Click here to download the sermon file.
Recap of 12/27/09:
1. We can be devoted to service and causes in Jesus’ name but are we, in the words of Oswald Chambers, “personally, passionately devoted to Jesus Christ?” In Luke 7:36-50 we encounter a “sinful” woman who was just that, devoted to Jesus.
2. In Revelation 2 a charge is lodged against the church at Ephesus, though they were doctrinally sound and personally pure they had left their first love. Dr. John F. Walvoord writes in the Bible Knowledge Commentary: “Most of the Ephesians Christians were now second-generation believers, and though they had retained purity of doctrine and life and had maintained a high level of service, they were lacking in deep devotion to Christ. How the church today needs to heed this same warning, that orthodoxy and service are not enough. Christ wants believers’ hearts as well as their hands and heads.”
3. Great love for Jesus and others begins with a sense of our own sinfulness. Our goal must be to make others passionate lovers of Christ, not just those who tip their hats to Him. It was said of A. W. Tozer that he was always looking for those who would join the “fellowship of the burning heart.”
4. How we should love for Jesus: by treating Him, not as One to be manipulated to our purpose, but as One to adore; by sitting at His feet and listening to Him; by loving those He loved; and by being devoted first to Him, not to causes or service.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Christmas' Gift To Us
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Recap of 12/20/09:
1. Mary and Joseph were in the betrothal period when the angel Gabriel came to Mary. During the betrothal period a couple were pledged to each other, considered to be married, and would require a divorce to end the relationship. The betrothal period was customarily a year during which time the bride would continue to live in her parent’s home and the marriage would not be consummated. To be found pregnant during this period would be considered adultery. This was the situation that Mary (and Joseph) faced in light of the announcement by the angel of Mary’s coming pregnancy.
2. In Luke 1:26,27,34; 3:23 and in Matthew 1:16,18,23, Mary’s virginity is verified both explicitly and implicitly.
3. The virgin birth was essential to Jesus’ saving purpose; only as the God-man would His sacrifice be acceptable. He had to be human so that He could die and He had to be God so that His death meant something.
4. Mary (and Joseph) are examples of the life of faith and obedience to God’s will in the face of adversity, difficult circumstances, disgrace and humiliation.
Recap of 12/20/09:
1. Mary and Joseph were in the betrothal period when the angel Gabriel came to Mary. During the betrothal period a couple were pledged to each other, considered to be married, and would require a divorce to end the relationship. The betrothal period was customarily a year during which time the bride would continue to live in her parent’s home and the marriage would not be consummated. To be found pregnant during this period would be considered adultery. This was the situation that Mary (and Joseph) faced in light of the announcement by the angel of Mary’s coming pregnancy.
2. In Luke 1:26,27,34; 3:23 and in Matthew 1:16,18,23, Mary’s virginity is verified both explicitly and implicitly.
3. The virgin birth was essential to Jesus’ saving purpose; only as the God-man would His sacrifice be acceptable. He had to be human so that He could die and He had to be God so that His death meant something.
4. Mary (and Joseph) are examples of the life of faith and obedience to God’s will in the face of adversity, difficult circumstances, disgrace and humiliation.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Faithfulness & Fruitfulness
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Recap of 12/13/09:
1. The parable of the minas (Luke 19:11-27) deals with the time period between Jesus’ first and second comings. In four great lessons of life it lays out the priorities and responsibilities of believers for this church age and invites each of us as believers to see ourselves in the mirror of Scripture and evaluate our spiritual progress.
2. According to one author: “The [mina] represents the opportunity for service given each of [Jesus’] disciples.” (Gray)
3. Jesus taught four lessons of life in this parable:
-God had made an investment in us. He has given us gifts, abilities, opportunities, time and resources to be used for Him. We are to bear fruit.
-God will hold us accountable for the way we use these things. Jesus’ return will be a time of reward or loss of rewards for believers; and a time of judgment for unbelievers.
-Faithfulness is the standard God will judge us by. Faithfulness is the key to fruitfulness and success.
-This life id training for service in the Millennium Kingdom and in eternity.
Recap of 12/13/09:
1. The parable of the minas (Luke 19:11-27) deals with the time period between Jesus’ first and second comings. In four great lessons of life it lays out the priorities and responsibilities of believers for this church age and invites each of us as believers to see ourselves in the mirror of Scripture and evaluate our spiritual progress.
2. According to one author: “The [mina] represents the opportunity for service given each of [Jesus’] disciples.” (Gray)
3. Jesus taught four lessons of life in this parable:
-God had made an investment in us. He has given us gifts, abilities, opportunities, time and resources to be used for Him. We are to bear fruit.
-God will hold us accountable for the way we use these things. Jesus’ return will be a time of reward or loss of rewards for believers; and a time of judgment for unbelievers.
-Faithfulness is the standard God will judge us by. Faithfulness is the key to fruitfulness and success.
-This life id training for service in the Millennium Kingdom and in eternity.
Monday, December 07, 2009
Finishing Well (Part 3)
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Recap of 12/6/09:
1. After Jacob’s death, Joseph’s brothers fear retribution by Joseph against them. Joseph answers their fears with assurance of his forgiveness and of his faith in God’s providence: “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good….” (Genesis 50:19,20)
2. “What gave Joseph the grace to make this remarkable reply? There is only one answer: Joseph knew God. In particular, he knew two things about God. He knew that God is sovereign—that nothing ever comes into the life of any one of His children that He has not approved first; there are no accidents. And he knew that God is good—therefore, the things that come into our lives by God’s sovereignty are for our benefit (and for others’) and not for our harm.” (James Montgomery Boice)
3. At the heart of Joseph’s life is a profound truth, a hard truth, a sometimes incomprehensible truth: Hard things will happen to us (we live in a fallen world with fallen people like us); God is not surprised; and He is not unsympathetic. We can respond by faith or we can become bitter at God, at life, and at people.
4. Joseph illustrates some truths about forgiveness. We cannot forgive until we recognize and admit the offense against us (Joseph didn’t deny that his brothers meant to harm him); while we cling to the pain; while we look for someone to blame.
Recap of 12/6/09:
1. After Jacob’s death, Joseph’s brothers fear retribution by Joseph against them. Joseph answers their fears with assurance of his forgiveness and of his faith in God’s providence: “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good….” (Genesis 50:19,20)
2. “What gave Joseph the grace to make this remarkable reply? There is only one answer: Joseph knew God. In particular, he knew two things about God. He knew that God is sovereign—that nothing ever comes into the life of any one of His children that He has not approved first; there are no accidents. And he knew that God is good—therefore, the things that come into our lives by God’s sovereignty are for our benefit (and for others’) and not for our harm.” (James Montgomery Boice)
3. At the heart of Joseph’s life is a profound truth, a hard truth, a sometimes incomprehensible truth: Hard things will happen to us (we live in a fallen world with fallen people like us); God is not surprised; and He is not unsympathetic. We can respond by faith or we can become bitter at God, at life, and at people.
4. Joseph illustrates some truths about forgiveness. We cannot forgive until we recognize and admit the offense against us (Joseph didn’t deny that his brothers meant to harm him); while we cling to the pain; while we look for someone to blame.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Finishing Well (Part 2)
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Recap of 11/29/09:
1. Jacob’s gives his final instructions to his sons in Genesis 49:29-32. Once again he demonstrates his faith in God’s word and shows that his hope was in Canaan (the land God promised Abraham, Isaac, and him) not in Egypt by instructing his sons to bury him there not in Egypt.
2. In his book, The Man in the Mirror, Patrick Morley shares keys to no regret parenting:
-we must give our kids the freedom to be kids-don’t expect them to be perfect; don’t expect them to be miniature adults; adjust expectations to their age and maturity level.
-we must protect them from the world, but remember the goal is protection, not isolation. Rather than withdrawing from the world we must teach them to evaluate the culture around them with discriminating Biblical wisdom and with respect.
-we must encourage them and not embitter them. (Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21)
-we must spend time with them, there is no replacement for our time, our children need our presence not just our presents, our greatest success will be our family, not our career, success at home doesn’t preclude success on the job.
-we must pray for them
Recap of 11/29/09:
1. Jacob’s gives his final instructions to his sons in Genesis 49:29-32. Once again he demonstrates his faith in God’s word and shows that his hope was in Canaan (the land God promised Abraham, Isaac, and him) not in Egypt by instructing his sons to bury him there not in Egypt.
2. In his book, The Man in the Mirror, Patrick Morley shares keys to no regret parenting:
-we must give our kids the freedom to be kids-don’t expect them to be perfect; don’t expect them to be miniature adults; adjust expectations to their age and maturity level.
-we must protect them from the world, but remember the goal is protection, not isolation. Rather than withdrawing from the world we must teach them to evaluate the culture around them with discriminating Biblical wisdom and with respect.
-we must encourage them and not embitter them. (Ephesians 6:4; Colossians 3:21)
-we must spend time with them, there is no replacement for our time, our children need our presence not just our presents, our greatest success will be our family, not our career, success at home doesn’t preclude success on the job.
-we must pray for them
Monday, November 16, 2009
Finishing Well
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Recap of 11/15/09:
1. Jacob looks beyond the coming bondage in Egypt to the conquest and settlement of Canaan. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, he evaluates each of his sons and their futures based on their character and decisions. His prophecies in Genesis 49 reach even to the Coming Messiah and His reign in the Millennium.
2. What becomes clear is that actions have consequences, even forgiven sin has practical consequences.
3. Out of adversity and out of suffering came victory and rest for Joseph and his tribe and extravagant blessing.
4. “So Jacob died after 147 years (47:28) of struggle; his sorrow came to an end. Infirmities, he had many; sins, not a few. But Jacob had an unquenchable desire for God’s blessing. He had a deep piety that habitually relied on God in spite of all else. In the end he died as a man of genuine faith. He learned in his life where the real blessings came from, and he fought with God and man to be privileged to hand them on to his sons.” (Dr. Allen Ross)
Recap of 11/15/09:
1. Jacob looks beyond the coming bondage in Egypt to the conquest and settlement of Canaan. With the guidance of the Holy Spirit, he evaluates each of his sons and their futures based on their character and decisions. His prophecies in Genesis 49 reach even to the Coming Messiah and His reign in the Millennium.
2. What becomes clear is that actions have consequences, even forgiven sin has practical consequences.
3. Out of adversity and out of suffering came victory and rest for Joseph and his tribe and extravagant blessing.
4. “So Jacob died after 147 years (47:28) of struggle; his sorrow came to an end. Infirmities, he had many; sins, not a few. But Jacob had an unquenchable desire for God’s blessing. He had a deep piety that habitually relied on God in spite of all else. In the end he died as a man of genuine faith. He learned in his life where the real blessings came from, and he fought with God and man to be privileged to hand them on to his sons.” (Dr. Allen Ross)
Monday, November 09, 2009
Last Words, Part 3
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Recap of 11/8/09:
1. “On Jacob’s tombstone, Joseph could have placed th words: ‘He worshipped.’ Years earlier, of course, ‘He deceived’ might have seemed more appropriate, but now that Jacob was almost a century-and-a –half old, he had come a long way with God. At the end of his life, one of his final acts was to worship the God he had both wrestled with and served.” (Chuck Swindoll)
2. In Jacob’s younger days he walked in the flesh (the sinful nature), now that he is older his spiritual growth is evident. He has become a man of faith.
3. Peter urges us Christians to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). Growing spiritually, becoming spiritually mature, should be the natural state of the Christian man or woman.
4. A part of growing spiritually will be times of dryness/deadness in our spiritual walk (but if we persist God will bring times of refreshing and fruitfulness, Psalm 126:4-6); as well as times of suffering, that serve to “stamp out our personal ambitions” and “destroy our individual decisions by supernaturally transforming them,” according to Oswald Chambers.
Recap of 11/8/09:
1. “On Jacob’s tombstone, Joseph could have placed th words: ‘He worshipped.’ Years earlier, of course, ‘He deceived’ might have seemed more appropriate, but now that Jacob was almost a century-and-a –half old, he had come a long way with God. At the end of his life, one of his final acts was to worship the God he had both wrestled with and served.” (Chuck Swindoll)
2. In Jacob’s younger days he walked in the flesh (the sinful nature), now that he is older his spiritual growth is evident. He has become a man of faith.
3. Peter urges us Christians to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). Growing spiritually, becoming spiritually mature, should be the natural state of the Christian man or woman.
