Sunday, 15 September 2019

ABCs of Christian Life. Study # 8. The Holy Spirit


WBC
ABCs of Christian Life
8/14/2006

Study # 8




The Holy Spirit

There is a great deal of confusion about the Holy Spirit. Many cults deny He is a Person and that He is God, saying the Holy Spirit is just a “force” or “influence.” On the other hand, the Christian Movement, which has absolutely swept today’s religious world, places extreme emphasis on the Holy Spirit – teaching such things as “ecstatic utterances,” “healings,” and “exorcism.”

As with all these studies, our aim is to look beyond what men say and see what the Bible teaches!



Study Outline

1.   Who is the Holy Spirit?

2.   What has the Holy Spirit done in times past?

3.   What is the work of the Holy Spirit today?

4.   What does the Holy Spirit do when we are saved?

5.   What is the relationship between the Holy Spirit and me?

6.   What about “Speaking In Tongues” and “Divine Healers?”


























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ABCs of Christian Life
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1.   Who is the Holy Spirit?

A.   Look up: Acts 5:3, 4 3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? 4 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.

In verse 3, Ananias is said to have lied to the Holy Spirit, but in verse 4 he is said to have lied to God. The conclusion we can draw is that the Holy Spirit is God.


B.   Look up I John 5:7 7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.
This verse tells us that the Holy Ghost is one with both the FATHER and the WORD (Jesus, God the Son).


C.   Look up Matthew 28:19 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
Notice the word “Name” is singular, which again shows the Holy Spirit to be God

– the Third Person of the Holy Trinity.



D.   Look up John 14:16, 17 16 And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever; 17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him: but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.


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John 14:26 26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

How many personal pronouns (He, Him, Himself) that apply to the Holy Spirit do you count in these scriptures? = 6


E. Look up John 16: 7, 8 7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. 8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:

John 16:13, 14 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

Can you draw a conclusion that the Holy Spirit (The Spirit of God) is a

person… not just an impersonal force?




F.    List three (3) ways the Holy Spirit may be affected as a Person:

You can lie to Him - Look up Acts 5:3 3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?

You can resist Him - Look up Acts 7:51 51 Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.


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You can grieve Him - Look up Ephesians 4:30 30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.


2.   What has the Holy Spirit done in times past?

A.   Look up Genesis 1:2 2 And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.
Job 33:4 4 The spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life. (spoken by Elihu ?) The Holy Spirit was active in the formation of the Earth and all things.


B.    Look up II Peter 1:21 (starting with verse 20) 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. The Holy Spirit is the author of prophecy!


C.   Look up Luke 1:35 35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. The Holy Spirit was part of the miracle of the birth of Jesus.










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D.   Look up Romans 1:4 4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:

Romans 8:11 (starting with verse 10) 10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. The Holy Spirit was instrumental in the resurrection of Jesus Christ!



3.   What is the work of the Holy Spirit today?

A.   Look up John 15:26 (starting with verse 25) 25 But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.

26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: 27 And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning. The Holy Spirit testifies of Jesus Christ.


B.   Read John 16: 8-11 (and more) 8 And when he is come, he will reprove (convict)

the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: 9 Of sin, because they believe not on me; 10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; 11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. (The

Holy Spirit will convict men of: sin, righteousness, and judgement.) 12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. 13



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Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.


C.   When we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, it is thwe Holy Spirit who doeas the work of regeneration (we are “born again”):
i.      Look up Titus 3:5 5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

ii.     Look up John 3:5 5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
iii.    Look up John 6:63 63 It is the spirit that quickeneth (make alive); the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.





















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4.   What does the Holy Spirit do when we are saved?

A.   Look up Romans 8:9 9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. He comes and DWELLS in you.


B.    Look up John 14:23 23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him,

and make our abode with him. God will live in the heart of every believer.



C.   Look up I Corinthians 6:19 19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

Our fleshly body will become a temple for the Holy Ghost.




D.   Look up to see that every Christian is Sealed with the Holy Spirit.

i.      Ephesians 1:13 13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

ii.     Ephesians 4:30 30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.








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E.    Look up John 16:17 7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. The Holy Spirit is our Comforter.


F.    Look up Romans 8:26 – 27 26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for

we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. The Spirit makes intercession for us.



5.   What is the relationship between the Holy Spirit and me?



A.   He is always dwelling in us: II Timothy 1:14 14 That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.


B.   He enables us to know the things of God’s Word, for He is our teacher. Look-up: I Corinthians 2:12-14 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for




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they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

C.   A Christian can grieve the Holy Spirit: Ephesians 4:30 30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

[more on next page]

Sins that grieve the Holy Spirit: bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour, evil speaking and malice.

Godly attributes: kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another.

This is the opposite of what the “world” believes is strength!




D.   A Christian can quench the Holy Spirit: Look-up: I Thessalonians 5:19 [reading

from verse 14] 14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. 15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good,

both among yourselves, and to all men. 16 Rejoice evermore. 17 Pray without ceasing. 18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 19 Quench not the Spirit. 20 Despise not prophesyings. 21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit


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and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.


E.    The Holy Spirit is our power. Acts 1:18 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.


F.    In Ephesians 5:18, Christians are commanded to be filled with the Spirit: 18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
The “be not drunk with wine” insinuates a Christian is be under the influence of the Holy Spirit (in lieu of wine).
The work of the Holy Spirit in me is to produce the fruit of the Spirit: Galatians

5:22-23 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering,

gentleness, goodness, faith, 23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. This is what the “world” believes is weak and boring!


