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SERMON SEEDS J13 FOR 6/12/06

#1 · June 14, 2006, 11:20 am

Quote from Forum Archives on June 14, 2006, 11:20 am
Posted by: jpeters <jpeters@...>
OUR TENTH YEAR

SERMON SEEDS FOR JUNE 12, 2006

www.sermonseeds.org

ABOUT THE WEBSITE The website is now up to date. As far as I know, all material through last weeks Sermon Seeds are posted, and I plan to post the outlines in this edition sometime today.

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Judges 6:25-32

SECRET SERVICE

GODS SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS Vss. 25-26

GIDEONS SECRET OBEDIENCE Vs. 27

A CITYS SEETHING RESPONSE Vss. 28-29

A FATHERS SAGE ADVICE Vss. 31-32

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FOOLISH PEOPLE

Amos 2:4

Amos 2:4 - Thus saith the Lord; For three transgressions of Judah, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because they have despised the law of the Lord, and have not kept his commandments, and their lies caused them to err, after the which their fathers have walked:

FOOLISH PEOPLE DESPISE GODS LAW

FOOLISH PEOPLE DISOBEY GODS COMMANDS

FOOLISH PEOPLE DECEIVE THEMSELVES

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Matthew 7:7-11

ABOUT PRAYER

A CONTINUAL PROCESS.Vs. 7

We are to keep on asking, seeking, knocking.

A COMFORTING PROMISE Vs. 8

A COMPASSIONATE PARENT Vss. 9-11

Sermon Seeds A20

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Luke 10:38-42

SISTERS

LIFE OF CHRIST #37

There has always been an affinity between sisters, as this song sung by Rosemary and Betty Clooney indicates. There are times, however, when even the closest of sisters dont see eye to eye. Such is the case as we continue to look at the life of Christ.

The last event we saw in our Lords life was the healing of a man who had been born blind. Some time after that event Jesus made a visit in a little village called Bethany, which not far from Jerusalem.

This is where two sisters, Martha and Mary, lived with their brother, Lazarus. In the story before us this morning, Martha is depicted as somewhat of a villain, and Mary a heroine. They were both human. They were both Christians. Both had some very good qualities about them, especially if you look at the other stories about them found in the Gospel of John. Well get to them later on in our study.

WHAT THEY HAD IN COMMON Vs. 38

·       JESUS WAS WELCOME

Evidently Martha was the oldest sister, and it was considered her home.

When Jesus came the door was always open.

Martha showed that Jesus was welcome by serving Him.

Mary showed that Jesus was welcome by sitting at his feet and hearting his Word.

But Jesus was more than just welcome in their home.

Jesus was welcome in their hearts.

Both of them had made a personal commitment to the Lord Jesus as their Messiah, their Savior.

Jesus was not only welcome to Martha and Mary as Savior, but He was also their Master. As you read the accounts about these sisters, you will see that He was boss in their lives.

You claim to be a Christian. You have welcomed Jesus as your Savior. Is He welcome to tell you what to do? Is He welcome to call the shots in your life? John 13:13, 12:26

If Jesus is welcome as your Master, He is your Lord. And as someone has well said, If Jesus isnt Lord of all, Hes not Lord at all!

Jesus was not only welcome to Mary and Martha as their Savior, and Master, but he was also welcome as their friend for fellowship. Both Mary and Martha would have communed with Jesus in the course of His visit. They would have talked with Him.

Even during Marthas business she would have had opportunity to talk with the Lord. She could have done better as well see in few minutes, but nonetheless she had some fellowship with Him as a friend.

How aware of Jesus presence in your life are you?

Is He such a welcome guest that you spend time talking with Him and learning from Him as a friend?

Revelation 3:20

·       JESUS WAS LOVED!

It is obvious that Jesus was loved by the warm reception He received. It is obvious that Jesus was loved by the way that he was treated both in this passage and in John 11.

You who call yourself a Christian, do you love the Lord Jesus?

When you love someone you think about them.

When you love someone you try to please them.

When you love someone you try to fulfill their wishes.

When you love someone who is in a superior position over you, you obey them.

If you love the Lord Jesus you will worship and adore Him.

If you love the Lord Jesus you will obey Him. John 14:21

·       JESUS LOVED THEM

John 11:5 - Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.