4. A part of growing spiritually will be times of dryness/deadness in our spiritual walk (but if we persist God will bring times of refreshing and fruitfulness, Psalm 126:4-6); as well as times of suffering, that serve to “stamp out our personal ambitions” and “destroy our individual decisions by supernaturally transforming them,” according to Oswald Chambers.
Monday, November 02, 2009
Last Words, Part 2
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Recap of 11/1/09:
1. “Worship is the missing jewel of the evangelical church. The purpose of God in sending His Son to die and rise and live and be at the right hand of God the Father was that He might restore to us the missing jewel … of worship; that we might come back and learn to do again that which we were created to do in the first place—worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness, to spend our time in awesome wonder and adoration of God, feeling and expressing it, and letting it get into our labors…” (A. W. Tozer)
2. Observations about worship:
-worship is not confined to a place or an action—it’s an attitude. (Malachi 1)
-you can’t worship while being disobedient to the Word of God (1 Samuel 15:1ff; 2 Samuel 6:1ff)
-worship should engage the mind not just the emotions (1 Corinthians 14:1-5)
3. Two key words for worship in the New Testament are:
-proskuneo, “to kiss, to fall down, to adore on one’s knees” An attitude of reverence, it’s found 24 times in the Book of Revelation in relation to God’s sovereignty, power, provision, etc.
-latreo, “ to serve, to worship” (Romans 12:1) Paul calls us to worship in response to what Jesus has done for us (Romans 1-11), then applies worship to the whole life (Romans 12-15).
Recap of 11/1/09:
1. “Worship is the missing jewel of the evangelical church. The purpose of God in sending His Son to die and rise and live and be at the right hand of God the Father was that He might restore to us the missing jewel … of worship; that we might come back and learn to do again that which we were created to do in the first place—worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness, to spend our time in awesome wonder and adoration of God, feeling and expressing it, and letting it get into our labors…” (A. W. Tozer)
2. Observations about worship:
-worship is not confined to a place or an action—it’s an attitude. (Malachi 1)
-you can’t worship while being disobedient to the Word of God (1 Samuel 15:1ff; 2 Samuel 6:1ff)
-worship should engage the mind not just the emotions (1 Corinthians 14:1-5)
3. Two key words for worship in the New Testament are:
-proskuneo, “to kiss, to fall down, to adore on one’s knees” An attitude of reverence, it’s found 24 times in the Book of Revelation in relation to God’s sovereignty, power, provision, etc.
-latreo, “ to serve, to worship” (Romans 12:1) Paul calls us to worship in response to what Jesus has done for us (Romans 1-11), then applies worship to the whole life (Romans 12-15).
Monday, October 26, 2009
Last Words
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Recap of 10/25/09:
1. From Genesis 47:28 to the end of Genesis 49 we have what constitutes Jacobs last instructions to his family. He extracts a promise from Joseph to bury him in the Promised Land rather than in Egypt; he adopts Joseph’s sons born in Egypt as his own; and he addresses his sons concerning blessings and their futures.
2. By obtaining Joseph’s solemn oath that he would bury Jacob in the land of Canaan, promised to his family by God, Jacob was demonstrating his own belief in the future fulfillment of God’s promises, and he was pointing his family in the right direction, the direction of God’s word. Despite the way they were prospering in Egypt they were not to look upon Egypt as their home. Their future lay in Canaan according to God’s promise. Jacob was keeping their focus on God’s word and God’s will. That’s what a Christian father and mother do for their children.
3. “The primary purpose of God in creation was to prepare moral beings spiritually and intellectually capable of worshiping Him…. We are saved to worship God. All that Christ has done for us in the past and all that He is doing now leads to this one end. There is a necessity for true worship among us. If God is who He says He is and if we are the believing people of God we claim to be, we must worship Him.” (A. W. Tozer)
Recap of 10/25/09:
1. From Genesis 47:28 to the end of Genesis 49 we have what constitutes Jacobs last instructions to his family. He extracts a promise from Joseph to bury him in the Promised Land rather than in Egypt; he adopts Joseph’s sons born in Egypt as his own; and he addresses his sons concerning blessings and their futures.
2. By obtaining Joseph’s solemn oath that he would bury Jacob in the land of Canaan, promised to his family by God, Jacob was demonstrating his own belief in the future fulfillment of God’s promises, and he was pointing his family in the right direction, the direction of God’s word. Despite the way they were prospering in Egypt they were not to look upon Egypt as their home. Their future lay in Canaan according to God’s promise. Jacob was keeping their focus on God’s word and God’s will. That’s what a Christian father and mother do for their children.
3. “The primary purpose of God in creation was to prepare moral beings spiritually and intellectually capable of worshiping Him…. We are saved to worship God. All that Christ has done for us in the past and all that He is doing now leads to this one end. There is a necessity for true worship among us. If God is who He says He is and if we are the believing people of God we claim to be, we must worship Him.” (A. W. Tozer)
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Holding Fast To The Promises of God, Part 2
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Recap of 10/18/09:
In addition to the six qualities essential to good leadership we looked at last week from Oswald Sanders’ book Spiritual Leadership (Discipline, Vision, Wisdom, Decision, Humility, and Humor) are six more qualities: Patience, Biblical patience is victorious endurance not just passive acquiescence to the foibles of life, it is the essential leadership ability of being able to be patience with the weak and the slow learner; Anger, Jesus exhibited holy anger on several occasions (Mark 3:1-5 & Matthew 21:13 for example), “righteous anger is no less noble than holy love,” holy anger is anger that is free from selfishness; Friendship, helps to draw out the best in others, Paul had a wide network of cohorts who shared his vision and his zeal for the Lord; Tact and Diplomacy, they are twin qualities, tact, from tactile, is the ability to have a feel for the proper words, “diplomacy is skill in managing affairs especially in a confused and explosive situation,” both are required of a leader who must often reconcile opposing points of view; Inspirational Power, “the trait of inspiring others to service and sacrifice,” Nehemiah is a great Biblical example of this quality, inspiring the Israelites to complete the wall around Jerusalem which would give them security and more importantly allow them to worship without fear; Dependence on the Holy Spirit, “the other qualities are desirable, this one is indispensable,” “however brilliant a man may be intellectually, however competent an administrator, without this essential equipment he will be incapable of providing truly spiritual leadership.”
Recap of 10/18/09:
In addition to the six qualities essential to good leadership we looked at last week from Oswald Sanders’ book Spiritual Leadership (Discipline, Vision, Wisdom, Decision, Humility, and Humor) are six more qualities: Patience, Biblical patience is victorious endurance not just passive acquiescence to the foibles of life, it is the essential leadership ability of being able to be patience with the weak and the slow learner; Anger, Jesus exhibited holy anger on several occasions (Mark 3:1-5 & Matthew 21:13 for example), “righteous anger is no less noble than holy love,” holy anger is anger that is free from selfishness; Friendship, helps to draw out the best in others, Paul had a wide network of cohorts who shared his vision and his zeal for the Lord; Tact and Diplomacy, they are twin qualities, tact, from tactile, is the ability to have a feel for the proper words, “diplomacy is skill in managing affairs especially in a confused and explosive situation,” both are required of a leader who must often reconcile opposing points of view; Inspirational Power, “the trait of inspiring others to service and sacrifice,” Nehemiah is a great Biblical example of this quality, inspiring the Israelites to complete the wall around Jerusalem which would give them security and more importantly allow them to worship without fear; Dependence on the Holy Spirit, “the other qualities are desirable, this one is indispensable,” “however brilliant a man may be intellectually, however competent an administrator, without this essential equipment he will be incapable of providing truly spiritual leadership.”
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Holding Fast To The Promises of God
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Recap of 10/11/09:
1. Attention in Genesis 47 turns once again to Joseph’s superb leadership.
2. He did his job with:
-Integrity. Though he handled great sums of money and property, he didn’t abuse his power or his authority. A great test of leadership is the use of power (1 Peter 5:1-4)
-Wisdom. He discerned what was needed, established a plan, and carried out the plan.
-Discipline. He had mastered himself, before seeking to master others.
3. Oswald Sanders in his book Spiritual Leadership talks about the qualities essential to good leadership. They are: Discipline; it is the quality which is essential to all other qualities, “the man who has conquered himself makes the best leader;” Vision; faith is vision and imparts vision, it includes optimism and hope, and imparts venturesomeness; Wisdom; is more than knowledge, it is the “right application of knowledge in moral and spiritual matters, in meeting baffling situations, and in the intricacies of human relationships;” Decision; a spiritual leader accepts full responsibility for both failure and success of decisions; Humility; self-effacement not self-advertising; Humor; which can diffuse a tense situation or meeting, it must be appropriate.
4. Genesis 47:11-27 is a good example of the Abrahamic covenant in action (Genesis 12:2,3). God promised Abraham that those who blessed the Jews (Abraham’s seed) would themselves be blessed. God blesses Pharaoh with great wealth and the people of Egypt with life because they received the Jews.
Recap of 10/11/09:
1. Attention in Genesis 47 turns once again to Joseph’s superb leadership.
2. He did his job with:
-Integrity. Though he handled great sums of money and property, he didn’t abuse his power or his authority. A great test of leadership is the use of power (1 Peter 5:1-4)
-Wisdom. He discerned what was needed, established a plan, and carried out the plan.
-Discipline. He had mastered himself, before seeking to master others.
3. Oswald Sanders in his book Spiritual Leadership talks about the qualities essential to good leadership. They are: Discipline; it is the quality which is essential to all other qualities, “the man who has conquered himself makes the best leader;” Vision; faith is vision and imparts vision, it includes optimism and hope, and imparts venturesomeness; Wisdom; is more than knowledge, it is the “right application of knowledge in moral and spiritual matters, in meeting baffling situations, and in the intricacies of human relationships;” Decision; a spiritual leader accepts full responsibility for both failure and success of decisions; Humility; self-effacement not self-advertising; Humor; which can diffuse a tense situation or meeting, it must be appropriate.
4. Genesis 47:11-27 is a good example of the Abrahamic covenant in action (Genesis 12:2,3). God promised Abraham that those who blessed the Jews (Abraham’s seed) would themselves be blessed. God blesses Pharaoh with great wealth and the people of Egypt with life because they received the Jews.
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
Out on the Ledge with God
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Recap of 10/4/09:
1. It seems that Jacob’s focus for 22 years, since the loss of Joseph (Genesis 37:34,35) was death and fear. Life had become bitter for him. As one scholar said he was at the “end of hope.”
2. God restores hope to him by reassuring him of His promises, by reunion with his beloved son, and by making provision for him in a new home.
3. Jacob ultimately understood that he was a pilgrim (an alien) and a stranger here, his real home was a heavenly home provided by God (Hebrews 11:13,14). As expositor Matthew Henry said: “He calls his life a pilgrimage, looking upon himself as a stranger in this world, and a traveler towards another world. This world his inn, not his home.” (emphasis mine)
4. In 1 Peter 2:11 calls believers “aliens and strangers” in this world. A recognition that our real home is heaven. Do we think and live as if this place is temporary or have we driven out tent pegs deep into the earth.
Recap of 10/4/09:
1. It seems that Jacob’s focus for 22 years, since the loss of Joseph (Genesis 37:34,35) was death and fear. Life had become bitter for him. As one scholar said he was at the “end of hope.”
2. God restores hope to him by reassuring him of His promises, by reunion with his beloved son, and by making provision for him in a new home.
3. Jacob ultimately understood that he was a pilgrim (an alien) and a stranger here, his real home was a heavenly home provided by God (Hebrews 11:13,14). As expositor Matthew Henry said: “He calls his life a pilgrimage, looking upon himself as a stranger in this world, and a traveler towards another world. This world his inn, not his home.” (emphasis mine)
4. In 1 Peter 2:11 calls believers “aliens and strangers” in this world. A recognition that our real home is heaven. Do we think and live as if this place is temporary or have we driven out tent pegs deep into the earth.
Monday, September 28, 2009
A Family Reunion of Biblical Proportions
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Recap of 9/27/09:
1. Though circumstances are pointing Jacob and his family toward Egypt (God’s preservation and elevation of Joseph in Egypt, Pharaoh’s offer, famine in Canaan), Jacob needed the assurance of God’s word, which he gets, before he continues on from Beersheba into Egypt. Circumstances alone are not enough when determining the will of God.
