Sunday we looked at the end of chapter 3 of Paul's letter to the Philippians as he encourages us to "press on" in sanctification. Let us not fall for the lie of religion that meshes justification and sanctification, but let us be free in Christ to obey Christ. Let us press on.
12 Not that I have already obtained it or have already become perfect, but I press on so that I may lay hold of that for which also I was laid hold of by Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, have this attitude; and if in anything you have a different attitude, God will reveal that also to you; 16 however, let us keep living by that same standard to which we have attained.
17 Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us. 18 For many walk, of whom I often told you, and now tell you even weeping, that they are enemies of the cross of Christ, 19 whose end is destruction, whose god is their appetite, and whose glory is in their shame, who set their minds on earthly things. 20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; 21 who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself.
4 Therefore, my beloved brethren whom I long to see, my joy and crown, in this way stand firm in the Lord, my beloved.
Notes
Audio
September 2, 2012 | Philippians 1:1-11 - The Joy of Thanksgiving & Prayer
September 16, 2012 | Philippians 1:19-30 - The Joy of the Future
September 23, 2012 | Philippians 2:1-4: The Joy of Humility
September 30, 2012 | Philippians 2:5-11: The Joy of Holy Condescension
October 7, 2012 | Philippians 2:12-30: The Joy of Sanctification
October 21, 2012 | Philippians 3:1-11: The Joy of a Pure Gospel
October 28, 2012 | Jude 1-25 - Is Grace a License to Sin?: Jude & the Antinomians
For more:
"End of Construction. Thank You For Your Patience": Ruth Bell Graham & the Hope of Sanctification
There is no Gospel Without Blood
MacArthur: Salvation is Divine Transaction & Transformation
This is Who We Are: What a Baptist Is and Believes - Salvation
Bonhoeffer on Matthew 5:7-9
Showing posts with label joy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label joy. Show all posts
Friday, November 9, 2012
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
September 30, 2012 | Philippians 2:5-11: The Joy of Holy Condescension
After exhorting the Philippians to be unified and to be humble, Paul then turns to the perfect example of Christ who condescended Himself by becoming a man and a man who was put on a cross. If we can grasp both the Incarnation and the Passion of Jesus, we would do ourselves some good. Christians, by name and nature, are called to imitate and to follow Christ. If we do that, we will find joy in the place called Unity and Humility and Obedience.
5 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. 8 Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Notes
Audio
September 2, 2012 | Philippians 1:1-11 - The Joy of Thanksgiving & Prayer
September 16, 2012 | Philippians 1:19-30 - The Joy of the Future
September 23, 2012 | Philippians 2:1-4: The Joy of Humility
For more:
Theology Sings: Thoughts on the Hymn of Philippians 2:5-11
Philippians 2:5-11 & Kenotic Theology
Book Recommendation: "Humility" by CJ Mahaney
Grudem on the Deity of Christ
The Gospel Coalition on the Deity of Christ
Mahaney on the Person and Work of Christ: Christ Our Mediator
Stomach Virus' and the Humanity of Christ: Moore on the Suffering and Sick Servant
Sayers on the Incarnation of Christ
If Jesus Were Born in Our Digital Age
December 26, 2010 - Jesus is Human
December 19, 2012 - Jesus is God
Basic Christianity: Daniel 4:29-37 - Humility Before God
Basic Christianity: James 4:1-10 - Humility Before Others
5 Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. 8 Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Notes
Audio
September 2, 2012 | Philippians 1:1-11 - The Joy of Thanksgiving & Prayer
September 16, 2012 | Philippians 1:19-30 - The Joy of the Future
September 23, 2012 | Philippians 2:1-4: The Joy of Humility
For more:
Theology Sings: Thoughts on the Hymn of Philippians 2:5-11
Philippians 2:5-11 & Kenotic Theology
Book Recommendation: "Humility" by CJ Mahaney
Grudem on the Deity of Christ
The Gospel Coalition on the Deity of Christ
Mahaney on the Person and Work of Christ: Christ Our Mediator
Stomach Virus' and the Humanity of Christ: Moore on the Suffering and Sick Servant
Sayers on the Incarnation of Christ
If Jesus Were Born in Our Digital Age
December 26, 2010 - Jesus is Human
December 19, 2012 - Jesus is God
Basic Christianity: Daniel 4:29-37 - Humility Before God
Basic Christianity: James 4:1-10 - Humility Before Others
September 23, 2012 | Philippians 2:1-4: The Joy of Humility
Paul now shifts from looking specifically at his situation - in chains yet with joy - to the situation of the Philippians. He begins by exhorting the Philippians to be humble for the purpose of unity. Unity brings with it joy. Division brings with it chaos. Sin always divides. Bitterness, jealousy, envy, pride, anger, and malice all bring division thus robbing us of joy. Humility, on the other hand, brings unity and joy. This is an important message, not just for our homes and our work lives, but for our church. Will we love one another with a humble love reflective of Christ (particularly Christ on the cross) or will we be controlled by our selfish, divisive lust and demands?
Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, 2 make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. 3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; 4 do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.
Notes
Audio (unavailable at this time)
September 2, 2012 | Philippians 1:1-11 - The Joy of Thanksgiving & Prayer
September 16, 2012 | Philippians 1:19-30 - The Joy of the Future
Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, 2 make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. 3 Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; 4 do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.
Notes
Audio (unavailable at this time)
September 2, 2012 | Philippians 1:1-11 - The Joy of Thanksgiving & Prayer
September 16, 2012 | Philippians 1:19-30 - The Joy of the Future
September 16, 2012 | Philippians 1:19-30 - The Joy of the Future
I know I'm really behind, but here is the third sermon in our series looking at the book of Philippians. Here, Paul confronts the reality that he very well might be executed and yet he writes with joy. Like Paul, to live is Christ and to die is gain. We win regardless. If we are alive, let us live for Christ.
Yes, and I will rejoice, 19 for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 20 according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will not be put to shame in anything, but that with all boldness, Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. 23 But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; 24 yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that your proud confidence in me may abound in Christ Jesus through my coming to you again.
27 Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; 28 in no way alarmed by your opponents—which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God. 29 For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, 30 experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me.
Notes
Audio
Yes, and I will rejoice, 19 for I know that this will turn out for my deliverance through your prayers and the provision of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 20 according to my earnest expectation and hope, that I will not be put to shame in anything, but that with all boldness, Christ will even now, as always, be exalted in my body, whether by life or by death.
21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. 22 But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. 23 But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; 24 yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake. 25 Convinced of this, I know that I will remain and continue with you all for your progress and joy in the faith, 26 so that your proud confidence in me may abound in Christ Jesus through my coming to you again.
27 Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or remain absent, I will hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; 28 in no way alarmed by your opponents—which is a sign of destruction for them, but of salvation for you, and that too, from God. 29 For to you it has been granted for Christ’s sake, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, 30 experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me, and now hear to be in me.
Notes
Audio
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
September 2, 2012 | Philippians 1:1-11 - The Joy of Thanksgiving & Prayer
Last Sunday we started a new series going verse-by-verse through the book of Philippians: the Epistle of Joy. Here is the first sermon from that series.
Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus,
To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons: 2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
3 I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4 always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all, 5 in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. 7 For it is only right for me to feel this way about you all, because I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers of grace with me. 8 For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. 9 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, 10 so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; 11 having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
Audio
Notes
For more:
November 6, 2011 | Psalm 1: The Lord is My Delight
Everything is Awesome But Nobody is Happy: A Late Night Sermon on Psalm 1
January 17, 2010 - Matthew 5:1-12: If Your Joyful and You Know It . . .
Matthew 5:1-4 - The Joy of Spiritual Humility - Audio
Matthew 5:5 - Starving? Why Wait? - Audio
Matthew 5:6-9 - The Joy of Holiness - Audio
Matthew 5:10-12 - The Joy of Being Hated - Audio
The Fruit of the Spirit: Joy
Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus,
To all the saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, including the overseers and deacons: 2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
3 I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, 4 always offering prayer with joy in my every prayer for you all, 5 in view of your participation in the gospel from the first day until now. 6 For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. 7 For it is only right for me to feel this way about you all, because I have you in my heart, since both in my imprisonment and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers of grace with me. 8 For God is my witness, how I long for you all with the affection of Christ Jesus. 9 And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, 10 so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; 11 having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.
