Rejoicing Always

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This is a sermon that was given on Thanksgiving Communion Sunday and it is based on 1 Thessalonians 5:16, "Rejoice Evermore." It emphasizes the importance of being thankful and "doing joy" even when circumstances are less than favorable.

Written Excerpts:

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NKJV) ¹⁶ Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, ¹⁸ in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

Introduction:

This week is our annual Thanksgiving Day holiday in this nation.

Humor: Thanksgiving Treats As our family was enjoying a delicious Thanksgiving dinner, my four-year-old granddaughter stopped chomping on her drumstick long enough to look at her mother, smile, and say, "I really like turkey on the cob. — Mary Wanda Little, McConnelsville, Ohio, Christian Reader. (In Today’s Best Illustrations.)

You might think that a sermon which relates to Thanksgiving would probably focus on verse 18 in this chapter, “in everything give thanks…” But for me, it is more intriguing that Paul writes just two verses earlier that people should “rejoice evermore,” or “rejoice always.”

v. 16 and v. 18 are both in the form of commands. And, so is the admonition in v. 17.

I’m convinced that the two commands, “rejoice always” and “in everything give thanks” are related. But I’m also convinced that the command in v. 17, “pray without ceasing” is also related to the other two commands. It seems to me that it would be impossible to always rejoice if I haven’t learned how to give thanks IN everything. And, it also seems impossible to do either one without praying always.

Before we go any further, I want to comment on the command, “pray without ceasing.”

Many writers and speakers have argued that the meaning is for Christians to be always in a spirit of prayer throughout every day. While, I certainly agree that it is profitable for us to be in the spirit of prayer as much as possible, I would have to say that we often find ourselves in circumstances that require such high concentration that we cannot maintain an attitude or spirit of prayer, at least not consciously. I like the explanation that our college president (Dr. Steve Herron) gave when I was in Bible College. He said, it simply means, “Do not give up (quit) the practice of prayer.”

For a brief time this morning, I would like to draw your attention to three different thoughts regarding this unusual verse.

I.    It is a command.

The grammatical structure of the word is an imperative verb. “You rejoice.”

“Be glad,” “Be joyful,” “Do joy.”

“Adjust your attitude!” Not a mockery. It implies, “Center your mind on something else besides your problems, your disappointments, etc. so your heart can rejoice.”

The Holy Spirit inspired Paul to write this command for a reason. Joy should be an identifiable trait of a true believer in Jesus.

(Leon Morris, Tyndale Commentaries) Indeed, few things about the New Testament church are more remarkable than this continual stress on joy.

(D. Edmond Hiebart) “The imperative statement is an appeal to their will; it reminds them that they have a part in maintaining this experience of joy. It is a call to them not to allow adverse circumstances to rob them of their joy.”

Paul reminds all of us to do what is right whether we feel like it or not, and, many times, doing what is right will produce better attitudes and feelings. 

II.  The command does not depend on current circumstances.

(D. Edmond Hiebart) “The command to rejoice always is remarkable in view of the sufferings of the readers already mentioned. (see 1:6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit;  and

3:2-4 [we] sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, ³that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this. ⁴For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know.)

(Hiebart, cont'd) “The remarkable part of the command lies in the emphatic “always.” It stresses the duty to rejoice at all times not just when circumstances are pleasant.”

“Paul knew that suffering for the Lord was not incompatible with rejoicing in the Lord.”

2 Corinthians 6:4-10 (NKJV) ⁴  But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses, ⁵  in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in fastings; ⁶  by purity, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love, ⁷  by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, ⁸  by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; ⁹  as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as chastened, and yet not killed; ¹⁰  as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

Acts 5:41 (NKJV) ⁴¹ So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.

So what is the source of joy in the midst of suffering? What reasons do we have to rejoice?

Acts 5:41 above, “We’re worthy to suffer for Jesus.” A deep satisfaction and joy that I am able to identify with the sufferings of Christ.

“Rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

“Rejoice, for great is your reward in heaven.”

“Rejoice with me for I have found my sheep which was lost.”

“… I will see you again and your heart shall rejoice.”