2. Four scriptural observations concerning God’s will:
-before God’s will involves an action, it involves an attitude. 2 Corinthians 8:5
-renewing our minds is foundational to knowing God’s will. Romans 12:1,2; Hebrews 5:11-6:1a
-prayer is essential to knowing the will of God. Colossians 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
-the flesh (i.e. the sin nature) and Satan seek to deter us from the will of God. 1 Peter 4:2; 2 Timothy 2:24-26; 1 Thessalonians 2:18
3. Patrick Morley’s principles of effective decision-making:
-make decisions according to the Word of God. If your decision contradicts Scripture, it’s a bad decision.
-avoid foolish decision that test God. Don’t put yourself in a position which requires a miracle to bail you out.
-avoid decisions that reduce your worship and service to God. Don’t get caught up in the rat race and chase phony gods.
Recap of 9/27/09:
1. Though circumstances are pointing Jacob and his family toward Egypt (God’s preservation and elevation of Joseph in Egypt, Pharaoh’s offer, famine in Canaan), Jacob needed the assurance of God’s word, which he gets, before he continues on from Beersheba into Egypt. Circumstances alone are not enough when determining the will of God.
2. Four scriptural observations concerning God’s will:
-before God’s will involves an action, it involves an attitude. 2 Corinthians 8:5
-renewing our minds is foundational to knowing God’s will. Romans 12:1,2; Hebrews 5:11-6:1a
-prayer is essential to knowing the will of God. Colossians 1:9-11; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
-the flesh (i.e. the sin nature) and Satan seek to deter us from the will of God. 1 Peter 4:2; 2 Timothy 2:24-26; 1 Thessalonians 2:18
3. Patrick Morley’s principles of effective decision-making:
-make decisions according to the Word of God. If your decision contradicts Scripture, it’s a bad decision.
-avoid foolish decision that test God. Don’t put yourself in a position which requires a miracle to bail you out.
-avoid decisions that reduce your worship and service to God. Don’t get caught up in the rat race and chase phony gods.
Monday, September 21, 2009
I Am Joseph!
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Recap of 9/20/09:
1. Joseph’s character had been forged in the furnace of affliction. His faith was tested and came forth as gold. Joseph recognized God’s hand in his life. What sustained him was his certain belief that: “…God’s will, not man’s, was the controlling reality of his life.” (Ross). That was the secret to his ability to accept his circumstances and to forgive those who had wronged him.
2. In our walk and especially in our response to the wrongs done to us we must: 1) have the right perspective, God’s will is the controlling reality of our lives; and 2) Out of that perspective must grow the attitude that we can take all that life’s circumstances and people can throw at us with grace, forgiveness, and peace.
3. “It is no matter who starts our trial, whether man, or devil or even our own foolish selves, if God permits it to reach us, he has by this permission made the trial His own, and will turn it for us into a chariot of love which will carry our souls to a place of blessing that we could not have reached in any other way….Joseph was sold into Egypt by the wickedness of his brethren, but God made their wickedness the chariot that carried Joseph to his place of triumph…” (Hannah Whitall Smith quoted in Genesis in the God’s Word for the Biblically Inept series.
Recap of 9/20/09:
1. Joseph’s character had been forged in the furnace of affliction. His faith was tested and came forth as gold. Joseph recognized God’s hand in his life. What sustained him was his certain belief that: “…God’s will, not man’s, was the controlling reality of his life.” (Ross). That was the secret to his ability to accept his circumstances and to forgive those who had wronged him.
2. In our walk and especially in our response to the wrongs done to us we must: 1) have the right perspective, God’s will is the controlling reality of our lives; and 2) Out of that perspective must grow the attitude that we can take all that life’s circumstances and people can throw at us with grace, forgiveness, and peace.
3. “It is no matter who starts our trial, whether man, or devil or even our own foolish selves, if God permits it to reach us, he has by this permission made the trial His own, and will turn it for us into a chariot of love which will carry our souls to a place of blessing that we could not have reached in any other way….Joseph was sold into Egypt by the wickedness of his brethren, but God made their wickedness the chariot that carried Joseph to his place of triumph…” (Hannah Whitall Smith quoted in Genesis in the God’s Word for the Biblically Inept series.
Monday, September 14, 2009
The Substitute
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Recap of 9/13/09:
1. “We imagine we would be all right if a big crisis arose; but the big crisis will only reveal the stuff we are made of, it will not put anything into us. ‘If God gives the call, of course I will rise to the occasion.’ You will not unless you have risen to the occasion in the workshop, unless you have been the real thing before God there. If you are not doing the thing that lies nearest, because God engineered it; when the crisis comes instead of being revealed as fit, you will be revealed as unfit. Crises always reveal character.” (Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest) This is the lesson of Genesis 44: crises reveal character; and character is not formed in a minute.
2. Joseph sets up a final test of his brothers’ character. Have they changed? Have they grown, especially in relationship with God? Have their attitudes changed? Do they have concern for Jacob and Benjamin even above their own concerns?
3. All that they trusted in/counted on, was taken away; their word, their money, their integrity.
4. The test is set up in such a way that to save their own skins they would have to betray Benjamin (as they had Joseph 20+ years earlier).
5. Not only do they not betray Benjamin but Judah offers to take his place as a slave so that Benjamin might be releases and save Jacob from a grief that would kill him; a wonderful picture of the later descendant of Judah, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, Jesus Christ, who would offer Himself as a substitute for sinners on the cross of Calvary.
Recap of 9/13/09:
1. “We imagine we would be all right if a big crisis arose; but the big crisis will only reveal the stuff we are made of, it will not put anything into us. ‘If God gives the call, of course I will rise to the occasion.’ You will not unless you have risen to the occasion in the workshop, unless you have been the real thing before God there. If you are not doing the thing that lies nearest, because God engineered it; when the crisis comes instead of being revealed as fit, you will be revealed as unfit. Crises always reveal character.” (Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest) This is the lesson of Genesis 44: crises reveal character; and character is not formed in a minute.
2. Joseph sets up a final test of his brothers’ character. Have they changed? Have they grown, especially in relationship with God? Have their attitudes changed? Do they have concern for Jacob and Benjamin even above their own concerns?
3. All that they trusted in/counted on, was taken away; their word, their money, their integrity.
4. The test is set up in such a way that to save their own skins they would have to betray Benjamin (as they had Joseph 20+ years earlier).
5. Not only do they not betray Benjamin but Judah offers to take his place as a slave so that Benjamin might be releases and save Jacob from a grief that would kill him; a wonderful picture of the later descendant of Judah, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, Jesus Christ, who would offer Himself as a substitute for sinners on the cross of Calvary.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Between a Rock and a Banquet
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Recap of 9/6/09:
1. Jacob was subjected to what J. Oswald Sanders, in the book Spiritual Leadership calls a searching test of leadership, the impossible situation. Sanders concludes: “The bracing lesson is that God delights to shut people up to Himself and then, in response to their trust, display His power and grace in doing the impossible.”
2. When we do not look for God in our situations (as Jacob in Genesis 43) we become negative, pessimistic, resigned to life’s curves, indecisive, and reluctant to lead. We turn to self-pity and blame.
3. Genesis 43 provides us with an illustration of salvation through the actions of Joseph and his father and brothers. Like the brothers we have wronged God and rejected Him. We have sought to approach Him on our own terms, attempting to appease Him with our “gifts,” i.e. good works. Yet God shuts us up to only one way, the way of faith. When we come to Him by faith, He receives us and lavishly provides for us. The brothers expected and deserved judgment and prison, they received gracious acceptance.
Recap of 9/6/09:
1. Jacob was subjected to what J. Oswald Sanders, in the book Spiritual Leadership calls a searching test of leadership, the impossible situation. Sanders concludes: “The bracing lesson is that God delights to shut people up to Himself and then, in response to their trust, display His power and grace in doing the impossible.”
2. When we do not look for God in our situations (as Jacob in Genesis 43) we become negative, pessimistic, resigned to life’s curves, indecisive, and reluctant to lead. We turn to self-pity and blame.
3. Genesis 43 provides us with an illustration of salvation through the actions of Joseph and his father and brothers. Like the brothers we have wronged God and rejected Him. We have sought to approach Him on our own terms, attempting to appease Him with our “gifts,” i.e. good works. Yet God shuts us up to only one way, the way of faith. When we come to Him by faith, He receives us and lavishly provides for us. The brothers expected and deserved judgment and prison, they received gracious acceptance.
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Everything Is Against Me!
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Recap of 8/30/09:
1. Genesis 43 recap: Joseph’s brothers come down to Egypt to secure grain for the famine has reached the land of Canaan. He recognizes them but they do not recognize him.
2. Lessons from chapter 43:
-from Joseph: he shows no bitterness or tendency toward revenge. He is living out the name he gave his first born son, Manasseh, “God has made me forget all my trouble.” His harsh treatment of his brothers was a test designed to bring conviction upon them, to “stir up their consciences” and to see if they had changed.
-from the brother: sin can not be hidden indefinitely, it will be found out. Conviction of sin should bring repentance (a change of mind) and confession to God. (Psalm 32; 51; 1 John 1:9)
-from Jacob: Jacob was sure that everything was working against him. In truth God was working everything together for his good (Romans 8:28). Because he didn’t look for or reckon on God in his situation, he became negative and resigned to his situation.
3. Application from chapter 43:
-Who do we need to forgive? Do we keep a written or unwritten list of those who’ve wronged us?
-What sin do we need to own? To confess?
-Are we looking for God in our situations, or do we discount what He may be doing? Remember, when you think things are as bad as they can get—they are better than you think!
Recap of 8/30/09:
1. Genesis 43 recap: Joseph’s brothers come down to Egypt to secure grain for the famine has reached the land of Canaan. He recognizes them but they do not recognize him.
2. Lessons from chapter 43:
-from Joseph: he shows no bitterness or tendency toward revenge. He is living out the name he gave his first born son, Manasseh, “God has made me forget all my trouble.” His harsh treatment of his brothers was a test designed to bring conviction upon them, to “stir up their consciences” and to see if they had changed.
-from the brother: sin can not be hidden indefinitely, it will be found out. Conviction of sin should bring repentance (a change of mind) and confession to God. (Psalm 32; 51; 1 John 1:9)
-from Jacob: Jacob was sure that everything was working against him. In truth God was working everything together for his good (Romans 8:28). Because he didn’t look for or reckon on God in his situation, he became negative and resigned to his situation.
3. Application from chapter 43:
-Who do we need to forgive? Do we keep a written or unwritten list of those who’ve wronged us?
-What sin do we need to own? To confess?
-Are we looking for God in our situations, or do we discount what He may be doing? Remember, when you think things are as bad as they can get—they are better than you think!
Monday, August 24, 2009
A Reversal In Fortune, Part 2
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Recap of 8/23/09:
1. Pharaoh recognized that Joseph was a man of wisdom. Joseph’s wisdom was a product of his choosing righteousness and faithfulness. His ability to make good plans was a product of his wisdom. (See Proverbs 21:5; 22:3; 16:1-3,5,9; 30:24,25) “Plans are a necessary part of the wise man’s life; only fools follow the path of fateful chance. The plans of wise [men and women] incorporate righteous principles.” (from: God’s Wisdom for Daily Living)
2. Joseph’s life illustrates a Biblical principle of life: faithfulness in little things leads to being trusted with greater things. The parable of Luke 19:11-27 illustrates this principle for the believer. Four lessons of life can be deduced from this passage: 1) God has made an investment in us, we are to bear fruit; 2) we are responsible to the Lord for the way we use our gifts, abilities, opportunities, circumstances, means, and time. He will hold us accountable; 3) Faithfulness is the key to fruitfulness & success (but see also point #3); 4) this life is training for the kingdom and for eternity.
3. Joseph has two sons and he names them “forget” and “fruitful.” He, in God’s goodness “forgot” about the pain of the past, his mistreatment by his brothers, his slavery and imprisonment. He determined to let go of the pain of the past, the hurts of the past. Without this step in our lives we condemn ourselves to relive the past over and over in every new situation. Fruitfulness is dependent, not only on faithfulness (as point #2 above) but on forgetfulness of past hurts.
