Testament picture of a New Testament prophecy: the antichrist who is to come. As Adrian Rogers says, “Babylon is both the cradle and the grave of false religion.” And in the End Times, ancient Babylon will rise from the dust to meet her doom at the hands of Almighty God’s judgment. In Revelation 18, we learn of what will happen just before we say goodbye to Babylon. Babylon has always been a center of demonism. Even today, our world is being haunted by her ghost through false religion. During the Great Tribulation, the world will be dominated by even more demonic spirits. As we get closer to this time, we can expect to see a tidal wave of sin, debauchery and demonism. Babylon is defiant in her depravity; prideful in her wicked ways. Once the antichrist establishes his kingdom in Babylon, global corporations will make their headquarters there. The antichrist will control the world economy. He will have it all… including the souls of men. In spite of her arrogance, Babylon cannot hold back the judgment of Almighty God. Sin that has been piling up for centuries will be judged. The vengeance that has been accumulating for centuries will come. All of Babylon’s wealth will not be able to stay the judgment of Almighty God. When her economy crashes, a great depression will infiltrate the bankrupt souls of those who invested in her. It is believed by many biblical scholars that this economic crash will trigger the battle of Armageddon. What can we do today? Come out of Babylon (false religion); don’t envy her wealth. Rejoice over her soon destruction. As Adrian Rogers says, “Though you may be a child of God, if you flirt with Babylon, you’re headed for serious problems.” ####Apply it to your life If you don’t want the judgments of Babylon to fall upon you as well, don’t keep company with her. Come out of her, don’t envy her, and rejoice over her.

Mar 6, 2020

Beauty and the Beast

Beauty and the Beast (2357) Revelation 17 shares the prophetic story of a mysterious Beauty sitting on top of a vicious Beast. This prophecy takes place during the Great Tribulation. The Rapture has already occurred; the Bride of Christ has been taken from the earth. And now the false bride shows herself: “<a href="http://...and" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...and</a> I saw a woman sit upon a scarlet-colored beast…” (v. 3) “And upon her forehead was a name written, MYSTERY, BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.” (v. 5) In the Bible, women have often symbolized religion, whether good or bad. Babylon is considered the den of false religion. Even now, the world is haunted by the ghosts of Babylon. So when the Bible links the woman from Revelation 17 with Babylon, it reveals that she symbolizes false religion. This Beauty has given birth to all the false religions of the world: New Age/Occult religions, Satan worship, Mother Earth worship, Globalism, Hinduism, Islam, Apostate Christianity. False religion has always been a bloody thing. This passage states that the Beauty is drunk on the blood of the martyrs; she feasts on those who believe in the One True God. Now, consider the beast, her monstrous consort. This beast represents the antichrist and his kingdom. So, what we see here is the ultimate alliance of church and state; a united world government, growing more powerful as the End draws near. What will happen to the Beauty? The beast will turn on her and devour her, for practical and political reasons. He wants to be the ruler of the world. He doesn’t want any competition, even religion. Yet, the devil is on a leash. His plan to devour her fulfills God’s providential purpose to exterminate false religion from the earth. Even during the Great Tribulation, the devil is simply a servant of God. If you are a Christian, you don’t belong to this world. You belong to Jesus Christ. And in these days, though we’re not yet in the Great Tribulation, coming events cast their shadows ahead of time. Don’t flirt with false religion; be true to Jesus. Apply it to your life Are you loyal to the heavenly Bridegroom, the Lord Jesus Christ? Are you a faithful Bride of Christ? Don’t flirt with false religion; be true to Jesus Christ.

Mar 4, 2020

How to Gain and Celebrate Victory

How to Gain and Celebrate Victory (2355) Revelation 15 and 16 tells of the coming tribulation in the End Times. However, it also speaks of the coming victory for those who have been redeemed by Jesus Christ. How do we gain and celebrate this victory now? First, we must stand upon the solid Word of God. Victory comes by putting Word of God in our mouths: quoting Scripture, speaking of God’s loving instruction. We must meditate on the Word of God day and night, and obey it. Adrian Rogers says, “It is obeying the Word of God that begins to make the Bible burst aflame.” Secondly, we must sing of the redeeming Works of God. All throughout the Bible, we can find songs of victory recited by those who watched God work on their behalf. So, we know the way to celebrate the Lord Jesus is to sing of His works. “It is praise that precedes every victory. It is praise that follows every victory,” says Adrian Rogers. Finally, we must understand that the secret to our victory is the wrath of God. Apart from the righteous judgment of God, there can be no ultimate victory. Sin must be dealt with. The only question is: who will bear the punishment? As Adrian Rogers says, “Your sins will be pardoned in Christ or punished in Hell, but they will never be overlooked.” Revelation gives us a glimpse of how the wrath of God will pour out during the Great Tribulation. There will be erupting flames of fire and judgment. Sinners will refuse to repent. Spirits of demons that are working in the hearts and minds of the national leaders of this world. Earthquakes will ensue. Chaos will wreak havoc. But if we trust in Jesus now, we have victory, by the Word of God, the works of God, and the ensuing wrath of God. The only way to gain and celebrate this victory is to call Him Lord of your life. Apply it to your life The only way to gain and celebrate this victory is if we call Jesus Lord. Do you serve Him, and worship Him? Meditate on Scripture today. Sing praises to God.

Mar 2, 2020

How to Find Peace in the Midst of Your Storm

How to Find Peace in the Midst of Your Storm (2158) Are you in the midst of a storm? Remember the promises of God! Take heart; He has overcome the world, and He is walking on the water, headed straight for you. Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: John 6:16-21 John 6:16-21 tells the story of Jesus walking on the water to his disciples’ boat in the midst of a treacherous storm. Sooner or later, you are going to find yourself in a storm—not like the storm depicted in this passage; rather, one far more terrifying. Things could be going fine, then suddenly you could get a life-changing phone call, or face a shocking diagnosis. How can we find peace in the midst of the storm? We remember what God has promised to us now, in the stillness. Peace is not the subtraction of problems from life. Peace is the addition of power to meet those problems; the power being the promises of God. “I am governed by His providence.” In this story, the storm did not take Jesus by surprise. When difficulty comes, remember God’s providence is over it all. “I am growing by His plan.” God’s plan is not to indulge you; it is to enlarge you. If you are in a storm, it is your privilege to grow and become more like Jesus Christ. “I am graced by His prayers.” Did you know that He sees you right now? He is not far away. He sees right through the dark, sees you in the storm, and He praysfor you. “I am gladdened by His presence.” Sometimes, God waits upon you to wait on Him; but just know… He is coming. “I am guarded by His power.” Adrian Rogers says, “The will of God will never take you where the grace of God cannot keep you.” “I am guided by His purpose.” God has not promised smooth sailing, but He has promised you a safe landing. Your destiny is already determined. He will see you to the shore. South African minister Andrew Murray once said, “God is willing to assume full responsibility for the life that is totally yielded to Him.” Jesus said, “In this world you’ll have tribulation. But take heart! I’ve overcome the world.” (John 16:33) In the midst of your storm, see Jesus, the great I AM, walking on the water, straight to you. Apply it to your life Are you in the midst of a storm? Remember the promises of God! Take heart; He has overcome the world, and He is walking on the water, headed straight for you.