The “secret” to allowing the Spirit to do this work in your life unhindered is

found in John 15:4-8: 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. 6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast


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them into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. 8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.


G.   The Holy Spirit gives spiritual gifts to believers: I Corinthians 12:4-11: 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

i.      Every Christian has at least one spiritual gift (verses 7, 11)

ii.     These gifts are not for personal use (I Corinthians 14:12 12 Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.)

iii.    Some of the gifts are temporary, and ceased when the written New Testament was completed. These gifts (tongues, interpretations, miracles,





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healing, prophecy, knowledge, and discernment) were given as signs to the nation of Israel:
a.    Mark 16:17,18 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. 19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.

b.    I Corinthians 1:22 22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:

c.     I Corinthians 14:21,22 21 In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord. 22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. (and much more!...)

d.    Hebrews 2: 3, 4 3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 4 God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost,

according to his own will?

These temporary gifts ceased in 70 AD when Israel was dispersed among nations. The Bible says they (the gifts) would vanish when “that which is


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perfect (the completed Word of God) is come” I Corinthians 13:8-10 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 9 For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

iv.   Romans 12:6-8 lists the Holy Spirit’s permanent spiritual gifts:

…  6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us,

whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; 7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;

8  Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with

cheerfulness.

Permanent gifts: The motivation and ability to:

a. Prophesy – declare God’s truth.
b.  Giving – be a channel for God-given assets


of the Word of the Lord



c.
Ministry –serve others in practical
d.  Ruling – lead others in accomplishing the

ways
work of God



e.
Teaching present the Word of
f.   Mercy – identify with and share in the

God clearly and accurately
suffering and joys of others as a


comforter



g.
Exhorting – encourage others


through the application


of Truth










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6. What about “Speaking In Tongues” and “Divine Healers?”

The Charismatic Movement is a modern phenomenon which had its beginning in the USA just before the turn of the century. In the last 60 years, it has snowballed in to the most active movement within Christendom. One of the main reasons for this is because spiritual “deadness” of most mainline denominational churches – and the apparent “aliveness” of the Charismatics.

Don’t be fooled!! – II Corinthians 11:13-15 13 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. The test of whether someone is right or wrong is not determined by how it feels or by who’s doing it, but by “What saith the Lord?” – Isaiah 8:20


A.   The Bible defines “tongues” as known, understandable foreign

languages. Look-up Acts 2:4-11 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
5  And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation

under heaven. 6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. 7 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? 8 And how hear we every man


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in our own tongue, wherein we were born? 9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.

The Charismatics do not practice this. They speak in a babbling gibberish – which at the least is a psychologically induced, ecstatic aberration that comes about when the conscience mind loses control and the subconscious takes over.

B.   In the Bible, the miraculous gift of being able to speak in an unknown foreign language was a sign to unbelieving Jews:
•      I Corinthians 1:22 22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:
•      I Corinthians 14:21, 22 21 In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other

lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.

22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.

•      Isaiah 28:11 11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.

In each recorded case in the New Testament where the miracle of tongues occurred (only 3) – Jews and at least one apostle, were present:

•      Acts 2:5 5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.


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•      Acts 10:45-46 45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God.

•      Acts 19:6 6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.
C.   The Bible says “tongues shall cease” and goes on to say when they would cease.

•      I Corinthians 13:8-10 8 Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. 9 For we know in part,

and we prophesy in part. 10 But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

Charismatics argue “that which is perfect” refers to Christ and that tongues will continue until the Second Coming of Christ. But Joel 2:28-31 indicates an

outpouring of the Holy Spirit associated with gifts after the rapture.

And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: 29 And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit. 30 And I will shew wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. 31 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of the LORD come.




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Also, “That which is perfect refers to the “more sure” Word of God, which replaced the gift of prophecy – II Peter 1:19-21 19 We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts:
20Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private

interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.


D.   The gift of tongues was still operative today, which is not, the Bible

would place certain restrictions on its use:

I Corinthians 14:27 - 28 27 If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. 28 But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God.

•     No more than three people to speak in a foreign tongue during any meeting.

•     Each speaker must follow after the other has finished (not all at once).

•     One person is to interpret.

•     If there is no interpreter is available, then no one should speak in another language.


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•      The Holy Spirit NEVER takes anyone out of control. I

Corinthians 14:32 32 And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the

prophets.

•     Women are not to speak (in tongues or otherwise).

I Corinthians14:34 34 Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience as also saith the law.

The modern Charismatic movement is dominated by women.

E.    The Charismatic Movement is dangerous because it elevates “experiences” above the Word of God. Remember, the devil can give you any experience you desire. The Christian must walk by the Word of God:

•      II Corinthians 5:7 7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

•      Romans 10:17 17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

F.    The truly spiritual person will acknowledge the supremecy of the

Written Word over any religious experience: I Corinthians 14:37 37 If any man think himself to be a prophet, or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.







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G.   Many Charismatic groups say or imply, you arte not saved unless you have spoken in tongues. They claim to have the “full” Gospel. But, the

real full Gospel is given in I Corinthians 15: 1,3, 4 1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; 2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. 3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:

Those that add something to this are in fact preaching another

gospel: Galatians 1:6-9 6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that

called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: 7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. 8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 9 As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.