“[Love] rejoices in the truth.”

Php. 3:3 “we… rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.”

III. The command does not stand alone.

Something I read by one author convinces me that the command does not stand alone. In other words, it is definitely related to our responses to other important principles of faith.

(Leon Morris, Tyndale Commentaries) The various derivatives of [the word] joy occur with startling frequency throughout the New Testament. The word for ‘grace’, for example, is from this root, as are one of the words for ‘to forgive’, one for ‘to give thanks’, and another for ‘gifts of the Spirit’. New Testament Christianity is permeated with the spirit of holy joy.

It is easy to see how that joy and grace could be inter-dependent. The more we recognize and appreciate God’s grace for us, the more joy we’ll have. And, the more grace we show for others, the more joy it will produce. It’s hard to be sad and despondent or “blue” when we are appropriately aware of grace from God and showing grace to others.

It is also interesting to learn that the word for joy and one of the words in the NT used for forgiveness are also related. Nothing will rob a person of real joy any quicker than holding a grudge. Unforgiveness is the source of bitterness and bitterness produces nothing but sadness, and all kinds of other negative attitudes and effects.

These examples point out an important truth to us… Joy is rarely, if ever, isolated from other crucial attitudes and behaviors in the Christian life. In order to experience true joy, we must allow God to teach us obedience in all these other areas that He cares about.

Conclusion:

As we celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday this week, let us be reminded of the command from Christ’s chief apostle, “be glad always.”

As we celebrate the communion of our Lord’s suffering and death, let us rejoice and be glad in the wonderful salvation He has provided through no merit of our own.

Let us sing the closing song listed in your bulletins,

Lead Me to Calvary  

Looking for a City

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This is a sermon on the topic of heaven as described in Rev. 21 and 22.

Written Excerpts:

Hebrews 11:10 (KJV) … he [Abraham] looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. 

Introduction:

Just a couple of weeks ago I was visiting with Art Brown and as we were talking about his wife Barb, who passed away a little more than 2 years ago, Art ask me why we don’t hear more sermons about heaven?

I hadn’t thought about that question much until he asked me.

As I tried to discern what God wanted me to preach this Sunday, I came across a message that I had preached in our previous church shortly before moving here to Wayside.

Heaven is a topic that occupies more and more of my thoughts these days. I have many dear friends and family members that have safely arrived and are waiting my arrival.

Other circumstances also make heaven seem much more near and dear – (1) conditions in our society (2) conditions in our world in general.

Proposition: Based on thoughts I borrowed from the Holman Bible Dictionary, I would propose to you that chapters 21 & 22 of Revelation portray heaven in three different images: (1) as a tabernacle (21:1-8), (2) as a city (21:9-27), and (3) as a garden (22:1-5).

They further assert that the image of the tabernacle portrays heavenly life as perfect fellowship with God. The symbolism of the city portrays heavenly life as perfect protection. The image of the garden shows heavenly life as perfect provision.

Transition: I thought that these designations were interesting and would be useful for our discussion, so let’s take some time this morning to think about heaven in terms of perfect fellowship; perfect safety; and perfect provisions.

I. Heaven is a place of perfect fellowship.

Rev. 21:3, the imagery used is regarding the tabernacle when it reads, “The tabernacle of God is with men and he will dwell with them….”

It is interesting to note that the noun “tabernacle” and the verb “will dwell” are both from the same root meaning tent or tabernacle.

Let’s consider first of all about the progression of thought in Scripture regarding the Tabernacle.

A. The first kind of tabernacle

Ex. 25:8 – Make a sanctuary that I may dwell among them.

Ex. 33 – The tabernacle was erected outside the camp of the Israelites. It was a place for God’s presence / Spirit to dwell. His presence was represented by the pillar of cloud / fire.

Num. 2 – The tabernacle was erected in the center of the camp of the Israelites with all twelve tribes surrounding it.

2 Sam. 6:17 – A tabernacle was erected by King David for the purpose of housing the ark of the covenant when it was brought back to Jerusalem.