Feb 20, 2020

How to Pray for Friends and Influence People

How to Pray for Friends and Influence People (0525) Your friends need your prayers. Nothing lies beyond the reach of prayer except that that lies outside the will of God. Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 5:16-18 The importance of prayer cannot be understated. It is our greatest privilege as Christians, and oftentimes, our greatest failure. We are instructed in Scripture to pray for one another. How do we pray for our friends and influence people through our prayers? James 5:16 says, “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.” First, there is a confession we must make. It is our human nature to cover up our faults. But when we confess our sins to one another, we usher in restoration, or healing. Whether it be healing of the soul or spirit, when we begin to confess our sins, God begins to move in and work. After we claim our faults, we can be reconciled with God and each other; then, revival can occur. We must mind the command to pray for one another. Somebody has said, “The Christian army is the only army in the world that shoots its wounded.” This is not okay! We are not to criticize; we’re to help, lift and boost one another up through prayer, that we may all be healed. To see our prayers answered, we must meet a few conditions. When we pray, we’re to be eager, earnest, fervent, impassioned in our prayers, striving toward a goal. They’re to be on fire, intense and plentiful. Adrian Rogers says, “We give without sacrifice. We pray without fasting. We witness without tears. Is it any wonder that we sow without results?” The Book of James says that we have not because we ask not. (James 4:2-3) Your friends need your prayers. Nothing lies beyond the reach of prayer except that that lies outside the will of God. Apply it to your life When is the last time you prayed for your friends with fervency? Start today. Get alone with God, in holy reverence; knees to the earth, with passion and persistence. Praying for them is the strongest influence you could have on them.

Feb 14, 2020

The Bible and Bodily Healing

The Bible and Bodily Healing (0524) Jesus Christ is the answer to every need that a man has: needs for the spirit, the soul and the body. If it is God’s will to heal you, let it be done! Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 5:10-15 Christians sometimes face illnesses of varying degrees, but there is hope! Jesus Christ is the answer to every need that a man has: needs for the spirit, the soul and the body. The matter of healing can be complicated. Regardless, we can be certain that in Jesus we have the victory. Though we suffer afflictions, Christians are a victorious people. What does the Bible say about bodily healing? First, we must know the cause —not necessarily the diagnosis— of our sickness. One cause is sin. We, as humans, sometimes pick up some bad habits that intend to bring us harm. These aren’t just external habits, like drinking or smoking. These can be conscious sins, like worry or doubt. Worry to the soul is like sand to machinery: it will destroy you from the inside out. Satan can cause sickness, for he comes to steal, kill and destroy. And sometimes, God has a loving purpose for sickness. It could be for us to know His power over our lives, to keep us productive in our faith. It could be to purify or perfect us, or perhaps it is designed to bring praise back to Him. Perhaps you can reach a new level of faith through your sickness, one you would never reach in your health. There is a procedure believers can follow to seek out bodily healing. The Bible instructs those who are sick to call upon the elders of the church and let themselves be anointed with oil. In the Bible, oil symbolizes something beautiful: the Holy Spirit. The anointing of oil symbolizes the sanctifying or the setting apart of that person to serve God. Then, we pray. Adrian Rogers says, “The prayer that gets to heaven is the prayer that starts in heaven.” If it is God’s will to heal someone, God will give us the faith; and it is the prayer of faith that saves the sick. Do you believe it? Apply it to your life Are you or a loved one facing an illness and need God’s supernatural healing? First, recognize the potential cause of the sickness: is it rooted in sin, or could it be for God’s loving purpose? Then, seek out Biblical healing. Call upon the elders of your church, let them anoint your head with oil, and gather a prayer team. If it is God’s will to heal you, let it be done!

Feb 12, 2020

Is Your Pocketbook Converted?

Is Your Pocketbook Converted? (0523) A man's faith, character, and religion can be measured by his attitude toward money. Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 5:1-8 A man's faith, character, and religion can be measured by his attitude toward money. The warning found in James 5 is not against money. Rather, it is a warning about a wrong attitude toward money and the misuse of money after a person has secured it by whatever means necessary. Money is to work for us, we are not to worship it. There are three things to keep in mind when we consider the question: Is Your Pocketbook Converted? First: Wealth that is stagnant is worthless. God does not want treasure heaped up. God wants treasure spread out, in circulation. God gives us riches, not to keep them, but to share them. Money that is not used, corrupts. Second: Wealth that is earned sinfully is wicked. People who use their wealth and position to oppress the poor will answer for what they have done, for God is always on the side of the oppressed. Third: Wealth that is selfish is gluttonous. The Bible is not against us having legitimate pleasures, recreation, rest. The Bible is not against us having a warm meal and beautiful clothes. But the Bible is against living in excess, in self-gratification. The Bible likens these people to hogs being fattened for the slaughter. In the light of this warning, shouldn't we be wise with our wealth? Shouldn't we take what wealth we have, whether it be wealth of personality, influence, physical strength, prayer power, property or whatever it is, and invest it in the cause of Christ? How can we make eternal investments? The only way we can get our treasures to heaven is to invest it in the souls of men. Adrian Rogers says, “What we invest for the Lord Jesus Christ is never lost. What man puts in the soil of service for Christ will bring forth the fruit of righteousness. It pays to serve Jesus. We need to learn how to live for eternity.” Apply it to your life What is it that you have that you're not investing for the Lord Jesus Christ? Get it out, use it. An unused well becomes stagnant. A tool that is not used will rust. A sponge that is not used will harden. It pays to serve Jesus. May we learn to live for eternity.

Feb 10, 2020

The Sad Case of the Boastful Businessman

The Sad Case of the Boastful Businessman (0521) Submit everything to Him, today. Ask Him what He would have you do. And worship Him through your obedience. Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 4:13-17 Adrian Rogers says, “The man who says there's no God is a fool. But he may not be the biggest fool. There may be even yet a bigger fool: the man who says there is a God and then doesn't live like it.” James 4:13-17 shares a great illustration of this through the example of an astute businessman with some very big plans. He knew exactly where he was going, how to get there and how to <a href="http://succeed...at" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">succeed...at</a> least he thought so. Yet, in the eyes of God, his success was counted as a failure. The Bible says it is alright and proper to make a profit. However, this boastful businessman did it all in a spirit of self-sufficiency. He has planned out everything: his time frame, the place, his procedure, even the profits he would make—all without any guidance from the Lord, or any reverence toward Almighty God. This businessman also made an assumption we should not make: the promise of tomorrow. Life is fragile. This passage calls life a vapor: it appears for a little while and then vanishes. We never know when our time is up. Today could quite possibly be our last. It is God and God alone who determines our days. And finally, we learn from this businessman that despite the seeming success, morality or productivity of one’s life, the sum total of that life without God is sin. “Therefore, to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not to him it is sin.” You can do wrong by doing wrong, and you can also do wrong by not doing right. Adrian Rogers says, “The sin of omission is greater than the sin of commission. Do you know what the greatest sin in the world is: to leave God out of your life; don't you forget it.” We can’t afford to be self-sufficient, we can’t rely on tomorrow, and we can’t leave God out of our plans. Let us not boast. Instead, let us praise God for His blessings, which are more than we can count. Apply it to your life Have you made some grand plans without the counsel of Almighty God? Submit everything to Him, today: your life, your plans, your dreams. Ask Him what He would have you do. And worship Him through your obedience.

Feb 7, 2020

How to Pray in the Spirit

How to Pray in the Spirit (0520) Ask God to teach you how to pray in the Spirit; let the Spirit minister to you, so that it might minister through you as you pray for others. Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 4:5 When we become Christians, God sends His Holy Spirit to dwell within us. This Spirit exists to promote the kingdom of Christ and uses us to do so. Therefore, we must learn how to pray in the Spirit. Prayer is the greatest privilege and service a Christian could have. We have the opportunity to speak to God and serve Him through our communication. It is also, at times, the Christian’s greatest failure. Is it sometimes difficult for you to pray? You love God, you believe in prayer, you know you ought to, but sometimes it’s the hardest thing in the world; why is that? There is something in you that is at war with God: your fleshly nature. And your fleshly nature does not want to pray; it is set against prayer. Don't deny this weakness; accept it. Believe it or not, your weakness can be an asset. When you are weak, you are dependent upon God, who can do all things. Adrian Rogers tells us, “Praying in the Spirit will change prayer from a weary grudge to a delightsome privilege.” Praying in the Spirit defeats the enemy of indifference. It defeats ignorance, knowing exactly what needs we ought to pray for. It defeats our inabilities; the Holy Spirit energizes, focuses and equips Christians as they talk to God. Praying in the Spirit overcomes interference from the devil. The Holy Spirit guides us through our inexpressibility. Sometimes words fail. But the Bible says the Spirit groans and makes intercession for the saints. It knows how to take things that we cannot even utter and help us pray. Again, Adrian Rogers says, “I am the object of the Savior's intercession. He's interceding for me at the right hand of the father. But I am the vehicle of the Spirit's intercession. He is interceding through me on behalf of others.” The Holy Spirit ministers to us, that He might minister through us. God wants to raise up a people that know how to intercede, so that this world might feel the impact of a holy church in the hands of a mighty God. Apply it to your life Spend some time today in prayer. Ask God to teach you how to pray in the Spirit; let the Spirit minister to you, so that it might minister through you as you pray for others.

