biblethinker/images/wives_submit_1_pet_3… · web viewend week 10 begin week 11. one controversy...
TRANSCRIPT
1
End week 10 begin week 11
One controversy after another!Submission to governmentSlaverySubmission to mastersSubmission to husbands
We need to speak out on controversial issues. We need to be biblical!
1 Peter 3:1–7 (NKJV) 1Wives, likewise, be submissive to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives, 2when they observe your chaste conduct accompanied by fear.
Often misrepresented by those who attack the Bibleo But equally often – teachers back-peddle instead of teach
I’m NOT going to try and make it palatable for the world What does the Bible teach
o Believers NEED this! The whole context of 1 Peter is submission
o To governmento To masters o Submission is a regular part of the Christian life
Not looking for your own interests – Phil 2 Not seeking your own - Putting their needs, health and happiness above your
own With THIS attitude leaders lead. They submit to the needs of those they lead
o To husband A constant call to wives
o Ephesians 5:22 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord.
o Colossians 3:18 Wives, submit to your own husbands, as is fitting in the Lord.
Some think it only means respecto Respect is goodo Respect is a callingo But, it’s not submission
Submit = rank yourself undero Under the authority of
purposely submitting to their role as leader and decisions they make
o It’s an act the wife does It is NOT done for her or to her
Rules out abuse The husband should NOT be obsessed with this
The WIFE should beo Ephesians 5:23–24 (NKJV) 23For the husband is head of the wife,
as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. 24Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.
He is the head Pictures Christ
God’s design Beautiful picture Which can be damaged
o Gen 3:16 - a result of the fall – dysfunction in marriage Genesis 3:16 (NKJV) 16To the woman He said: “I will
greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; In pain you shall bring forth children; Your desire shall be for your husband, And he shall rule over you.”
Gen 4 Wives being submissive applies to all wives!
o “even if some do not obey the word” Unsaved Disobedient It’s the best way to evangelize your spouse
Lectures are ineffective Examples are powerful!
o Our most COMMON excuse But THEY… Do your part Know your role
You are a Christian, you are a wife…o But are you a Christian wife???
But it’s not submission without qualification! When NOT to submit!
o Abigail – 1 Sam 25:2-39 When it’s life threatening
Apply to abuse Apply to insanity/mental disorder Apply to drug issues
Infidelity Grounds for divorce
o You don’t HAVE to If a divorce is happening the wife no longer
needs to submit to that man The rest of the time, submit
o Even when you don’t agree!o Even when you could get away with it
Submission is an actiono Such a big deal!o Pride, self-will, control, is dangerously bad
2
3Do not let your adornment be merely outward—arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel— 4rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.
Merely outwardo Arranging hairo Wearing goldo Nice clothes (fine apparel)o Shallow pretty girls…
Stereotype exists for a reasono The danger is the neglect of the inner person because of an
overemphasis on the outer Perishable beauty –
Proverbs 31:30 (NKJV) Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, But a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.
o Prov 31 gives a list of things that make a virtuous wife
o NOT ONE is about her appearance Not ONE
Women’s ministries “YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL”o It’s vanityo Rather “THIS is beauty, not that”
o Not MERELY outward – so outer is fine, BUT… Do you care more about your appearance than your
character? Proverbs 11:22 As a ring of gold in a swine’s
snout, So is a lovely woman who lacks discretion.
Gentle and quiet spirito Gentle
A soft touch Not causing problems Not contentious – flammable
material vs flame retardant o Quiet
Doesn’t mean “be quiet” or without noise
Peaceful, restful Taking in stride the problems
caused by others Neither of these is presented as a quality for
women as opposed to men
5For in this manner, in former times, the holy women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive to their own husbands, 6as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord, whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.
Wives, you have examples, look at them “Lord”
o Lord then vs lord nowo BUT!o She acknowledged his authority in the household
He wore the pants It is a high calling on wives Critics of Biblical marriage make mistakes
o They take a distorted view of submissiono They ignore the value and necessity of submissiono They ignore the rest o They never talk about the husbands calling
And a high calling on husbands VERY precious in the sight of God
o Eyes on the LORDo What’s the point of marriage
My happiness? A ministry unto God for His glory?
End Week 11 Begin Week 12
Society has largely forgot the roles of marriage…Yes, the wife’s role is forgotten.
And the vague memory of it is misrepresented
3
But the husbands role is even MORE forgotten!
God’s call to husbands is needful, specific, and simpleo Needful
Divorce rates (%50) Not among biblical marriages!
o Specific There are more details here than many realize
o Simple Detailed but uncomplicated Simplify your marriage! “if you understand something well you should be able to
summarize it in a short sentence” God understands marriage WELL
1 Peter 3:7 Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.
Before I delve into this verse… let’s go to our core teaching for husbands… Eph 5
Ephesians 5:25–33 (NKJV) 25Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, 27that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. 28So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. 29For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church. 30For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones. 31“For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” 32This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church. 33Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.
o Love her This is the husbands chief responsibility
Hers was submit and respecto Love as a command vs as a feeling
Love has feelings but it isn’t feelings Media – love=feeling Bible – love=attitude and actions
This is why it can be commanded Falling in love vs walking in love
“fall in love” – not in the Bible “walk in love” – Eph 5:2
2 John 6 This is love, that we walk according to His commandments. This is the commandment, that as you have heard from the beginning, you should walk in it.
Love is a choice!o Like rejoicing
Complaining husband Love your neighbor Love the stranger Love your enemy
How is the husbands love for his wife different than his love for anyone else?
o Not much, except in sense of priority Marriage is a stewardship
o As Christ loved the church! He came down He died, for our sins He put her needs above his own When she sinned against Him
He paid for her sin He forgave He drew her to Himself in love
o Her FIRST Date night “I want to do whatever would make you
happy” Fix the bookshelf
o The danger of “falling in love” Why do you want to marry them???
She is beautiful? We can talk? She makes me feel good?
But love is active when those things failo She is 1st next to Jesus.
1 Cor 7 – 1 Corinthians 7:32–33 (NKJV) 32But I want you
to be without care. He who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord—how he may please the Lord. 33But he who is married cares about the things of the world—how he may please his wife.