Remember Colossians 2:10 10 And ye are complete in him, which is the

head of all principality and power:









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H.   By focusing so much on these alleged gifts, the Charismatic movement elevates the Holy Spirit above the Son of God. The Spirit is God. He is equal to the Father and the Son in every way – but he is the shy Member of the Godhead. He does not speak about Himself, but always of Christ:

•      John 15:26 26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:

•     John 16:13-14 13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

I.      The miraculous gift of healing was also a “sign gift” to Israel.

Mark 16:17-18 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

J.    Healings were overshadowed by Gospel preaching and conversions: See all of Acts 3 and Acts 4.





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K.   Healings were sometimes done on unsaved people: II Corinthians

12:7-9 and I Timothy 5:23

L.    Today we are instructed to pray for Gods healing mercies, but not to seek or expect a miraculous, instantaneous healing.

James 5:14-15 14 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: 15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.









































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Study Outline


1.   Who is the Holy Spirit?








2.   What has the Holy Spirit done in times past?








3.   What is the work of the Holy Spirit today?








4.   What does the Holy Spirit do when we are saved?








5.   What is the relationship between the Holy Spirit and me?








6.   What about “Speaking In Tongues” and “Divine Healers?”

THE REMEMBRANCE OF THE LORD

THE REMEMBRANCE OF THE LORD


Bible Reading: Luke 22:19,20; I Corinthians 11:17-34.


Aim: To show what we remember the Lord Jesus for.


Introduction: Three reasons or purposes for having the Lord’s Table are:


a) To remember the Lord. (I Corinthians 11:24).

b) To show the Lord’s death till He come. (I Corinthians 11:26).

This declares our belief in the promise of Christ’s return.

c) To promote self-examination before partaking. (I Corinthians 11:27-32).

At the Lord’s Supper, we go primarily to meet Him, not just to hear about Him. We need personal encounters with the Lord as we pour out our heart’s worship and affection to Him.


What Do We Need To Remember About Jesus Christ?

1) Remember His NAME: ‘Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.’ (Colossians 3:17). ‘Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we will remember the NAME of the LORD our God.’ (Psalm 20:7).

One’s name denotes one’s character. ‘Thou shalt call his name Jesus, for he shall save his people from their sins.’ (Matthew 1:21). The name ‘Jesus’ means ‘Jehovah the Saviour’. See Isaiah 9:6; Philippians 2:9-11; John 20:31; Romans 10:13.

We have salvation only in Jesus Christ’s name. (Acts 4:10-12).

2) Remember His WORKS: ‘Remember his marvellous works that he hath done.’ (I Chron. 16:12).

We should think of Christ’s work in:

a) Creation: ‘For by him were all things created.’ (Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:10).

b) Healing: ‘When John had heard in prison the works of Christ, the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached unto them.’ (Matthew 11:2,5).

c) Salvation: ‘He said, It is finished.’ (John 19:30).

d) Ministry: ‘I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.’ (John 17:4).

‘My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work.’ (John 4:34).

How thoroughly the Lord Jesus committed and devoted Himself to his Father’s work.

3) Remember His LOVE: ‘We will remember thy love more than wine.’ (Song 1:4).

‘To know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge.’ (Ephesians 3:19).

‘Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?’ (Romans 8:35).

‘Love one another as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.’ (John 15:12,13). As we think of His love for us, we will be thankful and respond in worship, love and obedience. John 3:16; I John 3:16: I John 3:1; II Corinthians 5:14.
‘Love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.’

It was Christ’s love for us, not nails, that kept Him on the Cross.

4) Remember His AFFLICTION: ‘Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall.’ (Lamentations 3:19). See Matthew 27:34.

During the Lord’s Supper we must remember Jesus Christ’s suffering &affliction for us such as:

i) ‘They pierced my hands and my feet.’ (Psalm 22:16).

ii) ‘All my bones are out of joint.’ (Psalm 22:14).

iii) ‘My tongue cleaveth to my jaws.’ (Psalm 22:15).

iv) ‘He was oppressed, and he was afflicted.’ (Isaiah 53:7).

v) ‘They platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his head.’ (Mark 15:17).

vi) ‘They smote him on the head with a reed, and did spit upon him.’ (Mark 15:19).

vii) ‘They mocked him.’ (v.20); ‘they crucified him.’ (v.25). (Isaiah 50:6).

5) Remember His RESURRECTION and EXALTATION:

‘Remember that Jesus Christ . . . was raised from the dead.’ (II Timothy 2:8).

‘That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection.’ (Philippians 3:10).

In the Lord’s Supper we not only remember Jesus Christ who suffered, bled and died, but also Jesus Christ as the One who rose from the dead and now lives in the power of an endless life. He is our Great High Priest who ever lives to make intercession for us.

6) Remember His MERCIES: ‘I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever.’ (Psalm 89:1). ‘Remember (v.11) . . . ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.’ (Ephesians 2:1-13). ‘It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not . . .’ (Lamentations 3:22,23).

Remember the black days of sin and of what we have been saved from.

Remember the kindness and love of Christ to us.

7) Remember His WORDS: ‘Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ (Acts 20:35).

We ought to be a giving people; giving of our time, prayers, love, money.