In all these cases the “fellowship” with God’s Spirit was primarily with Moses or other specific individuals, namely the high priests. These individuals acted as representatives for the people. The “common folks” were forbidden to get too close. Also, it was localized at the “tent of meeting.” If you get away from the tent/tabernacle, you “leave” the presence of God (not in the sense that it cancels his omnipresence, but in the sense of divine fellowship).

B. The second kind of “tabernacle”

John 1:14 “The Word became flesh and dwelled among us.” The word, “dwelled” is literally the same word as “tabernacle.”

Now, the emphasis is not on the cloud and the fire symbolizing the presence of the Spirit, neither is the fellowship reserved only for designated individuals. Rather, the emphasis is on the God-man, Jesus Christ, living among and fellowshipping with all people. This fellowship is on a more personal level and it’s for the average individual, not just special leaders.

Yet, this fellowship is still localized. It is only possible when in the actual presence of Jesus.

C. The third kind of “tabernacle”

Rev. 21:3 - the tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them, and they shall be His people. God Himself will be with them and be their God.

In heaven all of the previous types and symbols of fellowship with God will become full reality. There are no limitations on location or on personality. Every child of God that has safely arrived in this eternal haven will know in unlimited and unhindered splendor what it means to have perfect fellowship with our Creator and Sovereign God.

The previous applications of “tabernacle” tended to emphasize one member of the Trinity at-a-time, but then we will experience divine, sacred fellowship with all three persons of the Trinity (Father, Son & Holy Spirit).

v. 4 - In that perfect environment of divine fellowship God will provide all the comfort, peace, tranquility and wholeness that will make the fellowship infinitely richer than anything we have ever experienced on this earth.

II. Heaven is a place of perfect safety.

In Rev. 21:2, the city (New Jerusalem) is briefly mentioned, but later in verses 9-27 we are given many more details about the city.

A. Safety is implied by the architecture.

The Apostle gives enough details about the architecture to help us understand the dazzling beauty and quality materials of the city’s structure. Even though the architecture that was common in that part of the world until the 1^st century AD was magnificent in many ways, it would pale in comparison to what will meet the eye in the New Jerusalem, and the same can be said even today.

For the average reader of this revelation, their common experience included life lived in structures that were not so well-built and therefore not so safe and secure. For them, the description of this city would immediately spell safety and security simply on the basis of structure and materials.

B. Safety is implied by the absence of darkness/night.

21:23, 25,  The city had no need of the sun or of the moon to shine in it, for the glory of God illuminated it. The Lamb is its light. Its gates shall not be shut at all by day (there shall be no night there).

22:5 There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light.

Darkness has always been associated with evil and subsequently things that cause harm.

Cf. Prov. 2:13-15 From those who leave the paths of uprightness To walk in the ways of darkness; Who rejoice in doing evil, And delight in the perversity of the wicked; Whose ways are crooked, And who are devious in their paths;

Jn. 3:19-20 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed.

The complete absence of darkness in the city called the New Jerusalem implies that there is no environment that could be conceived as even slightly conducive to evil.

C. Safety is implied by the absence of evil men.

Rev. 21:8, 27 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. ²⁷Nothing evil will be allowed to enter—no one who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

Again, this description is such a contrast to the norm that John’s readers would have commonly experienced – as it is with us today. We are surrounded with all kinds of wickedness. It is difficult to imagine life without it.

Rev. 22:11 Let the one who is doing wrong continue to do wrong; the one who is vile, continue to be vile; the one who is good, continue to do good; and the one who is holy, continue in holiness.”

Wicked and evil men will continue to be so, but they won’t be allowed in the city.

D. Safety is implied by the rule of righteousness

Rev. 22:3, 5 … throne of God and of the Lamb will be there, and his servants will worship him…. And they will reign forever and ever.

In the presence of God and the “throne” (which implies ruling) the servants will be worshipping and “reigning.” Again, in stark contrast to the corruption of power, wicked rulers and evil that takes place in government on this earth, the new city will have a perfect government with God as the Sovereign and all his servants reigning along with him.