“take care of God’s kingdom and he will take care of your family”
o Billy Graham “I would have spent more time at home”
o If you want to be without care, then stay single!
Don’t get married and neglect your bride
4
This isn’t a complaint, it’s an observationo “Please his wife” – take care of hero New MINISTRY!
A daughter of God! Her failure or sin, disrespect or disregard…
o Is your opportunity to show love!o She should see a man who would make ANY sacrifice for her!o Myth – “the one”
Me + the one = happy marriage Not a lot of good examples in the Bible
o Ladies – seen as having women (Sarah) as exampleso Men - ???
So many failed in this Hosea – God’s love
Marries a prostitute She cheats He takes her back He pays the price for her
o Except JESUS Supreme self sacrifice!
Eph 5:29 For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church.
o Nourish – meet her needs provider Physically Spiritually
o Cherish – in actions Tenderly care for To warm To comfort Always looking at her to see, how is she? What can I do? Don’t stop at educating her…fixing her… A husband role IS a friend role
“friend zone” I make decisions
o To bless her Also safety, godliness
Colossians 3:18–19 (NKJV) 18Wives, submit to your own husbands, as is fitting in the Lord. 19Husbands, love your wives and do not be bitter toward them.
Do not be bittero Harsho Sharp edgedo Gentlenesso Proverbs 19:22 (NKJV) 22What is desired in a man is kindness,
And a poor man is better than a liar.
Back to 1 Peter1 Peter 3:7 Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.
Husbandso Women’s rights are important
However, some feel that if they acknowledge ANY quality in men they have betrayed women
That all differences are merely “socialization” This is silly And, it’s blind
o Anyone who has had boys and girls knows
You can say “women are more sensitive” “are prettier” “are more nurturing” “have the amazing ability to bear children”
You can’t say “men are better at hard labor and battle” “men are better leaders”
o What quality is weaker in the bride? “weaker vessel” It is only the vessel that is weaker, not the soul, the spirit
Not morally, spiritually, intellectually Motherhood Muscle mass
A man and women of the same weighto 15% more muscle
Woman have much less strength on average About ½ upper body
o Marines Men = 3 pullups Women = 0
Sports separate o It is not merely socialization
“weaker vessel”, not really controversial How do I treat her, seeing her weaker vessel???
o Understanding Yep – understanding Understand what???
That you are different That this difference gives you a place to show
God’s loveo Honor
She loses no honor – in fact, she gains it! This is chivalry!
5
Made in the image of God (male and female) Genesis 1:27 So God created man in His own
image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.
Coheir in the grace of life Full partner in Christ.
o Hadith – Mo – hell mostly filled with women
No male nor female in Christ So how do I honor her
o I open the dooro I carry the thingo I take the bulleto I suffer the loss or sacrifice o I treat her as precious, to be protectedo I treat her as an equal
Though I have authority in our marriage I don’t bully I don’t ignore I don’t marginalize
o I put her needs above my own Even in my decisions
A selfish husband is an ugly husband Eph 5 – self-sacrifice
o I daily set aside my needs to take care of hers Prayer not be hindered
o Wowo Don’t compartmentalize!
This matters
MarriageEnjoy a romance vs fulfill a ministry as unto the LordThe husband is never told to force his wife’s submission
Do your own part, not theirs.
A marriage can function with dysfunction But this is God’s call
Women as homemakersTitus 2:4–5 (NKJV) 4that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children, 5to be discreet, chaste, homemakers, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.
Homemakers – workers at homeo Busy at home
Men as providers1 Timothy 5:8 (NKJV) 8But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.
God is the author, He knows how it’s supposed to be.
End Week 12 Begin Week 13
Changing from specific areas of submissiono Because we need it
To general character ruleso We need this tooo TOO often we can forget the heart of following Christ
Christ-like
1 Peter 3:8–22 (NKJV) 8Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;
All of you – o Govt. peopleo Citizenso Masterso Bond-servantso Wiveso Husbands
One mindo A unity that exists regardless of
Social status Gender Rank/role Age
o ONE thing unites us Christ! Fellowship –
o “United with others in the way one thinks”o A Christian worldview
Biblical priorities Given all the random situations of life
Christians should have the same reactions Same perspective
Some Christians seem to be on the unchristian side of just about any issueo Barna 2013 survey of USA Christians – worldview survey of “born
again Christians” Absolute moral truth (only 46%) Bible is accurate in all the principles it teaches (79%)
6
Satan is a real person or force (40%) It’s impossible to earn your way to heaven through good
behavior (47%) (62%) they STRONGLY believe that Jesus lived a sinless
life Not to mention – so many are soft on sin Tolerance
Then = disagreeing without violence or unnecessary opposition
Now = agreeingo This is sillyo You can’t tolerate it UNLESS you
disagree A Christian’s worldview isn’t just about theology…
o It’s about character Having compassion for one another
o Sympatheis (GK) – feeling what others feel Different than tolerance
Sympathy doesn’t compromise values It’s role is to care
o Not excuse, but care Romans 12:15–16 (NKJV) 15Rejoice with those who
rejoice, and weep with those who weep. 16Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion.
I hate to harp This applies to believers, not just unbelievers It applies first to believers… they are family
o “one another” Which is why “Love as brothers”
o Philelphoi Brothers as in – brothers in Christ
“brethren”o 1 John 5:1 (NKJV) 1Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born
of God, and everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten of Him.
Not dysfunctional brothers Committed Accepting Helping Concerned
o Many believers are starving for this They need fellowship!!! And to OFFER it!
We aren’t told to BE loved but to LOVEo Beware the merchandising of Christianityo But love as brothers
Tenderheartedo Soft hearts, thick skin
Or soft skin, hard hearts Courteous
o Genuine Christian politeness; not the tinsel of the world’s politeness; stamped with unfeigned love on one side, and humility on the other. But the oldest manuscripts read, “humble-minded.” It is slightly different from “humble,” in that it marks a conscious effort to be truly humble
o Many struggle to define humility Peter gives us examples
9not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.
