God's Plans to Prosper His People

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This is a sermon that was given by guest minister, Rev. Russ Smith. He spoke from the text in Jer. 29:11 regarding God's plans for His people.

Outline of the Sermon:

I.     God's plans for prosperity comes in the midst of punishment.

II.    Give place to God's definition of "prosper."

III.   Purpose to be productive in the present.

IV.   God's plan includes eternal paradise.

The Messiah Is Coming

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This is an Advent message that focuses on Jesus' comments about His second advent.

Written Excerpts:

Matthew 24:27 (NKJV) For as the lightning comes from the east and flashes to the west, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.

Introduction:

Advent – The season of the year when we center our attention on the approach of Christmas. We focus our thoughts on the events and circumstances that were leading up to the birth of Christ. In our meditations on Advent, we sometimes try to imagine what it would have been like to be involved in the original nativity event. For most of us, with all of the celebrations associated with Christmas and the many times we have heard the Christmas story, it is hard to imagine the original event coming with very few people even aware of it all.

In previous advent sermons I have made reference to the second coming of Christ as a reminder to all of us that He is going to come again, just as certainly as He came the first time. Today I want to purposely devote more time for us to think about His second coming and perhaps make some comparisons and contrasts with the first coming.

In order to address the topic of the Lord’s 2^nd coming, I thought I would use some of the details that Jesus Himself gives us in Matthew 24. As we look into this passage, we want to first of all acknowledge that there has been a lot of misunderstanding and disagreement about the chapter. Many scholars believe that the confusion is a result of the fact that the disciples have asked the Lord two distinct questions in verse 3. As Jesus answers their questions, it is not always easy to know which of the two questions he is answering.

The two questions are:

When will these things be? (i.e. happen) “These things” – Refers back to Jesus’ comment in v. 2 “Do you not see all these things? Assuredly, I say to you, not one stone shall be left here upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”

What will signal your coming and the end of the age? (The structure of the sentence in Greek indicates that “your coming” and “end of the age” are considered to be the same.)

Having acknowledged that there is disagreement about which descriptions in this chapter pertain to the second coming, I will try to make it simple by saying I am going to follow the opinion of R.T. France (Tyndale Commentary) when he says:

Other than a brief mention in verse 27, Jesus’ comments about His Coming begin in verse 36 and continue through the end of chapter 25.

So, let us look at these verses and see what the Lord has to say about His 2^nd coming and how it compares or contrasts with His 1^st coming.

I.       His coming will be publicly and widely known.

v. 27

Some writers feel that Jesus has not yet switched to speak exclusively about His 2^nd coming, but He has interjected this comment to let them know that His coming is different from the events of the pending destruction.

When the Messiah came the first time, there were many prophecies that had been made, but the event was obscure. A handful of relatives knew (Zachariah and Elizabeth). Only a few shepherds received the announcement. Only a small number of Magi received supernatural announcement. No one in Jerusalem knew about the event.

But, when He comes again, Jesus indicates that it is going to be noticeable, just like lightening that flashes across the sky from east to west.

II.     The time of His coming is unknown.

This point actually compares with His 1^st coming. Even though there were many prophecies, and there were some that were so inclined to study them, we definitely get the impression that no one was really sure when He would come. The same thing is true regarding the 2^nd coming.

v. 36

Jesus makes it clear that even He (in his humanity), did not know the day nor the hour that He would return. This statement makes some believe that this verse is really the point when he changes from talking about the destruction of Jerusalem and its accompanying conditions and starts talking exclusively about His return.

Why? Because of the statement in v. 34, “… this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.” If descriptions and events prior to verse 34 are about the 2^nd coming, then the only option we are left with is to say that Jesus really expected the end to come in their lifetime. In other words, He was confused and mistaken just like the disciples were.

Even though there are a myriad of prophecies in Scripture regarding the end time events, the fact remains… No one knows when Jesus is coming back.

vv. 37-44 – Life will be going on as usual. People will be preoccupied with everyday events that are normal.

v. 44 – Get ready.

III.    Once He comes, opportunity is gone.

When the Messiah came the 1^st time, most of the world was unaware. Only a few people were notified, like the shepherds. Only a few people were expecting Him (Simeon, Anna, & Magi). However, the opportunity to learn of Him and “find” Him has continued from then until now.

But, when He comes again, the opportunity to know Him will end.

25:1-13

So be ready and stay ready (v. 13).

It’s not only important to have the “oil.” But it is imperative to have enough oil.

What’s it mean to have a reserve of oil?

·     Invest your life and gifts in God’s great Kingdom enterprise (vv. 14-30).

·     Devote your life being generous to God’s “least of these.” (vv. 31-46)

·     In other words, you can’t just accept Christ and then “coast the rest of the way to the pearly gates.”

Conclusion:

Just as certainly as the Messiah came the 1^st time, He is coming again! The most important words of Jesus that He repeated over and over – “therefore be ye ready.”

Prophecy Fulfilled

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This is an Advent message that discusses the phrase used many times in the Gospels, "...that it might be fulfilled." The message provides some insights about the importance and use of prophecy in regards to the Messiah.

Written Excerpts:

Matthew 1:22 (NKJV) So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet….

Introduction:

In the reading of the Scripture a little earlier this phrase “that it might be fulfilled” (or something similar) was used three times. The phrase appears at least 14 times in the Gospel of Matthew (the most occurrences in any of the Gospels). This makes perfect sense since Matthew was writing to a Jewish audience and the connection to OT prophecies would have been highly significant for them.