I must admit that I can’t take it all in. I can’t comprehend it all, let alone explain it all. But, by faith I believe it with all my heart. In the safety of this perfectly governed righteous environment there will never be another temptation to evil; never another evil thought; no profane language; absolutely nothing that is contrary to the infinitely pure nature of God.

Hallelujah! Won’t it be wonderful there?

III. Heaven is a place of perfect provisions.

The third image and symbol used in this passage portrays heaven as a garden. At the beginning I quoted two writers who suggested that this image suggests perfect provision. The imagery of provisions come primarily from the references to the “twelve manner of fruit” or possibly “twelve crops of fruit” as suggested by some commentators.

Additionally, there is mention of healing provided by the leaves of the trees, and the fact that there is “no more curse,” which seems to be a direct reference to the Garden of Eden where the “curse” of sin first took place.

Once again I admit that I do not comprehend all that may be intended by these words about fruit and healing. Yet, I do think that there is an intentional contrast here with the Garden of Eden to signify that all the horror of sin is over and the curse is removed for ever and ever. Every need will be supplied and life will be absolutely harmonious as it apparently was in the very beginning of creation, only now there is no end. Every disease and illness will be forever banished. No cancer, no Lou Gehrig’s disease, no disabilities, and nothing at all that has negatively plagued human lives.

I want to finish up this service by showing a video clip of a song that was sung during a Gaither Homecoming. The singer is David Ring who was stillborn and left for dead while doctors gave urgent care to his mother, then he started breathing and crying after 18 minutes. He was afflicted with cerebral palsy as a result. As you hear him speak and sing this song you can’t help but think about the day he arrives in heaven, when he’ll no longer suffer the limitations of his disability.

Get your tissues out and prepare to cry and praise the Lord as we listen to this song: What a Day That Will Be. (YouTube video: David Ring & "What a Day That Will Be")

Conclusion:

Oh, dear friends, I certainly don’t want to miss heaven. I wouldn’t want to get careless and lose my spiritual appetite for this wonderful place God is preparing.

I’m so grateful that God’s grace ever reached my heart and showed me that I needed to repent of my sins and believe in the sufficient blood sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross for me.

If you have not confessed your sins to Jesus and put your faith in His sacrifice on the cross, you’ll miss out on all these wonderful blessings.

If did put faith in Christ, but you have allowed the cares of life and the deceitfulness of riches, or other worldly pursuits to choke out your spiritual life, you’ll miss out on all these wonderful blessings.

If I were you, I’d want to turn to the Lord today and get ready to go to that wonderful place God has prepared for those who love Him and do His will.

Kingdoms In Conflict

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This sermon uses John 18:36 as the basis for showing that Christ's Kingdom is at odds with the kingdoms of this world. This message was given in observance of the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church, in anticipation of the national presidential election in the U.S. and in respect for Veterans Day.

Written Excerpts:

John 18:36 (NKJV) Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here."

Introduction:

There are three reasons I have chosen this topic for our consideration today:

1. Day of prayer for persecuted church.

2. Presidential election this week.

3. Veteran’s Day this week.

All three of these topics represent conflict in one form or another.

I want to spend some time speaking about these conflicts in light of what the Bible says about the kingdom of God.

I.    Christians Persecuted for faith in Jesus.

One of the “arenas” where we see “Kingdoms in Conflict” includes those Christian believers who suffer for their faith.

Jesus predicted that his followers would suffer persecution. It is the classic struggle between the followers of Satan/powers of darkness and the followers of Jesus/soldiers of truth and righteousness.

Acts 14:22 (NKJV) ²² strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, "We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God."

2 Timothy 3:12 (NKJV) ¹² Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution.

Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV) ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

For those of us who have always lived in a country that enjoys freedom of religion, it’s hard to grasp the kind of lives that our Christian family members in other parts of the world have to live. We have been accustomed to living in a nation that was very heavily influenced by Christian beliefs and principles and had a myriad of Christians involved not only in its founding, but also involved in its governance through the years. As our society moves farther and farther away from biblical values, we tend to panic and get depressed and worry about what’s going to happen.

Our faithful brothers and sisters in other lands have shown us the way. Their lives have never been easy. Their faith is vibrant and steadfast; nothing wishy-washy about them.