Audio
Notes
For more:
November 6, 2011 | Psalm 1: The Lord is My Delight
Everything is Awesome But Nobody is Happy: A Late Night Sermon on Psalm 1
January 17, 2010 - Matthew 5:1-12: If Your Joyful and You Know It . . .
Matthew 5:1-4 - The Joy of Spiritual Humility - Audio
Matthew 5:5 - Starving? Why Wait? - Audio
Matthew 5:6-9 - The Joy of Holiness - Audio
Matthew 5:10-12 - The Joy of Being Hated - Audio
The Fruit of the Spirit: Joy
Friday, September 7, 2012
"He Wouldn't Have Any Joy": MacArthur on Philippians 1:12-14
Sunday morning we'll be looking at Philippians 1:12-18 which reads:
12 Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, 13 so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else, 14 and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear. 15 Some, to be sure, are preaching Christ even from envy and strife, but some also from good will; 16 the latter do it out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel; 17 the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition rather than from pure motives, thinking to cause me distress in my imprisonment. 18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice.
Yes, and I will rejoice,
Regarding vs. 12-14 where Paul shares how his imprisonment has led to the progress of the gospel because God has opened new doors for ministry, even in his imprisonment, and it has strengthened the faith of other believers, even in his imprisonment.
Speaking, in this context, regarding Paul's joy, pastor Dr. John MacArthur had the following to say regarding joy; a theme which runs throughout the book of Philippians:
Now the key is to, notice in verse 18 this line, "I rejoice, yes and I will rejoice." Underline that in your Bible because that's what he wants them to know. He has a heart for them too. He doesn't want them needlessly worrying about him. Back in verse 4 he says, "My prayers even are filled with joy." Joy is the dominant attitude which he confesses. Chapter 2, "I rejoice," verse 17, "and share my joy with you all." Chapter 3 verse 1, "Rejoice in the Lord." Chapter 4 verse 4, "Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I will say rejoice." Don't be sad. Don't be sorrowful. Don't fret and worry. Rejoice, I am. The joy of ministry.
Now, beloved, would you please note that the joy of ministry in the life of Paul was unrelated to circumstances? If his joy was related to circumstances, he wouldn't have had any joy. If his joy was related to pleasures in this earth, he wouldn't have had any joy. If his joy was related to possessions in this world, he wouldn't have had any joy. If his joy was related to freedom in this life, he wouldn't have had any joy. If it was related to prestige, he wouldn't have any joy...to outward success, he wouldn't have any joy...to a good reputation, he wouldn't have any joy. But it was all related to something completely other than that. It was all related to the ministry and the joy in the ministry was, in the sense, absolutely indifferent to all other things.
12 Now I want you to know, brethren, that my circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel, 13 so that my imprisonment in the cause of Christ has become well known throughout the whole praetorian guard and to everyone else, 14 and that most of the brethren, trusting in the Lord because of my imprisonment, have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear. 15 Some, to be sure, are preaching Christ even from envy and strife, but some also from good will; 16 the latter do it out of love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel; 17 the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition rather than from pure motives, thinking to cause me distress in my imprisonment. 18 What then? Only that in every way, whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice.
Yes, and I will rejoice,
Regarding vs. 12-14 where Paul shares how his imprisonment has led to the progress of the gospel because God has opened new doors for ministry, even in his imprisonment, and it has strengthened the faith of other believers, even in his imprisonment.
Speaking, in this context, regarding Paul's joy, pastor Dr. John MacArthur had the following to say regarding joy; a theme which runs throughout the book of Philippians:
Now the key is to, notice in verse 18 this line, "I rejoice, yes and I will rejoice." Underline that in your Bible because that's what he wants them to know. He has a heart for them too. He doesn't want them needlessly worrying about him. Back in verse 4 he says, "My prayers even are filled with joy." Joy is the dominant attitude which he confesses. Chapter 2, "I rejoice," verse 17, "and share my joy with you all." Chapter 3 verse 1, "Rejoice in the Lord." Chapter 4 verse 4, "Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I will say rejoice." Don't be sad. Don't be sorrowful. Don't fret and worry. Rejoice, I am. The joy of ministry.