Feb 5, 2020

Victorious Prayer

Victorious Prayer (0519) Our prayers must be fervent. It is time that we prayed with urgency. Only then will we see a victorious prayer life. Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 4:1-2 James 4:2 says, “Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not because ye ask not.” God wants to bless us, and He does so through prayer. He wants to give us what we need, but sometimes we are too proud to ask for it. We are stuck on being self-sufficient, going about life in our own strength. So when we are weighed down by burdens and problems, we strive, cry, fight and say, “I’m doing everything I know to do.” But have you asked your Father for help? Could the reason that God is not blessing you be as simple as: You have not because you ask not? We are to pray at all times, without ceasing. Prayerlessness is sin; there is no substitution for it, no excuse not to do it. It is a command from Scripture. God desires a relationship with us; that relationship is sustained through prayer. Sometimes the problem is not that we don’t offer our prayers—it is that God will not accept them. What makes them unacceptable? They are prayed with the wrong motivation. They are not asked for the glory of God. The motivation behind unacceptable prayers is selfishness and sinfulness. God will not subsidize our sin. He will not underwrite our selfishness. We can pray for personal needs but we cannot pray for sinful and selfish desires and expect to have our prayers answered. So how can we pray so that our prayers will not be denied? We must be sensitive to the Spirit. We must submit our lives to the Father, and we must stand against the devil. We are to separate ourselves from the world, and are to be sober in our purpose. Our prayers must be fervent. It is time that we prayed with urgency. Only then will we see a victorious prayer life. Apply it to your life Do you pray with fervency and intensity? Do you see victory in your spiritual walk with Christ? Do you see questions answered? Do you see God making ways where there were none? Perhaps today is a good day to get serious about your time with the Lord.

Feb 3, 2020

Wisdom, Wise or Otherwise

Wisdom, Wise or Otherwise (0518) ####Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 3:13-18 All throughout Scripture, you will find great value placed upon wisdom. When James addresses the teachers and leaders of the church in James 3:13, he says, “Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you?” Wisdom and knowledge are always linked together, but wisdom always comes first. Knowledge without wisdom is a dangerous thing. The Bible never tells us to pray for knowledge. Sure, we are to study for knowledge, that we show ourselves approved unto God. But the Bible tells us to pray for wisdom. Adrian Rogers says, “Knowledge is learned, but wisdom is given.” There are two virtues of true wisdom: first, it is good; second, it is gentle. If you have godly wisdom, it will show through practical goodness; not by the words in your mouth, rather by the work of your hands. If you have wisdom, you show it by serving others, working as unto the Lord. Secondly, it shows in your gentleness, or meekness. Meekness is not cowardness, or poor self-esteem. It is an ability—a sweet evenness. When a man is meek, he doesn't look down upon the poor or look up to the rich. He doesn't have to look down upon the ignorant, or up to the educated. He is an even man; a gentleman, looking everyone straight in the eye. Wisdom that is good and gentle is true; anything else is deceit from the Enemy. James 3:16 says, "for where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work." Whatever you claim to have, if it doesn't make you good and gentle, it is not godly wisdom. There is victory in wisdom. It overcomes sin, strife, stubbornness, selfishness, snobbishness, and shame. And where there is victory, there's peace. James 3:18 says, "And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace." A wise man is a peacemaker. The war is over and wisdom has won the peace. ####Apply it to your life Do you have true wisdom from above? Does the wisdom in your heart urge you to obtain knowledge, that you may glorify God with your mind? 1 Peter 1:13 says, “Gird up the loins of your mind.” Take those long, flowing robes of indiscipline and laziness and carelessness and run for all your worth. Apply your mind, love God with all of your mind.

Jan 30, 2020

The Meanest Member in Our Church

The Meanest Member in Our Church (0517) ####Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 3:1-12 As brothers and sisters in Christ, the things we say to one another can either build us up or destroy us to rubble. With your words, you can proclaim the love of Jesus, or you can be the meanest member of your church. All throughout Scripture, we are reminded of the power of the tongue —power we can’t even begin to understand. Therefore, every single word we say should be handled with care. In James 3:1-12, the tongue is compared to the bit in a horse’s mouth, meaning a single word could potentially control the destiny of a man. It is also compared to the rudder of a ship, which can either bring it into a safe harbor, or over the rocks of disaster. And it is finally compared to a spark in dry grass. It only takes a spark to get a fire going. There's a chain reaction involved. Fire can warm or fire can burn. Words can bless or words can burn. Words can warm a heart or words can inflame hatred. And a few words wrongly used can start a wildfire. We will give an account for every reckless word we’ve said one day when we stand before Almighty God. That should frighten us! Yet, we praise God with the same tongue we use to curse others. Freshwater and saltwater cannot flow through the same spring. It says in James 3 that what is impossible in the physical world ought not to be in the spiritual world. What can we do about our fiery, uncontrollable tongues? You can’t make your tongue behave. But when you give your heart to Jesus, your tongue can be tamed by the blessed, wonderful, spirit of God. Adrian Rogers tells us, “What’s in the root of the tree is going to show in the fruit of the tree. What’s in the well will show in the water.” If you love God, then let it be shown in your speech toward others. ####Apply it to your life Do you understand the power of the tongue? Do you watch your words and consider every single one of them before you say them? Consider them a little more today. Think before you speak.

Jan 28, 2020

The Autopsy of a Dead Faith

The Autopsy of a Dead Faith (0516) ####Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 2:17 Make no mistake about it: we are saved by grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and by nothing else. At first glance, you may think James 2:17 contradicts this statement, for it says, “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” However, upon a closer look, we will find that nothing could be further from the truth. James is talking about the fruit of our faith, not the root of it. God can see our hearts and our faith. But man cannot see our hearts or our faith unless proven through works. The only way we can know anything about each other’s faith is what we see them do and hear them say. Therefore, we are justified before God by faith. But we are justified before each other by works. Adrian Rogers tells us, “Man is saved by faith alone but the faith that saves is never alone.” So, we have to examine an autopsy of a dead faith so that we can know what a living, breathing, thriving faith looks like for ourselves. A dead faith shows no compassion for others. Real faith gives us love for other people. It changes the way we treat others. It’s not enough just to believe in God. The devil believes in God, and it causes him to tremble! You can believe a lot of things about Jesus, but do you know and love Him? Do you bow before Him and call Him the Lord of your life? Have you been transformed by your relationship with Him? Faith that does not change a life and does not root in action is dead. You're saved by grace, through faith, unto good works. Works don't save; grace saves. Our works are proof that we have faith in the grace of God. As the metaphor James gives us in chapter 2 states, a body does not have life by acting. It acts because it has life. ####Apply it to your life After examining the autopsy of a dead faith, can you say for certain that yours is alive? How are you living out your faith today through works? Show compassion to others today. Spend some time in prayer today, and share with someone how your faith has changed your life.