(Read article(s) in Voice Of the Martyrs magazine.)

II.  Politics and upcoming election.

Another arena where we see “kingdoms in conflict” is the realm of politics. As I stated a few moments ago, we have grown up in a country that is heavily influenced by Christian people and biblical values in our culture. As we endured the current political season of campaigning, many of us have become alarmed about the future. Most people seem to be concerned regardless of who wins the election.

I have pretty much reached the conclusion that there is only two options for the future of this nation. Either we will see another great spiritual awakening as God’s people get more serious than ever about living authentic faith. Or, we will see our nation experience the kind of tyranny and persecution that other nations have gone through.

Why do I believe this? Mainly because I think that these are the only two options for getting the church awake again and busy doing what Christ commanded us to do, rather than simply seeking our own worldly comfort and ease.

As we pray for the election and as we get out and exercise our privilege to vote, let us remember that the kingdom of God will not be brought in by who’s in the White House or who’s in Congress, or who’s in the Supreme Court. The kingdom of God will be brought about by Jesus Christ and His work through His people doing Kingdom business regardless who is in power in Washington!

John 18:36 (NKJV) Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here."

The purely worldly or human efforts to reform the nation will not produce the effects that a genuine revival will produce.

We need Jesus more than we need Hillary Clinton.

We need Jesus more than we need Donald Trump.

We need Jesus more than anyone or anything. And until we Christians truly grasp that truth, I believe God will use any means necessary to wake us up and get us to understand it.

III. Veterans and military conflict.

The third arena which represents “kingdoms in conflict” is national military.

Jesus predicted that when we get closer and closer to the end of the age, “kingdom will rise against kingdom…”

There are times when it is legitimate for nations to engage in military conflicts to defeat evil aggression and defend the nation’s citizens against such aggression. Several years ago I preached a sermon on Memorial Day Sunday that was titled “Why I Am Not a Pacifist.” I believe it is biblical for national defense and for leaders to provide for the security of its citizens. I also believe with all my heart that there have been plenty of times that God has miraculously intervened in wars to give victory to those who were fighting against evil, tyranny and horrible atrocities.

Even in times of war, we must always understand the spiritual truth that Paul told the Ephesians and I quoted earlier:

Ephesians 6:12 (NKJV) ¹² For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.

I, for one, am truly grateful for the sacrifice of millions of men and women who have defended this nation against evil aggressors, and have liberated scores of other nations from evil aggressors.

America has truly been a remarkable country in the fact that when we have liberated any nation from its violent and evil aggressors, we do not force that nation to become an added part of our country. We are not a nation engaged in the job of “empire building.”

Yet, we must all understand that when justice requires the actions of the military to defeat evil forces who intend to destroy us, even when we win the war, the kingdom of God has not necessarily been ushered in. Wars can save a nation from being conquered by enemies, but they cannot change the hearts and moral climate of that nation. That can only be done by the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion:

There is a tremendous amount of material in the Bible regarding the Kingdom of God. I’ve been thinking about possibly doing a series of messages on it sometime in the future.

Let us always remember that... “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness.”

That not only refers specifically to my hope of eternal salvation, but I think it also refers to my hope of any kind of national return to biblical values and Christian norms that we long to see again.

Let us not forget that Jesus’ kingdom is ultimately going to win and He will finally crush all forces of evil as He returns to earth and establishes a permanent reign of righteousness!

Peter McKenzie, the famous Methodist preacher, was being shown over Madame Tussaud's Waxworks in London. Coming to one object, his guide said, 'This is the chair in which Voltaire sat and wrote his atheistic blasphemies.'

`Is that the chair?' asked Peter; and then, without seeking permission, he stepped over the cord, sat down on the chair, and sang as only a real believer could:

Jesus shall reign where'er the sun
Doth its successive journeys run;
His kingdom stretch from shore to shore
Till moons shall wax and wane no more.

Which would you rather have—McKenzie's faith or Voltaire's atheism?—Selected

Which kingdom are you fighting for?

Which kingdom has your full allegiance?