Not evil for evilo This isn’t about govt. not punishing crime o This isn’t about parents not discipliningo It’s about not doing evil when it’s done to youo Retribution, revenge, o “tag backs”
Or reviling for revilingo The more regular battleo Big dealo Loved ones
Bless them instead o We aren’t just called to abstain
This is a challenge Don’t just ignore them
“that you may inherit a blessing”
10For “He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit. 11Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it. 12For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
The blessing o Reap what we sow
Proverbs and psalmso What is generally trueo What is eventually trueo Job as well
eternally Pilgrim mentality
o All our sacrifices pay off!o It’s worth doing because it is righto But let’s not forget the blessing
Love life and see good days
7
13And who is he who will harm you if you become followers of what is good? 14But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.”
Do-gooders have few issueso “your sin will find you out” Num 32:23o Proverbs 5:22 (NKJV) 22His own iniquities entrap the wicked man,
And he is caught in the cords of his sin. o Lay down with dogs, get up with flees
BUT, even ifo You are blessedo Matthew 5:11–12 (NKJV) 11“Blessed are you when they revile and
persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Our reward isn’t described in detail But our response to it is Exceedingly glad
SOo Do not be afraid of their threats
Fear is supposed to keep us from bad ideas Don’t be afraid
o Nor be troubled Questioning the goodness of obedience
Early persecutiono Acts 5:40–42 (NKJV) 40And they agreed with him, and when they
had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. 42And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.
We need to prepare our hearts for this… And that’s the context of….
15But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
Sanctify the Lord Godo Or sanctify God AS Lord
Ultimate submission to God The verse of every apologetics ministry in the world
o Defense – apologian (lexical Apologia) As in court, against false accusations
o Some say apologetics is unnecessary “It doesn’t work”
Yes, it does Some see it as an offense to the simple gospel
But Jesus did ito “believe me because of the works”
Peter did ito “more sure word of prophecy”
Paul did ito 1 Cor 15 – evidence for resurrection
Still stands!o Some feel intimidated by not knowing everything
You don’t NEED to A reason – reasonable
Testimony of the Holy Spirito Love God with all your mind
Too intimidated = discouragedo How much do I study?
What’s on your plate?o Study AND be reasonable
Meekness and fearo Meek – me-ick
Avoid arrogance! The arrogant apologist
o Fear Respectful attitude
This is a full ambassadoro A godly lifeo Humble and loving conducto And a reasonable mind
Too often we focus on one and neglect the others
End week 13 begin week 14
16having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed.
Is a good conscience enough?o “as long as I don’t feel guilty”o Guilt is a real condition
I’m actually in a state of guilt before God It’s also a feeling
Like cancero “you have cancer”
You already had it, now you feel like you do!
Society focuses on getting rid of the feeling Rejecting moral accountability “forgiving yourself” This is harmful
8
o Like a doctor curing you of feeling like you have cancer
God cures it!o So, having a good conscience is when you know your acts are
clean THIS IS HUGE!
Sometimes it’s all you have! “I did the right thing” Moral FORTITUDE!
A believer NEEDS this! Not moral Attitude!
o Rude and self-assured Fortitude - strength of mind that enables a
person to encounter danger or bear pain or adversity with courage (webster’s)
o Please man or God A choice between their approval or God’s
With gentleness – so they have NOTHING to say against you!
o You say ONE wrong thing They latch on to it!
2 Timothy 2:24–26 (NKJV) 24And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, 25in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, 26and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.
God is working on them too!o Saul “kick against the goads” (Acts 9:5)
17For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. 18For Christ also suffered once for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive by the Spirit,
Prosperity preaching is off!o But, it’s the TIMING that is offo Wrong kingdomo Wrong self (inner vs outer)
Christ’s suffering brought us salvationo ONCE – big dealo Your suffering can be used by God as well!o How?
Conforming character (rom 8:29) Comfort (2 Cor) As a series of events (Joseph – from slave to leader) Some THINK that the spiritual person can figure it out
I think the spiritual person chooses to trust!!!
Having brought up Christ’s sacrifice Peter gives us some details that we might not have otherwise…
There are two different topics that come up in the next 5 verses…
o Each is really interesting, easily misused, easily misunderstood, but they are gems!!!!
o Because they reveal things to us that we don’t normally see in scripture
19by whom also He went and preached to the spirits in prison, 20who formerly were disobedient, when once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water.
Some sayo This is universal salvation – after death you are preached to!o This is the Nephilim – Jesus is showing His glory to themo This is an after-account of the fact that Jesus’ Spirit was striving
with mankind BEFORE the flood, NOT something Jesus did after the crucifixion
Let’s NOT jump too quick to interpretation… observation comes first! By whom – the Spirit Preached – kayrusso – not euangedzomai
o Generic proclaim, not qualified with “the gospel”o Euangidzomai would be a way to say “preach the gospel” with one
wordo This isn’t saying “it’s NOT the gospel” o I’m saying “don’t assume it’s the gospel”
2 Peter 2:4 (NKJV) 4For if God did not spare the angels who sinned, but cast them down to hell and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved for judgment;
Tartarus – o Possibly a compartment in hadeso a deep or bottomless pit
Luke 8 – the demons didn’t want to be cast into the abussos (abyss)
Jude 6 (NKJV) 6And the angels who did not keep their proper domain, but left their own abode, He has reserved in everlasting chains under darkness for the judgment of the great day;
Perhaps this supports the idea of the “sons of God” being angels in Gen 5o Not just about Nephilimo “proper domain”
Either way, we know thiso Some angels were put in chains
9
o This isn’t all Satan’s army but a certain groupo
Skip to vs 22 to see the context of this - 1 Peter 3:22 (NKJV) 22who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him.
These chained angels will one day be brought out – RevAs part of “judgment” which they are reserved for
21There is also an antitype which now saves us—baptism (not the removal of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, angels and authorities and powers having been made subject to Him.
“baptism saves us”!!!!o Slow down buddy
Antitype?o A word WORTH learning!o Type = the shadow o Antitype = the thing!o type = old testament event, or persono antitype = new Testament truth (usually about Jesus)
Example o Moses – the Rock – bronze serpent – Abraham offering Isaac (Gen
22) etc… Now
o type – the flood Rained for 40 1 year flood!