Recap of 8/23/09:
1. Pharaoh recognized that Joseph was a man of wisdom. Joseph’s wisdom was a product of his choosing righteousness and faithfulness. His ability to make good plans was a product of his wisdom. (See Proverbs 21:5; 22:3; 16:1-3,5,9; 30:24,25) “Plans are a necessary part of the wise man’s life; only fools follow the path of fateful chance. The plans of wise [men and women] incorporate righteous principles.” (from: God’s Wisdom for Daily Living)
2. Joseph’s life illustrates a Biblical principle of life: faithfulness in little things leads to being trusted with greater things. The parable of Luke 19:11-27 illustrates this principle for the believer. Four lessons of life can be deduced from this passage: 1) God has made an investment in us, we are to bear fruit; 2) we are responsible to the Lord for the way we use our gifts, abilities, opportunities, circumstances, means, and time. He will hold us accountable; 3) Faithfulness is the key to fruitfulness & success (but see also point #3); 4) this life is training for the kingdom and for eternity.
3. Joseph has two sons and he names them “forget” and “fruitful.” He, in God’s goodness “forgot” about the pain of the past, his mistreatment by his brothers, his slavery and imprisonment. He determined to let go of the pain of the past, the hurts of the past. Without this step in our lives we condemn ourselves to relive the past over and over in every new situation. Fruitfulness is dependent, not only on faithfulness (as point #2 above) but on forgetfulness of past hurts.
Monday, August 17, 2009
A Reversal In Fortune
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Recap of 8/16/09:
1. With suddenness Joseph’s position changes in Genesis 41. He begins the chapter in prison, he ends the chapter in power.
2. For two years the chief cupbearer of Pharaoh forgot about Joseph. These were not wasted years for Joseph, however; God was perfecting him, maturing him, and preparing him for what was ahead.
3 . Because of his faith, Joseph was able to go through this time without becoming bitter, vindictive, or disillusioned.
4. About the suffering of the righteous, Peter writes: “Since Jesus went through everything you’re going through and more, learn to think like Him. Think of your sufferings as a weaning from that old sinful habit of always expecting to get your own way. Then you’ll be able to live out your days free to pursue what God wants instead of being tyrannized by what you want.” (The Message)
5. When given the opportunity to interpret the dreams of Pharaoh, Joseph is careful throughout to give God the credit. (Genesis 41:16,25,28,32).
Recap of 8/16/09:
1. With suddenness Joseph’s position changes in Genesis 41. He begins the chapter in prison, he ends the chapter in power.
2. For two years the chief cupbearer of Pharaoh forgot about Joseph. These were not wasted years for Joseph, however; God was perfecting him, maturing him, and preparing him for what was ahead.
3 . Because of his faith, Joseph was able to go through this time without becoming bitter, vindictive, or disillusioned.
4. About the suffering of the righteous, Peter writes: “Since Jesus went through everything you’re going through and more, learn to think like Him. Think of your sufferings as a weaning from that old sinful habit of always expecting to get your own way. Then you’ll be able to live out your days free to pursue what God wants instead of being tyrannized by what you want.” (The Message)
5. When given the opportunity to interpret the dreams of Pharaoh, Joseph is careful throughout to give God the credit. (Genesis 41:16,25,28,32).
Monday, August 10, 2009
Why Me?
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Recap of 8/9/09:
1. There are two ways we can respond to the hurts, failures, unjust treatment, and disappointments of life, we can be consumed by them, eaten up inside, never letting go of the hurt, never surrendering the pain, consumed with bitterness and revenge; or we can see beyond the hurt, pain, disappointment and allow God to use those things to fulfill His purposes for us. The latter is the path that Joseph trod.
2. What we can learn from Joseph’s response to injustice is:
-do what’s at hand and do it well, be conscientious, keep a positive attitude, an attitude of expectation (Joseph could not have seen how being in prison could be helpful to his cause)
-stay busy, make yourself available to God, to be used of Him, even in menial things
-be sensitive to the hurting people around us (Joseph could have been so locked in self-pity that he could have missed the pain of the baker and cupbearer and an opportunity for service – which would lead to his release )
-when the opportunity to share your plight comes, do not remain silent, trusting God does not mean just doing nothing
-wait for God to work (Genesis 41:1, Joseph waited two years)
3. “All the water in the ocean cannot sink a ship unless it gets inside; and all the trouble in the world cannot harm us unless it gains entrance to our hearts. On such analogy faith is pitch and caulking.” (Eugene Peterson, Praying with the Psalms)
Recap of 8/9/09:
1. There are two ways we can respond to the hurts, failures, unjust treatment, and disappointments of life, we can be consumed by them, eaten up inside, never letting go of the hurt, never surrendering the pain, consumed with bitterness and revenge; or we can see beyond the hurt, pain, disappointment and allow God to use those things to fulfill His purposes for us. The latter is the path that Joseph trod.
2. What we can learn from Joseph’s response to injustice is:
-do what’s at hand and do it well, be conscientious, keep a positive attitude, an attitude of expectation (Joseph could not have seen how being in prison could be helpful to his cause)
-stay busy, make yourself available to God, to be used of Him, even in menial things
-be sensitive to the hurting people around us (Joseph could have been so locked in self-pity that he could have missed the pain of the baker and cupbearer and an opportunity for service – which would lead to his release )
-when the opportunity to share your plight comes, do not remain silent, trusting God does not mean just doing nothing
-wait for God to work (Genesis 41:1, Joseph waited two years)
3. “All the water in the ocean cannot sink a ship unless it gets inside; and all the trouble in the world cannot harm us unless it gains entrance to our hearts. On such analogy faith is pitch and caulking.” (Eugene Peterson, Praying with the Psalms)
Monday, August 03, 2009
Guest Speaker ~ Frank Ochello
Click here to download the sermon file.
Guest Speaker Frank Ochello speaks todays from 1 Peter 1:13-25. Approximately 40 minutes.
Guest Speaker Frank Ochello speaks todays from 1 Peter 1:13-25. Approximately 40 minutes.
Monday, July 27, 2009
A Primer in Purity & Other Virtues, Pt 3
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Below is a recap for 7/26/09's sermon.
As part of a strategy for purity we need to have a biblical understanding of God’s purposes for the sexual relationship.
1. There are four scriptural purposes for sex: procreation (Genesis 1:28); recreation and release (Proverbs 5:18,19); and communication (Genesis 2:24).
2. God has created us as sexual beings, therefore, in the context of the marriage relationship:
sex is good; it has been marred by the Fall (Genesis 3), and is for married couples only.
3. Sex outside of marriage causes us to sin against our own bodies in a way that is different from other sin (1 Corinthians 6:9-20) and has other destructive effects. It separates us from God, keeps other aspects of a relationship from developing, introduces fear and guilt into the relationship, and is training for unfaithfulness after marriage.
(Sources for this and other information see: A Compact Guide to the Christian Life by K.C. Hinckley and Before You Say I Do by H. Norman Wright and Wes Roberts)
Below is a recap for 7/26/09's sermon.
As part of a strategy for purity we need to have a biblical understanding of God’s purposes for the sexual relationship.
1. There are four scriptural purposes for sex: procreation (Genesis 1:28); recreation and release (Proverbs 5:18,19); and communication (Genesis 2:24).
2. God has created us as sexual beings, therefore, in the context of the marriage relationship:
sex is good; it has been marred by the Fall (Genesis 3), and is for married couples only.
3. Sex outside of marriage causes us to sin against our own bodies in a way that is different from other sin (1 Corinthians 6:9-20) and has other destructive effects. It separates us from God, keeps other aspects of a relationship from developing, introduces fear and guilt into the relationship, and is training for unfaithfulness after marriage.
(Sources for this and other information see: A Compact Guide to the Christian Life by K.C. Hinckley and Before You Say I Do by H. Norman Wright and Wes Roberts)
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
A Primer in Purity & Other Virtues, Pt. 2
There is no sermon for Sunday, July 19, 2009 due to technical errors. We apologize.
Below is the re-cap of the sermon, taken from Genesis chapter 39, vv. 1-20:
1. For Joseph temptation and testing come at the time of his greatest success. Success often gives rise to greater testing than does failure or adversity.
2. Joseph succeeded in resisting temptation to sexual sin for several reasons:
-He rightly called Potiphar’s wife’s invitation to sexual sin what it was, a “wicked thing” and “sin.” He did not try to justify wrong behavior by calling it something else (“my wife/husband doesn’t understand me like you do,” “I’ve found my soul mate,” “What goes TDY stays TDY.”
-He realizes that ultimately he would be sinning against God (not just himself, Potiphar, or his wife)
-He took steps to avoid her (Romans 13:14)
-He fled the compromising situation
3. We must think through our strategy for dealing with sexual temptation:
-We must have a strategy for purity including things such as allowing our spouse free access to all electronic/phone communications (email accounts, cell phone, websites, etc.); except for work situations avoid being alone with a person of the opposite sex, etc.
-We must count the cost of moral failure. We should make a list of the people and things most important to us in life and then think through the devastation that our moral failure would bring to us and to them.
-We must immediately call upon God in the moment of temptation (1 Corinthians 10:12,13)
-We must be growing in our relationship with Jesus Christ (through the word, Bible study, prayer) we can pursue sin or Jesus but we can’t be pursuing both.-We must retain our thinking and attitudes about sex and sexuality so that they are Biblical.
Below is the re-cap of the sermon, taken from Genesis chapter 39, vv. 1-20:
1. For Joseph temptation and testing come at the time of his greatest success. Success often gives rise to greater testing than does failure or adversity.
2. Joseph succeeded in resisting temptation to sexual sin for several reasons:
-He rightly called Potiphar’s wife’s invitation to sexual sin what it was, a “wicked thing” and “sin.” He did not try to justify wrong behavior by calling it something else (“my wife/husband doesn’t understand me like you do,” “I’ve found my soul mate,” “What goes TDY stays TDY.”
-He realizes that ultimately he would be sinning against God (not just himself, Potiphar, or his wife)
-He took steps to avoid her (Romans 13:14)
-He fled the compromising situation
3. We must think through our strategy for dealing with sexual temptation:
-We must have a strategy for purity including things such as allowing our spouse free access to all electronic/phone communications (email accounts, cell phone, websites, etc.); except for work situations avoid being alone with a person of the opposite sex, etc.
-We must count the cost of moral failure. We should make a list of the people and things most important to us in life and then think through the devastation that our moral failure would bring to us and to them.
-We must immediately call upon God in the moment of temptation (1 Corinthians 10:12,13)
-We must be growing in our relationship with Jesus Christ (through the word, Bible study, prayer) we can pursue sin or Jesus but we can’t be pursuing both.-We must retain our thinking and attitudes about sex and sexuality so that they are Biblical.
Monday, July 13, 2009
A Primer In Purity
Click here to download the sermon file.
Recap of the July 12, 2009 sermon, taken from Genesis 39, verses 1 through 20a.
1. Joseph, at seventeen, finds himself a slave in an Egyptian official’s estate. He evidences no bitterness, no anger, and no resentment for his predicament.
2. God is with him in this dark moment in his life (38:2,3,21,23) and he is successful - rising to the highest position, that of steward or overseer, in Potiphar’s household.
3. Joseph’s success could be attributed to several factors: God’s hand on his life, the promises of the Abrahamic covenant, his faith, and his work ethic.
4. Christians should make a difference in their workplace—they should work to make their employer successful, whether they are a Christian or non-Christian employer. They should be hard workers, have a good work ethic (diligent, industrious, conscientious, honest, faithful, upright), and be a positive force. (see Ephesians 6:5-8; Colossians 3:22-25; 1 Timothy 6:1,2)
5. There are similarities between Joseph and Daniel the prophet: both were captured and taken to lands far away from their homes and families; both kept their faith and commitment to God and flourished despite the negative attractions, morals, and ethics of cultures far different from their own; both had to make difficult decisions without parental help or influence as relatively young people.
Recap of the July 12, 2009 sermon, taken from Genesis 39, verses 1 through 20a.
1. Joseph, at seventeen, finds himself a slave in an Egyptian official’s estate. He evidences no bitterness, no anger, and no resentment for his predicament.
2. God is with him in this dark moment in his life (38:2,3,21,23) and he is successful - rising to the highest position, that of steward or overseer, in Potiphar’s household.
3. Joseph’s success could be attributed to several factors: God’s hand on his life, the promises of the Abrahamic covenant, his faith, and his work ethic.
4. Christians should make a difference in their workplace—they should work to make their employer successful, whether they are a Christian or non-Christian employer. They should be hard workers, have a good work ethic (diligent, industrious, conscientious, honest, faithful, upright), and be a positive force. (see Ephesians 6:5-8; Colossians 3:22-25; 1 Timothy 6:1,2)
5. There are similarities between Joseph and Daniel the prophet: both were captured and taken to lands far away from their homes and families; both kept their faith and commitment to God and flourished despite the negative attractions, morals, and ethics of cultures far different from their own; both had to make difficult decisions without parental help or influence as relatively young people.