Let us memorise Christ’s words: ‘Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.’ (Colossians 3:16). ‘Thy words were found and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of my heart . . .’ (Jeremiah 15:16).

Conclusion: As we come together to the Lord’s Table, let our memories recall Jesus
Christ’s name, works, love, afflictions, resurrection, mercies and His words.

Wednesday, 11 September 2019

Oliver

Oliver?

You are an idiot and a coward.

However, i still pray for you.

you need to repent and come to Jesus.

God bless.

Wednesday, 7 August 2019

The Secret to Real Happiness

The Secret to Real Happiness

Bible Reading: Matthew 16:24-28. (v.25). “Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth.”

1 Cor 10:24‘For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.’

Matthew 16:25

Aim: Everyone in this room wants to be happy. No one wants a nervous breakdown. No one wants to be depressed. No one wants to be miserable. No one wants to live a wasted, unhappy life. There are many reasons in this life for us to be unhappy. There are many pressures, problems, disappointments, failures, struggles, trials, difficulties and losses to make us unhappy. BUT, as a Christian, we CAN be happy.

“How?” you may ask.

What is the secret to real happiness? It is found in one word:

OTHERS.

Let me explain this in 4 statements:

1. You’ll never find happiness by looking for it. “Hell &...so the eyes of man are never satisfied.” Proverbs 27:20.

When you look for happiness, you are being selfish. Selfishness never leads to real happiness.

Money won’t make you happy. Fame won’t make you happy. Worldly success won’t make you happy.

Possessions won’t make you happy. Prestige won’t make you happy. Power won’t make you happy.

Illustration: Solomon spent his life looking for happiness. He gained great wealth and power. He had more beautiful women than his heart could desire. He was the wisest man in the world. He was famous.

He was well respected. But, did he find happiness by looking for it? “The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem. Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity.” (Ecclesiastes 1:1-3).

A selfish person will never be a truly happy person. So, stop looking for happiness. 2. Forget your own need for happiness “For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.” Phil 2:21

“Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.” Philippians 2:4. We are selfish by nature. We always look out for number one. There was an ad years ago that said: “For the most important person in the world: YOU.” That’s our nature. But, we’ll never be truly happy unless we forget our own need for happiness. That’s why you fight. That’s why your marriage is in trouble. “But he doesn’t meet My needs”. That’s why you are unhappy. “She doesn’t meet My needs”. That’s why you are unhappy.

The happiest people are those who don’t rely on others for their own happiness. Eg: The only time “backslider” is used in the Bible is concerning selfishness. “The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways” Proverbs 14:14.

It’s not enough to stop looking for our own happiness.

We must FORGET our own need for happiness.

How? By:

3. Living only to make others happy. “Master, which is the great commandment in the law? 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. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” Matthew 22:36-40.

Romans 15:1-3 “We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. For even Christ pleased not himself;”

Illustration: General William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, was at the end of his life. He lay sick in bed, and was unable to attend the annual Salvation Army workers’ conference. The workers were devastated that General Booth could not be there to encourage and inspire them. General Booth sent a telegram to be read at the opening of the conference. A hush came over the auditorium as a man stepped to the platform to read the telegram.
The telegram read just one word: OTHERS. He had learned the secret to happiness is to live for others.

Question: What, you may ask, can I do for others? Answer: Tell someone dear that you love them. Write your parents or a friend a note of encouragement. Phone a friend to remind them that you are praying for them. Try to lead someone to Christ. Have a Bible study with a new Chriistian. Give your spouse or children a special treat.

Illustration: As I studied the lives of great preachers, I found them to be the most unselfish people. They lived for others. They prayed for others, gave to others, encouraged others, taught others, and helped others.

4. As you live for others, you will stumble upon happiness. “So labouring, ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35.

Matthew 16:25 “Whosoever will save his life shall lose it: & whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” Everyone wants a happy marriage.

You don’t get a happy marriage by finding someone to meet your needs.

You get a happy marriage when you forget your needs and are consumed with meeting the needs of your spouse. “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, &gave himself for it;” (Ephesians.5:25).

If you give yourself to your spouse, you will have a happy marriage. “Let every one of you so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband” (5:33). “Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right” (Eph.6:1). You will be so busy serving others, that you will forget your own needs. You will find happiness on the path of unselfishness.

Conclusion: Jesus’ whole life was living for others. When He was dying on the cross, what did He think of? Self-pity? NO! He asked John to take care of His mother. He led the repentant thief to salvation. “To day shalt thou….”

2 Cor 8:9 “Jesus..though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.”

Mark 10:45 “The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.”

The Secret to real happiness is:

1. You’ll never find happiness by looking for it.
2. Forget your own need for happiness.
3. Live to make others happy.
4. As you live for others, you’ll find happiness.

Question: Are you living for others? Let’s pray. Maybe God has spoken to you about an area in your life to work on? Marriage, church, home?

SCRIPTURE SWORDS FOR PERSONAL BATTLES

SCRIPTURE SWORDS FOR PERSONAL BATTLES


If neglected, the battlefields listed below may give way to enemy strongholds (see Ephesians 4:26-27 and 2 Corinthians 10:3-5). When tempted in these areas quote these scriptures to gain victory.

Each sword will force the enemy to make a speedy retreat.

ANGER: “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath. Neither give place to the devil.” Ephesians 4:26-27.