Saved through water Not BY water Through it
The Ark saved them Which is a type of Christ
o Antitype – Baptism Some say “saved by baptism” Read carefully NOT the removal of the filth of the flesh
Not the washing, not the watero Rules out the act of water baptism
The answer of a good conscience toward God
o Examples of people being saved before being baptized Acts 10 – Cornelius and company
Acts 10:47 (NKJV) “Can anyone forbid water, that these should not be baptized who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?”
o I’m not saying baptism is unimportant God commands it! Just that it isn’t salvific
o So, what IS meant? 3:21b “but the answer of a good conscience toward
God), through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,” A right response to God (repentance and faith) Through the resurrection
The ARK took the judgment just like Jesus takes ours and you get saved when you are IN Him!
End week 14 begin week 15
INTRO -
1 Peter 4 (NKJV) 1Therefore, since Christ suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same mind,
The mind of Christ toward sufferingo We love Jesus sacrificing for us!o But we are called to followo There is a cross for us!
Today we speak to our ATTITUDE toward sufferingo The mature believer sees suffering as
1- Temporary Constantly preached in the Bible!
o Heb 11o 2 Coro Jameso 1 Peto Jesus
Beatitudes Treasures in heaven Lose your life to gain it for
eternal life Rev “I am coming quickly”
2- Fruitful What fruit? Isn’t the thing Rom 8:28, James 1, 1 Pet 1
3- Fellowship Phil 3:10 “fellowship of his sufferings”
4- read on!
10
for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin, 2that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.
Very interesting side effect!o Suffering = cease from sin
Turn to -Pr 30:8 Prosperity is dangerous
o Proverbs 30:8–9 (NKJV) Give me neither poverty nor riches— Feed me with the food allotted to me; 9Lest I be full and deny You, And say, “Who is the Lord?” Or lest I be poor and steal, And profane the name of my God.
Persecution purifieso Story - missionaryo Suffering purifies
IF we suffer as unto God The hardest seasons are often the most spiritual
Jacob – wrestles with God… when???o When he is about to face his brother and fears death
Live for the will of Godo Jacob - crippled
3For we have spent enough of our past lifetime in doing the will of the Gentiles—when we walked in lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries.
Past lifetimeo Reincarnation?
Each person has a unique human soul that goes from life into the afterlife and doesn’t get reincarnated
Hebrews 9:27 (NKJV) 27And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment,
Moses and Elijah met with Jesuso Mo was still Moo Elijah was still Elijaho Saul saw Samuel after his death…
Sam still samo Jesus said “Today you will be with me
in paradise” to the thiefo Parable of Laz and rich man
Rich guy can’t go backo No, regeneration
Born again New life!
How many were converts???o Everyone
o How about today? Everyone No one born Christian
We are born again Christian So they have a past… regrets
o Not a glorious testimony… Shameful
Lewdness – a general attitude of being ok with sin
Lusts – motivated by the flesho Motives matter
Drunkenness – I add to this many drugs, including pot
Revelries – “partying” Drinking parties – social drunkenness Abominable idolatries –
o We’ve kept the traits and ditched the idols
Gods of wine, money, gambling, lust,
Buddha’s It was enough!
o This is SO profound It is such a waste Ricky “Mike, are you happy?”
Philippians 3:7–11 (NKJV) 7But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. 8Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9and be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith; 10that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, 11if, by any means, I may attain to the resurrection from the dead.
Dung – fertilizer o Give it up! Count it nothing
Paul spoke of accomplishments Life ignorant of God’s will, love and righteousness
4In regard to these, they think it strange that you do not run with them in the same flood of dissipation, speaking evil of you.
“flood of dissipation”o Flood
The way the world mindlessly stampedes into sin A riot, mob mentality
The world doesn’t realize they are already part of a mob mentality
Exacerbated by the internet My dream
11
o Reckless, without concern or thought for consequenceso Ephesians 5:18 (NKJV) 18And do not be drunk with wine, in which
is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, This flood threatens you and your kids
o 1 John 5:4 (NKJV) 4For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith
The world evangelizes too… but it’s not good o “I don’t see why you Christians have to try to convert people”
Why are they saying this? To convince you! To convert YOU
o They want you to conform Even the so-called “coexist” people
They think it’s strange o Yep, godliness is strange (to them)
You may get mocked or laughed at for NOT cussing For staying pure for marriage For caring about GOOD For going to church For not drinking, lying, cheating, using,
o You NEED to know how wrong and clueless a lot of the world is KNOW it, so you won’t be swayed Be a light!
Rejoice! Resolve in your heart, that there is a separation
from you and the worldo Don’t pretend it’s not there!!!
5They will give an account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. This realization does 2 things
o Motivates me to share Christo God’s sovereignty = our rest
He is a refuge He will work it out
End Week 15 Begin Week 16
Hook – we begin by tackling a hard and potentially controversial verse…And in so doing, we learn some good habits
6For this reason the gospel was preached also to those who are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
3 Optionso 1) Preached to those who are now dead, when they were alive
Context: 1 Peter 1:10–11 (NKJV) 10Of this salvation the prophets have inquired and searched carefully, who prophesied of the grace that would come to you, 11searching what, or what manner of time, the Spirit of Christ who was in them was indicating when He testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow.
Sets context for 1 Peter 3:19-20 as well 19by whom also He went and preached to the
spirits in prison, 20who formerly were disobedient, when once the Divine longsuffering waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls, were saved through water.
o Two reasonable interpretations Preached to the now dead
pre-flood people Preached to fallen angels
o One unreasonable one You can get saved after death
o 2) Preached to those who are spiritually dead that they might become saved and be rejected by men (fits context) and received by God
In the sight of the world “you have lost everything for your faith in Christ”
No, I’ve gained it all! “He who loses his life for My sake and the
gospel’s will keep for eternal life” This is NOT exclusive of the 1st option
o 3) Preached to those who died and later heard the gospel that they might be saved after death
This is the most radical Not supported by the rest of the Bible
A good example of bad Bible study techniques Eisegesis vs exegesis
o Ex – out ofo Eis – into
You don’t get this doctrine from the texto You come to the text WITH this
doctrine! And confirm it.o Mormonism – 3 heavens
Step 1 – Teach 3 heavens Telestial, Terrestrial, Celestial
Step 2 – quote 2 Corinthians 12:2 (NKJV) 2I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago—whether in the body I do not know, or whether out of the body I do not know,
12
God knows—such a one was caught up to the third heaven.