Jan 27, 2020

The Strange Case of the Snooty Usher

The Strange Case of the Snooty Usher (0514) ####Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 2:1-10 There is nothing that can hurt the kingdom of Christ more than snobbery in church. When we judge people based on the way they dress or look, we bring severe harm to the Body of Christ. James 2:1-10 warns Believers to not be guilty of showing partiality and favoritism in the church. Whether you're in the business of flattering and fawning over the rich and cultured, or criticizing and gossiping about the poor and down-and-out, you are wrong. The message is clear: We cannot treat people better or worse due to their economic class. 2 Samuel 16:7 says, “For man looketh on the outward appearance but God looks on the heart.” In fact, we must remember, Christianity took off, by and large, by what society considered to be uneducated and ignorant people. Jesus was the kind of teacher that the “common people” gravitated towards; He identified much more with them than the aristocrats and religious leaders of the day. He calls the poor chosen by God, rich in faith and heirs to the kingdom. But just as the Book of James tells us not to put down a poor man, neither should we put down the rich man. What this passage is saying is: “Don't you elevate one person above another. Don't put down the poor, and don't put down the rich.” Everyone has something to bring to the table in church. The rich man and the poor man must learn to serve alongside each other, and ultimately, serve one another. Adrian Rogers says, “We may be different as to calling and different as to appointment and different as to job, but in the sight of God, everybody is somebody when Jesus Christ is Lord.” So what is the command for both the rich and the poor? “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” (Matthew 22:39) When we have nothing but contagious love in our hearts for each other, we will not be partial amongst ourselves. You can’t run out of that kind of love; it only multiplies. That is how the church grows. ####Apply it to your life Do you find yourself judging your brothers and sisters in Christ based on the way they look or how much money they have? Repent of this; ask for forgiveness, and love your neighbor as yourself.

Jan 24, 2020

Superficial or Supernatural

Superficial or Supernatural (0513) ####Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 1:26-27 Is your religion superficial or supernatural? Is it real, powerful and vibrant to you; or is it just an illusion? In James 1:26, we read, "If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain.” There are great dangers of having a superficial religion. It's only something that seems to be, but there is no reality to it. It also lacks restraint. If your religion is real, it's going to show in the way that you talk. One of the prime marks that a person has been saved is his speech pattern. The Christian with a real, supernatural faith uses his tongue to praise God and witness to others. But the superficial one criticizes, curses, lies, exaggerates. Nothing can do more damage to the Church than people who seem to be religious but don't control their tongue. Superficial religion also lacks results, “<a href="http://...this" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">...this</a> man's religion is vain.” That word “vain” means fruitless and non-productive. It can do you no good. There is nothing to it. Adrian Rogers says, “If you don't have Christ on the inside, then your religion is superficial. If you have Christ on the inside, then your religion is supernatural.” James 1:27 says, “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, to visit the fatherless and the widows in their affliction and to keep themselves unspotted from the world.” Supernatural religion begins with a relationship with God. It reaches upward, recognizes God as Father, and places your hand in the hand of God so that He can lift you out of your sinful nature. And when a man has been saved through Jesus Christ, he will have a heart of compassion. He will reach out to those in distress and minister to those in need. Supernatural religion is a daily practice, not just on Sundays. And when you have a supernatural religion, you will keep yourself unspotted from this world by relying on the Lord Jesus Christ. It's not by trying, it's by trusting. ####Apply it to your life Take a second to evaluate your religion. Is it superficial or is it supernatural? Take some time today to repent of the superficial parts of your religion, and delight in the supernatural power of Jesus Christ.

Jan 23, 2020

Welcoming the Word

Welcoming the Word (0512) ####Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 1:21-27 The Bible is full of great truth, but it doesn’t do you any good if you don't receive it in your heart first. The Bible is not a textbook to memorize for a mid-term. It is the living, breathing Word of God, able to save and satisfy the desperate soul. If you want to be victorious in your Christian life, then you must welcome the perfect Word of God into your life. Receive it as you would receive a friend into your house. First, welcome it with repentance. Sometimes God tries to tell us there's something wrong with us, but we can't hear Him because the very thing that's wrong with us is keeping us from hearing Him. We're not able to receive His Word until we remove what gets in the way. Do you want to get something out of your Bible study? You must be willing to repent first. Second, welcome it with readiness. Welcome it with a spirit that is ready to obey what it says. The reason some of us don't get anything from the Bible is because we don't have a meek spirit. We have to be teachable, trainable and controllable so the Word we read can work in our lives. Lastly, welcome it with responsiveness. We are to be doers of the Word and not hearers only. Therefore, we must know the Word—peer into it, study it, gaze into it. We are to look into it intently, not just give it a casual glance. Knowing Scripture is not a competition. The only question that matters in regards to your knowledge of the Word is: does it make you more like Jesus Christ? Adrian Rogers says, “When you see what the Word of God tells you, when the Word of God reflects back that image that you see, then you're to go about putting your life in order. Don't forget what manner of man you were. You're to change your way of living and when you do that the Word of God will become a blessing.” ####Apply it to your life Have you welcomed the Word of God into your life? Have you repented? Are you teachable, trainable and controllable? Does your knowledge of the Bible make you more like Jesus? Read the Bible today. Study it, and pray for guidance as you take what you’ve read and apply it to your life.

Jan 22, 2020

Tune In, Tone Down and Sweeten Up

Tune In, Tone Down and Sweeten Up (0511) ####Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 1:19-20 James 1:18 says, “If any man be in Christ Jesus, he is a new creature, old things are passed away, behold all things are become new.” If we are Christians, others should see evidence of a new life in us through our new behavior. James 1:19-20 describes this new behavior, saying, “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.” “Be swift to hear.” Tune in to what God is saying to you. A lot of us are addicted to noise. We are searching for things to drown out the silence because we don’t want to stop and think. We create so much noise around us that we can’t hear from God! But God speaks to us through Scripture, sermons and His Spirit; if we can’t hear Him, it is because we aren’t listening. “Be slow to speak.” Tone down the talking. Many of us talk too much. The more we talk, the more we can reveal the foolishness of our hearts. God takes our words very seriously, even if we don’t. In Scripture, we are warned that any words we speak that don’t build up, edify or help others are destructive words, we’re going to have to give an account for them. “Be slow to wrath.” Sweetening up is the natural succession of the first two instructions. When we listen more and talk less, it affects our temper. We learn to control our hearts. The Bible doesn’t say to not be angry. It says to be angry without sinning. Make certain that you are angry for the right reason, at the right thing, in the right way. Nothing can hurt your testimony, kill your influence and reveal your character more than a quick temper. Adrian Rogers says, “Jesus Christ did not come to make us nice people. He came to make us new creatures.” When you listen more, you talk less and control your temper, you will find yourself being a better example of a new creation in Christ. ####Apply it to your life Do you need to work on listening more, talking less and controlling your spirit? Pray for God’s guidance and wisdom as you practice tuning in, toning down and sweetening up today.

Jan 20, 2020

The Anatomy of a Sin

The Anatomy of a Sin (0509) Sermon OverviewScripture Passage: James 1:13-15 The devil has made plans to sabotage our lives; oftentimes, he does so with our full participation, by way of tempting us to sin. Becoming Christians does not make us immune to temptation. The Gospel of Luke shares the story of when Jesus Himself was tempted by the devil. Being tempted is not a sin; acting upon the temptation is. Everyone can give a reason as to why they have sinned. However, “being provoked” is not an excuse. Adrian Rogers says, “There's one thing that God will never accept for sin and that is an alibi.” James 1:14 says, "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. Do not err, my beloved brethren." Our cause for sin is within ourselves. It is our own nature, our own lust. When the devil tempts us, he baits us with the sin’s temporary pleasures so that it may entice us and allure us. But when the pleasure wears away, we are trapped in a toxic, unholy marriage with the responsibility of the sins we committed. Only in hindsight can we clearly see the finished product of the devil’s scheme… it was sabotage. The pleasure fades, and what’s left of it strangles the life out of us. Spiritual and physical death is the devil’s ultimate goal. What is our defense against the temptation to sin? Jesus Christ. We fall into temptation because we are trying to satisfy something within ourselves. When the devil tempts us, he is tricking us into satisfying our legitimate desires in an illegitimate way. But God made us to where we can never be satisfied apart from a relationship with Jesus Christ. Only through Jesus can we live as we ought to live. That's the way to overcome temptation: to receive and love Christ. ####Apply it to your lifeJesus Christ is the only one who can satisfy your longing, restless heart and help you resist the temptation to sin. Do you know Him? Do you walk with Him? Do you find your satisfaction in Him alone? Spend some time with Him in prayer today.