ANXIETY: “Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33-34.

BITTERNESS: “Love your enemies... pray for them which despitefully use you.” Luke 6:27-28.

BURN-OUT: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” Matt11:28-30

COMPLAINING: “Do all things without murmuring and disputing, that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.” Philippians 2:14-15.

CONFUSION: “Shew me thy ways, O Lord, teach me thy paths... for thou art the God of my salvation, on thee do I wait all the day.” Psalm 25:4-5.

CRITICAL SPIRIT: “Be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians. 4:32.

DISCONTENTMENT: “For I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content....both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:11-13.

DISCOURAGEMENT: “Fear thou not, for I am with thee; be not dismayed, for I am thy God; I will strengthen thee, yea, I will help thee, yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

DOUBT: “Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief.” Mark 9:24. (Isaiah 41:10.

ENVY: “Charity (love of Jesus) suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not...” I Corinthians 13:4.

FEAR: “Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” Joshua 1:9.

GOSSIP: “Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.” Romans 14:19.

MATERIALISM: “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.” Matthew 6:19,20.

GUILT or CONVICTION: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse use from all unrighteousness.” I John 1:9.

GUILT FEELINGS (when you have already confessed): “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Romans 8:1.

IMPATIENCE: “Thou art my God. My times are in thy hand.” Psalm 31:14-15.

FEELINGS OF INADEQUACY: Hear God say: “My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9.

LAZINESS: “Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Colossians 3:23.

LONELINESS: “When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee... when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned... for I am the Lord thy God.. since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee.” Isaiah 43:2-4.

LYING: “Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour.” Ephesians 4:25.

PRIDE: “And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” Matthew 23:12.
(Proverbs 3:5.

RATIONALISING: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart:and lean not unto thine own understanding”

REBELLION: “Father... not my will, but thine, be done.” Luke 22:42.

RESENTMENT: “(Charity) seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil.” I Cor. 13:5.

RESTLESSNESS: “Be still, and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10.

SELF-CENTREDNESS: “Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Philippians 2:3.

SELF- PITY: “Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow in his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not: but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously.” 1 Peter 2:21-23

WORRY: “The Lord is my shepherd: I shall not want (lack).” Psalm 23:1.

HOW TO UNDERSTAND ADVERSITY

HOW TO UNDERSTAND ADVERSITY


Bible Reading: Hebrews 12:1-15.

Aim: To understand God’s purposes for adversity.

Key 1: Our first response to adversity should not be to try to remove it, but to allow adversity to reveal our true weakness.

Introduction: Adversity can be our greatest motivation for spiritual growth or our deadliest means of discouragement. The difference depends on us understanding God’s purposes in adversity.

What does adversity do for us? What does God achieve through adversity?

1. Adversity is God’s Way of Getting Our Attention.
The cares of the world can choke out the Word of God and drown out the voice of the Holy Spirit. While we are busy with our plans, goals, projects and friendships, God patiently reminds us in Jeremiah 35:14, “I have spoken unto you, rising early and speaking; but ye hearkened not unto us.”

When adversity comes, we are suddenly faced with problems and pressures that are too big for us to resolve. Our inward response should be, “Unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not my enemies triumph over me.” Psalm 25:1,2.
As adversity continues and our human strength is drained, Christ’s invitation becomes more attractive, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. God’s ultimate purpose in getting our attention is to conform us to the image of Christ. Because of this, all adversity works together for our good (Romans 8:28,29).

Through it we learn of Christ, who is meek and lowly. His burden is light.

2. Adversity is our Assurance that God Loves Us.

“For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth” Hebrews 12:6,7,10,11. Three results of chastening: 1. We give God reverence. 12:9.
2. Our profit, to be partakers of God’s holiness. 12:10.
3. It yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness. 12:11.
When we recognise God’s love in adversity, we can:
i) Lift up the hands which hang down and the feeble knees. v.12. This means to get back serving God with our hands and legs.
ii) Make straight paths for your feet. v.13.

This means to get back on the path of righteousness. “He leadeth me.” Psalm 23:3.
iii) Follow peace and holiness with all men. v.14.
This means that right relationships are restored with men and God.
iv) Avoid failing of the grace of God or bitterness will follow. v.15.
Failing of the grace of God means that one can not respond with the grace of God, but with envy, bitterness, nervousness, then carnality.

3. Adversity is God’s Call for Self Examination.

“If we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 11:31,32.
God requires that we search out, confess and forsake every sin.

“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper.” Proverbs 28:13.

God established the Lord’s Table as the time and place for self-examination. If this is neglected, God may give physical adversity as a further motivation for self examination. 1 Cor. 11:28-30.

-If things are not going well for us, the reason may be that we dishonoured our parents “Honour thy father and mother..…that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.” Ephesians 6:2,5.

-If it seems that evil will not depart from our household, it may be because we have rewarded evil to those who did good to us, “Whoso rewardeth evil for good, evil shall not depart from his house.” Proverbs 17:13.

4. Adversity is God’s Way of Conquering Our Pride.
-The adversity of contention reveals pride.“Only by pride cometh contention.” Proverbs 13:10.
-The adversity of destruction is the result of pride in a person.

“Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall.” Proverbs 16:18. -The adversity of shame is God’s means of humbling us.
“When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2.
“A man’s pride shall bring him low.” Proverbs 29:23.
“Whoso exalteth himself shall be abased &he that humbleth himself shall be exalted” Luke14:11
“God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble.” James 4:6,7.