Now, beloved, would you please note that the joy of ministry in the life of Paul was unrelated to circumstances? If his joy was related to circumstances, he wouldn't have had any joy. If his joy was related to pleasures in this earth, he wouldn't have had any joy. If his joy was related to possessions in this world, he wouldn't have had any joy. If his joy was related to freedom in this life, he wouldn't have had any joy. If it was related to prestige, he wouldn't have any joy...to outward success, he wouldn't have any joy...to a good reputation, he wouldn't have any joy. But it was all related to something completely other than that. It was all related to the ministry and the joy in the ministry was, in the sense, absolutely indifferent to all other things.
Friday, November 11, 2011
November 6, 2011 | Psalm 1: The Lord is My Delight
Here is Sunday's message. So far in our series on the Psalms, we have discovered the the Lord is my Shepherd, my King, my Lord, and now, my Delight.
Audio
Notes
For more:
GBC - Everything is Awesome But Nobody is Happy: A Late Night Sermon on Psalm 1
Sermon - October 16, 2011 | Psalm 23 - The Lord is My Shepherd: Peace in the Shepherd's Arms
Sermon - October 23, 2011 | Psalm 99 - The Lord is My King
Sermon - October 30, 2011 | Psalm 8 - The Lord is My Lord
Sermon - January 17, 2010 - Matthew 5:1-12: If Your Joyful and You Know It . . .
Sermon - Matthew 5:1-4 - The Joy of Spiritual Humility - Audio
Sermon - Matthew 5:5 - Starving? Why Wait? - Audio
Sermon - Matthew 5:6-9 - The Joy of Holiness - Audio
Sermon - Matthew 5:10-12 - The Joy of Being Hated - Audio
Audio
Notes
For more:
GBC - Everything is Awesome But Nobody is Happy: A Late Night Sermon on Psalm 1
Sermon - October 16, 2011 | Psalm 23 - The Lord is My Shepherd: Peace in the Shepherd's Arms
Sermon - October 23, 2011 | Psalm 99 - The Lord is My King
Sermon - October 30, 2011 | Psalm 8 - The Lord is My Lord
Sermon - January 17, 2010 - Matthew 5:1-12: If Your Joyful and You Know It . . .
Sermon - Matthew 5:1-4 - The Joy of Spiritual Humility - Audio
Sermon - Matthew 5:5 - Starving? Why Wait? - Audio
Sermon - Matthew 5:6-9 - The Joy of Holiness - Audio
Sermon - Matthew 5:10-12 - The Joy of Being Hated - Audio
Friday, November 4, 2011
Everything is Awesome But Nobody is Happy: A Late Night Sermon on Psalm 1
Sunday we'll be looking at the Wisdom psalm found in Psalm 1. The Psalm begins with How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked . . . The word blessed carries the idea of joy and happiness and as I continue to prepare for worship Sunday, the following video keeps coming to my mind. I know nothing of the comedian in the video (I know a little about Conan O'Brien), but even the secular world hits the nail on the head.
Everything is awesome, but nobody is happy. So true. This out to be a reminder of our tail-chasing ways. We keep looking for lasting joy and happiness but few of us ever find it. But as Psalm 1;1-2 suggests, How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners,
Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night.
For more:
Sermon - October 16, 2011 | Psalm 23 - The Lord is My Shepherd: Peace in the Shepherd's Arms
Sermon - October 23, 2011 | Psalm 99 - The Lord is My King
Sermon - October 30, 2011 | Psalm 8 - The Lord is My Lord
Sermon - August 2, 2009 - Psalm 23:2: Peace of Rest
Sermon - August 9, 2009 - Psalm 23:3: The Peace of Restoration (notes only)
Sermon - August 16, 2009 - Psalm 23:4: "The Peace of Comfort"
Sermon - August 23, 2009 - Psalm 23:5: The Peace of the Shepherd's Sovereignty
Sermon - August 30, 2009 - Psalm 23:6: The Peace of the Shepherd's Providence
GBC - Weekly Recommendation - "A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23"
GBC - Weekly Recommendation: "Traveling Light"
GBC - Weekly Recommendation - "Restore My Soul"
GBC - In More Detail: Repost of the Beatitudes
GBC - Bonhoeffer: The Meaning of Poor In Spirit and the Joy of Being Spiritual Bankrupt
Everything is awesome, but nobody is happy. So true. This out to be a reminder of our tail-chasing ways. We keep looking for lasting joy and happiness but few of us ever find it. But as Psalm 1;1-2 suggests, How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners,
Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night.