Let us close the service today by singing:

Who Is on the Lord’s Side?

Prayer of a Persecuted Saint

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This is a message based on Psalm 86 and uses the content of King David's prayer as a guide for our prayers.

Written Excerpts:

Introduction:

The title to Psalm 86 indicates that it was written by King David. Several phrases that appear in this psalm also appear in other psalms that David wrote. One commentary author described this psalm as the “prayer of a persecuted saint,” which is the reason I have used that for the title of the sermon.

David’s prayer is relatively comprehensive as it speaks to a number of different topics in the requests that he makes. As we study this prayer of one of the greatest kings of Israel, I believe that we can see some important ingredients for prayer in our own daily experiences.

Someone has noted that this prayer contains a number of petitions that are accompanied by confessions of need as well as confessions of faith. The petitions or supplications are words that appear as imperatives or commands. They are urgent requests. Also, there are two different places in the prayer when the author interjects words of praise before continuing the requests to his God.

Let us take a look at David’s petitions, confessions and praises to find some helpful insights that could influence and improve our own prayers.

I.    Plea for God’s attention. (vv. 1, 6)

Psalm 86:1 (NKJV) ¹ Bow down Your ear, O LORD, hear me; For I am poor and needy.

Psalm 86:6 (NKJV) ⁶ Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer; And attend to the voice of my supplications.

Supplication: “Bow down; hear; give ear”

A plea for God’s direct attention.

We know from other passages of scripture that God always has His attention focused on us. He knows about every sparrow that falls and he knows the number of hairs on our heads. Yet, this prayer emphasizes the desire for God to take notice of my condition.

Confession: (of need) “I am poor and needy.”

“afflicted” and “in want, or wretched” (JFB)

“God gives grace to the humble, but He resists the proud.”

Confession: (of faith) Psalm 86:7 (KJV) In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me.

II.  Plea for God’s protection. (vv. 2, 14-16)

Psalm 86:2 (KJV) Preserve my soul; for I am holy: O thou my God, save thy servant that trusteth in thee.

Psalm 86:14-16 (KJV) O God, the proud are risen against me, and the assemblies of violent men have sought after my soul; and have not set thee before them. ¹⁵ But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. ¹⁶ O turn unto me, and have mercy upon me; give thy strength unto thy servant, and save the son of thine handmaid.

Supplication: “preserve (guard); save”

v. 16 – “have mercy… give strength… and save”

Confession: “I am holy… your servant… trusting in you.”

This is not a self-righteous declaration of merit or worth.

“holy” – godly, faithful or loyal, devoted because of covenant relationship. Probably a parallel with “trusting.”

“trusting” – he has found the Lord to be dependable.

v. 15 – But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth.

III. Plea for God’s mercy. (v. 3)

Psalm 86:3 (KJV) ³ Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I cry unto thee daily.

Supplication: Show mercy to me.

Confession: (faith) v. 3 – “I cry unto thee daily (or all day long).” An acknowledgement that he knows God is his source of forgiveness and compassion. If he didn’t have this faith, he wouldn’t bother calling on Him every day.

v. 5 – “plenteous in mercy to all who call”

IV. Plea for God’s joy (v. 4)

Psalm 86:4 (KJV) ⁴ Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.

Supplication: Rejoice the soul of thy servant.

Confession: (faith) Unto thee I lift up my soul.

He understands that God is the source of joy; not circumstances in life. He looks to the Lord with expectation. Possibly an intentional allusion to the “wave offering” done by the priests.

Charles Spurgeon – I know that the nearer I am to thee the greater is my joy, therefore be pleased to draw me nearer while I am laboring to draw near. (The Treasury of David)

Praise: Psalm 86:8-10 (KJV) Among the gods there is none like unto thee, O Lord; neither are there any works like unto thy works. ⁹ All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee, O Lord; and shall glorify thy name. ¹⁰ For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: thou art God alone.

(Wesleyan Bible Commentary) The great God presented here is the reason the psalmist can pray with confidence in verses 1 through 7 and verses 13 through 17. Others may claim that their gods are supreme (86:8), but they are mistaken, for you alone are God—there is only one God (86:10).

