PRAISING GOD IN TIME OF ADVERSITY

Posted on August 6, 2022 by from the Preachers PC
The Psalmist declared, “Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me; for my soul taketh refuge in thee: Yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I take refuge, Until these calamities be overpast. My soul is among lions; I lie among them that are set on fire, Even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword” (Psa. 57:1, 4).

With these words, David describes himself in a state of great adversity. The occasion that prompted this psalm was the desire of King Saul to kill David. Saul was jealous of David and wanted him terminated. David spent much of his early life fleeing from the wrath of Saul.

How did David cope with all this adversity? Was it through complaining, feeling sorry for himself, or having the “woe is me” syndrome? No! Amazingly, David overcame adversity by putting his trust in God, and by “Praising God!” David proclaims, “They have prepared a net for my steps; My soul is bowed down: They have digged a pit before me; They are fallen into the midst thereof themselves” (Psa. 57:5-6).

What was David’s reaction to all of his troubles? Was it a voice of complaint? No! He praised God! “Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; Let thy glory be above all the earth. My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing, yea, I will sing praise. I will give thanks unto thee, O, Lord, among the peoples: I will sing praises unto thee among the nations” (Psa. 57:5, 7, 9).

There is a valuable lesson to be learned from David’s reaction to misfortune. In time of trouble we should praise God! Do you remember what Paul said, “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that through patience and through comfort of the scriptures we might have hope” (Rom. 15:4). We all too often, when trouble comes our way, stoop to complaining or feeling sorry for ourselves. But this is not the way that God would have us to react to difficulty.

When Peter and the others apostles were confronted with hardship – what was their reaction? “They therefore departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name” (Acts 5:41). When Paul and Silas were thrown into prison, did they complain and feel sorry for themselves? No! The Scriptures say they prayed and sang praises to God (Acts 16:25)! Wouldn’t it be great if we could do less complaining and more praising God?

Why should we praise God in adversity? James gives us the answer, “Count it all joy, my brethren, when ye fall into manifold temptations; Knowing that the proving of your faith worketh patience. And let patience have its perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, lacking in nothing” (Jam. 1:2-4). Let we all strive to follow the biblical example of praising God in adversity, remembering how we benefit from such, and how others can benefit from the good example we set.

“Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; Let thy glory be above all the earth” (Psa. 57:5).

Tom Moore
http://www.texasschoolofpreaching.com
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.tullstar.org
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GOD’S PERFECT SPOKESMAN

Posted on June 17, 2021 by from the Preachers PC

INTRODUCTION

DISCUSSION

A. GOD’S SPOKESMEN “IN TIME PAST” 

1. Hebrews 1:1

a. The expression “of old time” refers to the period of time prior to the coming of Jesus 

b. That is, that period of time described in the Old Testament (Genesis-Malachi)

2. God Spoke “Unto the Fathers in The Prophets”

a. The “fathers” would be the ancestors of the Israelites 

b. The “prophets” would include great men like Samuel, Elijah, Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel 

c. The word for “prophet” refers to one who is inspired by God to speak for Him… 2 Peter 1:21; 1 Peter 1:10-12

3. God Spoke “By Divers Portions and Divers Manners”

a. His revelation did not come all at once, but progressively at different times 

b. His methods varied as well, using visions, dreams, symbols, etc. 

c. God has clearly revealed Himself as One who “speaks” 

B. GOD’S SPOKESMAN “IN THESE LAST DAYS”

1. Hebrews 2:2-3

2. The Expression “At the ends of these days” refers to The Christian Age

a. The Old Testament often spoke of “the latter days” or “last days” … Isaiah 2:2; Micah 4:1

b. The apostles spoke of their time as the time of this fulfillment… Acts 2:16-17; Hebrews 9:26; 1 Peter 1:20; 1 Corinthians 10:11

3. God “Has spoken unto us in his Son”

a. God has spoken once again, but note the contrast! 

b. “In time past” it was through “prophets” – but “in these last days” it is in “His Son”! 

c. God has sent His own Son to speak for Him! 

d. As wonderful as the prophets were – they cannot compare to God’s own Son? 