For more:
Sermon - October 16, 2011 | Psalm 23 - The Lord is My Shepherd: Peace in the Shepherd's Arms
Sermon - October 23, 2011 | Psalm 99 - The Lord is My King
Sermon - October 30, 2011 | Psalm 8 - The Lord is My Lord
Sermon - August 2, 2009 - Psalm 23:2: Peace of Rest
Sermon - August 9, 2009 - Psalm 23:3: The Peace of Restoration (notes only)
Sermon - August 16, 2009 - Psalm 23:4: "The Peace of Comfort"
Sermon - August 23, 2009 - Psalm 23:5: The Peace of the Shepherd's Sovereignty
Sermon - August 30, 2009 - Psalm 23:6: The Peace of the Shepherd's Providence
GBC - Weekly Recommendation - "A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23"
GBC - Weekly Recommendation: "Traveling Light"
GBC - Weekly Recommendation - "Restore My Soul"
GBC - In More Detail: Repost of the Beatitudes
GBC - Bonhoeffer: The Meaning of Poor In Spirit and the Joy of Being Spiritual Bankrupt
Monday, January 18, 2010
January 17, 2010 - Matthew 5:1-12: If Your Joyful and You Know It . . .
Here is this weeks message and notes.
Audio
Notes
For more:
Sermon Podcast
In More Detail: Repost of the Beatitudes
The Fruit of the Spirit: Joy
Audio
Notes
For more:
Sermon Podcast
In More Detail: Repost of the Beatitudes
The Fruit of the Spirit: Joy
Sunday, January 17, 2010
In More Detail: Repost of the Beatitudes
This morning we studied the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12). Last year we spent 4 weeks looking at this wonderful text. To review, below are the sermons from our study:
Matthew 5:1-4 - The Joy of Spiritual Humility - Audio
Matthew 5:5 - Starving? Why Wait? - Audio
Matthew 5:6-9 - The Joy of Holiness - Audio
Matthew 5:10-12 - The Joy of Being Hated - Audio
This weeks message will be posted soon.
Matthew 5:1-4 - The Joy of Spiritual Humility - Audio
Matthew 5:5 - Starving? Why Wait? - Audio
Matthew 5:6-9 - The Joy of Holiness - Audio
Matthew 5:10-12 - The Joy of Being Hated - Audio
This weeks message will be posted soon.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Fruitie-Tales: Living By the Fruit of the Spirit Series
Well it has been a long trip, but we have finally completed our series on the Fruit of the Spirit. Although more could be said, I hope this has been an encouraging series. It seems like every week God was reminding me to be more like Him as I repeatedly failed to do. Below are all of the sermons, links, and book recommendations made throughout this series.
Sermons:
April 26, 2009 - Got Fruit?
May 17, 2009 - Walk In the Spirit
Love:
May 24, 2009 - What's Love Got To Do With It?
May 24, 2009 - All You Lack Is LoveWhat is Love? - Audio
June 7, 2009 - 1 Corinthians 13:8-13: Love Never Ends
Joy:
June 15, 2009 - Matthew 5:1-5: Joy of Spiritual Humility
June 28, 2009 - Matthew 5:6: Starving? Why Wait?