Just as Jesus loved Mary and Martha, he loves you and I.

He loved us when He died for us.

He loves each one who has trusted Him as Savior.

How strong is His love for you? Romans 8:39

So, these sisters had at least three things in common:

Jesus was welcome as Savior, Master and Friend

Jesus was loved.

Jesus loved them.

WHAT THEY HELD IN CONTRAST Vss. 39-40

Mary and Martha surely had their differences. One such difference comes to light here.

Vs. 39 Mary was Word oriented.

Mary had a unique opportunity and she took it.

Mary had the opportunity as a woman to sit at Jesus feet and hear His Word. In the Jewish culture of that day, it was unheard of.

Other chores were set aside so Mary could hear the Word of God. This does not mean that Mary was lazy or not a worker. And it doesnt mean that Mary never helped in the kitchen.

It does mean that Gods Word had a high priority!

Why should Gods Word be a high priority? Jeremiah 15:16, Mark 13:31, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Hebrews 4:12, Psalm 119:11

The Word of God is so important. Shouldnt you be as Word Oriented as Mary was? The Word was available and she sat and listened to it!

·       The Word of God is available to you every day for reading, memorization and meditation.

·       The Word of God is available to you every day through Christian Television and Radio, although you must be discriminating to know who to listen to and who to avoid.

·       The Word of God is available to you in Sunday School, Sunday Morning, Sunday Night, and Wednesday night.

People starve when they do not eat! Sometimes food is not available. Other times it is.

Christians starve when they do not eat. You and I have no excuse. The Word of God is available.

Mary was Word oriented.

Martha was Work oriented.

Vs. 40 - Martha had a servants heart.

She evidently wanted Jesus to have the best and was preparing an elaborate meal. She wanted to serve Jesus the best!

Martha became distracted with her service.

The project of the meal became so big in her mind that was all she could think about. The Son of God had come to dinner and she was distracted!

It was good that Martha serve.

It is good that we serve. Galatians 5:13, 1 Peter 4:10

The problem with Mary was that the work so distracted her that she not only rebuked Mary, but rebuked the Lord Himself in verse 40.

As for learning anything from Jesus she was too busy serving.

We have the same problem sometimes. We get so busy serving ourselves, others, and even the Lord that we dont have time for Jesus!

WHAT THEY HEARD IN COMMENTARY Vss. 41-42

It was now time for the Lord and Master to speak.

When He did, he put things in perspective.

Martha was not wrong to serve, but Martha became so distracted in service that she missed Gods best, His Word.

Vs. 41 Martha youre uptight about a lot of things. I think it was more than just the meal that would distract Martha. Whatever she chose to do probably got her worked up, and I think she chose to do much.

So often we are just like Martha, distracted about what we have to get done, about how we are going to serve.

Vs. 42 In that given moment, with Jesus present in their home, there was only one thing that was truly needful. That was to take advantage of learning at the feet of Jesus.

All of the things Martha did to serve would be there to be done at another time. But right at that moment, Marys priorities were in order and Marthas werent.

I dont know for sure, but I think that right then and there Martha stopped and listened, and when Jesus was done speaking I think that they both went and got the meal.

I have a feeling that if we could hear Jesus talking, we might here Him, saying, You are anxious and troubled about many things. Chose the good part which can not be taken away from you.

Mary had the opportunity to learn the Word of God from the Son of God. That was to be her priority. What she learned from the Word of God nobody could take away from her.

There is no value in anxiety and worry.

There is great value in Gods Word.

You have many opportunities to learn from Gods Word.

Are you availing yourself of these opportunities?

SISTERS:

WHAT THEY HAD IN COMMON Vs. 38

·       Jesus was welcome as Savior, Master, Friend

·       They loved Jesus

·       Jesus loved them

WHAT THEY HELD IN CONTRAST Vss. 39-40

·       Mary was Word oriented

·       Martha was Work oriented

WHAT THEY HEARD IN COMMENTARY Vss. 41-42

·       Martha was troubled

·       Mary received lessons for a lifetime that could not be taken away.

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GODS FAITHFULNESS, MANS REBELLION

Acts 6:9 7:60

The Model Church #13

Lamentations 3:22-23 - It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. [23] They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

Deuteronomy 9:24 - Ye have been rebellious against the Lord from the day that I knew you.