5. Adversity is a Reminder of Our Weakness. 2 Corinthians 12:7-10.

When all is going well, we are tempted to think that we don’t need God. If we have a thorn in the flesh (v.7), Christ’s grace is sufficient (v.9) and we learn to glory in our unchangeable features (v.9). We then experience the power of Christ upon us (v.9). When I am weak, then am I strong (v.10). I take pleasure in infirmities
(weaknesses), reproaches and necessities (v.10).

6. Adversity Motivates us to Cry Out To God.

God responds to the cry of His children when we are in adversity.
“The righteous cry, and the Lord heareth,and delivers them out of all their troubles.” Psalm 34:17.
We should cry out in the right ways:
1. Cry out to God with our voice.

“I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill.” Psalm 3:4.
2. Cry out to God in humility. “He forgetteth not the cry of the humble.” Psalm 9:12
.

Key 2: Our second response to adversity should be: Not to focus on outward circumstances,
but to realise that we are dealing with unseen spiritual powers.

7.   Adversity is Evidence of Spiritual Warfare.

Note: If we do not recognise when adversity is spiritual warfare, we will be overwhelmed and tempted to give up. When adversity takes the form of confusion, suspicion , division, and anger, then spiritual warfare is on. Paul encouraged Christians to be strong, courageous, and prepared to be good soldiers.

Matt 7:24-27
8. Adversity is God’s Method of Purifying our Faith. This leads to Patience. “But without faith it is impossible to please Him.” Hebrews 11:6.
FAITH may need to be tested in the fires of adversity. “the trial of your faith.” 1 Peter 1:6,7. Faith is essential for living the Christian life.

Why? Because the ways of God are opposite to the natural inclinations of man. Adversity may come from: 1. Those who mock God’s principles, or
2. Because we violate God’s principles.
In either case, adversity will strengthen our faith. PATIENCE comes from adversity. “Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.” James 1:3.
With this kind of faith and patience, we can obtain the promises of God.

“Followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” Hebrews6:12.

9. Adversity Increases our Hatred for Evil.

When God exposes secret sin, He allows others to see it’s devastating consequences, such as:
Islamic terrorist bombings, Saddam Hussein; Homosexuality, Aids; Fornication, Divorce; Childhood lying, President Nixon’s Lies. In this way, the simple (ignorant) are warned not to be fooled by Satan focusing our eyes on “the pleasures of sin which last for a season.” Hebrew 11:25

God will not be mocked with our sin. Galatians 6:7,8. Our hatred of evil should increase as we realise how:
1. Sin (as a thief) robs us of our potential for achieving & enjoying what God had planned for us;
2. Our sins damage the lives of those whom we love. We don’t hate evil because we don’t realise its final cost. Sin brings death. Adam and Eve did not realise the cost of their sin to all mankind.

10. Adversity reminds us to Pray for our Authorities.

God teaches us that a quiet and peaceable life is related to intercessory prayer for those in authority over us. 1 Timothy 2:1,2.
Note: Those who are in positions of responsibility provide spiritual protection for those under their care, such as parents, pastors. When there are failures in the life of a leader, the “umbrella of protection” develops “leaks”. Satan is given greater freedom to defeat those who are under that authority. Therefore it is important in order to be a good leader to submit to authority yourself. Even a little leak in a roof can let in a great deal of water. Spiritual leaders are judged by a higher standard. James 3:1.When we experience temptations, so do church leaders. They need our prayers.

11. Adversity is a Signal to Re-evaluate our Priorities.

Wrong priorities may result in much painful adversity, not only for us, but also for those who are affected by our lives.
Type 1: When we fail to spend proper time with the Lord in memorising His Word, meditating and praying, we rob others of spiritual encouragement and direction. Instead, we become vulnerable to transgression. Psalm 107:17,19.

God saves us out of our distress with His Word. Psalm 107:20. Type 2: When we try to do more than God intended us to do.
“Six days shalt thou labour and do all thy work.” Exodus 20:9.

12. Adversity is God’s way of Testing Our Work.

Every spiritual house that is built must be tested to prove that it is founded on truth. “rain descended (to test the roof), the floods came (to test the foundation), the winds

blew (to test the structure),and beat upon that house,and it fell not:for it was founded

upon a rock.”

“The fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.” 1 Corinthians 3:13-15.

13. Adversity is God’s way of Testing our Friendships.

It will reveal which friends are concerned about getting. It will reveal which friends are concerned about giving.

“A true friend loveth at all times and a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 17:17. For example, The Good Samaritan’s commitment to his neighbour, who had fallen among thieves, continued until the man’s needs were met. Luke 10:30-37. Contrasting example: The Prodigal Son while spending money, had many friends, but when his money ran out, and hardship came, all his friends then left. On the other hand, Jonathan was loyal to David in bad times.

Key 3: Our third response to adversity should be:

Not to live for Christ in our own efforts, but to realise that Christ must live in us through the power and filling of the Holy Spirit.