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
The Family of the Unsandaled
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Recap of July 5, 2009:
1. Concerning Genesis 38, J. Vernon McGee writes: “This is another chapter that seems to be about as necessary as a fifth leg on a cow. After you have read the story, you may wish that it had been left out of the Bible.”
2. There are four reasons for the inclusion of chapter 38 in the Genesis record:
-Judah’s failure is a contrast with Joseph’s victory in Genesis 39
-to teach, by contrast, the need for purity
-to teach the importance of not buying into the culture’s viewpoints, especially of sex and marriage
-MOST IMPORTANTLY, Chapter 38 traces the line of Messiah through Judah, Tamar and Perez (see genealogies at Ruth 4:18-22; Matthew 1; and Luke 3).
3. John MacArthur rightly says: “The genealogy of Jesus Christ is immeasurable more than a list of ancient names; it is even more than a list of Jesus’ human forbears. It is a beautiful testimony to God’s grace and to the ministry of His Son, Jesus Christ, the friend of sinners, who ‘did not come to call the righteous, but sinners’ (Matt. 9:13). If He has called sinners by grace to be His forefather, should we be surprised when He calls them by grace to be His descendants? The King presented here is truly the King of grace!”
4. Once again Genesis 38 shows us that: God uses sinful people (we’re the only material He has to work with); whatever we are today, we may be better; and whatever our past sins, we may be forgiven and used of God again (though we will experience the consequences of forgiven sin.
Recap of July 5, 2009:
1. Concerning Genesis 38, J. Vernon McGee writes: “This is another chapter that seems to be about as necessary as a fifth leg on a cow. After you have read the story, you may wish that it had been left out of the Bible.”
2. There are four reasons for the inclusion of chapter 38 in the Genesis record:
-Judah’s failure is a contrast with Joseph’s victory in Genesis 39
-to teach, by contrast, the need for purity
-to teach the importance of not buying into the culture’s viewpoints, especially of sex and marriage
-MOST IMPORTANTLY, Chapter 38 traces the line of Messiah through Judah, Tamar and Perez (see genealogies at Ruth 4:18-22; Matthew 1; and Luke 3).
3. John MacArthur rightly says: “The genealogy of Jesus Christ is immeasurable more than a list of ancient names; it is even more than a list of Jesus’ human forbears. It is a beautiful testimony to God’s grace and to the ministry of His Son, Jesus Christ, the friend of sinners, who ‘did not come to call the righteous, but sinners’ (Matt. 9:13). If He has called sinners by grace to be His forefather, should we be surprised when He calls them by grace to be His descendants? The King presented here is truly the King of grace!”
4. Once again Genesis 38 shows us that: God uses sinful people (we’re the only material He has to work with); whatever we are today, we may be better; and whatever our past sins, we may be forgiven and used of God again (though we will experience the consequences of forgiven sin.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
When A Dismal Outlook Is The Best Outcome, Pt 2
Click here to download the sermon file.
Recap of the sermon from Sunday, June 28, 2009:
1. By giving Joseph a “richly ornamented robe” (either multi-colored or long-sleeved reaching to the ankles - the Hebrew is uncertain) Jacob was marking him out as his favorite and the likely son to receive the birthright. This favoritism, along with other things, brought about the hatred of Joseph’s brothers.
2. The favoritism and deception of Jacob’s past were now coming to the fore once again in his own children. Concerning favoritism, Jacob should have recognized the damage it can do in a family. But instead of dealing with it, he perpetuates it in his family with all the concomitant wrong and disorder that comes with it.
3. Jacob’s children used a goat to deceive Jacob about what had happened to Joseph even as Jacob had used a goat in deceiving his father Isaac concerning the birthright.
4. There is an important sowing and reaping principle we see time and again in Scripture which works in the physical, moral and spiritual realms. That which we allow in our lives will bear fruit, either good or bad, in our lives and in the lives of our children.
Recap of the sermon from Sunday, June 28, 2009:
1. By giving Joseph a “richly ornamented robe” (either multi-colored or long-sleeved reaching to the ankles - the Hebrew is uncertain) Jacob was marking him out as his favorite and the likely son to receive the birthright. This favoritism, along with other things, brought about the hatred of Joseph’s brothers.
2. The favoritism and deception of Jacob’s past were now coming to the fore once again in his own children. Concerning favoritism, Jacob should have recognized the damage it can do in a family. But instead of dealing with it, he perpetuates it in his family with all the concomitant wrong and disorder that comes with it.
3. Jacob’s children used a goat to deceive Jacob about what had happened to Joseph even as Jacob had used a goat in deceiving his father Isaac concerning the birthright.
4. There is an important sowing and reaping principle we see time and again in Scripture which works in the physical, moral and spiritual realms. That which we allow in our lives will bear fruit, either good or bad, in our lives and in the lives of our children.
Monday, June 22, 2009
When A Dismal Outlook Is The Best Outcome
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Recap of June 21, 2009:
1. For personalized Bible reading plans see http://www.blueletterbible.org/reader/daily; http://www.how-to-experience-the-bible.com/custom-bible-reading-plan.html
2. Read some good theology: A Survey of Bible Doctrine or Basic Theology by Charles C. Ryrie; Lectures in Systematic Theology by Henry C. Thiessen (revised by Vernon D. Doerksen; Know Why You Believe and Know What You Believe by Paul E. Little.
3. Genesis 37 (and in fact the whole Joseph account in Genesis) is an illustration of the doctrine of the providence of God. Providence, according to Lectures in Systematic Theology by Thiessen (see above) is “…that continuous activity of God whereby He makes all the events of the physical, mental and moral realms work out His purpose; ….”
4. According to Thiessen God exercises sovereign control over: the physical universe; the animal and plant creation; the nations of the earth; and over all individuals; extending to our birth, lot in life, and death; our successes and failures; over seemingly accidental or insignificant things in life; over the needs of His people; over the destinies of the saved and unsaved; and over the free acts of humans.
Recap of June 21, 2009:
1. For personalized Bible reading plans see http://www.blueletterbible.org/reader/daily; http://www.how-to-experience-the-bible.com/custom-bible-reading-plan.html
2. Read some good theology: A Survey of Bible Doctrine or Basic Theology by Charles C. Ryrie; Lectures in Systematic Theology by Henry C. Thiessen (revised by Vernon D. Doerksen; Know Why You Believe and Know What You Believe by Paul E. Little.
3. Genesis 37 (and in fact the whole Joseph account in Genesis) is an illustration of the doctrine of the providence of God. Providence, according to Lectures in Systematic Theology by Thiessen (see above) is “…that continuous activity of God whereby He makes all the events of the physical, mental and moral realms work out His purpose; ….”
4. According to Thiessen God exercises sovereign control over: the physical universe; the animal and plant creation; the nations of the earth; and over all individuals; extending to our birth, lot in life, and death; our successes and failures; over seemingly accidental or insignificant things in life; over the needs of His people; over the destinies of the saved and unsaved; and over the free acts of humans.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Success And Suffering, Pt 3
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Recap of the sermon from June 14, 2009:
Why do the righteous suffer?
-Righteousness does not exempt us from trials and suffering (examples are Job, Paul, etc.). The providences of God are often applied indiscriminately. (Matthew 5:45-48)
-When we suffer we are following the example of Christ (Luke 24:26; 1 Peter 5:10)
-Sometimes suffering is due to the discipline of God (Hebrews 12): discipline is proof of God’s love, vs. 6; it is proof that we are God’s children, vv. 7,8; it is evidence that He is our Father, vs. 9; discipline trains us to live righteously, vs. 11; discipline teaches us obedience, Hebrews 5:8
-Suffering tests our faith (Proverbs 17:3): to prove it genuine, 1 Peter 1;6,7, to produce endurance, James 1:2,3
-God is arranging our circumstances for our good (Romans 8:28)
-Suffering tests our character, our integrity toward God, our love for God (Job 1 & 2)
Recap of the sermon from June 14, 2009:
Why do the righteous suffer?
-Righteousness does not exempt us from trials and suffering (examples are Job, Paul, etc.). The providences of God are often applied indiscriminately. (Matthew 5:45-48)
-When we suffer we are following the example of Christ (Luke 24:26; 1 Peter 5:10)
-Sometimes suffering is due to the discipline of God (Hebrews 12): discipline is proof of God’s love, vs. 6; it is proof that we are God’s children, vv. 7,8; it is evidence that He is our Father, vs. 9; discipline trains us to live righteously, vs. 11; discipline teaches us obedience, Hebrews 5:8
-Suffering tests our faith (Proverbs 17:3): to prove it genuine, 1 Peter 1;6,7, to produce endurance, James 1:2,3
-God is arranging our circumstances for our good (Romans 8:28)
-Suffering tests our character, our integrity toward God, our love for God (Job 1 & 2)
Monday, June 08, 2009
Success And Suffering, Pt 2
Click here to download the sermon file.
The sermon recap from June 7, 2009:
1. Genesis 37-50 explain how it is that Israel came to be in bondage in Egypt and are the fulfillment of His prophecy to Abraham in Genesis 15:13-16.
2. The account of Joseph which occupies Genesis 37-50 illustrates the place of suffering in the life of the believer and shows that God uses His people in ways they often do not understand and with people they could not imagine. God is working all things together for our good and for His glory (Romans 8:28).
3. “What a marvelous comforting truth! God is in control of your life today. Trusting in that fact can be the difference between joy and despair. Few truths can change our lives like the knowledge that God is in control.” (Life Application Bible)
The sermon recap from June 7, 2009:
1. Genesis 37-50 explain how it is that Israel came to be in bondage in Egypt and are the fulfillment of His prophecy to Abraham in Genesis 15:13-16.
2. The account of Joseph which occupies Genesis 37-50 illustrates the place of suffering in the life of the believer and shows that God uses His people in ways they often do not understand and with people they could not imagine. God is working all things together for our good and for His glory (Romans 8:28).
3. “What a marvelous comforting truth! God is in control of your life today. Trusting in that fact can be the difference between joy and despair. Few truths can change our lives like the knowledge that God is in control.” (Life Application Bible)
Monday, June 01, 2009
Dean Chollar, Guest Speaker
Click here to download the sermon file.
Today's guest speaker, Dean Chollar, is founder and CEO of CrossWay International.
Today's guest speaker, Dean Chollar, is founder and CEO of CrossWay International.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Success And Suffering
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Recap of May 24, 2009:
1. Genesis 36 traces the family line of Esau.
2. Esau lived for the moment, consequently he: didn’t consider the consequences of his actions; did not delay gratification; had no spiritual interest or desire; indulged his appetites; and was willing to trade spiritual riches for fulfillment of physical appetites.
3. Matthew Henry states: “Esau’s blood becomes royal long before any of Jacob’s did. We may suppose it was a great trial to the faith of God’s Israel to hear of the pomp and power of the kings of Edom, while they were bond-slaves in Egypt; but those that look for great things from God must be content to wait for them; God’s time is the best time.”
4. When we are perplexed about why those who have no interest in godly things seem to succeed beyond those who are righteous: we must align our perspective with God’s perspective; we must value spiritual things over earthly/material things; we must not envy the unrighteous; finally, we must pray for them for they have not eternal hope.
Recap of May 24, 2009:
1. Genesis 36 traces the family line of Esau.
2. Esau lived for the moment, consequently he: didn’t consider the consequences of his actions; did not delay gratification; had no spiritual interest or desire; indulged his appetites; and was willing to trade spiritual riches for fulfillment of physical appetites.
3. Matthew Henry states: “Esau’s blood becomes royal long before any of Jacob’s did. We may suppose it was a great trial to the faith of God’s Israel to hear of the pomp and power of the kings of Edom, while they were bond-slaves in Egypt; but those that look for great things from God must be content to wait for them; God’s time is the best time.”
4. When we are perplexed about why those who have no interest in godly things seem to succeed beyond those who are righteous: we must align our perspective with God’s perspective; we must value spiritual things over earthly/material things; we must not envy the unrighteous; finally, we must pray for them for they have not eternal hope.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Birth, Death & Betrayal
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Recap of the sermon from May 17, 2009:
1. Many, like Jacob and his family, are in need of a new beginning. For the believer that means dealing with sin, being single-minded toward God, and being holy (set apart to God, from sin, purified, cleansed). It also means being fully committed to the Word of God (in obedience, in accurate interpretation), to the Holy Spirit (yielding to His control in our lives, when we do He lives out the Word of God through us), and to ministry using our unique resources, gifts and heartbeat.