·       In what ways is God faithful?

·       In what ways are men rebellious?

One of the newly appointed deacons in the early church was a Godly man named Stephen. Because of his powerful ministry he was brought up on trumped up charges. His sermon stresses two important truths. First, God is faithful.

Second, man is rebellious.

PRELUDE ARREST OF STEPHEN 6:8-15

CALL OF ABRAHAM 7:1-8

CAPTIVITY OF JOSEPH 7:9-17

CAREER OF MOSES 7:18-36

CORRUPTION OF ISRAEL 7:37-43

CHAPEL OF GOD 7:44-50

CONDEMNATION OF REBELLION 7:51-53

POSTLUDE STONING OF STEPHEN 7:54-60

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JAMES 5:13-18 - PAGE 1

FAITH WORKS PRAYERFULLY, PM 6/11/06

FAITH WORKS #16 LAST IN THE SERIES

James is coming close to ending his Epistle and decides to leave us with a stirring encouragement to pray.

All of these verses are in reference to prayer.

D. Edmond Hiebert says, Through prayer the believer habitually lays hold on Gods power for victory amid all these diverse experiences. Prayer constitutes the very heart of a vital Christian faith. D. Edmond Hiebert, The Epistle of James, Tests of a Living Faith, (Chicago, Moody Press, 1979), p. 316

THE PRAYER OF THE DOWNTRODDEN Vs. 13a

Is anybody afflicted? These were people who had been mistreated and perhaps persecuted.

There will be times in our lives when we will either literally be oppressed or feel oppressed. James 1:2, 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

The afflicted are to pray!

Why? God is the only true source of help! Psalm 42:5, Psalm 55:22, 1 Peter 5:7

THE PRAYER OF THE DELIGHTED Vs. 13b



The prayer of the delighted is a song of praise.

I think that it is very easy for us to grumble, worry, and complain when we are down.

It is also relatively easy to cry out to God when we are down.

However, when things are going well, when we are cheerful, and when things are just peachy, it is easy to forget that it is God who is the source of these things. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Hebrews 13:16

THE PRAYER OF THE DESIGNATED Vss. 14-15

Vss. 14-15 The elders are the designated leaders of the church. They are elder in their maturity and often in their age.

Another term used to describe them is bishop. This word means overseer.

When there is a severe problem, the elders of the church are to be called upon.

Undoubtedly you are familiar with the traditional interpretation of this passage.

When a person is sick he or she is to call for the elders of the church. They are to anoint that person with oil and the prayer of believing faith on the part of the elders will save the sick. I have seen this happen.

I will still go with the elders of this church, pray, and anoint with oil whenever I am called. However, after reading some thoughts from John MacArthur and David Roper, I think that its time to revise my thinking on this passage.

David Roper The word sick in verse 13 actually means, helpless or impotent, and though its often used in the Gospels and acts to refer to physical weakness, in the Epistles it almost always refers to spiritual limitation and disability.

The word sick appears again in verse 15: The prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick (NASB).

Here a different Greek word occurs that suggests weariness and fatigue. Its found in only one other place in the New Testament: Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart (Hebrews 12:3-4). David Roper, Growing Slowly Wise Building a Faith That Works, (Grand Rapids, Michigan, Discovery House Publishers, 2000), pp. 176-177

It seems to me that James is saying, When things are going the worst for you spiritually, call for the men who will be able to help you. Ask them to pray for you and anoint you with oil.

This would certainly fit the duties of the elder as described by the Apostle Peter. 1 Peter 5:2-3

And Paul gave these instructions to the elders who were in Ephesus in Acts 20:28, Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

What would be the point of anointing with oil? I believe that the oil is symbolic of the Spirit of God. It is the work of the Holy Spirit of the Lord Jesus that will actually restore the spiritual condition of the one who is in the slough of despond spiritually.



Vs. 15 Elders are to be prayer warriors. They should know how to intercede before God. It is their prayer of faith that will restore the spiritually weary.

I assume that the one who is being prayed for has confessed any known sin as part of this process.

Of course, as he confesses, he will be forgiven. 1 John 1:9



I think it ironic that most people will not hesitate to ask for prayer if they are physically sick. But how many would consider calling the elders of the church for prayer and anointing when they have a spiritual problem.