Step 3 – conclude that your teaching is right WRONG –
birds, space, God’s throneo Read the verse
Check the immediate context Compare relevant scriptures Clear teachings inform us on unclear ones
1 Pet 3:18 “being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the Spirit”o Contrast “judged according to men in the flesh but live according
to God in the Spirit”o It seems that they were alive and then killed by persecution but
will live forever This reminds us of the hall of faith people
My thoughts o I’m not totally sure… it’s somewhat vagueo But we don’t build new theology on unclear passages
Laz and rich man (Lk 16) Let’s not forget to APPLY! We are caught between 2 judgments
o This world’so Or God’s
Conclusiono Decide what kingdom you are about
Don’t even TRY to get alongo Serve God’s willo See suffering with Christ’s attitudeo Turn from and don’t return to the worldly life
7But the end of all things is at hand; therefore be serious and watchful in your prayers.
End of all thingso More about final states than a cessation of all activityo The same word used here represents a fully grown person, not a
dead one. Annihilation of all things would be a different Greek word
Was Jesus’ supposed to come right away?o Matthew 24:4–14 (NKJV) 4And Jesus answered and said to them:
“Take heed that no one deceives you. 5For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and will deceive many. 6And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not troubled; for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. 7For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. 8All these are the beginning of sorrows. 9“Then they will deliver you up to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations for My name’s sake.
10And then many will be offended, will betray one another, and will hate one another. 11Then many false prophets will rise up and deceive many. 12And because lawlessness will abound, the love of many will grow cold. 13But he who endures to the end shall be saved. 14And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations, and then the end will come.
o Since the resurrection, we are only waiting on the return of Christ! Imminent vs immediate
Immediate = going to happen now Imminent = hanging threateningly over one’s
head So, begins a list of instructions on how to respond to the passing nature of
the worldly system and the coming kingdom of Christo The first – be serious and watchful in your prayers
Elsewhere we are told Pray in the Spirit
o A connection with God Fervently Always In everything
Serious – sober mindedo Vs 3 spoke harshly against drunkennesso Clear mind
Praying when sleepy?o Repetitious prayers, vain
Matthew 6:7 (NKJV) 7And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words.
Vain repetitions would be annoying This is, I think, a case against adopting pagan
habitso “Spiritual formation”o Let’s NOT think them spiritualo It’s a study in how to fake spirituality
We can make our own repetitions The main point is that they aren’t VAIN!
o Matthew 6:8–13 (NKJV) 8“Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. 9In this manner, therefore, pray: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. 10Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. 11Give us this day our daily bread. 12And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. 13And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.
In this manner Holiness/glory to God
13
o Prayer involves worship, because it approaches a perfect, holy, loving Creator
God’s kingdom and willo Prayer involves submissiono Posture of seeking HIS willo 1 Jn 5:14 “if we ask anything according
to His will He hears us” Daily bread
o What do you need, actuallyo Rely on God for ito Prayer isn’t a place for greed but for
need Forgive us
o Speaking of needs… The greatest needs of man are
spiritual Our greatest spiritual need is
grace!o Constant supply of grace
As we forgiveo A willingness to forgive… o God doesn’t let us get away with
spiritual darkness in our hearts.. Unforgiveness
o Prayer is serious business We approach God almighty We seek His help It’s not about being whipped into a frenzy
Watchful o Watchman – on the wall, looking for signs of trouble, what is
leading to what?o Asking for prayer requests..
Uh… … … OH YEAH! THAT!
o Where is the need? Pray it View the news as a prayer list
o Pray over people… cover them in prayer! Cover yourself!o Prayer
Changes minds … list examples of watchful prayers “Peter, I have prayed for you”
That was Jesus’ prayers, not mine!o Oh yeah? Whose name do you pray
in???
8And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.”
Theology apart from love is bad theologyo Love is the grand application
Above all thingso There is a time for…o It’s always time to be loving
Fervent love – intense or sincereo Not just love (acceptable behavior)
Love! If you love me, I want you to love each other
o “if you… you WILL love each other” “cover a multitude of sins”
o Daily grace – I need ito So do “they”
Don’t flip the switch Grace like the grace of Jesus
9Be hospitable to one another without grumbling. Hospitable –
o Sharing What’s mine is yours
o The extreme example of lack of hospitality is Sodomo How we treat strangers
Ah, the grumblingo Complaining, whispering, quarreling o With this we somewhat undo our own rewardo It’s the flesho “God loves a cheerful giver” 2 Cor 9:7o Can’t do it without grumbling???
It’s a sin issue Which treasures are more important?
These on earth or those in heaven? Matthew 10:42 (NKJV) 42And whoever gives one of these little ones only a
cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.”
End week 16 begin week 17
10As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
We have received a variety of giftso Word of wisdom, knowledge
14
o Don’t limit it to those listed! Finances, skills, abilities Every good and perfect gift comes from God
We are stewards of thoseo STEWARDS!
So many really important words are being lost to our modern vocab
Possessors vs stewards P “do I want to” S “does my master want me to” P “is this worth it to me” S “is it worth it to my master”
o Christians are stewards of everything they have Money – the tithe isn’t “God’s portion”
Do a week on tithing and giving… Time Marriage Children And gifts!
You are responsible to God for using whatever gifts you have been given
o Remember the parable of the talents Matt 25:14-30 Don’t bury it!
11If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God. Speaking, not only teaching
o Speaking giftso Speak arrogantly – “I’m God’s mouth”o Or speak God’s truth!