2. Jacob’s newfound commitment to God did not keep him from sorrow and trials. Soon after his recommitment his beloved Rachel died giving birth to Benjamin.
3. God calls Himself God Almighty (El Shaddai) in renewing His promises to Jacob, which pictures God as the overpowering One standing on a mountain triumphantly. In other places God is named: El Olam, the Everlasting God, used in connection with His inexhaustible strength; Jehovah Jireh, meaning the Lord provides; Jehovah Shalom, the Lord is peace; Jehovah Sabbaoth, the Lord of Heaven’s Hosts, the protector of Israel; and Jehovah Roi, the Lord my Shepherd.
Recap of the sermon from May 17, 2009:
1. Many, like Jacob and his family, are in need of a new beginning. For the believer that means dealing with sin, being single-minded toward God, and being holy (set apart to God, from sin, purified, cleansed). It also means being fully committed to the Word of God (in obedience, in accurate interpretation), to the Holy Spirit (yielding to His control in our lives, when we do He lives out the Word of God through us), and to ministry using our unique resources, gifts and heartbeat.
2. Jacob’s newfound commitment to God did not keep him from sorrow and trials. Soon after his recommitment his beloved Rachel died giving birth to Benjamin.
3. God calls Himself God Almighty (El Shaddai) in renewing His promises to Jacob, which pictures God as the overpowering One standing on a mountain triumphantly. In other places God is named: El Olam, the Everlasting God, used in connection with His inexhaustible strength; Jehovah Jireh, meaning the Lord provides; Jehovah Shalom, the Lord is peace; Jehovah Sabbaoth, the Lord of Heaven’s Hosts, the protector of Israel; and Jehovah Roi, the Lord my Shepherd.
Monday, May 11, 2009
What's Holding You Back? Pt 2
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Recap of the sermon from Sunday, May 10, 2009:
1. Jacob’s family had drifted away from God; before he could fulfill his promise to God he had to deal with the idolatry in his own family.
2. To deal with their defection from God, Jacob called them:
- to be single-minded in their devotion to God (to put away their idols and charms). James 4:4-10
-to be holy (to purify themselves, to put away sin) Ephesians 4:22-5:15; Colossians 3:9-14
-to bury the idols and charms (even as they buried the idols and charms associated with their idolatry, we must bury the old life of self and sin.) Luke 9:23; Galatians 2:22
3. One author called the years from Jacob’s leaving the land until his return to Bethel, “lost time.” Lost years, “blanks” in which he was not living by faith. Years of “so much wood, hay, and stubble,” a reference to Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 and 2 Corinthians 5:10 which challenge believers about the quality of their Christian lives and work. That which is done by faith will bring reward.
Recap of the sermon from Sunday, May 10, 2009:
1. Jacob’s family had drifted away from God; before he could fulfill his promise to God he had to deal with the idolatry in his own family.
2. To deal with their defection from God, Jacob called them:
- to be single-minded in their devotion to God (to put away their idols and charms). James 4:4-10
-to be holy (to purify themselves, to put away sin) Ephesians 4:22-5:15; Colossians 3:9-14
-to bury the idols and charms (even as they buried the idols and charms associated with their idolatry, we must bury the old life of self and sin.) Luke 9:23; Galatians 2:22
3. One author called the years from Jacob’s leaving the land until his return to Bethel, “lost time.” Lost years, “blanks” in which he was not living by faith. Years of “so much wood, hay, and stubble,” a reference to Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 3:10-15 and 2 Corinthians 5:10 which challenge believers about the quality of their Christian lives and work. That which is done by faith will bring reward.
Monday, May 04, 2009
What's Holding You Back?
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Re-cap of the sermon from May 3, 2009:
1. God’s instructions to Jacob in 35:1 are, in effect, a rebuke - a call for him to complete the vows he made earlier at Bethel when he was leaving the land (28:20-22). God was admonishing him because he had unfinished business which was keeping him from full obedience.
2. Jacob’s return to Bethel was unwisely delayed by 7-10 years, time which he spent in Succoth in Shechem - an action which put his family in jeopardy.
3. Part of the reason for the delay was the fact that there was idolatry in Jacob’s family. Along with the household idols which Rachel brought back from Paddam Aram were the false gods of the area of Shechem,
4. We must be careful about divided allegiance. God’s Spirit jealously desires to have our full devotion. (James 4:4-6).
5. A. W. Pink wisely said: “The moral is evident: spiritual neglect and trifling with temptation can issue only in evil and disaster. Let us not neglect God’s house, nor delay to keep His commandments.”
Re-cap of the sermon from May 3, 2009:
1. God’s instructions to Jacob in 35:1 are, in effect, a rebuke - a call for him to complete the vows he made earlier at Bethel when he was leaving the land (28:20-22). God was admonishing him because he had unfinished business which was keeping him from full obedience.
2. Jacob’s return to Bethel was unwisely delayed by 7-10 years, time which he spent in Succoth in Shechem - an action which put his family in jeopardy.
3. Part of the reason for the delay was the fact that there was idolatry in Jacob’s family. Along with the household idols which Rachel brought back from Paddam Aram were the false gods of the area of Shechem,
4. We must be careful about divided allegiance. God’s Spirit jealously desires to have our full devotion. (James 4:4-6).
5. A. W. Pink wisely said: “The moral is evident: spiritual neglect and trifling with temptation can issue only in evil and disaster. Let us not neglect God’s house, nor delay to keep His commandments.”
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
A Family In Crisis, Part 2
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Recap of April 26, 2009:
1. Genesis 34 is another example to us that God does His work through imperfect, sinful vessels (the only material He has to work with!):
-“While the story operates at a level of family honor and brotherly concern for a ravished sister, it nevertheless also carries along the theme that God works through and often in spite of the limited, self-serving plans of human beings.” (John H. Sailhamer)
-“It was another case of promoting a holy cause in an unholy way.” (Warren Wiersbe on the actions of Dinah’s brothers)
2. Chapter 34 is also a warning to Israel about the dangers of social and religious interaction with the people of Canaan. They were not to partake of their ways or join with them in a vital way. They were to be in the land but not partners with the people even as we in the church are in the world but we are not to be of the world.
3. On a family level Genesis 34 when a father is disengaged from his family (as Jacob seems to be in this instance) children tend to be out of control.
Recap of April 26, 2009:
1. Genesis 34 is another example to us that God does His work through imperfect, sinful vessels (the only material He has to work with!):
-“While the story operates at a level of family honor and brotherly concern for a ravished sister, it nevertheless also carries along the theme that God works through and often in spite of the limited, self-serving plans of human beings.” (John H. Sailhamer)
-“It was another case of promoting a holy cause in an unholy way.” (Warren Wiersbe on the actions of Dinah’s brothers)
2. Chapter 34 is also a warning to Israel about the dangers of social and religious interaction with the people of Canaan. They were not to partake of their ways or join with them in a vital way. They were to be in the land but not partners with the people even as we in the church are in the world but we are not to be of the world.
3. On a family level Genesis 34 when a father is disengaged from his family (as Jacob seems to be in this instance) children tend to be out of control.
Monday, April 20, 2009
A Family In Crisis
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Recap of April 19, 2009:
Six warnings from Proverbs regarding friendship:
-Be careful in choosing friends/companions (good companions will influence you for good, the wrong companions will influence you toward evil, leading you into trouble instead of enriching your life. (Proverbs 13:20)
-It is better to have one genuine friend who is looking out for your interests than a multitude of companions. It is necessary to be discriminating in choosing friends. (Proverbs 18:24)
-We must steer clear of the path of the wicked, those who are restless until they cause someone to fall or take advantage of others. (Proverbs 4:14-17)
-We must avoid those who choose the wrong path, the path of rebellion, because they are not content until they lead someone in their path. (Proverbs 16:29)
-Stay away from angry people (those who are always angry at others especially those in authority and tend to blame others for their misfortune) or you will take up their ways. (Proverbs 22:24-25)
-Steer clear of those who have tendencies toward addictions (alcohol, drugs, food) they will lead you in the path of addiction, laziness, poverty.
Recap of April 19, 2009:
Six warnings from Proverbs regarding friendship:
-Be careful in choosing friends/companions (good companions will influence you for good, the wrong companions will influence you toward evil, leading you into trouble instead of enriching your life. (Proverbs 13:20)
-It is better to have one genuine friend who is looking out for your interests than a multitude of companions. It is necessary to be discriminating in choosing friends. (Proverbs 18:24)
-We must steer clear of the path of the wicked, those who are restless until they cause someone to fall or take advantage of others. (Proverbs 4:14-17)
-We must avoid those who choose the wrong path, the path of rebellion, because they are not content until they lead someone in their path. (Proverbs 16:29)
-Stay away from angry people (those who are always angry at others especially those in authority and tend to blame others for their misfortune) or you will take up their ways. (Proverbs 22:24-25)
-Steer clear of those who have tendencies toward addictions (alcohol, drugs, food) they will lead you in the path of addiction, laziness, poverty.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Fear, Failure, Triumph
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Recap of April 12, 2009:
1. Peter’s pride caused him to be self-reliant, prayerless, impatient, and silent. He spoke when he should have listened, slept when he should have prayed, acted when he should have waited, and was silent when he should have spoken up. (Matthew 26:31-75)
2. The Scripture warns about the danger of pride. (Proverbs 16:18)
3. Peter’s pride made him: blind to his limitations, blind to Satan’s designs on him, trust in his own strength and ability, feel superior to the other disciples, and caused him to reject the Word of God.
4. When Jesus restored Peter after the resurrection, he asked Peter three times if he loved Him. Even as Peter denied the Lord three times, Jesus restores him three times.
5. The heart of Jesus’ challenge to Peter had to do with Peter’s love and devotion to Him. “The Lord didn’t say ‘Simon, son of Jonas, will you preach for Me? Will you suffer for Me? Will you evangelize for Me? Will you believe in Me?’ He didn’t say that. Instead Christ asked, ‘Simon, son of Jonas, do you love Me more than these? Do you really love Me?’ That is what He is after….If your service is not an outflow for your love for the Lord personally, it will become a chore. You will soon give it up. And conversely, the less I love Him, the less I’ll serve Him, and the less I’ll talk about Him.” (An Everlasting Love, John G. Mitchell)
Recap of April 12, 2009:
1. Peter’s pride caused him to be self-reliant, prayerless, impatient, and silent. He spoke when he should have listened, slept when he should have prayed, acted when he should have waited, and was silent when he should have spoken up. (Matthew 26:31-75)
2. The Scripture warns about the danger of pride. (Proverbs 16:18)
3. Peter’s pride made him: blind to his limitations, blind to Satan’s designs on him, trust in his own strength and ability, feel superior to the other disciples, and caused him to reject the Word of God.
4. When Jesus restored Peter after the resurrection, he asked Peter three times if he loved Him. Even as Peter denied the Lord three times, Jesus restores him three times.
5. The heart of Jesus’ challenge to Peter had to do with Peter’s love and devotion to Him. “The Lord didn’t say ‘Simon, son of Jonas, will you preach for Me? Will you suffer for Me? Will you evangelize for Me? Will you believe in Me?’ He didn’t say that. Instead Christ asked, ‘Simon, son of Jonas, do you love Me more than these? Do you really love Me?’ That is what He is after….If your service is not an outflow for your love for the Lord personally, it will become a chore. You will soon give it up. And conversely, the less I love Him, the less I’ll serve Him, and the less I’ll talk about Him.” (An Everlasting Love, John G. Mitchell)
Monday, April 06, 2009
Triumph & Tragedy
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Please note: the audio quality is poor and this recording begins with the sermon already well-underway. (Our apologies).
Re-cap - 4/12/09:
1. “Of the many deficiencies that plague us, broken relationships seem the hardest to put right, the easiest to let slide, and yet the most important to resolve. The psalmist says, ‘How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity’ (Ps 133:1). Yet, often, we let ruptured relationships drift on from year to year.” (Dr. Michael Pocock)
2. Several issues stand in the way of reconciliation: Fear that the person will not accept our overture; fear that they will not forgive us if we are the offender; fear that reconciliation will diminish the offense; pride, an unwillingness to humble ourselves; and desire for revenge.