Jan 16, 2020

A Man and His Money

A Man and His Money (0529) ####Sermon Overview Scripture Passage: James 1:9-12 One of the biggest tests of a man’s character is his relationship with money. Money can buy almost anything but happiness, but when given too much control, it can divide families and destroy marriages. What does the Bible say about a man and his money? It has less to do with how much you have, and more to do with your posture toward it. The Book of James offers counter-cultural advice on how a man can pass the test of his money: if you are poor, consider yourself exalted. If you are rich, remain humbled by your blessings. If you are a Christian living in poverty, you have reason to celebrate, because in the Lord Jesus Christ, you are highly exalted, and rich in all things money cannot buy. If you are a Christian who has been blessed with riches, you have a reason to be humbled, because in spite of your riches, you have found the Lord Jesus Christ and this is something that not many rich men do. You, too, are very rich, not because of the money in the bank, but because of Christ in your heart. Adrian Rogers says, “No longer do you have your outlook geared to things that you can weigh and see and feel and touch and count and take to the bank. You want to know how rich you really are? Add up everything that you have that money cannot buy and that death cannot take away.” And what happens if your circumstances change drastically? If you lose everything or you gain it, what do you become? The Book of James says that tribulation works patience and endurance. We need to be tested that we might learn to be steadfast. We must make up our minds now that when the test of life come, we will stick it out. How can we live this kind of life where we are not pressed in by materialism and consumerism like everybody else around us? Love the Lord; when a man loves God, he doesn’t have to be tied to this world or his own money. ####Apply it to your life How are you and your money? How much power over your identity have you given your finances? Think about this today. Pray for wisdom and discernment as you find your wealth is Christ alone.

Jan 14, 2020

How to Pass the Tests of Life

How to Pass the Tests of Life (0507) Sermon OverviewScripture Passage: James 1:1-4 The Book of James can be seen as a Christian’s guidebook on how to pass the tests of life. James 1:2-4 says, "My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into divers temptations. Knowing this that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing." There are going to be trials in this life. The Christian faith does not make us immune to them. All people fall into diverse trials and temptations. Things may seem fine right now, but who knows what you’re going to fall among this afternoon? Trials and temptations happen suddenly and dramatically. They are meant to catch us off-guard. We need to be ready for anything the enemy could possibly throw our way at any moment. First, know that temptation to sin is not a sin itself. Everyone has been tempted to sin, including Jesus. Also, trials and tests are not necessarily because of our sin. God could simply be testing your faith. How are you going to face your temptation? 1 Corinthians 10:13 says, "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man but God is faithful who will not suffer you to be tempted above that your able but will with the temptation make a way to escape that ye may be able to bear it.” Adrian Rogers says, “God allows it even if the devil sends it. And God is not going to allow more to come to you than you're able to bear.” When you are tempted, there is a way out. It is God who makes a way; find it. Why does God allow temptations? Because God is working something in our lives; it is for your good and for his glory. Consider what happens when we overcome temptation. We find joy, build endurance in the process, grow in our faith, and enrich our lives. God is for us. He wants us to live enriched lives, wanting for nothing, completely satisfied in Him. He has a great plan for you; don’t miss it. ####Apply it to your lifeAre you facing a trial or a temptation right now? Pray and pass the test of life. Count it as joy, build endurance, grow and enrich your life as you look for God’s way out.

Jan 10, 2020

Why I Believe in Jesus

Why I Believe in Jesus (1869) If you were given the chance to speak to someone who has never known the love of God, what would you say? If you knew it would be the first, and perhaps the only time he would ever hear a message from God, what would you tell him? Tell him why you believe in Jesus Christ. John 6:66-69 says, “From that time many of His disciples went back and walked no more with Him. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, ‘Will ye also go away?’ Then Simon Peter answered Him, ‘Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life, and we believe and are sure that Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living God.’” Jesus’ disciples had the privilege of seeing Him work from an intimate vantage point. They were not like the crowds who watched Him perform miracles and turned away once His message became too radical. They believed that He alone is the answer. Through their testimonies, they gave us reasons to believe this, too. Jesus was a historical fact. Whether you are a Christian or not, a man named Jesus was here. Secular historians acknowledge Him as a fact regardless of what they believe about Him. And if you believe the Bible, the book that stands the test of time, you can believe in Him. Jesus’ life is the fulfillment of the prophecies foretold long before He stepped foot on this earth. The central theme of the Bible is Jesus. If you look long enough, every page of Scripture tells His story. Even though historians and theologians alike validate the life of Jesus Christ, you may need help believing in Him. This is where the Holy Spirit comes into the equation. Adrian Rogers says, “Anything I can talk you into; somebody else can talk you out of. You need the Holy Spirit of God to convict you and convince you.” A transformed life is the greatest witness of Jesus’ saving power. Just as the disciples gave their testimony of faith in Jesus in John 6, we can also testify to others when we come to know Him. Apply it to your life How has Jesus changed your life since you’ve come to know Him? Knowing your testimony is your greatest asset when you witness to other people. Share it with someone today.

Jan 2, 2020

Why Do I Exist?

Why Do I Exist? (2427) God has a wonderful purpose for your life. No matter what else you may do, if you don’t fulfill the purpose for which you exist, you will fail, and never find fulfillment in your heart or your life. Failure is not making a mistake, it is succeeding at the wrong thing. True success is doing what God created you to do. A lot of us think God’s purpose for our lives is to save us from our sins, but that is only half of the equation. It is just as important to know also what He has saved us for. We can only find the answer in God’s Word because what we think of God has so much to do with what we think of ourselves. Adrian Rogers says, “If you see yourself as the creation of Almighty God with a purpose, then you’re going to want to be Christ-like.” There are a few things to consider when discovering our purpose, and these things are found in Psalm 139: God knows all about me. God knows my character. God knows my conduct. God knows my inner thoughts. God knows my conversations. And God is always with me. How foolish to try to run from God? He is closer than our very breath! Neither distance nor darkness can hide us from God. Even death cannot hide us from His sight. We are constantly on God’s heart. Do you want to know how great God’s sum is of His thoughts of you? Psalm 139:18 says, “If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand.” If you believe this, there is no need to fear. There is no need to dread His guidance and His discipline. No, there is no need to hide. God made us to know Him, to love Him and to serve Him. We were created to love Him and be loved by Him. That is the purpose, and the only way to know His plans for your life. Apply it to your life Do you love God? Do you serve Him? What direction does your life lean toward when you are in complete fellowship with God? Has He laid anything on your heart? Love Him and fulfill your purpose today through worship, obedience, and service to Him.

Jan 1, 2020

The Music of Marriage

The Music of Marriage (1492) To be completely known and still be loved without fear of rejection is the supreme goal of marriage. But how many marriages are on the rocks because of poor communication? According to many counselors, 100% of couples seeking marriage counseling are out of rhythm due to a lack of communication. God shows us in His Word how husbands and wives can communicate, and it is modeled in the Songs of Solomon: a book of love poems, exemplifying the music of marriage. And as we eavesdrop on their conversation and observe the words said between these two lovers, we learn how they are used, and how they are received. Their words are plentiful. Sixty percent of the book consists of two lovers speaking to one another directly and plentifully. Their words are personal. They call each other by names only they know about, unique and individual, special in each other’s eyes. Their words are positive. There is not one negative word of criticism in this book; nothing critical, no correction. Their words are passionate. Their words for each other were full of life, rooted directly in their feelings. Our words sustain our marriages. Our words repair hurt feelings. Our words grow love. The problem here is that we believe words of love flow out of feeling. But most of the time, it is really that feeling that flows out of words. Adrian Rogers says, “We need to work on this thing of intimacy in marriage, and I’ll tell you why. It gives incredible freedom and it’s worth it. You’ll never arrive at perfection, but you need to make a start if you want to have a happy home.” There is always room to improve communication as husband and wife. If you do not communicate, your marriage will disintegrate. The music of marriage is worth finding the rhythm. Apply it to your life Do you need to work on your communication skills with your spouse? Of course! If you aren’t progressing, you are regressing. Talk to your spouse. Watch your words carefully. Pray for wisdom to learn what he or she is feeling, as well as the patience to honor them as you both work toward completely knowing and loving each other, without the fear of rejection.