14. Adversity is God’s Call to Identify with Christ.

Adversity causes us to want more of Christ’s power in our lives. Galatians 2:20. Paul suffered the loss of all things to win more people to Christ and to experience the power of Christ’s resurrection. God’s power becomes a reality to us from Romans 6-8.
-Romans 6. We learn to know that we are crucified with Christ. We learn how to reckon ourselves dead to sin and alive to God. We learn how to yield ourselves to God and our members as instruments of righteousness to God. (Romans 6:6,11,13).

-Romans 7. We discover a new problem. We are still overcome by the demands of the Law. We try to live according to God’s principles, but we can’t do it. We learn that our death in Christ also caused us to die to the Law, so that we are free to be controlled by God’s Spirit in order to bring forth spiritual fruit. (Romans 7:1-6). -Romans 8. We learn our source of power over sin. This is the indwelling Holy Spirit of God based on our position in Christ. As we walk in God’s Spirit rather than in our own flesh, God is able to fulfil the righteousness of the Law in us. (Romans 8:2-4).

15. Adversity is Motivation for Open Accountability to God and Others.

Aim to be blameless as we will be accountable to God. God’s key to life, peace, wisdom and achievement is a moment-by-moment awareness of our accountability for all our words, thoughts, actions, attitudes and motives. This awareness is the fear of the Lord. It is the beginning of wisdom. When we lose our continual awareness of God, we think and act as if God did not exist. God responds by allowing adversity into our life. Judges 2:20-22.

16. Adversity Prepares us to Comfort Others. 2 Corinthians 1:3-5; 2 Corinthians 4:8-10. Irritations are God’s way of increasing our sensitivity to the needs of others, increasing our opportunities to serve God, and developing inward qualities. When God achieves His purposes through an irritation, He is then free to remove that irritation from our lives.

CONCLUSION: How do you respond to adversity? Will adversity make you better or bitter? If we continually retreat from adversity, we force God to raise up new irritations or to set aside His best plan for our lives. Permanent irritations have a permanent benefit in our development and ministry.

HOW TO HAVE JOY

 HOW TO HAVE JOY


“Yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.” I Peter 1:8. Aim: To know how to experience joy unspeakable.

Introduction: Many people today are unhappy and without joy. It seems that the more things that people have, the more they want, the more unhappy they are, and the less joy they have. Satan will always try to rob us of joy by getting us to sin. He offers us a swap: sin and reap a perceived benefit, which will cost us our joy and peace. Yet some people with very little material things have great joy. Why? Because joy is not based on having material goods.

Joy is inner contentment, calm delight, cheerfulness and gladness.

This joy that we receive at salvation is described as “unspeakable” (412) which means unutterable and inexpressible. It is so wonderful that it cannot be described fully. The next verse (v.9) describes heaven, so this joy that we have continues to heaven. We rejoice with so great joy that words cannot describe it (now), and this joy is full of glory (later when we get to heaven). This joy is only available to believers in Jesus Christ, so the obvious first step is to receive Jesus Christ as your Saviour.

Question: How can we experience this joy unspeakable?

Answer: We experience this joy as we do or think on the following:

1. STAY IN GOD’S PRESENCE

“Thou wilt show me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy, at thy right hand there are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11.

Joy is found by: a) following the path of life that God sets out for us, and

b) staying close to God in His presence,

then we experience fullness of joy, pleasures forevermore and sweet fellowship with the Lord.

“Unto God my exceeding joy.” Psalm 43:4. “I will joy in the God of my salvation.” Habakkuk 3:18.
When we draw close to God we experience the exceeding joy of His Person. Habakkuk 3:17,18,19. Even in economic hardship we can rejoice in the Lord. Inner joy and peace does not depend on outward prosperity. Joy comes from staying close to the God of my salvation.

2. HEAVEN

“He shall see his face with joy.” Job 33:26. “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:21,23
“I will make thee ruler over many things” is a joyful prospect.
As we think of seeing Christ’s face in heaven, this thought fills us with joy now and joy later in heaven.
We will experience great joy when we enter heaven if we have been faithful to Christ on earth. Faithful service now brings great rewards later.
Christ is able to present us faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy. Jude 24.

3. FAITHFULLY ENDURING TRAILS

“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” Psalm 30:5.

When we go through life’s trials, the key is to stay in close fellowship with the Lord. When the trial passes, then joy comes to us as we experience the victory.
“Count it all joy when ye fall into diverse temptations.” James 1:2,3,4.

This is because testings produce patience, so that we become complete and entire, wanting nothing. We become joyful when we come through trials, victorious in the strength of the Lord.

4. STAY MORALLY UPRIGHT, AVOID SIN

“Shout for joy all ye that are upright in heart.” Psalm 32:11.

If we are upright morally in our heart, this is a cause for joy. To have joy, be morally upright and forsake sin, because sin robs us of joy.
“Restore unto me the joy of my salvation.” Psalm 51:12.
It is right to avoid sin and to keep our joy. When we sin, we lose our joy as David did through adultery and murder. We must then confess our sin to God and make things right with others, then God can restore unto us the joy of our salvation. Remember, sin robs us of joy, so let’s avoid sin, and stay upright as the way to keeping our joy.

5.  GOD PLANS TO PROSPER US

“Let them shout for joy and be glad........Let the Lord be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant.” Psalm 35:27.

As we serve God obediently, it is a cause for joy to remember that God plans to prosper our hard work for Christ. We all like to prosper in the work that God has called us to do. When we go through difficult times, it is good to know that God will prosper our work for Him. This causes us joy.
“Your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58.