4. The Excellence Of “God’s Perfect Spokesman”

a. Jesus is “appointed heir of all things”

1) As the “beloved Son”, it is only natural that He would be the appointed heir 

2) What does “all things” include? 

b. Jesus is the one “through whom also he (God) made the worlds”

1) Not only the “Heir”, but also the “Creator”

2) For it was through the Son that God created the universe… John 1:3; Colossians 1:16

3) All things were created “through (or by) Him” (He is the Creator)

4) All things were created “for Him” (He is the rightful Heir) 

c. Jesus is “the effulgence (or, brightness) of His (God’s) glory”

1) In Jesus we see the very radiance of the glory of God… John 1:14

2) When we behold Jesus, we see an extension of the glory of God! 

d. Jesus is “the very image of His substance”

1) The NAS reads “the exact representation of His nature” and the ESV reads “the exact imprint of his nature”

2) He is the exact representation of God’s being and character… Colossians 2:9; John 14:7, 9

e. Jesus is “upholding all things by the word of His power”

1) Jesus is not only the Creator, but also the Sustainer of the universe… Colossians 1:17

2) By His word the universe holds together! 

2) All He has to do is say the word, and the universe is no more

3) Note well: This illustrates the power of His Word. Shall we not listen when He speaks? 

f. Jesus has also “made purification of sins”

1) A clear reference to His death on the cross for our sins 

2) This speaks to His role as our Redeemer, a theme that will be prominent later in this epistle… Hebrews 2:17; 9:26, 28

g. Jesus has also “sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high”

1) This Jesus did when He ascended to heaven… Ephesians 1:20; 1 Peter 3:22

2) Sitting at the right hand of God is a place of honor, but for Jesus it is also a place from which 

3) He reigns – as is seen in… Ephesians 1:21-22; 1 Peter 3:22

4) It is true that He is waiting for the His enemies to be made His footstool (Heb. 10:12-13), but He is reigning until that time (1 Cor. 15:25-26)

CONCLUSION

A. The sentence does not end with verse three… 

1. It continues on into verse four, with a declaration of Jesus’ superiority over angels 

2. But that verse and the rest of the chapter we shall save for the next study B. How can one turn their back on Him? Especially when the Majesty on high proclaimed at the Mount of Transfiguration (Mat. 17:5)

Tom Moore
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

“A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and sings it back to you when you have forgotten how it goes.”

Posted in About Christ, Hebrews, Sermon Outlines | Leave a comment

YET TROUBLE CAME

Posted on June 16, 2021 by from the Preachers PC

Our lives are filled with trouble. “Man who is born of woman is of few days and full of trouble. He comes forth like a flower and fades away; He flees like a shadow and does not continue” (Job 14:1-2). All of us have plenty of trouble. Trouble comes into the life of the young and old; the rich and poor; the wicked and righteous. Trouble is no respecter of persons for it enters into the house of everyone.

Many feel like the Psalmist, “The pains of death surrounded me, And the pangs of Sheol laid hold of me; I found trouble and sorrow” (Psa. 116:3). Concerning one trying to make a living, Solomon said, “For all his days are sorrowful, and his work burdensome; even in the night his heart takes no rest. This also is vanity” (Eccl. 2:23). Many feel like those in Jeremiah’s day, “We looked for peace, but no good came; And for a time of health, and there was trouble!” (Jer. 8:15

Job was a righteous man – one that feared God and fled from evil. Also, he was a man that was very wealthy and “yet trouble came” (Job 3:26; KJV). Job lost his children, his wealth and his health. Job fell to the ground in worship and said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, And naked shall I return there. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; Blessed be the name of the LORD” (Job 1:21). Job’s friends expressed the view that he must have been guilty of some great sin to be punished by God so severely. But Job argued back that he was innocent. In the book of Job, God appears to Job and asked him a series of questions: 1) “Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?” 2) “Who shut up the seas with doors?” 3) “Have you entered into the springs of the sea?” 4) “Where is the way where light dwelleth?” 5) “Have you entered into the treasures of the snow?” 