3. Steps to build or rebuild relationship from Ephesians 4:25-32: speak the truth in love; keep short accounts; choose to be constructive in relationship not destructive; choose kindness and compassion not anger and bitterness; forgive as we have been forgiven.
Please note: the audio quality is poor and this recording begins with the sermon already well-underway. (Our apologies).
Re-cap - 4/12/09:
1. “Of the many deficiencies that plague us, broken relationships seem the hardest to put right, the easiest to let slide, and yet the most important to resolve. The psalmist says, ‘How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity’ (Ps 133:1). Yet, often, we let ruptured relationships drift on from year to year.” (Dr. Michael Pocock)
2. Several issues stand in the way of reconciliation: Fear that the person will not accept our overture; fear that they will not forgive us if we are the offender; fear that reconciliation will diminish the offense; pride, an unwillingness to humble ourselves; and desire for revenge.
3. Steps to build or rebuild relationship from Ephesians 4:25-32: speak the truth in love; keep short accounts; choose to be constructive in relationship not destructive; choose kindness and compassion not anger and bitterness; forgive as we have been forgiven.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Encounters on the Road to Reconciliation, Pt 4
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Recap of the sermon from March 29, 2009:
1. Jacob’s whole life he has been dependent upon himself, going from struggle to struggle, living out his name “heel-catcher,” “deceiver,” “supplanter”. God confronts him about his life through the wrestling match. Jacob had been determined to have his own way, in his own strength. He must now learn the necessity of depending upon God, clinging to God in his weakness.
2. God must remind us periodically who we are, asking of us the same question He asked of Jacob, “What’s your name?” He reminds us that we have a new name given to us by Him. He reminds us that we cannot live the old way, but rather must live in dependence upon Him.
3. We must, like Jacob, cease striving to have our own way, acknowledge our weakness, and cling to God.
Recap of the sermon from March 29, 2009:
1. Jacob’s whole life he has been dependent upon himself, going from struggle to struggle, living out his name “heel-catcher,” “deceiver,” “supplanter”. God confronts him about his life through the wrestling match. Jacob had been determined to have his own way, in his own strength. He must now learn the necessity of depending upon God, clinging to God in his weakness.
2. God must remind us periodically who we are, asking of us the same question He asked of Jacob, “What’s your name?” He reminds us that we have a new name given to us by Him. He reminds us that we cannot live the old way, but rather must live in dependence upon Him.
3. We must, like Jacob, cease striving to have our own way, acknowledge our weakness, and cling to God.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Encounters on the Road to Reconciliation, Pt 3
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Sermon recap from March 22, 2009:
1. Jacob’s prayer in Genesis 32 is a model prayer is many ways (much like the “Disciple’s Prayer in Matthew 6). He prays on the basis of a relationship with God; he repeats God’s Word to Him, reminding Him of His commands and promises; he confesses his unworthiness; he acknowledges God’s work in his life previously; and he makes his request.
2. Concerning Jacob's encounter with God in Genesis 32, it was said: “To be left alone with God is the only true way of arriving at a just knowledge of ourselves and our ways. …No matter what we may think about ourselves, nor yet what man may think about us, the great question is, what does God think about us? And the answer to this question can only be learned when we are ‘left alone.’ Away from the world, away from self, away from all the thoughts, reasonings, imaginings, and emotions of mere nature, and ‘alone with God,’—thus, and thus alone, can we get a correct judgment about ourselves.” (C.H.M. quoted in Gleanings in Genesis)
Sermon recap from March 22, 2009:
1. Jacob’s prayer in Genesis 32 is a model prayer is many ways (much like the “Disciple’s Prayer in Matthew 6). He prays on the basis of a relationship with God; he repeats God’s Word to Him, reminding Him of His commands and promises; he confesses his unworthiness; he acknowledges God’s work in his life previously; and he makes his request.
2. Concerning Jacob's encounter with God in Genesis 32, it was said: “To be left alone with God is the only true way of arriving at a just knowledge of ourselves and our ways. …No matter what we may think about ourselves, nor yet what man may think about us, the great question is, what does God think about us? And the answer to this question can only be learned when we are ‘left alone.’ Away from the world, away from self, away from all the thoughts, reasonings, imaginings, and emotions of mere nature, and ‘alone with God,’—thus, and thus alone, can we get a correct judgment about ourselves.” (C.H.M. quoted in Gleanings in Genesis)
Monday, March 16, 2009
Encounters on the Road to Reconciliation, Pt 2
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Recap of March 15, 2009:
1. As Jacob is about to enter the land of Canaan, he is greeted by angels. He names the place Mahanaim which means “two camps,” referring to his camp and to the angel’s camp. It is a reminder to him of God’s care and presence with him. It was also a reminder to him of the spiritual nature of the battle ahead.
2. Paul reminds believers in the New Testament that the battles they face are not physical alone but are spiritual. “We wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities, powers,…” (Ephesians 6:10-12). Spiritual warfare requires spiritual means (2 Corinthians 10:3-5).
3. Angels are mentioned almost 400 times in the Old and New Testaments. They are created beings (Psalm 148:2-5), they do not procreate (Matthew 22:30), they are personal beings (exhibiting intellect, emotion and will), they are spirit beings (Hebrews 1:14, “ministering spirits) thus they do not have a body though they can appear as human, they do not die, and their main ministry is to serve those who are the heirs of salvation (Hebrews 1:14).
Recap of March 15, 2009:
1. As Jacob is about to enter the land of Canaan, he is greeted by angels. He names the place Mahanaim which means “two camps,” referring to his camp and to the angel’s camp. It is a reminder to him of God’s care and presence with him. It was also a reminder to him of the spiritual nature of the battle ahead.
2. Paul reminds believers in the New Testament that the battles they face are not physical alone but are spiritual. “We wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities, powers,…” (Ephesians 6:10-12). Spiritual warfare requires spiritual means (2 Corinthians 10:3-5).
3. Angels are mentioned almost 400 times in the Old and New Testaments. They are created beings (Psalm 148:2-5), they do not procreate (Matthew 22:30), they are personal beings (exhibiting intellect, emotion and will), they are spirit beings (Hebrews 1:14, “ministering spirits) thus they do not have a body though they can appear as human, they do not die, and their main ministry is to serve those who are the heirs of salvation (Hebrews 1:14).
Monday, March 09, 2009
Encounters on the Road to Reconciliation
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Recap of the sermon from March 8, 2009:
1. In Genesis 31 Jacob and Laban set up a boundary marker as a means of protection from each other. Boundaries are helpful in our lives to protect ourselves from ourselves especially in the moral area. We need to think through boundaries for our lives regarding the opposite sex, and regarding what we read, watch, and view on the internet. Boundaries are simply strategies to keep us from falling.
2. As Jacob reaches the edge of the promised land he once again encounters angels as he did when he exited the land 20 years earlier. The angels were representative of God’s protection of Jacob and would remind him that this conflict was not physical only but spiritual as well and required a spiritual response on his part. As Dr. Allen Ross said: “When God’s work is involved, the conflict is spiritual, not physical. This was true for Jacob, it was true for Israel, and it is true today. No human effort can be sufficient for these things. The source of defense and means of victory come from God’s ministering angels.”
Recap of the sermon from March 8, 2009:
1. In Genesis 31 Jacob and Laban set up a boundary marker as a means of protection from each other. Boundaries are helpful in our lives to protect ourselves from ourselves especially in the moral area. We need to think through boundaries for our lives regarding the opposite sex, and regarding what we read, watch, and view on the internet. Boundaries are simply strategies to keep us from falling.
2. As Jacob reaches the edge of the promised land he once again encounters angels as he did when he exited the land 20 years earlier. The angels were representative of God’s protection of Jacob and would remind him that this conflict was not physical only but spiritual as well and required a spiritual response on his part. As Dr. Allen Ross said: “When God’s work is involved, the conflict is spiritual, not physical. This was true for Jacob, it was true for Israel, and it is true today. No human effort can be sufficient for these things. The source of defense and means of victory come from God’s ministering angels.”
Monday, March 02, 2009
Getting Their Goats, Part 3
Click here to download the sermon file.
Recap of the sermon from Sunday, March 1, 2009:
1. Jacob’s emotional “default” setting when faced with conflict was to deceive and scheme, trusting in himself. Fear triggered his default setting.
2. Once again we see that we are faced with a choice to live in faith or live in fear. Faith is freeing and allows us to live openly, honestly, transparently and courageously. Fear, on the other hand, is crippling. Because we fear being taken advantage of we scheme, manipulate, and take advantage of others.
3. Jacob explained to Rachel and Leah about the need to leave. He recounted God’s instruction to him, and God’s care for them in the midst of the difficulties cause by Laban’s greed. It is part of a man’s God-given leadership in the home to consult with his wife about issues affecting the family and to explain family issues and decisions from God’s perspective (the perspective of the Word of God). For this reason a man must be well-versed in the Word of God and be ready to share with his family how God has cared for them in the past and how He will lead them in the future.
4. The Mizpah covenant/truce/treaty (Genesis 31:43-55) was a recognition of Jacob’s and Laban’s mutual distrust not of their mutual friendship.
Recap of the sermon from Sunday, March 1, 2009:
1. Jacob’s emotional “default” setting when faced with conflict was to deceive and scheme, trusting in himself. Fear triggered his default setting.
2. Once again we see that we are faced with a choice to live in faith or live in fear. Faith is freeing and allows us to live openly, honestly, transparently and courageously. Fear, on the other hand, is crippling. Because we fear being taken advantage of we scheme, manipulate, and take advantage of others.
3. Jacob explained to Rachel and Leah about the need to leave. He recounted God’s instruction to him, and God’s care for them in the midst of the difficulties cause by Laban’s greed. It is part of a man’s God-given leadership in the home to consult with his wife about issues affecting the family and to explain family issues and decisions from God’s perspective (the perspective of the Word of God). For this reason a man must be well-versed in the Word of God and be ready to share with his family how God has cared for them in the past and how He will lead them in the future.
4. The Mizpah covenant/truce/treaty (Genesis 31:43-55) was a recognition of Jacob’s and Laban’s mutual distrust not of their mutual friendship.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Getting Their Goats, Part 2
Click here to download the sermon file.
Recap from February 22, 2009:
1. Jacob desired to return to his homeland (30:25,26) but it wasn’t yet God’s time. In 31:1,2 (six years later) circumstances became untenable as Laban and his sons’ attitudes cooled considerably toward Jacob, becoming even hostile, making a return desirable. In 31:3 God speaks to Jacob directing him to return to Canaan.
2. W. H. Griffith Thomas (1861-1924) drew from this passage three principles for discerning the will of God, as expressed by A.W. Pink:
-“Conviction in our hearts that God desires a certain course of action” (this alone is not sufficient for action)
-“Circumstances converge to make the action possible or expedient”
-“…after definitely waiting on God for it, some special word from the Scriptures which is suited to our own case and which by the Spirit bringing it manifestly to our notice (while waiting for guidance) is plainly a message from God to our hearts.”
Recap from February 22, 2009:
1. Jacob desired to return to his homeland (30:25,26) but it wasn’t yet God’s time. In 31:1,2 (six years later) circumstances became untenable as Laban and his sons’ attitudes cooled considerably toward Jacob, becoming even hostile, making a return desirable. In 31:3 God speaks to Jacob directing him to return to Canaan.
2. W. H. Griffith Thomas (1861-1924) drew from this passage three principles for discerning the will of God, as expressed by A.W. Pink:
-“Conviction in our hearts that God desires a certain course of action” (this alone is not sufficient for action)
-“Circumstances converge to make the action possible or expedient”
-“…after definitely waiting on God for it, some special word from the Scriptures which is suited to our own case and which by the Spirit bringing it manifestly to our notice (while waiting for guidance) is plainly a message from God to our hearts.”
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Getting Their Goats
Click here to download the sermon file for February 15.
Recap of the sermon from February 15, 2009:
1. A Biblical theology of money:
- All is God’s/all is from God—we are stewards. 1 Corinthians 4:2,7; 1 Chronicles 29:10-17
- We must not love money, live for it, or put our trust in it. 1 Timothy 6:6-10; Matthew 6:24; Hebrews 13:5,6
- We must use our resources to further God’s purposes. 1 Timothy 6:17-19
- We must learn to value those things that don’t have price tags, such as: our relationship with God, our relationship with our mate, children, one-another.