Dec 6, 2019

Are You Fit to be Tied?

Are You Fit to be Tied? (1491) Are you fit to be tied? In other words, are you worthy to be called a husband or wife? Look at the example of Abraham and Sarah in the book of Genesis. They had their problems. There was an affair, a struggle with infertility, and problems amongst the children they eventually had in their old age. Yet, they survived it all. They made it to the very end. Many couples today face the struggles that Abraham and Sarah faced. The difference is not in the problems, but in their commitment. It is not love that holds your marriage together, it is your marriage that holds your love together. In 1 Peter 3, principles for a godly marriage are clearly outlined, so that husbands and wives may learn to be fit to be tied together. God says that the husband is the head of the home. Therefore, a godly woman is to submit to her husband. Submission is necessary for leadership, and leadership is necessary for success in life. When Jesus was on earth, He submitted to God the Father, not because He was inferior. It was an example of love and obedience. When a woman submits to her husband, she's not inferior to her husband any more than God the Son is inferior to God the Father. In fact, it is a sign of strength, control and serenity. As Adrian Rogers says, “(Women) are never more like Jesus than when she is in submission.” Women are to show the presence of Jesus in her through her speech and submission to her husband. As for the husband, he is to possess knowledge. The problem with most husbands is an overload of ignorance due to a lack of listening, or a lack of caring. But husbands are to love their wives with awareness, acceptance, adjustment, and appreciation. They are to pray for their wives, to listen with their ears and their hearts, adjust to the needs of the family and praise their wives any opportunity they can get. This what God's word says, and what makes us fit to be tied. Apply it to your lifeHusbands and wives live in a world that wants to tear them down. Everybody is trying to get to the top. Everything around us pulls us down. Husbands and wives need somebody to lift them up. Honor your mate today. Love them well.

Dec 5, 2019

Learning to Respect Spiritual Authority

Learning to Respect Spiritual Authority (1628) Proverbs 16:32 says: “he that ruleth his spirit (is better) than he that taketh a city.” We see this exemplified through King David, a man after God’s own heart. David was a man that lived by principle, not by appearance. He was a warrior who knew many victories. But, perhaps, his greatest victory was the one over his own spirit when he became subject to spiritual authority. In 1 Samuel 24, David is hiding in a cave after King Saul has put a bounty on his head. King Saul comes into the cave, unaware that David and his men are hiding just out of sight. David has the opportunity to kill Saul, the man actively trying to kill him. But he does not. He refuses to take vengeance and acts as according to Scripture: “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). We should learn by David’s example in recognizing authority. David knew that he had no right to take Saul’s life because Saul was David’s king. A bad king, sure, but he was God’s chosen and anointed king. There is no king, no power, no ruler that has not been ordained of God. Therefore, to rebel against authority is an act of rebellion against God. Submit to leadership. You should respect authority. But what if the authority in question commands us to do something that is contrary to the Word of God? Don’t do it! The Bible says we should obey God rather than men. But make certain that even when you disobey your appointed leader that you have a warrant from Scripture, and that you still respect authority. Finally, we should rest in authority. God took care of Saul. And God will take care of your enemies as you learn to rest in the Lord. Apply it to your life Is there anybody or anything that you have a rebellious spirit about? Let me ask you this question: Have you submitted to the King of kings? That’s where it all begins—by giving your heart to Jesus Christ. And when you get under the authority of Jesus Christ, under the authority of the Word of God, under the authority of those that God has put over you, you’re going to find yourself living, praying, speaking, and acting with incredible authority.

Dec 2, 2019

To Be Like Jesus

To Be Like Jesus (2139) Everything is created for God’s glory. Therefore, we were created for God’s glory. If glory is too abstract of a word to comprehend, think instead of the nature of Jesus. God’s purpose for you is to be like Jesus. When we become like Jesus, life-change occurs. But some of us go about change in ways in which we ultimately fall short. We set ourselves up for failure, and it leaves us feeling discouraged. One way we do this is by process of elimination. We think if we remove things from our lives, we will become like Jesus. However, in our humanity, the list of things we must eliminate is far too long. If we focus on elimination, we won’t be like Jesus at all; we’ll be like bitter Pharisees. Then we think we’ll be like Jesus through imitation. We act like Jesus, but we don’t have His character. So, we become cheap, phony imitations of Him. Then, in frustration, we try to be like Jesus through determination. We grit our teeth and say, ‘I’m going to be more like the Lord Jesus with willpower and sincerity.” Yet, despite our best efforts, we will still fall short every time. So, what else is there to do? Consider this: Rather than going about life change through elimination, imitation, or determination, think of yourself as a mirror. A mirror does not create the image; it simply reflects what it is exposed to. We are changed by being exposed to Jesus. We must make sure sin and unrepentance does not distort or dull the image we bear. We cannot let things of this world get in the way. We must read Scripture and continue to expose ourselves to the character of Jesus, ever-focused and ever-engaged. Adrian Rogers explains, “What is the inner nature of a Christian? Jesus. And by beholding Jesus, you’re changed. That which is on the inside comes to the surface. You are changed.” As reflections of Jesus, we have a responsibility to retain the image in which we are exposed to. When we stay focused on Him, that’s when the change takes place. Apply it to your life Are you reflecting the image of Jesus? Expose yourself to Jesus, today. Dig into Scripture, and pray that the Lord will open your eyes to see Him in every page.

Nov 28, 2019

The High Cost of Low Living

The High Cost of Low Living (1978) Can a child of God sin? Yes. Can a child of God sin and not suffer? Absolutely not. Consider King David, a man above every other man—none more noble, gifted, or humble than David. And yet David fell into a deep, dark sin. David committed the sin of adultery. As a result, the woman conceived. So, David then committed the sin of murder. In order to better understand the high cost of low living, we need only look to at the causes of King David’s sin. It was a sin of idleness. David was not doing wrong in the time leading up to his affair, except that he was failing to do right. He should have been with his compatriots in war. God wants us to stay occupied. We are called to the harvest field or the battlefield. It was a sin of carelessness. David began to take his many victories for granted. He presumed God was going to keep blessing him. And an unguarded strength is a double weakness. It was a sin of impulsiveness. David wasn’t planning to sin that day. Adrian Rogers explains, “Sin is a combination of undetected weakness, an unexpected opportunity, and an unprotected life.” It was a sin of callousness. When his scheme to cover up his sin was compromised, David ordered for Bathsheba’s husband, Uriah, to be killed in battle. He planned it, connived it, and orchestrated cold-blooded murder. And his heart turned calloused. It was a sin of stubbornness. Despite the conviction he felt, David went one whole year without repenting. But God did not forget David’s sin, and He wouldn’t let David forget, either. Just underneath David’s facade, his sin weighted, wounded and weakened him. There were words of rebuke, arrows of conviction, and hands of pressure from God. David was finally confronted by the prophet, Nathan, and was convicted and chastised. He had to pay the consequences for his sin. But God was faithful to forgive him. God is faithful to forgive us, too. Apply it to your life Perhaps it’s time for you to be confronted, too. Somehow you think you’re just going to muddle through and gloss over your sin. And you stubbornly go on day after day thinking, “Maybe God has forgotten.” He has not. Repent of your sins and ask God for forgiveness.