I think that this is due to the fact that we place a lot more emphasis on physical health than we do spiritual health! If you have a severe spiritual need, I encourage you to seek spiritual help from the pastor and elders of the church.

THE PRAYER OF THE DILIGENT Vss. 16-18

Vs. 16 James now expands his application from those who are spiritually defeated to the whole congregation.

Peter is encouraging transparency.

We should be open to being honest about our sins with other believers. I dont think that necessarily means that we must confess to the whole congregation. But I feel that there are those we feel comfortable with that we should confess our faults to and seek their prayers in overcoming them.

The rest of this verse is an encouragement for you and I to pray passionately.

First it is to be the prayer of a righteous man or woman.

We are to be righteous in position because we are justified by faith.

We are also to be righteous in our practice. Those declared righteous by Jesus Christ should live righteously. 1 Peter 1:15-16, Isaiah 59:1-2

When I am righteous in my position and my practice then my prayers will be energized. They will be passionate.



Vs. 17 Now it is time for an example of diligent prayer from Scripture

Elijah the prophet was a superstar so to speak.

·       He was miraculously fed by ravens

·       Through him a widow and her family were fed by a barrel of meal and a cruise of oil until it rained.

·       He pronounced it wouldnt rain until he said so, and it didnt

·       He had a great confrontation with the prophets of baal and won, praying down fire from heaven.

·       He prayed for rain and it did. Then he outran a chariot in the pouring rain.

·       He called for fire from heaven to destroy soldiers

·       He went to Heaven in a whirlwind.

James is using Elijah as an example of diligent prayer.

But first, because people thought of Elijah as a superstar, he told them one very important thing.

Elijah was a man subject to like passions as we are.

He was a man just like us.

He could sin just like us.

He had struggles just like us. Why he even got extremely depressed after a great victory.

But James is telling us that we can have success like Elijah, because what seemingly made him different was his passionate prayers.

So he prayed that it would not rain and it didnt.

So he prayed for fire from Heaven to burn up a sacrifice and it came.

He went up into a mountain and prayed for rain and it rained! 1 Kings 18:41-46

Elijah was a man of passionate prayer.

Elijah was a man of persistent prayer.

Elijah was a man of proper prayer (according to the will of God).

THE PRAYER OF THE DOWNTRODDEN Vs. 13a

THE PRAYER OF THE DELIGHTED Vs. 13b

THE PRAYER OF THE DESIGNATED Vss. 14-15

THE PRAYER OF THE DILIGENT Vss. 16-18

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CHRISTIAN CHARACTER CLINIC

WEEK #8 of 9 LOVE THY NEIGHBOR BROTHERLY KINDNESS

2 Peter 1:5-7 - And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; [6] And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; [7] And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.



·       Who is the best neighbor you ever had and what made him or her special?

·       What will a church be like when members treat each other like brothers and sisters?

·       Why are good relationships with fellow church members important?

·       What causes bad relationships between church members?

Peter continues to show us areas of Christian Character that should flow one out of the other. Flowing out of godliness is brotherly kindness or brotherly love. It is the good kind of warm attitude and action that should exist in the local church and should be practiced by us wherever we are.

A GENERAL PRINCIPLE

Matthew 22:37-40 - Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. [38] This is the first and great commandment. [39] And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. [40] On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

Matthew 5:14-16 - Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. [15] Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. [16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Romans 13:8 - Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.

A GRACIOUS LIFESTYLE

1 Thes. 4:9-10 - But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. [10] And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;

Romans 12:9-21 - Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. [10] Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; [11] Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; [12] Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; [13] Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. [14] Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. [15] Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. [16] Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. [17] Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. [18] If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. [19] Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. [20] Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. [21] Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

Hebrews 13:1-4 - Let brotherly love continue. [2] Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. [3] Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body. [4] Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.

A GREAT EXAMPLE

Luke 10:25-37 - And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? [26] He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? [27] And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. [28] And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. [29] But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? [30] And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. [31] And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. [32] And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. [33] But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, [34] And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. [35] And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. [36] Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? [37] And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

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Posted by: jpeters <jpeters@...>

OUR TENTH YEAR

SERMON SEEDS FOR JUNE 12, 2006

http://www.sermonseeds.org

ABOUT THE WEBSITE The website is now up to date. As far as I know, all material through last weeks Sermon Seeds are posted, and I plan to post the outlines in this edition sometime today.