Limiting themselves to God’s oracles And presenting them as such Speakers are stewards…
And they can get themselves in a lot of trouble James 3 “judged more strictly!” This frightens me
And keeps me in check o We should think of our responsibilities MORE than our authority
Pastors, parents, presidents Romans 12 has a more complete listing like this
If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, “ministry” vocational vs “ministry” service Here it is ministry in the sense of serving in any capacity
o “as with the ability which God supplies” Whatever you are a steward of… USE IT And recall that it’s God, not you anyway
Go For It
o TURN TO 1 Sam 17:45 o David – 1 Samuel 17:45–47 (NKJV) 45Then David said to the
Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. 46This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. And this day I will give the carcasses of the camp of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the wild beasts of the earth, that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. 47Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands.”
o Too many timid servants I may be a low servant, but I rush into the royal chamber
when needed! If it’s your gifting, use it
When you see a situation and that fits your gifts, step out
Your complaints become your calling
that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
That God may be glorifiedo P – “how will this impact me”o S – “how can I give God glory in this”
It comes to His gloryo Let’s not forget this
“to seek one’s own glory is not glory” Pr 25:27 Christians ought to be a people committed to God’s glory
o In their liveso In their situations
This is the heart of one who loves Godo They love His glory!
You want YOUR niece or kid to perform well Because you love them
God to be glorified! Because you love Him!!!
There’s another reason for God to be glorifiedo Glory belongs to Him
It’s his by right Glory
Credit for greatnesso And dominion
In charge Not a steward
And how do I glorify Him?o Being that steward
Follow your calling, not your passions
15
Aragorn What I ought to do, not what I want to do
Ironically, this tends to leave us more satisfiedo Proverbs 27:20 (NKJV) 20Hell and
Destruction are never full; So the eyes of man are never satisfied.
o John 4:34 (NKJV) 34Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to finish His work.
How else?o In trialso How often do we stumble in trials
Like Peter “Lord, I would lay down my LIFE for your sake” Then, trials come, confusion comes He denies Job
o Job 1:9–11 (NKJV) 9So Satan answered the Lord and said, “Does Job fear God for nothing? 10Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. 11But now, stretch out Your hand and touch all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face!”
o Job 2:4–5 (NKJV) 4So Satan answered the Lord and said, “Skin for skin! Yes, all that a man has he will give for his life. 5But stretch out Your hand now, and touch his bone and his flesh, and he will surely curse You to Your face!”
Satan knew this weakness of man
We are stuck in the now Our suffering can confuse us
Reasons for sufferingo 1 – natural consequence of sin
Isn’t that just “karma” Not “karma”
o Karma affects you in the next life “you reap what you sow”
Galatians 6:7–10 (NKJV) 7Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.
8For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. 9And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. 10Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.
Proverbs as wello Proverbs 13:21 (NKJV) 21Evil pursues
sinners, But to the righteous, good shall be repaid.
o Immoral actions have bad consequences
o “You can add, eventually” Some say they believe in karma, but it’s “reaping what
you sow”o 2 – punishment/judgment
The flood Herod being eaten by worms A penalty A way of stopping evil
o 3 – chastening/lessons Many times to Israel
Bronze serpent Birds Gentile nations attack
David Nebby
o 4 – example Egypt Ananias and Saphira
o 5 – for God’s glory Man born blind
Us figuring it outo Good to ask “what can I learn from this”o How do you know it isn’t a combinations of these?
#1 (consequence) could also be #3 (chastening) and is CERTAINLY #5 (for God’s glory)
o Tower fallen Luke 13:1–5 (NKJV) 1There were present at that season
some who told Him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. 2And Jesus answered and said to them, “Do you suppose that these Galileans were worse sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered such things? 3I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish. 4Or those
16
eighteen on whom the tower in Siloam fell and killed them, do you think that they were worse sinners than all other men who dwelt in Jerusalem? 5I tell you, no; but unless you repent you will all likewise perish.”
We all deserve it… Figuring it out wasn’t the point Sometimes you can tell, other times just trust
End Week 17 Begin Week 18
…
12Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you;
Which IS to try youo What trial?
Seems it had something to do with suffering because of obedience to Christ
o We don’t know in detail Why? So we can apply it to our lives
Specifically to suffering for Christ!o Don’t think it strange
Again, prosperity preaching is off False expectations stumble people
Drunk o “my life got worse”o “wait say that again”
Peter wants them ready Jesus did this too (John 13-14) Hebrews shows this attitude
Hebrews 11:24–26 (NKJV) 24By faith Moses, when he became of age, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, 25choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin, 26esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward.
Don’t think it strange Fiery trial
o The nature of trials Whatever their cause… they purify
Paul’s thorn Psalm 119:67 (NKJV) 67Before I was afflicted I
went astray, But now I keep Your word. You can ask “why is this happening” You should ask “what am I learning?” “how can I grow”
Perhaps it is simply trust (faith)o Even if you don’t know WHY it still benefits you
Let “patience” have its perfect work Just wait it out… in faith
13but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.
We partake of Christ’s sufferings???o Colossians 1:24 (NKJV) 24I now rejoice in my sufferings for you,
and fill up in my flesh what is lacking in the afflictions of Christ, for the sake of His body, which is the church,
persecution Acts 9:1–5 (NKJV) 1Then Saul, still breathing
threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. 4Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?” 5And he said, “Who are You, Lord?” Then the Lord said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads.”
Matt 25:40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’
Rejoiceo We never rejoice about the pain or trialo We do rejoice IN trials
Growing pains I was too small – picked on
I am too small, spiritually I need to grow, these pains speak of that
growth!o “to the extent”
A great example is in Acts 5 As sometimes happens, there is trouble, and Christians
are blamed Acts 5:40–42 (NKJV) 40And they agreed with
him, and when they had called for the apostles and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted
17
worthy to suffer shame for His name. 42And daily in the temple, and in every house, they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.
Some would have saido You’re method was wrongo They just aren’t ready for the gospelo You need to be more culturally
sensitiveo But they rejoiced and kept going!
There was something of Christ in them!!!
“fellowship of His sufferings” Phil 3:10
o That’s the point!!!! Don’t change, just press on! We must know the difference between kindness and
political correctness Persecution –
o It forces our joy forward Our hope isn’t in this world “when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with
exceeding joy” Vindication
14If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified.