Nov 22, 2019

The Coming Kingdom of Christ

The Coming Kingdom of Christ (1883) There is coming a kingdom of Christ, as well as a kingdom of Satan. These two kingdoms have been at war since the Book of Genesis, and we are in the middle of it. If we want to recognize Satan’s kingdom to come and know how it will ultimately face its demise, we only need to look at one which was already defeated. In Genesis 10-11, we are introduced to a Babylonian man named Nimrod. He wanted to be king and to be worshiped like God. A few chapters prior, God gave the commandment to His people to be scattered and replenish the earth after the Great Flood. Rather than obey God, the Babylonians centralized their government under Nimrod’s authority and began building a tower to reach the heavens, all to make a name for themselves and to be equal with God. They directly disobeyed God and followed Nimrod in rebellion. How did this tower of blunders end in Genesis? The Babylonians spoke one language at this time. But God confounded their speech, and they suddenly couldn’t understand each other. The construction of the Tower of Babel ended with Almighty God coming down to earth and sending confusion into the camps of His enemies. Today, we are not too far off from the blunder of Babylon. Have we not substituted our own wit for God’s wisdom? Through new minds, machinery and money, are we not trying to make a name for ourselves? Do New Age religions not bank their ideology on finding power within ourselves, generating an independence from Almighty God? Adrian Rogers says: “What is the difference between manmade religion and the true salvation that comes from God? Man tries to build from earth to Heaven. True salvation reaches down from Heaven to man.” The only hope for this world is the coming of Jesus Christ. And when He comes, He will destroy the kingdom of Satan, and any other kingdom that dares to make an enemy of God. These are the days to get right with God. Let us not wait another second. Apply it to your life If you’re practicing any kind of new age religion or dabbling with astrology or witchcraft, get out of it. Repent. The time is coming soon when our Lord is going to step down from glory to judge Babylon. Let us rejoice and give honor to Him today.

Nov 15, 2019

Who is the Man Called Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ is a historical fact, but is He who He says He is? In this powerful message, Adrian Rogers analyzes the testimonies of the saints, the Scriptures, and the Spirit to prove the legitimacy of Jesus Christ as the Son of God.

Nov 7, 2019

The New Age

New Ageism is not new at all! It’s actually an age-old heresy repurposed for the modern world. But it is dangerously deceptive and must be viewed as such. In this message, Adrian Rogers conveys the importance of identifying the Enemy’s deception around us and gives us steps of discernment to protect us from these traps.

Nov 5, 2019

Financial Freedom

Financial Freedom (1054) In the Book of Nehemiah, the people of Jerusalem were rebuilding after the city-wide destruction. Many were poor and enslaved by their deep debt. However, some of the rich also were enslaved—not by debt, but by wealth. They were extorting, conniving, and using unethical methods to get money. We learn that financial bondage is being a slave to money, no matter how much or how little you have. God doesn’t want His people, whether they be poor or rich, to be in financial bondage. God’s plan for His children is to have liberty and freedom. The first principle of financial freedom is priority. God will not take second place to anybody or anything. The fear of God is not only the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 1:7); it’s the beginning of wealth. The second principle is industry (work). The lazy man is not going to prosper, and it’s not because God has not answered his prayer or has failed him. It is because he doesn’t work and God will not bless him. God wants you to use your work to serve and glorify Him. The third principle is generosity. The more you share, the more you have; the more you hoard, the less you have. The fourth principle is reliability. God can be depended upon. He is worthy of your trust, even in your finances. The fifth principle is integrity. When you are presented with the opportunity to obtain wealth at the expense of someone else, or at the expense of your character, do not take it. This is not God’s way to prosperity, it is a chance to show your integrity. Here was a man, Nehemiah, who knew total financial freedom in a time of depression, drought, high taxes, mortgage their houses. His prayer was not for riches. His prayer was for provision to get the job done. This should be our prayer, too. Be in the will of God and let God supply your need. Apply it to your life Are you in financial bondage? Think of these principles. Is God first? Have you been diligent? Have you had an open hand or a clenched fist? Have you been trusting in God or in uncertain riches? Have you lived with integrity? Are you believing and trusting God according to these other things to take care of you? Find financial freedom in God’s provision today.

Oct 28, 2019

How Not to Raise a Fool

How Not to Raise a Fool (1045) The simple man is comfortable in his own ignorance. He likes his lifestyle. He takes the easy way. No responsibilities. No problems. He has no real, serious thoughts. But there is a fatal flaw in the plan (or lack thereof) of the simple man. The problem is not his intellect. The problem is his heart. If he loves simplicity, he will lack understanding. And if you dare begin talking to him about God’s Word, he doesn’t pay attention. Therefore, he will not know the truths of God’s Word. If he lacks understanding, he will be easily led. And if he is easily led, he will be liable for judgment—meaning he will be held accountable to what he becomes, even if he never intended to. He becomes the scorner: the smart-aleck, the mocker, and eventually … the fool. Once he is a fool, he is the enemy of that which is good and godly. He rejects wisdom, ridicules righteous, rejoices in sin. Therefore, his moral sense has been polluted, and he no longer knows the difference between right and wrong. So how do we keep from raising a fool? How do we ensure that our simpleminded, impressionable children are raised to know wisdom and to mature in understanding? The Word of God. Particularly, the Book of Proverbs. Pastor and teacher Adrian Rogers was a father himself. He said, “Every parent ought to master the book of Proverbs and be mastered by the book of Proverbs so he can learn how to teach it to his children. That’s why God gave us this book. This is God’s manual on child-rearing. This is God’s book to tell us how not to raise a fool, to give to that simple one understanding.” We are also to remember that our children learn by example. We are to show them what it means to follow biblical instruction, so that they may know the weight of their decisions early on. God gave us our children. We are called to protect them from worldly influence and raise them to know God’s wisdom. Apply it to your life Whether you have children or not, follow the examples of Proverbs today. Begin making a habit of studying Scripture and applying biblical instruction to your own life. People are watching and learning from you by example. Glorify God with your influence.

Oct 24, 2019

The Friendship Factor

The Friendship Factor (1033) One of the basic needs and longings of our lives is for a true friend. There are acquaintances, whom we learn from and have fun with on the shores of life, yet it the friendship never goes beyond the coast. There are fair weather friends, who will agree to set sail, but jump ship the moment the seas of life get rocky. And then there are friends…the ones who stay in the calm and in the storm. These friends are rare. But they are of great value, and are worth the find. The Bible places a great emphasis upon friends, but it also encourages us to possess a much higher standard on friendships than we think. We are not to have too many of them. They are costly. We are to consider friendships as an investment. We invest time, energy, prayers, and emotion into people. We cannot fully invest in more than we can maintain. Jesus loved many people in his time on earth. He made good acquaintances, but he regularly invested himself in his 12 disciples. Of those 12, there was an inner circle: Peter, James and John. And of them, he was closest with John. We see that in his humanity, Jesus needed a friend, and He showed us the virtues of a true friend. A friend is selfless. He loves, not because he needs something from you. He just does. A friend is sacrificial. He carries your sorrows on his own back. A friend sanctifies. He keeps you sharp. How do we find a friend like this? If you want a friend, be a friend. You want love? Give love. Renowned pastor and teacher, Adrian Rogers said it this way, “I went out to find a friend and could not find one there. I went out to be a friend and friends were everywhere.” Apply it to your life Today is a good day for a quality check of your friendship factor. The test of a good friendship is this: am I a better person because of my friends? Which friendships in your life bring you closer to Jesus? Are there any toxic friendships that need to be cut off? Pray carefully through each investment in your life, and ask God for the wisdom to maintain the relationships in your life with grace and understanding.