Job began to get the point and acknowledges that God has planned all these things and His plan is too wonderful for man to know it all. Job also realizes that the skill and power shown in fashioning the world and its inhabitants is also demonstrated in his life. The same God who made the zebra, giraffe, sea and earth is really at work in the lives of men. Job concludes that man should give obedience and worship to God in every circumstance in life – for the Almighty is the Creator and is still under control. 

After God spoke to Job and Job repented of being overly bold in his words, He spoke to the friends of Job. God explained that His wrath was kindled against them. God instructed the three friends to have Job intercede in their behalf and this Job did. God blessed Job after his suffering and he had more at the end of his life than he did before his great trials. Job died an old man and full of life. The book of Job teaches that we should serve God because He is God. Some serve God only for what material blessings they think they can get. Satan raised the issue if man would serve God for naught. Job was willing to serve God regardless of the circumstances and so must we. We may not always at the time of suffering understand why it is happening. Suffering seems to be a part of the mystery of God’s providence. In the plan of the all-wise and loving Father there is a reason for life’s difficulties. We must put our trust in the Lord, for the Lord has promised through the apostle Paul that “all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Rom. 8:28).

The apostle Paul was a great apostle of Jesus and yet much trouble came into his life (2 Cor. 11:23-28). Paul was wrongly placed in prison and upon his appeal to Caesar was sent to Rome. One might think that with Paul in prison in Rome his usefulness as a preacher would be over – but not so! “But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel” (Phil. 1:12). Paul had for some time wanted to go to Rome and now he was there. Even though Paul was in prison, he wrote the famous “Prison Epistles” – Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon. While in prison he had the opportunity to teach his guards which were changed on a regular basis and so the gospel was manifested in all the palace. He even sent greetings to Caesar’s house hold. Paul had learned a very important lesson, “Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content” (Phil. 4:11). This is truly one of the great secrets to a happy and successful life. In the end, Paul knew he had won (2 Tim. 
4:6-8).

Trials make us stronger – “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” (Jam. 1:2-4). You cannot sharpen an axe on velvet and you cannot sharpen a Christian on ease; we need the grindstone! Not only do we need trials, but God knows we also need chastisement from time to time. Though chastisement if grievous at the time, is good for us. The Hebrew writer declares, “And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives…For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it” (Heb. 12:5-6, 11; ESV).

There are many troubles which we will face if we live very long. We will be opposed and persecuted as Christians. This at times is very painful. But remember, “Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Tim. 3:12). We may be betrayed by friends – Jesus was. We may be tried by financial troubles like the loss of a job, failure to get a promotion, or have a business backset. There may be lying tongues and vicious people trying to ruin your reputation. There are times when we run into the walls of sickness or death, and must pick ourselves up with God’s help.

Beloved, When trouble comes we must have the attitude of Isaiah, “You will keep him in perfect peace, Whose mind is stayed on You, Because he trusts in You. Trust in the LORD forever, For in YAH [that is, the Lord, most vehement; Strongs], the LORD, is everlasting strength” (Isa. 26:3-4). “But those who wait on the LORD Shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, They shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint” (Isa. 40:31).

Yes trouble comes, but we can overcome with the Lord’s help. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Phil 4:13). “To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne” (Rev. 3:21). In other words, let the one who overcomes come over.  

Tom Moore
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

“A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and sings it back to you when you have forgotten how it goes.”

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THE DIETY OF JESUS

Posted on January 27, 2021 by from the Preachers PC

ONE of the strangest and most intriguing sentences in the entire Bible is the one which commends us to “magnify” the Lord Jesus Christ. At first sight this seems to be a contradiction in terms. To magnify is to enlarge. In the pursuit of scientific knowledge we use in field and laboratory an ocular instrument called a microscope. Through the almost magical power of this amazing mechanism things which are normally invisible to the human eye are clearly seen in minute detail. It is possible by the aid of the microscope to enlarge creatures which cannot be seen by the unaided eye, to the extent of more than two thousand times their normal size. Thus we are able to study their nature, watch their processes, and derive much information concerning their cycles of life.