Reminiscent of Jesus’ wordso Matthew 5:11–12 (NKJV) 11“Blessed are you when they revile
and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
This is ONE reason why you are blessed Reward
o Imagine a reward from 5 year oldo Imagine one from your parento Imagine one from Bill Gateso Imagine one from God
God’s Spirit rests upon youo Another reason it says this
Sodom came out in numbers against the angels Darkness responds to light
o It is God who they hate… Samuel – “they have rejected me” 1 Samuel 8:6–7 (NKJV) 6But the thing displeased Samuel
when they said, “Give us a king to judge us.” So Samuel
prayed to the Lord. 7And the Lord said to Samuel, “Heed the voice of the people in all that they say to you; for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them.
o Reports of closeness with God from persecuted brethren Saeed
“On their part blasphemed.. your part glorified”o When sharing
Don’t be disturbed Look past it and share, you glorify God
o unlearn what we learned in grade school most terrifying thing on earth = disapproval
o Perhaps you think I’m harping on this… The Bible is harping on this!!
Speak the truth in love
15But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. 16Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.
Murderer – literally Thief – theft is a big deal
o One of the ten commandmentso Imagine a society where nobody stole
No locks, no alarms, lower prices, no security, no savings accounts, no passwords…
o And it’s never been easier Cheat on taxes, cheat in business, steal online…
o If someone combed over my finances would they find theft?
Evildoer – generico not be namedo Ephesians 5:3–4 (NKJV) 3But fornication and all uncleanness or
covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.
Saints – holy Not walking around with weird spiritual
predictions for others Doing what is right
o We should be big on graceo And HARD on sin
To treat sin as a small thing is to shrink graceo Some haven’t understood repentance
Confession – speaking the same (evil is evil) Repentance – turning from it, from the heart
Contrast setting on HIGH Or busybody – “meddler”
18
o Someone who acts like a supervisor when they haven’t been hired to be one
Apply to online life… Beware the temptation to be a meddler
o Gossip, “tasty trifles” We must police ourselves
o Some are about other people’s issues as a way of avoiding their own
Don’t ignore your own obedience to Jesus 1 Timothy 4:16 (NKJV) 16Take heed to yourself
and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you.
o Meddling isn’t holiness It DOESN’T say “let no one suffer because of committing murder, theft, evil
or meddling”o “As a”o What you do becomes WHO you are.o Perhaps this is one of the reasons hell is eternal… it’s who you are
And to enter heaven you must be made new “if any man is in Christ he is a new creation”
Let’s not kid ourselves about our sufferingo I knew a guy who quit a job and blamed his poverty on
persecutiono Persecution is real, but let’s take our hits.
Are you busted? Take it on the chin You aren’t “suffering as a Christian”
You are reaping what you’ve sown But, if anyone suffers as a Christian
o Don’t be ashamed Or dismayed… because of false expectations
o Glorify Godo Ps 37 – God’s prosperity preaching!!!
End week 18 begin week 19
Proverbs 30
1 Peter 4:17-1917For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?”
19Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.
scarcely saved?o Matthew 19:23–26 (NKJV) 23Then Jesus said to His disciples,
“Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” 25When His disciples heard it, they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” 26But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
o Acts 14:21–22 (NKJV) 21And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, 22strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”
Not saved by trials, but through themo We are saved with difficulty (go through difficulty even though we
are saved) Trials to purify, grow, correct… chastening
We are going to take our time on this…o Learn something important about how the OT is referenced in the
NT 1- direct quote
o NT always quotes the Septuagint Vs 18 quotes Proverbs 11:31 (NKJV) If the righteous will
be recompensed on the earth, How much more the ungodly and the sinner.
Some things don’t translate well There is no doctrine of the Christian faith in
question! Far from showing us something is wrong with
translations Seems to endorse translations
James White “they ask, in Greek what does it mean?”
o Same as in English When you learn languages, you learn that the
English is pretty goodo It can even be disappointing
Expecting “wow” every verse But word for word is the way to go!
o Open up and read the intro to your translation
We need more OTHER language translations! 2 – summary of a biblical doctrine
o “doesn’t the Bible say that everyone needs Jesus?” Yes, it does, but it doesn’t.
19
3 – vague reference “judgment to begin at the house of God”o It’s appealing to a biblical idea/example
Like an illustration or example to support or explain an idea
Judgment begins at God’s houseo God deals with His people
Amos 3:2 “You only have I known of all the families of the earth; Therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.”
Ezekiel 9:6 (NKJV) 6Utterly slay old and young men, maidens and little children and women; but do not come near anyone on whom is the mark; and begin at My sanctuary.” So they began with the elders who were before the temple.
We aren’t “I’m ok, you’re ok” Remember the 7 letters
Harsh words Ephesus left their 1st love
o “repent and do the 1st works” Smyrna – would be tested 10 days (no rebuke) Pergamos – sexual sins, “eat things sacrificed to
idols” Thyatira – tolerating false teaching, hold fast Sardis – alive in name only, keeping up
appearances Philadelphia – just encouragement Laodicea – lukewarm Rev 3:19 “as many as I love I rebuke and
chasten. Therefore be zealous and repent If He wrote to you, what would it say?
o We aren’t a very good judge of uso Some of those churches would have
been SHOCKEDo Others “yeah, I know”
o 1 Peter 4:1 “for he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin”
We are being purified Why is it always about ME?
o Because God loves you Where will the ungodly and sinner appear?
o A contrast – cleansing vs judgmento Vs 17 “What will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel”
What will there end be? Every work into judgment + all have sinned
It’s a harsh reality - The atheist has a harsh reality too
o Nihilism We need to speak about hell
o Because it is real A study on hell is coming
And heaven – eventually Every sin will be punished, in Christ or in the person
“weeping and gnashing of teeth”o Regardless, it’s the chastening of God on His children
Not wrath Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV) 6But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for
he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
o Believe He IS He EXISTS HE exists
A right view of Godo He is a rewarder!!!