Oct 22, 2019

The Peril of Pride

The Peril of Pride (1037) Pride is a dangerous sin. Nothing brings more destruction to our nation, our homes, and our relationships than a prideful spirit. But it is also a deceptive sin. The proud ones are the least likely to admit their pride. They are quite proud of their humility. We call many things today pride that are not really pride. A good self-image is not pride. Self-esteem is not pride. Receiving honor or merited awards is not pride. What is the pride that the Bible condemns? It is an attitude of independence from God. Pride is the basic sin and the root cause for all other sins. Pride leads the parade, and God hates it. There are five reasons found in the Book of Proverbs as to why the peril of pride is something to be taken seriously and to be dealt with immediately. Pride provokes deity. It is an abomination to God. You provoke God to anger when there is pride in your heart. God literally becomes your adversary. Pride proves depravity. Anytime a person has pride in his heart it is there because it was born in him. It is not something we learn, it is something we inherit. Pride promotes dissension. There has never been an argument where pride was not the major factor. Pride promotes dishonor. In the pursuit of honor, pride brings shame. Proverbs 19:23 says, “A man’s pride shall bring him low, but honor shall uphold the humble in spirit.” Pride precedes destruction. Proverbs 16:18 reminds us of the plans for anything rooted in a prideful spirit: “Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” Pride is a matter of the heart, and there is much to be done about it. If we are not right with God, we cannot be right with one another. Adrian Rogers says, “There are no problems too big to solve, only people too small to solve them.” “There is none so bad he cannot be saved, there is none so good he doesn’t need saving.” It begins with humbling yourself before the Lord. ####Apply it to your life Knowing the serious peril of pride, take some time today to evaluate your heart. Do you have a pride-issue? Are you facing the consequences of a prideful spirit without even knowing it? Humble yourself before the Lord, and ask Him for forgiveness.

Oct 18, 2019

God's Miracle Medicine

God's Miracle Medicine (1027) A heavy heart is the beginning of misery, and we were never meant to carry the load. A burdened soul breaks the spirit. A broken spirit thins the immunity of the body. The body then begins to wither, and we get ill. In fact, studies have shown that emotions largely contribute to one’s overall state of health. Doctors call it Emotionally Induced Illness (E.I.I.), and it is the idea that physical sickness can be a result of emotional illness. The entire body is affected by a heavy heart. But God has given us a remedy for the soul, the spirit, and the body. And it is good <a href="http://medicine...Joy" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">medicine...Joy</a>! Not mere laughter, not mere joking, not mere fun and games, but deep, abiding joy is our strongest medicine and greatest weapon. Joy doesn’t depend upon material things or circumstances. It doesn’t depend upon thrills. It comes straight from the heart. In the Gospel of John, Jesus spoke of the joy in His own heart, and He promised to give us a dose of it; not just some cheap imitation… He wants to give us the real thing. “My joy have I given unto you.” Jesus said, “I want that joy to remain in you.” We don’t root our happiness in circumstances, because those can change in an instant and leave us emotionally stranded. We root our joy in Christ alone, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Hebrews 13:8) “Without joy, life is meaningless!” Acclaimed pastor and teacher, Adrian Rogers says, “That joy is found only in Jesus. And we ought to share the secret, the source of our joy —the Lord Jesus Christ.” ####Apply it to your life Joy is something freely given, but it must be received, day by day. Today, seek it out through prayer and in Scripture. Let it be seen in your countenance as you go about your day, and share it with someone else.

Oct 17, 2019

God's Plan for Prosperity

God's Plan for Prosperity (1023) God is interested in your prosperity. It is not necessarily a matter of wealth or worldly success. Prosperity means that you live a life of general welfare, where God meets your needs, and you are being fulfilled. It means you are free to enjoy the blessings of God. If God desires prosperity for us, yet we don’t feel it in our lives, what stands in the way? It’s simple: there's unconfessed sin in our hearts and in our lives. When we sin, we often times try to cover it up instead of confessing it. But there is a great cost to covering up sin. We look at the example of King David in the Old Testament. He was a man after God’s own heart. Yet, David sinned against God. He committed adultery. In order to cover up what he had done, he had the woman’s husband killed in the line of battle. Even while his sin was covered, the guilt consumed David. It dominated his mind, and depressed his heart. It defiled his spirit. It shut up his ability to sing praises to God. We see through David that God does not let His children get away with covered-up sin. He does not let His children forget what they have done. He deals with His children. But even still, when we sin and try to run away from the Father, He holds on even tighter. Pastor and teacher Adrian Rogers says it this way, “Guilt is a dirty wound, and it will never heal until it is confessed and put away. It must be cleansed by the antiseptic of Calvary before it can be healed.” It starts with confessing your sin to God. And because of what Jesus did on the cross at Calvary, the Holy Spirit will come into your life and uncover your sin so that He may cover it in grace and forgiveness instead. ####Apply it to your life Do you have unconfessed sin in your life that is coming between you and God? You have to know it and name it for what it is. Ask God to reveal it to you, and He will. Through the Holy Spirit, He will convict you specifically, so that you may confess it specifically and ask for forgiveness. And then repent of it.

Oct 15, 2019

God's Grace in the Workplace

God's Grace in the Workplace (1019) A lot of us have the wrong idea about working secular, everyday jobs, especially Christians. Whether we enjoy the work or not, there is a certain amount of guilt Christians carry into the workforce. We like to subconsciously separate aspects of our lives as secular and sacred, so we have this idea that we can only serve God when we are not working. But we are where God has placed us for a specific purpose. We are to do every job with the belief that we are doing it for Jesus, because we are! Look at the example of Daniel in the Bible, who worked as a government bureaucrat in Babylon. By circumstances beyond his control, Daniel had a secular job in a place of wickedness. Yet even his enemies and the unsaved people of this world had to admit that his secular job was really a sacred job, because he was really serving God through his work. You may want to opt out of your “Babylon”, and flee from the wicked world to which you give your better hours. But God’s plan for you is not to run away from the world. God’s plan for you is to confront, overcome, witness to the world. John 17:15, “Jesus said, “I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one.” God's plan is not that you be taken out of that worldly environment, but that you would live a good Christian life within it. Every job, if it is done in the power of the Holy Spirit, is a sacred job. Every job has dignity if it is an honorable work. And every Christian is a priest, and every Christian is a minister. Every Christian is doing full-time Christian service if they are devoting their work to the glory of God. ####Apply it to your life Come Monday morning, there are four things to consider as you enter your workplace. 1. Don’t brag: there’s nothing more unappealing than self-righteous behavior. 2. Don’t nag: give some grace to your co-workers. 3. Don’t lag: do the work in front of you efficiently and completely. 4. Don’t sag: work joyfully, as unto the Lord. Your character is crucial to your witness. You have been placed in this position for a reason. Honor God with your job.

Oct 11, 2019

Don't Disintegrate — Communicate

Don't Disintegrate — Communicate (1011) The most important thing to have in a Christian home, other than a love for the Lord, is communication. In fact, most of the insight found in the Book of Proverbs has to do with how we speak and listen to one another. Have you ever heard anybody say, “Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words can never hurt me”? Don’t believe it. It’s not true. The greatest hurts often come from spoken words. They come from forceful coercion between spouses. They come from nagging, callused words to a child, and disrespectful remarks to a parent. Wrong words can destroy a home. Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…” There is great power in communication. And with great power comes a great responsibility. Pastor and teacher Adrian Rogers says, “The highest form of fulfillment is sharing with someone else. It’s not having things. It’s not doing things. It is sharing.” Healthy communication peaks when we have absolute, total openness with one another, spoken in discerning kindness and gentleness. This is a very difficult level to reach. It begins with our relationship with Jesus, with realizing that He has accepted us as we are, and wants us to accept who we are, too. This doesn’t mean we condone our sin, or excuse our shortcomings. We are still sinners, and apart from God’s grace, we have nothing to offer. But because of His grace, because He has accepted us, we are instructed to have a healthy self-acceptance. Because when you accept yourself, you can begin to accept others. You are no longer threatened. You no longer have to push others down to build yourself up. You are free to treat others with kindness, because you are, first, kind to yourself. Communication is an ongoing process. It evolves over time spent together, and requires tune-ups and check-in’s. Yet there is nothing more important. ####Apply it to your life Do you feel like your relationship with your family or close friends is full of heartache and misunderstanding? How is your relationship with Jesus? Today, spend some time in prayer, asking Jesus to saturate your self-esteem with His grace. Pray through Proverbs, perhaps one chapter for each day in a month, and ask the Lord to convict you for how you speak to others.

Oct 9, 2019

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