It certainly is intriguing to examine all of the prophecies that were made about Jesus and how they were fulfilled in one person. Various writers have pointed out that there are over 300 prophecies in the OT that were fulfilled in Jesus.

Josh McDowell quoting from Harold Hartzler explains: If you take enough silver dollars to cover the state of Texas two feet deep and then instruct someone to randomly find just one silver dollar that had been specially marked beforehand, that would be similar odds as having just 8 of the messianic prophecies being fulfilled in one person. But Jesus fulfilled more than 8 prophecies. He fulfilled more than 60 prophecies.

Transition:

There are several questions about the role of prophecy that I want to explore with you today in hopes that our faith will be strengthened and our spirits inspired.

I.    Divine omniscience or divine decree?

This question addresses the issue of fate or personal choice.

Did the event happen because it was prophesied? Or, was it prophesied because God in His eternal knowledge saw what was going happen and then revealed to His prophets? This question obviously involves the issue of predestination and free will. Is everything that ever happens predetermined or decreed to happen as it does, or is there real human choice and responsibility involved?

My understanding of biblical theology comes down on the side of human free will and human responsibility for free choices. So, I believe it is more accurate to say that the prophecies fulfilled by Jesus were revealed by God because He has the ability to see the future as well as the present, and He already knows what is going to happen.

God is sovereign and we never have to “worry” about Satan or any human beings completely ruining God’s plan for redemption and restoration of His creation. God’s overall plan will completely succeed and never be derailed. Yet, in His great sovereign control over the outcomes, God seems to allow human beings freedom to either cooperate with or resist His will.

We can take comfort in the fact that because of God’s eternal, infinite knowledge, nothing takes Him by surprise or confuses Him. We can trust in Him knowing that if He can work things all out so that one person fulfills over 300 different references in the OT, then He certainly can bring order out of my chaos, and victory out of my defeats.

II.  Single or multiple fulfillments?

This question involves the possibility that a prophecy may have its fulfillment in more than one historical event.

In many of the prophecies there definitely seems to be conditions that indicate a fulfillment in the near future, but there also seems to be a more complete fulfillment by an event that happens in the distant future. There have been times when I read a NT passage and it is described as a fulfillment of an OT passage. When I go back and read the OT passage, I sometimes do not get the sense that the author was actually speaking about an event in the distant future.

For example, in the crucifixion of Christ, His last words “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Ps. 22) There are several verses in that Psalm that accurately depict the suffering of Jesus. Yet, when I read that psalm I get the sense that David truly was describing his current circumstances.

When a NT writer sees an event that matches up with the words of an OT writer, he is inspired by the Spirit to say, “This is a fulfillment of what the prophet said.” In other words, this scene or event completely matches up with something God inspired to be written hundreds of years ago. It fits in with God’s revelation to men of long ago.

Even though these fulfillments were more specific and the Holy Spirit did inspire the NT writers to see the connection to OT passages, I think it is also a reminder to each of us even today that God has a word to offer us in the many situations and circumstances that we may face each and every day.

If we will read His Word and become familiar with it, it will speak to us in the moments when we need to hear His voice the most.

III. Doom or hope?

Another observation we can make about prophecies is the fact that some of them were given at times of great distress and pending suffering.

So many of the prophecies regarding the messiah were given by the prophet Isaiah. If you read through his prophecy, you will see that there are multiple predictions of destruction and pending doom because of the rebellion of Judah against the law of God. God was bringing judgment upon them because of their spiritual adultery and worship of idols. Yet, even in the midst of the predictions of judgment and suffering, Isaiah sprinkles predictions of the coming Messiah and the hope that He will bring to His people.

So, when we read many of these prominent prophecies about the coming of the Messiah, we should remember that these bright messages of hope were given in some of the darkest times in Israel’s history. It is a reminder that God is working out His divine purposes and He will have the final word. He will bring in the reign of righteousness exactly when He decides it is the right time.

When Jesus finally came into this world, the only ones who initially recognized Him were those who had been watching and expecting (Simeon, Anna, etc.).

Conclusion:

As we think of God’s unfolding revelation to man and how He gave prophecies that were miraculously fulfilled in one person, Jesus Christ, it demonstrates His unlimited knowledge of every detail. There are prophecies that are yet to be fulfilled, and we can rest assured that He will bring everything to pass as He has done before.

We need to be like Simeon and Anna and those who were anticipating God’s next great intervention in the affairs of this world. We need to be alert and expecting the return of our Lord, the King of kings and Lord of lords.

If we compare the future with the story of the past (particularly the story of the incarnation), it would seem to me that it is not so important that we have all the prophecies figured out and correct in our minds. But it is more important to cooperate with God as He leads and directs us.

In other words, while it is true that the Wise Men had been studying, yet there were many more “players in the ‘Incarnation Drama’” who didn’t really know the Scriptures, yet were cooperative with the direct leading of God as they fulfilled their roles in the fulfillment of prophecy.

Let us purpose to be cooperative with the Lord as we continue to march ahead toward the ultimate fulfillment of Redemption.

Let’s close the service today by singing

God Has Spoken by His Prophets   

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

(To download an mp3 file of this message, click on the title above. To listen now, click on the play button of the audio player shown.)

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