We seldom stop to think, however, that when we have thus magnified a protozoan to the utmost limit provided by modern optical methods, we have not changed its size one iota. The creature under observation remains its original invisible self, as the microscope leaves the specimen unchanged and unaffected in every sense. The power of the microscope affects only the observer, giving to him a wider, broader and deeper vision through which he can gain additional knowledge.

It is in exactly this same manner that we can and should magnify Jesus Christ. We certainly cannot enlarge Him, Who is the creator of the heavens and the earth. His natural magnitude is such that He fills the universe. Since it is Jesus Who upholds all things by the word of His power, there is naught that man can do to enhance His nature or increase His stature. But if we have the proper equipment and sufficient intelligence to use the help thus provided, we can enlarge our own understanding and broaden our own point of view. It is for this purpose that the Spirit of God has given us an amazing instrument, which we call the Bible.

When we study the man Jesus Christ, looking at Him through the lens composed of the pages of God’s Book, He remains unaffected, but our vision is enlarged and we begin to see Him as He is and was. [Harry Rimmer, The Magnificence of Jesus, pp.11f].

Tom Moore
www.fromthepreacherspc.org
www.harrisandmoore.org
www.parkheightscoc.com

“A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and sings it back to you when you have forgotten how it goes.”

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A CRYING MESS

Posted on November 10, 2020 by from the Preachers PC
by Brett Petrillo
Bursting into tears.  Weeping.  Sobbing.  Tears of joy.  Crying fit.  Crying our eyes out.

However we say it, we all do it; some just do it more than others.  According to statistics, “Women cry five times as much as men. Women cry 64 times a year as compared to 17 times a year for men” (Health Central).  As true as this may be, there are plenty of strong, manly men who could give these statistics a serious run for their money. 

No matter who, why, or how much we do it, crying typically isn’t a very enjoyable experience.  Usually crying is an outward sign of our inward pain.  This is exactly why the words of Revelation 21:4 are so appealing, “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.”

What a uniquely wonderful reward stacked upon so many others (Revelation 21).  Without a doubt, this is something we can look forward to in heaven.  Let’s be sure to live in a way to ensure our names are in the “book of life” so we will never again have to worry about shedding tears of sorrow (Revelation 21:27).

Tom Moore
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

“A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and sings it back to you when you have forgotten how it goes.”

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RESPONDING TO MATERIALISM

Posted on November 9, 2020 by from the Preachers PC

RESPONDING TO MATERIALISM

INTRODUCTION 

A. We live in a very materialistic society

1. As evidenced in our popular culture (music, TV, etc.) 

2. As expressed in the desire for an affluent lifestyle 

B. Materialism is dangerous foe to the Christian

1. The deceitfulness of riches can render the Christian fruitless… Matthew 13:22

2. The desire for riches can ensnare the Christian, leading him astray… 1 Timothy 6:9-10

C. What can we do as Christians, and as the church? Consider God’s use of Isaiah… 

1. Sent to a corrupt and materialistic society… Isaiah 1:21-23

2. Offering that which truly satisfies… Isaiah 55:1-3

D. Today, Jesus has a similar response, which we can offer to a world that is starving for what truly satisfies…

DISCUSSION

A. JESUS’ RESPONSE TO MATERIALISM

1. Exposes the Deficiency of Riches…

a. Many think of “the good life” in terms of material prosperity 

b. Jesus taught there is more to life than material possessions 

1) Man’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions… Luke 12:15 

2) As illustrated in the parable of the rich foo… Luke 12:16-21 

c. Jesus taught the insecurity of riches…Matthew 6:19-20 

1) They are susceptible to corruption 

2) They are open to theft 

d. Jesus taught the danger of riches… Matthew 6:21-24 

1) They can dominate our affections

2) They can blind us to the true light 

3) They can prevent us from being able to serve God 

e. Thus the message of Jesus is one of correcting our misconceptions; riches do not make one happy! 