The hall of faith believed And they all received… after suffering
Commit (give in charge as a deposit) your soul to Himo Evidenced in – doing good
James 2:18–19 (N+KJV) 18But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!
o “I’m just committing my soul to God” Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-Nego
o Daniel 3:13–18 (NKJV) 13Then Nebuchadnezzar, in rage and fury, gave the command to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. So they brought these men before the king. 14Nebuchadnezzar spoke, saying to them, “Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the gold image which I have set up? 15Now if you are ready at the time you hear the sound of the horn, flute, harp, lyre, and psaltery, in symphony with all kinds of music, and you fall down and worship the image which I have made, good! But if you do not worship, you shall be cast immediately into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. And who is the god who will deliver you from my hands?” 16Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. 17If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. 18But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”
o Hebrews 11:35–40 (NKJV) 35Women received their dead raised to life again. Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. 36Still others had trial of
20
mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment. 37They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented— 38of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and mountains, in dens and caves of the earth. 39And all these, having obtained a good testimony through faith, did not receive the promise, 40God having provided something better for us, that they should not be made perfect apart from us.
o Philippians 1:27–30 (NKJV) 27Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel, 28and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that from God. 29For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, 30having the same conflict which you saw in me and now hear is in me.
Get this message.o Be encouragedo Be boldo Be courageouso Be joyful
End Week 19 Begin Week 20
1 Peter 5:1–4 (NKJV) 1The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed:
Peter now has a message for the leaders of the church…o There were elders
Detailed church govt isn’t given But elders are certainly part of it
o Ordained, not voted ino This is organized religiono With accountability and leadership
o You might think. “this isn’t for me, because I’m not a leader” I’m telling you “ listen up”
1 – you need to know what good leadership is, so you can follow it
2 – you never know what God has planned for your future
Fellow elder - Witness of the sufferings of Christ
o Special – this expired with those men We have that apostolic ministry continued in the New
Testament texts Partaker of the glory that will be revealed
o Christians should never think about suffering in isolation It’s like thinking of night without remembering that the
dawn is coming Labor without birth
o Suffering must never be viewed apart from gloryo But He sees himself as already a partaker of what will be revealed
The Holy Spirit is that down payment The work of God in your life is part of that glory
6 instructions to elders… we can learn a LOT from them o Things that I want to be
2Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, Elders, shepherds…
o A pastoral role is a shepherding role Any leading role is a shepherding role Shepherds that want HEALTHY sheep
o To CARE for the sheep John 21 15-17
Feed my sheep (Bosko)o Lead them to pastureo Be an exampleo Give them someONE they can follow
Not just orders to obey Tend my lambs (Poimaino)
o Meeting the needso Encouragemento Oilo Prayero Rebukeo Jesus disciple by spending time with
people Be close.
I’ve seen a difference when I spend time with people
o That’s why the hangout
o That’s why the
21
discipleship groups
o That’s why the camps and trips
That’s why we have so many leaders.
That’s why it’s a word for you too.
Who are you called to spend time with?
Feed my sheep (Bosko
o Same word, possibly different connotation…
It not only means leading but leading to PASTURE
o Pasture Teaching But it’s more Speaking God’s word into the
lives of the people Not just holding their
attention for an hour Seeing them transformed by
the renewing of their minds Faithful, honest, true.
He is supposed to be leading you to JESUS Watching out for your spiritual health Giving you God’s word, not his own
serving as overseers, Overseers
o Matthew 20:20–28 (NKJV) 20Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Him with her sons, kneeling down and asking something from Him. 21And He said to her, “What do you wish?” She said to Him, “Grant that these two sons of mine may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on the left, in Your kingdom.” 22But Jesus answered and said, “You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I am about to drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” They said to Him, “We are able.” 23So He said to them, “You will indeed drink My cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with; but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared by My Father.” 24And when the ten heard it, they were greatly displeased with the two brothers. 25But Jesus called them to Himself and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them.
26Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. 27And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave— 28just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”
o The Christian leader has authority but USES it to serve! Not to BE served.
Paul, “don’t make me use it” Must see themselves as servants!
o Jesus dido It’s evident in how they respond to
Being overlooked Being unthanked Being treated as a servant Luke 17:10 (NKJV)
10So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.’ ”
not by compulsion but willingly, Sometimes we can serve because we have to…
o People expect me to But we are called to and GET to!
o It’s always a GET to!o Willingly, is your heart in it or are you just showing up because
people expect you to?o Hebrews 12:2 (NKJV)
2looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Willingly because of Jesus in your vision.o in your crosshairs
not for dishonest gain but eagerly; According to the Bible
o It is right to pay a pastor or leadero But, it’s ok to do it for free tooo And it can NEVER be the motive for serving
Have a tent-making job Try and have something you can fall back on
So many have fallen over moneyo It doesn’t start that wayo It starts slowly and becomes more and more importanto We have to guard ourselves against the love of money
Matthew 6:24 (NKJV)
22
24“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.
3nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; Not Lords
o Some get too caught up in their own authority.o In being respected
Exampleso Jesus came and SHOWED the wayo Took the beatings o Took the abuseo Was not recognizedo Was not given His rightful respect
Called men to follow…o There is a difference between ordering people and calling people.o When He did call them it was a specific way
He said “follow me” – He lived a life worth following. If every believer had your life, would that be a good
thing? Be an example.
4and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.
Chief Shepherdo The “good shepherd”o 3 times Jesus told Peter to take care of the sheep, he changed the
wording 3 times but one word was ALWAYS in there. “MY sheep”
Lastly, rewards!!!o Not now, latero We always want it now
Pats on the back Recognition Appreciation That stuff comes less and less the older you get.
Expectations get higher, rewards are fewer and farther between
Peter talked about being a partaker of the glory that will be revealed… there is a crown of glory for serving the Lord.
o A special reward for serving God and His people That’s the joy set before us… Philippians 4:1 (NKJV)
1Therefore, my beloved and longed-for brethren, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, beloved.
That blessing will be forever
Them, in heaven, walking in the blessings and joy that you were able to impart to them through the grace of Christ.
o We are always to serve for THAT crown Not the crowns of men
Praise to us or thanks or admiration Those who get into it for praise from people get
a crazy shock.o Their praise isn’t enougho And that twists the ministry