V.  Plea for God’s instruction (v. 11a)

Psalm 86:11a (KJV) Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth….

Supplication: Teach me.

Confession: I will walk in thy truth.

Spurgeon – “…truth shall not be a mere doctrine or sentiment to me, but a matter of daily life.” (The Treasury of David)

VI. Plea for God’s Purity (v. 11b)

Psalm 86:11b (KJV) …unite my heart to fear thy name.

Supplication: Unite my heart.

The plea for an undivided heart is essentially the same as a prayer for a pure heart – a heart with no other affections or loyalties. It is a prayer for faithfulness and commitment to only one true God.

Praise: Psalm 86:12-13 (KJV) I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. ¹³ For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell [realm of the dead].

VII. Plea for God’s confirmation. (v. 17)

Psalm 86:17 (NKJV) Show me a sign [token] for good, That those who hate me may see it and be ashamed, Because You, LORD, have helped me and comforted me.

Supplication: Show me a token or sign.

Confession: You have helped me and comforted me.

King David not only wants some kind of confirmation from God that his prayer has been heard and will be answered, but it seems that he especially wants his enemies (and God’s enemies) to take notice as well.

Spurgeon – God doth nothing by halves, those whom he helps he also consoles, and so makes them not merely safe but joyful. This makes the foes of the righteous exceedingly displeased, but it brings to the Lord double honour. (The Treasury of David)

Conclusion:

One author described this psalm as a “patchwork of faith.” There are a number of examples in this prayer that we can follow and try to emulate in our own prayers. The most important thing is this: as we make our requests to God, do not forget to make confessions of our own need (humility), confessions of God’s greatness and goodness, as well as praises to God for all past blessings. If we will endeavor to do this, I think we will discover how that prayer can be a conversation with our heavenly Father.

In closing, let’s stand and sing an old favorite hymn of comfort and assurance.

Under His Wings

Redemption: Believers' Highest Pursuit

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This is the final message in a series of sermons on the topic of Redemption. This sermon focuses on the need for believers who have been redeemed to live their life of faith in harmony with God's will as revealed in Scripture.

Written Excerpts:

1 Corinthians 10:31 (NKJV) Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Introduction:

Some people tend to view salvation and redemption merely as an escape from hell and the key to heaven. Redemption does provide us with the privilege of heaven, but it is more than that. It truly relates to everyday life here on earth and the life as a disciple of Jesus Christ. God not only wants to redeem us so we can live with Him forever, but He redeems us so we can fulfill His purposes here on earth, and by doing so, bring glory to Him.

In the very first sermon of this series we talked about the song of the living creatures and elders in heaven, giving glory to the Lamb for the redemption of humanity. Giving God the glory doesn’t have to wait until we get to heaven. We can bring glory to God now as we live out the life of a redeemed person in a world that desperately needs to see His grace and love in action. We bring glory to God as we live out His purposes.

What are the purposes that God has for His redeemed disciples and followers?

I.    The Upward Purpose of the Redeemed Life

Every individual who has been redeemed has a God-given responsibility to glorify God.

Psalm 30:9-12 (NKJV) ⁹ “What profit is there in my blood, When I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise You? Will it declare Your truth? ¹⁰ Hear, O LORD, and have mercy on me; LORD, be my helper!" ¹¹ You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, ¹² To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.

Ephesians 1:5-6 (NKJV) ⁵ having predestined us to adoption as sons by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will, ⁶ to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He has made us accepted in the Beloved.

Ephesians 2:4-7 (NKJV) ⁴ But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, ⁵ even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), ⁶ and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, ⁷ that in the ages to come He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.

1 Peter 2:20 (NKJV) ²⁰ For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God.

Malachi 2:2 (NKJV) ² If you will not hear, And if you will not take it to heart, To give glory to My name," Says the LORD of hosts, "I will send a curse upon you, And I will curse your blessings. Yes, I have cursed them already, because you do not take it to heart.

How am I showing forth His praises? Do other people around me have a higher opinion of God because of me and my life? This is particularly hard for those who are going through serious adversity and suffering. But, we need to ask ourselves, “As others see me suffer and evaluate my attitudes, my words and my actions, what kind of opinion will they have of God?”