- We must be unselfish with our resources. Proverbs 11:24,25; 28:22
2. If we have a wrong attitude toward money: God will not have first place as He should; we will value the things that lack true value; we will compromise character, honesty, integrity; we will live for that which is perishing; we will never be satisfied or content; we will be serving the wrong master.
Recap of the sermon from February 15, 2009:
1. A Biblical theology of money:
- All is God’s/all is from God—we are stewards. 1 Corinthians 4:2,7; 1 Chronicles 29:10-17
- We must not love money, live for it, or put our trust in it. 1 Timothy 6:6-10; Matthew 6:24; Hebrews 13:5,6
- We must use our resources to further God’s purposes. 1 Timothy 6:17-19
- We must learn to value those things that don’t have price tags, such as: our relationship with God, our relationship with our mate, children, one-another.
- We must be unselfish with our resources. Proverbs 11:24,25; 28:22
2. If we have a wrong attitude toward money: God will not have first place as He should; we will value the things that lack true value; we will compromise character, honesty, integrity; we will live for that which is perishing; we will never be satisfied or content; we will be serving the wrong master.
Monday, February 09, 2009
Sister Act
Click here to download the sermon file for February 8.
Recap from February 8, 2009:
1. What the Bible teaches about polygamy:
-God’s design for marriage is found in Genesis 2:24: marriage is to be a monogamous, heterosexual, lifelong union (this ideal is repeated by Jesus in Matthew 19:6 and is reinforced in Malachi 2:14,15; and 1 Corinthians 7:2)
-God permitted polygamy, but never approved of it.
-polygamy is a sin of ignorance since there is no direct command against it in the Scripture.
-polygamy was always a source of trouble and difficulty as Genesis 29 & 30 clearly demonstrate.
2. Though Leah is rejected by her husband, God cares for her by enabling her to conceive. God cares for the forgotten and rejected.
3. We must look to God to fulfill our needs of security, significance, and acceptance. We must not look to others to meet those needs. When we look to God we can act toward others in grace, loving them unconditionally. When we look toward others to fill those needs we wind up manipulating, battling, scheming or demanding from others.
Recap from February 8, 2009:
1. What the Bible teaches about polygamy:
-God’s design for marriage is found in Genesis 2:24: marriage is to be a monogamous, heterosexual, lifelong union (this ideal is repeated by Jesus in Matthew 19:6 and is reinforced in Malachi 2:14,15; and 1 Corinthians 7:2)
-God permitted polygamy, but never approved of it.
-polygamy is a sin of ignorance since there is no direct command against it in the Scripture.
-polygamy was always a source of trouble and difficulty as Genesis 29 & 30 clearly demonstrate.
2. Though Leah is rejected by her husband, God cares for her by enabling her to conceive. God cares for the forgotten and rejected.
3. We must look to God to fulfill our needs of security, significance, and acceptance. We must not look to others to meet those needs. When we look to God we can act toward others in grace, loving them unconditionally. When we look toward others to fill those needs we wind up manipulating, battling, scheming or demanding from others.
Monday, February 02, 2009
What Crop Are You Planting?
Click here to download the sermon file for February 1.
Recap of the sermon from Sunday, February 1, 2009:
1. In Genesis 28 God addressed Jacob’s need for assurance of His presence with him. In Genesis 29 God disciplines him through his Uncle Laban with the goal of molding him into a man of God.
2. God’s providence governs our lives, not chance. “There are no chance happenings or accidents in a world that is governed by God.” “There are no chance happenings, no chance-meetings, no chance delays, no chance losses, no chance anythings in our lives. All is divine appointment.” (A. W. Pink)
3. Jacob’s uncle Laban is God’s means of discipline for Jacob’s deceptions of the past. The deceiver is deceived. Laban substitutes Leah for the promised Rachel. As Jacob’s deception of his father and brother involved the rights of the firstborn, so the deception perpetrated upon him involved the rights of the firstborn.
4. There is a sowing and reaping principle see (Galatians 6:7) in scripture which is illustrated by this passage. When a person sows sin in their lives they will reap the product of that sin. If they sow righteousness in their lives they will again reap accordingly. It is important to ask, “What are we sowing?” Are we sowing to please the sinful nature or are we sowing to please God? We will reap the product of our sowing in our own life and in the lives of our families.
Recap of the sermon from Sunday, February 1, 2009:
1. In Genesis 28 God addressed Jacob’s need for assurance of His presence with him. In Genesis 29 God disciplines him through his Uncle Laban with the goal of molding him into a man of God.
2. God’s providence governs our lives, not chance. “There are no chance happenings or accidents in a world that is governed by God.” “There are no chance happenings, no chance-meetings, no chance delays, no chance losses, no chance anythings in our lives. All is divine appointment.” (A. W. Pink)
3. Jacob’s uncle Laban is God’s means of discipline for Jacob’s deceptions of the past. The deceiver is deceived. Laban substitutes Leah for the promised Rachel. As Jacob’s deception of his father and brother involved the rights of the firstborn, so the deception perpetrated upon him involved the rights of the firstborn.
4. There is a sowing and reaping principle see (Galatians 6:7) in scripture which is illustrated by this passage. When a person sows sin in their lives they will reap the product of that sin. If they sow righteousness in their lives they will again reap accordingly. It is important to ask, “What are we sowing?” Are we sowing to please the sinful nature or are we sowing to please God? We will reap the product of our sowing in our own life and in the lives of our families.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Flight to Faith, pt 2
Click here to download the sermon file.
Recap of the sermon from Sunday, January 25, 2009:
1. In Jacob’s moment of need God appears to him in a dream to assure him of His blessings (the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant-land, descendants, blessing the nations through him) and of His presence with Jacob wherever he is.
2. Though Jacob was reaping the consequences of his sin, God would be with him and bless him. “God still had a plan for his life” (Warren Wiersbe)
3. Jacob has a vision of a ladder/stairway in his dream. In John 1:51 Jesus reveals that the ladder that bridges earth and heaven, mankind and God is Him. He was the ladder. Jesus is the only way to God, the only mediator between God and man (John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:5).
4. Jacob’s response to God’s revelation of Himself is to worship, to set up a memorial, to rename the place Bethel (“house of God”), to make a vow (understood as either an act of weakness-bargaining with God, or an act of faith.
5. We must get to the point in our spiritual lives where we no longer bargain with God, but trust His grace.
6. Finally he commits a tithe to the Lord representing giving everything. Money is one of the most practical ways we show our faith.
Recap of the sermon from Sunday, January 25, 2009:
1. In Jacob’s moment of need God appears to him in a dream to assure him of His blessings (the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant-land, descendants, blessing the nations through him) and of His presence with Jacob wherever he is.
2. Though Jacob was reaping the consequences of his sin, God would be with him and bless him. “God still had a plan for his life” (Warren Wiersbe)
3. Jacob has a vision of a ladder/stairway in his dream. In John 1:51 Jesus reveals that the ladder that bridges earth and heaven, mankind and God is Him. He was the ladder. Jesus is the only way to God, the only mediator between God and man (John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:5).
4. Jacob’s response to God’s revelation of Himself is to worship, to set up a memorial, to rename the place Bethel (“house of God”), to make a vow (understood as either an act of weakness-bargaining with God, or an act of faith.
5. We must get to the point in our spiritual lives where we no longer bargain with God, but trust His grace.
6. Finally he commits a tithe to the Lord representing giving everything. Money is one of the most practical ways we show our faith.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Flight to Faith
Click here to download the sermon file.
Re-cap of the sermon from January 18, 2009:
1. Hatred, murderous intentions and separation result from the disregard of God’s Word and deception which occur earlier in Genesis 27. Disregarding God’s Word in a family leads to all kinds of dysfunction.
2. Isaac warns Jacob against marrying a woman from among the Canaanites who would bring pagan belief and practices into the people of God. There are warnings in both Old and New Testaments about the people of God marrying outside the faith. 2 Corinthians 6:14-16 warns against being unequally yoked with unbelievers, not just in marriage, but in other relationships as well. Marrying outside the faith will lead to compromises in a believer’s life and will result in not being able to be wholly committed to the Lord in worship and service.
3. God sometimes has to separate us from the familiar to get us alone with Him, to isolate us to Himself. He does this often through difficulties, trials, unexpected challenges, or a change of circumstances. He does this to reveal Himself to us in a new way and to remind us that He is here, He is near, and that He is real.
Re-cap of the sermon from January 18, 2009:
1. Hatred, murderous intentions and separation result from the disregard of God’s Word and deception which occur earlier in Genesis 27. Disregarding God’s Word in a family leads to all kinds of dysfunction.
2. Isaac warns Jacob against marrying a woman from among the Canaanites who would bring pagan belief and practices into the people of God. There are warnings in both Old and New Testaments about the people of God marrying outside the faith. 2 Corinthians 6:14-16 warns against being unequally yoked with unbelievers, not just in marriage, but in other relationships as well. Marrying outside the faith will lead to compromises in a believer’s life and will result in not being able to be wholly committed to the Lord in worship and service.
3. God sometimes has to separate us from the familiar to get us alone with Him, to isolate us to Himself. He does this often through difficulties, trials, unexpected challenges, or a change of circumstances. He does this to reveal Himself to us in a new way and to remind us that He is here, He is near, and that He is real.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Living Without Scheming
Click here to download the sermon file.
Recap of the sermon from January 11, 2009:
1. Genesis 27:1-40 is a story of deception, fraud, and deceit…all in the name of God. While the chapter is rightly seen as a failure of faith with all its attending complications, at its core it is the story of the chaos that overtakes a family when a father does not lead his family in a Biblical/spiritual way.
2. Applications from Genesis 27:
-Fathers must lead their families in living out the Word of God honestly and transparently
-our sympathies often lie with people rather than with God’s purpose for them (this is exemplified in Isaac’s actions toward Esau). Our loyalties must be with God.
-Spiritual responsibilities must be carried out in spiritual ways (by faith, not the flesh, in God’s timing, not ours)
-Life becomes complicated when we abandon faith as our way of life opting instead to live by our appetites, sympathies, our wits. The result is broken relationships, hatred, separation.
Recap of the sermon from January 11, 2009:
1. Genesis 27:1-40 is a story of deception, fraud, and deceit…all in the name of God. While the chapter is rightly seen as a failure of faith with all its attending complications, at its core it is the story of the chaos that overtakes a family when a father does not lead his family in a Biblical/spiritual way.
2. Applications from Genesis 27:
-Fathers must lead their families in living out the Word of God honestly and transparently
-our sympathies often lie with people rather than with God’s purpose for them (this is exemplified in Isaac’s actions toward Esau). Our loyalties must be with God.
-Spiritual responsibilities must be carried out in spiritual ways (by faith, not the flesh, in God’s timing, not ours)
-Life becomes complicated when we abandon faith as our way of life opting instead to live by our appetites, sympathies, our wits. The result is broken relationships, hatred, separation.
Monday, January 05, 2009
DeJaVu All Over Again, Part 4
Click here to download the sermon file.
Recap of the sermon from January 4, 2009:
1. God blesses Isaac (Genesis 26:12-14) in response to his obedience in staying in the land and not going down into Egypt. God’s instructions in vv. 2 & 3 were to remain where he was and he obeyed (vs. 6).
2. Isaac persisted in the land despite opposition and animosity.
3. If we achieve anything of worth it will come through persistence (not personality, not giftedness, not the right connections).
4. We must persist in faith, persist in ministry, persist with people, persist in holiness and righteousness.
5. Isaac achieved peace with his enemies through: honesty; diplomacy (must show restraint, Proverbs 17:9,27; 19:11); renewed fellowship; and humility (Biblical humility is not being a push-over or fawning or weak; it is powerful and strong; not pretending a wrong was not done but exercising forgiveness in spite of the wrong done to us.
Recap of the sermon from January 4, 2009:
1. God blesses Isaac (Genesis 26:12-14) in response to his obedience in staying in the land and not going down into Egypt. God’s instructions in vv. 2 & 3 were to remain where he was and he obeyed (vs. 6).
2. Isaac persisted in the land despite opposition and animosity.
3. If we achieve anything of worth it will come through persistence (not personality, not giftedness, not the right connections).
4. We must persist in faith, persist in ministry, persist with people, persist in holiness and righteousness.
5. Isaac achieved peace with his enemies through: honesty; diplomacy (must show restraint, Proverbs 17:9,27; 19:11); renewed fellowship; and humility (Biblical humility is not being a push-over or fawning or weak; it is powerful and strong; not pretending a wrong was not done but exercising forgiveness in spite of the wrong done to us.
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