2. Extends the Truly Abundant Life…

a. Jesus offers a life filled with peace… John 14:27 

1) Peace with God through justification… Romans 5:1-2 

2) Peace with man through reconciliation… Ephesians 2:14-16 

3) Peace with self through supplication… Philippians 4:6-7 

4) The peace Jesus offers “surpasses all understanding” … Philippians 4:7 

b. Jesus offers a life filled with love… John 15:9 

1) Love patterned after the Father’s love for the Son… John 15:9 

2) Love that can be fervent, yet pure between brethren… 1 Peter 1:22 

3) Love that can be extended even toward enemies… Matthew 5:43-45 

4) The love Jesus offers “passes knowledge” … Ephesians 3:9 

c. Jesus offers a life filled with joy… John 15:11

1) His commandments, His promises, all are designed to impart joy… John 15:11 

2) A joy that can abound in any circumstance… Philippians 2:17-18; 4:4; 1 Peter 1:6 

3) The joy Jesus offers is “inexpressible” … 1 Peter 1:8 

3. By offering such peace, love, and joy, perhaps we can appreciate why Jesus said He offers an “abundant” life… John 10:10 

4. To communicate this response to a materialistic society, Jesus calls upon His church. While it certainly entails proclaiming the gospel, let me suggest some additional thoughts about… 

B. OUR RESPONSE TO MATERIALISM 

1. Exemplify Jesus’ Response as Individuals…

a. As individuals we must possess the peace, love, and joy Jesus offers 

1) Which comes through heeding His words… John 15:10-11 

2) Which comes through spending time in prayer… Philippians 4:6-7 

3) If we fail to spend the time necessary in such activities, how convincing can we be that we have a more “abundant” life to offer?

b. As individuals we must not depend on material things for true happiness 

1) If poor, learn the secret of contentment… 1 Timothy 6:6-8; Philippians 4:11-13 

2) If rich, trust not in riches but be quick to help those in need… 1 Timothy 6:17-19 

3) Being content and willing to share goes a long way toward demonstrating that Jesus’ response to materialism really means something! 

2. Exemplify Jesus’ Response as A Congregation… 

a. The value of a congregational demonstration cannot be taken lightly 

1) Jesus stressed the value of brotherly love and unity – Jn 13:35; 17:20-21 

2) His church illustrated the value of congregational love and joy… Acts 2:46-47; 6:7 (in light of 6:1-6) 

b. We should make sure that our fellowship and worship demonstrates… 

1) The love we have found in Christ (e.g., by the way we greet one another) 

2) The joy of being Christians (e.g., by the way we praise God) 

3) The peace Jesus made possible (e.g., by the way we work together) 

c. We should be careful as a congregation not to fall into a materialistic trap 

1) By placing too much concern over such things as: 

a) The physical facilities in which we meet 

b) The physical appearances of the members or visitors 

2) Not that is wrong to have comfortable facilities or to look nice 

a) But that should not be our primary concern 

b) But not to the neglect of truly important matters (like saving souls)! 

3) Otherwise we could be guilty of being like the Laodiceans… Revelation 3:17 

a) Who thought they were “rich, wealthy, and have need of nothing” 

b) Who were unaware they were “wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked” 

CONCLUSION 

A. The rampant materialism in our society provides us with an opportunity…

1. For materialism leaves one in a state of spiritual malnutrition 

2. Therefore often ripe for the true feast Jesus has to offer 

B. What does Jesus offer?

1. Rest for a weary soul… Matthew 11:28-30 

2. Rivers of living water for a thirsty soul… John 7:37-39 

3. Which He provides through His cleansing blood and life-quickening Spirit… Acts 2:38-39 

C. But if those trapped in materialism are going to believe such is possible…

1. We need to make sure that we are offering the “abundant life” as a viable alternative 

2. Both individually and as a congregation of God’s people! 

D. Are we experiencing the peace that “surpasses all understanding,” the love which “passes knowledge,” and the joy that is “inexpressible”?

Tom Moore
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

“A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and sings it back to you when you have forgotten how it goes.”

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THE PERMANENT RECORD

Posted on April 29, 2020 by from the Preachers PC

Columnist Bob Green of the Chicago Tribune has a theory about what’s wrong with the world. He blames it on what he calls the “Death of the Permanent Record.”