***************************************************************************

TO SUBSCRIBE - Send a blank e-mail to: sermonseeds-subscribe@welovegod.org

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PASTOR MAIL is a mailing list for male pastors. The purpose of the list is to share sermons, outlines, illustrations and prayer requests. To subscribe send a blank email to pastormail-subscribe@associate.com

MOUNT UNION ECHOES is a mailing list that includes a full text sermon from Pastor Jack Peters. To subscribe send a blank email to mountunionechoes-subscribe@welovegod.org

************************************************************************************

Judges 6:25-32

SECRET SERVICE

GODS SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS Vss. 25-26

GIDEONS SECRET OBEDIENCE Vs. 27

A CITYS SEETHING RESPONSE Vss. 28-29

A FATHERS SAGE ADVICE Vss. 31-32

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FOOLISH PEOPLE

Amos 2:4

Amos 2:4 - Thus saith the Lord; For three transgressions of Judah, and for four, I will not turn away the punishment thereof; because they have despised the law of the Lord, and have not kept his commandments, and their lies caused them to err, after the which their fathers have walked:

FOOLISH PEOPLE DESPISE GODS LAW

FOOLISH PEOPLE DISOBEY GODS COMMANDS

FOOLISH PEOPLE DECEIVE THEMSELVES

***************************************************************************

Matthew 7:7-11

ABOUT PRAYER

A CONTINUAL PROCESS.Vs. 7

We are to keep on asking, seeking, knocking.

A COMFORTING PROMISE Vs. 8

A COMPASSIONATE PARENT Vss. 9-11

Sermon Seeds A20

*************************************************************************

Luke 10:38-42

SISTERS

LIFE OF CHRIST #37

There has always been an affinity between sisters, as this song sung by Rosemary and Betty Clooney indicates. There are times, however, when even the closest of sisters dont see eye to eye. Such is the case as we continue to look at the life of Christ.

The last event we saw in our Lords life was the healing of a man who had been born blind. Some time after that event Jesus made a visit in a little village called Bethany, which not far from Jerusalem.

This is where two sisters, Martha and Mary, lived with their brother, Lazarus. In the story before us this morning, Martha is depicted as somewhat of a villain, and Mary a heroine. They were both human. They were both Christians. Both had some very good qualities about them, especially if you look at the other stories about them found in the Gospel of John. Well get to them later on in our study.

WHAT THEY HAD IN COMMON Vs. 38

· JESUS WAS WELCOME

Evidently Martha was the oldest sister, and it was considered her home.

When Jesus came the door was always open.

Martha showed that Jesus was welcome by serving Him.

Mary showed that Jesus was welcome by sitting at his feet and hearting his Word.

But Jesus was more than just welcome in their home.

Jesus was welcome in their hearts.

Both of them had made a personal commitment to the Lord Jesus as their Messiah, their Savior.

Jesus was not only welcome to Martha and Mary as Savior, but He was also their Master. As you read the accounts about these sisters, you will see that He was boss in their lives.

You claim to be a Christian. You have welcomed Jesus as your Savior. Is He welcome to tell you what to do? Is He welcome to call the shots in your life? John 13:13, 12:26

If Jesus is welcome as your Master, He is your Lord. And as someone has well said, If Jesus isnt Lord of all, Hes not Lord at all!

Jesus was not only welcome to Mary and Martha as their Savior, and Master, but he was also welcome as their friend for fellowship. Both Mary and Martha would have communed with Jesus in the course of His visit. They would have talked with Him.

Even during Marthas business she would have had opportunity to talk with the Lord. She could have done better as well see in few minutes, but nonetheless she had some fellowship with Him as a friend.

How aware of Jesus presence in your life are you?

Is He such a welcome guest that you spend time talking with Him and learning from Him as a friend?

Revelation 3:20

· JESUS WAS LOVED!

It is obvious that Jesus was loved by the warm reception He received. It is obvious that Jesus was loved by the way that he was treated both in this passage and in John 11.

You who call yourself a Christian, do you love the Lord Jesus?

When you love someone you think about them.

When you love someone you try to please them.

When you love someone you try to fulfill their wishes.