6. HOUSE OF GOD

“I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept holyday.” Psalm 42:4.
If we want joy we should come to church, the house of God on Sunday so that we can be taught God’s Word, to enjoy the fellowship of believers, and to rest on God’s Holyday. There is joy in God’s house when believers are of one mind in the Word of God and as we praise God in joyful singing.

7. UNITY

(Philippians 2:2 “Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.” )

There can be no joy in any church unless there is unity of mind and belief. If an entire church all believe the same Bible truths, are of one accord, of one mind, all loving the same things, then there is peace, joy and direction in a church. A church divided against itself cannot stand. Those of different major beliefs should either believe what the church believes, or get out and find another church that believes as they do. Don’t hinder the work of a good church.
True unity can only be based on truth. Then joy can prevail.

8. SOUL WINNING when people are saved.

a) “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.” Psalm 126:5.

When we go out and share the gospel with tears of concern over people’s lost condition then God promises that we shall reap in joy as people get saved. There is joy in seeing people saved.
b) “My brethren, dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown.” Philippians 4:1. “What is our hope or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? For ye are our glory and joy.” 1 Thessalonians 2:19,20.

Those Paul led to Christ were his joy, hope, glory and crown. Leading souls to Christ brings us joy.

c) “There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repents.” Luke 15:10.

We should share in the angel’s joy by trying to lead people to Christ. Events on earth can make heaven rejoice. This proves that those in heaven know much of what happens on earth. Let us be soul winners so as to make heaven’s angels rejoice and share in their joy.

9. KEEP CHRIST’S COMMANDMENTS

“If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:10,11.

If we keep Christ’s commandments, Christ’s joy will be in us and our joy will be full. Those who rebel against God’s commands, lose Christ’s joy. Thus rebels look angry. Obeying God brings joy.

10. CONVERTS WALKING IN TRUTH

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” III John 4.

When we lead people to Christ, it is our greatest joy to see them walk in truth, in true Bible doctrine, taking their place serving the Lord in a sound Bible teaching Church. It is a grief to see new Christians going back to their old ways or following false doctrines. How do new converts walk in truth? By being taught God’s Word properly as they sit under a sound Bible teacher.

11. PRAYER

When we ask in Jesus Christ’s name, we receive, and our joy will be full. John 16:24. If you are unhappy, check and see if you have had a good prayer time that morning.

Prayer brings joy. No prayer brings no joy.

12. REVIVAL

“The people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake….and there was great joy in that city.” Acts 8:4-8. When the Samaritans turned to the Lord, there was great joy in their city.

13. SUCCESS IN MISSIONS

“Paul and Barnabus declared the conversion of the gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.” Acts 15:3.

We can have great joy by supporting soul winning missionaries. When they report multitudes turning to Christ, we experience great joy with them as we have shared prayerfully and financially in their work. Their blessing becomes our blessing.

14. FINISH YOUR LIFE’S WORK

“That I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry........” Acts 20:24.
If we finish our life’s race with joy without being disqualified, we have joy on entering heaven, not having given in to the devil. We must finish the work that God has given us to do on earth.

We lose our joy if we disgrace Christ by sin, and drop out of the ministry.

15. A HAPPY MARRIAGE brings joy

“Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity.” Ecclesiastes 9:9.

If we succeed in our career, but fail in our marriage, we lose our joy and have great misery. Men must constantly court and love their wives in order to maintain a happy marriage. Men, watch for the danger signals in your marriage and fix the problems before it’s too late.

16. FILLING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

“With joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.” Isaiah 12:3.

“Out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive.” John 7:37.

We can be constantly filled with the Holy Spirit as we take in the water of the Word (Eph. 5:26) from the wells of salvation. As we are filled with the Holy Spirit, we bring forth the fruit of the Spirit of love, joy peace,.....(Galatians 5:22,23).

17. THE WORD OF GOD

“Thy words were found and I did eat them: and thy Word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of my heart.” Jeremiah 15:16. When we read and seriously meditate on God’s Word, applying it to our life and obeying it, we experience great joy and rejoicing. Great joy comes from obeying God’s Word.

18. THINKING OF THE FUTURE MILLENNIUM

“The joy of the whole earth, is Mount Zion...” Psalms 48:2.
When we think about when Christ will return to the earth in person to judge righteously and put down all evil, we are excited to see the joy that the whole earth will experience as Christ rules as King from Jerusalem over a regenerated earth.

“Everlasting joy upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” Isaiah 35:10.
When feeling down, think of the future joy that you’ll experience when you come to Jerusalem in the Millennium weekly and monthly (Isaiah 66:23), along with everybody on earth, to receive Bible teaching from Christ in a joyful, festival atmosphere.

19. CHRIST’S FIRST and SECOND COMINGS

Wise men rejoiced with exceeding great joy as they saw the star over the stable. Matthew 2:10.

So do we rejoice as we see Christ’s coming drawing closer. Angels brought the shepherds good tidings of great joy to all people. We experience the joy of Christ’s birth at Christmas. Luke 2:10.

CONCLUSION: Joy comes by doing things God’s way. Sorrow comes to by doing things man’s way. Follow these principles and you will have real joy and purpose in life. Remember the sorrow that Israel experienced because they disobeyed God and did not serve Him joyfully. Deuteronomy 28:47.