He recalls that grade-school children once lived in fear of having their bad behavior noted on The Permanent Record. Because of this, people learned in their youth to stop before they did something deceitful or unethical. They didn’t stop because they were so good but for fear of having their actions written down.

Today, according to Bob Green, people have come to the conclusion that there is no such thing as a permanent record. In fact, they believe no one has a right to keep track. Green says that with today’s emphasis on our rights of privacy, if a school child were ever threatened with something going on his permanent record, he would probably file suit under the Freedom of Information Act and gain possession of his files before recess.

Behind Green’s humor is an excellent point. Where there is no fear of a lasting record, people tend to do what they think they can get away with. The problem for mankind, however, is that a permanent record does exist – and it is kept by God. “But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life” (Rev. 21:27). Friends, the Almighty keeps record! Will you be in the Lamb’s book of life?

Think About It!

Have A Great Day!

Tom Moore
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

“A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and sings it back to you when you have forgotten how it goes.”

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PSALM 23

Posted on April 28, 2020 by from the Preachers PC

The Lord is my Shepherd … That’s Relationship!
I shall not want … That’s Supply!
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures …  That’s Rest!
He leadeth me beside the still waters … That’s Refreshment!
He restoreth my soul … That’ s Healing!
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness … That’s Guidance!
For His name sake … That’s Purpose!
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death … That’s Testing!
I will fear no evil … That’s Faithfulness!
For Thou art with me … That’s Protection!
Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me … That’s Discipline!
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies … That’s Hope!
Thou annointest my head with oil … That’s Consecration!
My cup runneth over … That’s Abundance!
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life … That’s Blessing!
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord … That’s Security!
Forever … That’s Eternity!

Think About It!

Have A Great Day!

Tom Moore
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

“A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and sings it back to you when you have forgotten how it goes.”

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Leave a comment

SUFFERING SHIPWRECK OF THE FAITH

Posted on April 27, 2020 by from the Preachers PC

SUFFERING SHIPWRECK OF THE FAITH

1 Timothy 1:18-20

INTRODUCTION

The Christian is engaged in warfare

  1. It is a good warfare… 1 Timothy 1:18; cf. 1 Timothy 6:12
  2. It is a spiritual warfare… Ephesians 6:10-12
  3. It is a battle for “the” faith… Jude 3
  4. One that requires faith and a good conscience on our part… 1 Timothy 1:19

It is possible for Christians to do poorly in this “war”

  1. 1 Timothy 1:19
  2. By rejecting their faith and conscience
  3. Suffering shipwreck concerning the faith
  4. Such was true of two men mentioned by Paul
  5. 1 Timothy 1:20
  6. 1 Corinthians 5:1-13

Could this be true of us today?

  1. Might we become guilty of “Suffering Shipwreck of The Faith”?
  2. Indeed, we can suffer shipwreck, first…

DISCUSSION

BY REJECTING ONE’S FAITH

What is faith?

  1. Faith is in general the persuasion of the mind that a certain statement is true
  2. Its primary idea is trust
  3. A strong conviction or trust in something
  4. Hebrews 11:1

It is a strong conviction or trust in Jesus:

  1. Who Jesus is…
    • That is what He claimed
    • That is truly the Son of the living God… John 8:24
  2. What Jesus did…
    • That He died on the cross for our sins
    • That His death is truly a sufficient propitiation or sacrifice for our sins
  3. What Jesus said
    • That He alone provides the way to eternal life
    • That He alone is the way to God, the Father… John 14:6-7

How do we develop proper faith?

  1. Comes through the Word of God
    • Romans 10:17
    • John 20:30-31
  2. Strengthened through fellowship with other Christians
    • Hebrews 3:12-14
    • Hebrews10:24-25
  3. Confirmed through obedience… John 7:17
  4. But, faith can be destroyed…
    • Weakened by neglecting the Word of God!… Hosea 4:6
    • More likely to turn to unbelief by forsaking fellowship with other Christians!… Hebrews 3:12-14
    • Becomes a dead faith in the absence of works!… James 2:20-23, 26
  5. When you neglect the Word of God, forsake fellowship with brethren, and cease to do the will of God, you reject your faith, and make shipwreck of the faith.
  6. One also suffers shipwreck of the faith…

BY REJECTING ONE’S CONSCIENCE

What is the conscience?