Even for those who have life relatively good right now, what is there about my life that influences others to give praise and adoration to God?

II.  The Inward Purpose of the Redeemed Life

The inward purpose refers to the mission / purpose of the church as it relates to our ministry and responsibility to other believers in the body of Christ. There are a number of references that speak about how Christians are to care for, nurture, and build each other up in the faith.

If we just take the passages in the N.T. where the phrase “one another” appears, we find a significant number of instructions for Christians to follow in our service and ministry to our brothers and sisters in the family of God. By looking at these and a few other references this is what we learn about our mission within the church.

1. We learn that we are to be committed to love and unity.

Rom. 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another…

1 John 3:11 For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.

Love is not necessarily a feeling, but it is an action. It’s not always something you feel inside, but it is something you do that demonstrates concern, care and compassion.

2. We are to build each other up in the faith.

1 Thess. 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

Romans 15:2 (NKJV) ² Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification.

Ephesians 4:12 (NKJV) ¹² for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,

“edify” – to build, construct,

3. We are to warn and guard each other against error.

Rom. 15:14 I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

Col. 3:16 … teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

Heb. 3:13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

The word “admonish” means to put in mind or call attention to, thus to warn.

“Exhort” comes from the same compound word as the word for “comforter” which means to call alongside. Just as the Holy Spirit is portrayed as the one who is called alongside to help us, so to exhort implies calling one to the side in order to advise, admonish or encourage them.

Other words used for “exhort” mean to “speak near,” thus advise; and “propel / urge forward” or encourage.

4. We are to assume our role and responsibility in the body.

1 Cor. 12:1-27 – The Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of a physical body to describe how we all must cooperate and work together in the spiritual body.

Your body cannot function properly or to its full potential if certain parts of it are missing or failing. The same is true regarding the body of Christ. (The collection of people who have been redeemed.) There are roles and responsibilities that each one of fills that is vital to the overall health of the body. It is no more healthy or fitting for a member of Jesus’ body to spiritually exist all alone than it is for your arm or your leg to continue to live without the rest of your body.

Part of our responsibility to live as redeemed individuals is for us to edify and nurture our brothers and sisters in the family of faith.

III. The Outward Purpose of the Redeemed Life

1. The Great Commission.

This involves the task of evangelism and spiritual conversion of the lost to Jesus Christ. It is based on the reference in Matthew 28 that is the classic passage regarding the great commission.

Matt. 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

This is only one of many texts that define the Christian’s responsibility to tell others about Jesus and to persuade people to commit their hearts and lives to Him. God is Sovereign and He obviously could convert the lost without our involvement if He chose to do so. But, He didn’t choose to do that.

In Romans Chapter 10 Paul asks these rhetorical questions:

“How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed?”

“How shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard?”

“How shall they hear without a preacher?”

Dear brothers and sisters, God has not ordained any other method for reaching the lost than through the testimony of those who have been redeemed.

It really is our responsibility.

2. The Great Commandment.

The term “great commandment” is a reference to the reply Jesus gave when he was asked about the greatest commandment. Jesus told the questioner that the first commandment was to love God with all our heart, soul, strength and mind. (Luke 10:27)

He then continued by saying the second great commandment was that we should love our neighbor as ourselves. (Matt. 22:39)

There is more for us to do in this world than evangelize the lost. It is legitimate for believers to ask ourselves, “What am I actively doing to demonstrate my love for my neighbor?”

Conclusion:

We have been describing what the whole scheme and plan of redemption entails. Today we are finishing up the series by describing what God intends for redeemed people to be and do while they are “waiting for the final chapter of redemption in glory.” We have God-ordained work to do. We have a God-given purpose to fulfill.

Let’s not view our lives as just getting our “ticket” to heaven and living for our own ambitions and satisfaction until the day our “ship leaves the harbor.” Let us all be committed to the life God planned for us.

I want us to sing a song that may be new to many of us, but it is a simple song with a great message.

I Give All to You   #595