When you love someone who is in a superior position over you, you obey them.

If you love the Lord Jesus you will worship and adore Him.

If you love the Lord Jesus you will obey Him. John 14:21

· JESUS LOVED THEM

John 11:5 - Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.

Just as Jesus loved Mary and Martha, he loves you and I.

He loved us when He died for us.

He loves each one who has trusted Him as Savior.

How strong is His love for you? Romans 8:39

So, these sisters had at least three things in common:

Jesus was welcome as Savior, Master and Friend

Jesus was loved.

Jesus loved them.

WHAT THEY HELD IN CONTRAST Vss. 39-40

Mary and Martha surely had their differences. One such difference comes to light here.

Vs. 39 Mary was Word oriented.

Mary had a unique opportunity and she took it.

Mary had the opportunity as a woman to sit at Jesus feet and hear His Word. In the Jewish culture of that day, it was unheard of.

Other chores were set aside so Mary could hear the Word of God. This does not mean that Mary was lazy or not a worker. And it doesnt mean that Mary never helped in the kitchen.

It does mean that Gods Word had a high priority!

Why should Gods Word be a high priority? Jeremiah 15:16, Mark 13:31, 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Hebrews 4:12, Psalm 119:11

The Word of God is so important. Shouldnt you be as Word Oriented as Mary was? The Word was available and she sat and listened to it!

· The Word of God is available to you every day for reading, memorization and meditation.

· The Word of God is available to you every day through Christian Television and Radio, although you must be discriminating to know who to listen to and who to avoid.

· The Word of God is available to you in Sunday School, Sunday Morning, Sunday Night, and Wednesday night.

People starve when they do not eat! Sometimes food is not available. Other times it is.

Christians starve when they do not eat. You and I have no excuse. The Word of God is available.

Mary was Word oriented.

Martha was Work oriented.

Vs. 40 - Martha had a servants heart.

She evidently wanted Jesus to have the best and was preparing an elaborate meal. She wanted to serve Jesus the best!

Martha became distracted with her service.

The project of the meal became so big in her mind that was all she could think about. The Son of God had come to dinner and she was distracted!

It was good that Martha serve.

It is good that we serve. Galatians 5:13, 1 Peter 4:10

The problem with Mary was that the work so distracted her that she not only rebuked Mary, but rebuked the Lord Himself in verse 40.

As for learning anything from Jesus she was too busy serving.

We have the same problem sometimes. We get so busy serving ourselves, others, and even the Lord that we dont have time for Jesus!

WHAT THEY HEARD IN COMMENTARY Vss. 41-42

It was now time for the Lord and Master to speak.

When He did, he put things in perspective.

Martha was not wrong to serve, but Martha became so distracted in service that she missed Gods best, His Word.

Vs. 41 Martha youre uptight about a lot of things. I think it was more than just the meal that would distract Martha. Whatever she chose to do probably got her worked up, and I think she chose to do much.

So often we are just like Martha, distracted about what we have to get done, about how we are going to serve.

Vs. 42 In that given moment, with Jesus present in their home, there was only one thing that was truly needful. That was to take advantage of learning at the feet of Jesus.

All of the things Martha did to serve would be there to be done at another time. But right at that moment, Marys priorities were in order and Marthas werent.

I dont know for sure, but I think that right then and there Martha stopped and listened, and when Jesus was done speaking I think that they both went and got the meal.

I have a feeling that if we could hear Jesus talking, we might here Him, saying, You are anxious and troubled about many things. Chose the good part which can not be taken away from you.

Mary had the opportunity to learn the Word of God from the Son of God. That was to be her priority. What she learned from the Word of God nobody could take away from her.

There is no value in anxiety and worry.

There is great value in Gods Word.

You have many opportunities to learn from Gods Word.

Are you availing yourself of these opportunities?

SISTERS:

WHAT THEY HAD IN COMMON Vs. 38

· Jesus was welcome as Savior, Master, Friend

· They loved Jesus

· Jesus loved them

WHAT THEY HELD IN CONTRAST Vss. 39-40

· Mary was Word oriented

· Martha was Work oriented

WHAT THEY HEARD IN COMMENTARY Vss. 41-42

· Martha was troubled

· Mary received lessons for a lifetime that could not be taken away.