“that process of thought which distinguishes what it considers morally good or bad, commending the good, condemning the bad, and so prompting to do the former, and to avoid the latter.” – Vine

Our conscience cannot always be reliable

  1. Paul had served God with a good conscience throughout his life… Acts 23:1
  2. Even at a time when he was persecuting Christians!… Acts 26:9-11
  3. Our conscience is like a clock, which works properly only if set correctly
  4. Even so, God desires that we have a good conscience… 1 Timothy 1:5; cf. 3:9

How do we develop a proper conscience?

  1. A good conscience is made possible through Jesus’ blood
    • Old Testament sacrifices and ordinances were insufficient… Hebrews 9:9; cf. 10:1-4
    • The blood of Jesus can cleanse one’s conscience… Hebrews 9:14; cf. 1 Peter 3:21
  2. A good conscience is maintained by obedience to God’s will
    • Failure to do what we know is right is sinful… James 4:17
    • Conduct with godly sincerity makes for a good conscience… 2 Corinthians 1:12

But, a good conscience can be destroyed

  1. Much harm can be done to our conscience
    • We can violate our conscience, which is sinful… Romans 14:22-23
    • We can defile our conscience, leading to unbelief… Titus 1:15
    • We can sear our conscience, leading to apostasy… 1 Timothy 4:1-2
  2. Whenever we ignore or violate our conscience, we are in dangerous territory!
    • A guilty conscience soon leads to a hardened conscience
      • E.g., once our conscience is hardened regarding attendance
      • …it is more likely to become hardened against doing what is right in other areas
    • Can we say what the writer of Hebrews did?… Hebrews 13:18
      • “…for we are confident that we have a good conscience, in all things desiring to live honorably”
      • If we make it a habit not to attend all the services of the church, can we really say “we have a good conscience, in all things desiring to live honorably”?

CONCLUSION

The Faith (the gospel) is designed to develop and nurture one’s faith and conscience…

  1. The gospel makes known what to believe and provides evidence… John 20:30-31
  2. The gospel provides the means to purify our hearts and conscience
    • Hebrews 9:14
    • 1 Peter 3:21
  3. If we reject faith and a good conscience, then the Faith suffers shipwreck in our lives!

Note how Paul felt as he came to the end of life… 2 Timothy 4:7

  1. That was because he strove to have a good conscience… Acts 24:16
  2. That was because he lived by faith… Galatians 2:20

Are you fighting the good fight?

  1. Are you keeping the faith?
  2. Or have you suffered shipwreck by rejecting faith and a good conscience?
  3. If so, then come back to the Shepherd of our souls!
Posted in Sermon Outlines, Timothy | Leave a comment

LET IT FLOW THROUGH

Posted on April 22, 2020 by from the Preachers PC

There was a beautiful lake that lost its zesty freshness. The water formerly had been clear. It was alluring to animals and people alike. But it became covered with a green scum. The farm animals became ill from drinking the water. Finally someone came by the lake who understood the problem. Debris collecting from the hard spring rains had stopped up the dam and prevented the free flow of water, not into the lake, but out of the lake. The spillway was cleared, and soon the lake was fresh and clean again. The flow in and out was necessary to keep the water pure!

Doesn’t the same principle apply to you and me as human beings? The blessings of life flow to you and me, but we fail to realize that most of these blessings are not meant just to flow to us, but through us, for the good of others around us, especially for those in need.

Remember, “So then, as we have opportunity, let us work that which is good toward all men, and especially toward them that are of the household of the faith” (Gal. 6:10). “All things therefore whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, even so do ye also unto them: for this is the law and the prophets” (Mat. 7:12). May our blessings always flow through to others.

Think About It!

Have A Great Day!

Tom Moore
http://www.fromthepreacherspc.org
http://www.harrisandmoore.org
http://www.parkheightscoc.com

“A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and sings it back to you when you have forgotten how it goes.”

Posted in Devotional Thoughts | Leave a comment