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GODS FAITHFULNESS, MANS REBELLION

Acts 6:9 7:60

The Model Church #13

Lamentations 3:22-23 - It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. [23] They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

Deuteronomy 9:24 - Ye have been rebellious against the Lord from the day that I knew you.

· In what ways is God faithful?

· In what ways are men rebellious?

One of the newly appointed deacons in the early church was a Godly man named Stephen. Because of his powerful ministry he was brought up on trumped up charges. His sermon stresses two important truths. First, God is faithful.

Second, man is rebellious.

PRELUDE ARREST OF STEPHEN 6:8-15

CALL OF ABRAHAM 7:1-8

CAPTIVITY OF JOSEPH 7:9-17

CAREER OF MOSES 7:18-36

CORRUPTION OF ISRAEL 7:37-43

CHAPEL OF GOD 7:44-50

CONDEMNATION OF REBELLION 7:51-53

POSTLUDE STONING OF STEPHEN 7:54-60

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JAMES 5:13-18 - PAGE 1

FAITH WORKS PRAYERFULLY, PM 6/11/06

FAITH WORKS #16 LAST IN THE SERIES

James is coming close to ending his Epistle and decides to leave us with a stirring encouragement to pray.

All of these verses are in reference to prayer.

D. Edmond Hiebert says, Through prayer the believer habitually lays hold on Gods power for victory amid all these diverse experiences. Prayer constitutes the very heart of a vital Christian faith. D. Edmond Hiebert, The Epistle of James, Tests of a Living Faith, (Chicago, Moody Press, 1979), p. 316

THE PRAYER OF THE DOWNTRODDEN Vs. 13a

Is anybody afflicted? These were people who had been mistreated and perhaps persecuted.

There will be times in our lives when we will either literally be oppressed or feel oppressed. James 1:2, 2 Corinthians 4:8-9

The afflicted are to pray!

Why? God is the only true source of help! Psalm 42:5, Psalm 55:22, 1 Peter 5:7

THE PRAYER OF THE DELIGHTED Vs. 13b

The prayer of the delighted is a song of praise.

I think that it is very easy for us to grumble, worry, and complain when we are down.

It is also relatively easy to cry out to God when we are down.

However, when things are going well, when we are cheerful, and when things are just peachy, it is easy to forget that it is God who is the source of these things. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Hebrews 13:16

THE PRAYER OF THE DESIGNATED Vss. 14-15

Vss. 14-15 The elders are the designated leaders of the church. They are elder in their maturity and often in their age.

Another term used to describe them is bishop. This word means overseer.

When there is a severe problem, the elders of the church are to be called upon.

Undoubtedly you are familiar with the traditional interpretation of this passage.

When a person is sick he or she is to call for the elders of the church. They are to anoint that person with oil and the prayer of believing faith on the part of the elders will save the sick. I have seen this happen.

I will still go with the elders of this church, pray, and anoint with oil whenever I am called. However, after reading some thoughts from John MacArthur and David Roper, I think that its time to revise my thinking on this passage.

David Roper The word sick in verse 13 actually means, helpless or impotent, and though its often used in the Gospels and acts to refer to physical weakness, in the Epistles it almost always refers to spiritual limitation and disability.

The word sick appears again in verse 15: The prayer offered in faith will restore the one who is sick (NASB).

Here a different Greek word occurs that suggests weariness and fatigue. Its found in only one other place in the New Testament: Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart (Hebrews 12:3-4). David Roper, Growing Slowly Wise Building a Faith That Works, (Grand Rapids, Michigan, Discovery House Publishers, 2000), pp. 176-177

It seems to me that James is saying, When things are going the worst for you spiritually, call for the men who will be able to help you. Ask them to pray for you and anoint you with oil.

This would certainly fit the duties of the elder as described by the Apostle Peter. 1 Peter 5:2-3

And Paul gave these instructions to the elders who were in Ephesus in Acts 20:28, Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

What would be the point of anointing with oil? I believe that the oil is symbolic of the Spirit of God. It is the work of the Holy Spirit of the Lord Jesus that will actually restore the spiritual condition of the one who is in the slough of despond spiritually.

Vs. 15 Elders are to be prayer warriors. They should know how to intercede before God. It is their prayer of faith that will restore the spiritually weary.

I assume that the one who is being prayed for has confessed any known sin as part of this process.

Of course, as he confesses, he will be forgiven. 1 John 1:9

I think it ironic that most people will not hesitate to ask for prayer if they are physically sick. But how many would consider calling the elders of the church for prayer and anointing when they have a spiritual problem.

I think that this is due to the fact that we place a lot more emphasis on physical health than we do spiritual health! If you have a severe spiritual need, I encourage you to seek spiritual help from the pastor and elders of the church.

THE PRAYER OF THE DILIGENT Vss. 16-18

Vs. 16 James now expands his application from those who are spiritually defeated to the whole congregation.

Peter is encouraging transparency.

We should be open to being honest about our sins with other believers. I dont think that necessarily means that we must confess to the whole congregation. But I feel that there are those we feel comfortable with that we should confess our faults to and seek their prayers in overcoming them.

The rest of this verse is an encouragement for you and I to pray passionately.

First it is to be the prayer of a righteous man or woman.

We are to be righteous in position because we are justified by faith.

We are also to be righteous in our practice. Those declared righteous by Jesus Christ should live righteously. 1 Peter 1:15-16, Isaiah 59:1-2

When I am righteous in my position and my practice then my prayers will be energized. They will be passionate.

Vs. 17 Now it is time for an example of diligent prayer from Scripture

Elijah the prophet was a superstar so to speak.

· He was miraculously fed by ravens

· Through him a widow and her family were fed by a barrel of meal and a cruise of oil until it rained.

· He pronounced it wouldnt rain until he said so, and it didnt

· He had a great confrontation with the prophets of baal and won, praying down fire from heaven.

· He prayed for rain and it did. Then he outran a chariot in the pouring rain.

· He called for fire from heaven to destroy soldiers

· He went to Heaven in a whirlwind.

James is using Elijah as an example of diligent prayer.

But first, because people thought of Elijah as a superstar, he told them one very important thing.

Elijah was a man subject to like passions as we are.

He was a man just like us.

He could sin just like us.

He had struggles just like us. Why he even got extremely depressed after a great victory.

But James is telling us that we can have success like Elijah, because what seemingly made him different was his passionate prayers.

So he prayed that it would not rain and it didnt.

So he prayed for fire from Heaven to burn up a sacrifice and it came.

He went up into a mountain and prayed for rain and it rained! 1 Kings 18:41-46

Elijah was a man of passionate prayer.

Elijah was a man of persistent prayer.

Elijah was a man of proper prayer (according to the will of God).

THE PRAYER OF THE DOWNTRODDEN Vs. 13a

THE PRAYER OF THE DELIGHTED Vs. 13b

THE PRAYER OF THE DESIGNATED Vss. 14-15

THE PRAYER OF THE DILIGENT Vss. 16-18

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CHRISTIAN CHARACTER CLINIC

WEEK #8 of 9 LOVE THY NEIGHBOR BROTHERLY KINDNESS

2 Peter 1:5-7 - And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; [6] And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; [7] And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.

· Who is the best neighbor you ever had and what made him or her special?

· What will a church be like when members treat each other like brothers and sisters?

· Why are good relationships with fellow church members important?

· What causes bad relationships between church members?

Peter continues to show us areas of Christian Character that should flow one out of the other. Flowing out of godliness is brotherly kindness or brotherly love. It is the good kind of warm attitude and action that should exist in the local church and should be practiced by us wherever we are.

A GENERAL PRINCIPLE

Matthew 22:37-40 - Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. [38] This is the first and great commandment. [39] And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. [40] On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

Matthew 5:14-16 - Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. [15] Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. [16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Romans 13:8 - Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.

A GRACIOUS LIFESTYLE

1 Thes. 4:9-10 - But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. [10] And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;

Romans 12:9-21 - Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. [10] Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; [11] Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; [12] Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; [13] Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. [14] Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. [15] Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. [16] Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. [17] Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. [18] If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. [19] Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. [20] Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. [21] Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

Hebrews 13:1-4 - Let brotherly love continue. [2] Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. [3] Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body. [4] Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.

A GREAT EXAMPLE

Luke 10:25-37 - And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? [26] He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? [27] And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. [28] And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. [29] But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? [30] And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. [31] And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. [32] And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. [33] But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, [34] And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. [35] And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. [36] Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? [37] And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

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