July 12, 2009 - Matthew 5:7-9: The Joy of Holiness
July 19, 2009 - Matthew 5:10-12: The Joy of Persecution
(Sunday Night) - July 19, 2009: Hebrews 11:30ff - The Legacy of Suffering Joy
Peace:
August 2, 2009 - Psalm 23:2: Peace of Rest
August 9, 2009 - Psalm 23:3: The Peace of Restoration (notes only)
August 16, 2009 - Psalm 23:4: "The Peace of Comfort"
Sunday Night - The Agony of Job and the Sovereingnty of God
August 23, 2009 - Psalm 23:5: The Peace of the Shepherd's Sovereignty
August 30, 2009 - Psalm 23:6: The Peace of the Shepherd's Providence
Patience
September 6, 2009 - Faithience: When Faith and Patience Collide
September 13, 2009 - Genesis 13:1-18: The Biggest Loser
September 20, 2009 - Genesis 15:1-18: The Patience of Our Deliverer
October 4, 2009 - Genesis 16: Impatience
Goodness:
October 18, 2009 - 1 Peter 2:21-23 - Christus Exemplar and the Goodness of God
October 25, 2009 - Galatians 6:6-14: Selfless Goodness
November 1, 2009 - "I Believe, Help My Unbelief": The Power of Faithless Faith
November 8, 2009 - "God Be Merciful To Me a Sinner": The Gosple in 7 Words
November 15, 2009 - Living In Meekness
November 22, 2009 - Self-Control in the Face of Temptation
Book Recommendations:
Weekly Recommendation: "A Gardener Looks at the Fruits of the Spirit"Weekly Recommendation: "The God Who Loves"Weekly Recommendation: "The Greatest of These is Love"
Weekly Recommendation: "Kingdom Living"
Weekly Recommendation: "Foxe's Book of Martyrs"
Weekly Recommendation - "A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23"
Weekly Recommendation: "Traveling Light"
Weekly Recommendation - "Restore My Soul"
Weekly Recommendation - "A Grief Observed"Weekly Recommendation - "Finding Peace"
Weekly Recommendation - "Heaven"
Weekly Recommendation: "When Bad Things Happen to Good People"
Other:
True Love From Veggie Tales
Bonhoeffer: The Meaning of Poor In Spirit and the Joy of Being Spiritual Bankrupt
Bonhoeffer on Matthew 5:7-9
Mephibosheth and the Sanctity of the Disable: God's Glory In the Face of Deformity
Theodicy as Evidence of a Theos
"I Am so Easily Satisfied With Just Going About" - A Gut Check
Sermons:
April 26, 2009 - Got Fruit?
May 17, 2009 - Walk In the Spirit
Love:
May 24, 2009 - What's Love Got To Do With It?
May 24, 2009 - All You Lack Is LoveWhat is Love? - Audio
June 7, 2009 - 1 Corinthians 13:8-13: Love Never Ends
Joy:
June 15, 2009 - Matthew 5:1-5: Joy of Spiritual Humility
June 28, 2009 - Matthew 5:6: Starving? Why Wait?
July 12, 2009 - Matthew 5:7-9: The Joy of Holiness
July 19, 2009 - Matthew 5:10-12: The Joy of Persecution
(Sunday Night) - July 19, 2009: Hebrews 11:30ff - The Legacy of Suffering Joy
Peace:
August 2, 2009 - Psalm 23:2: Peace of Rest
August 9, 2009 - Psalm 23:3: The Peace of Restoration (notes only)
August 16, 2009 - Psalm 23:4: "The Peace of Comfort"
Sunday Night - The Agony of Job and the Sovereingnty of God
August 23, 2009 - Psalm 23:5: The Peace of the Shepherd's Sovereignty
August 30, 2009 - Psalm 23:6: The Peace of the Shepherd's Providence
Patience
September 6, 2009 - Faithience: When Faith and Patience Collide
September 13, 2009 - Genesis 13:1-18: The Biggest Loser
September 20, 2009 - Genesis 15:1-18: The Patience of Our Deliverer
October 4, 2009 - Genesis 16: Impatience
Goodness:
October 18, 2009 - 1 Peter 2:21-23 - Christus Exemplar and the Goodness of God
October 25, 2009 - Galatians 6:6-14: Selfless Goodness
November 1, 2009 - "I Believe, Help My Unbelief": The Power of Faithless Faith
November 8, 2009 - "God Be Merciful To Me a Sinner": The Gosple in 7 Words
November 15, 2009 - Living In Meekness
November 22, 2009 - Self-Control in the Face of Temptation
Book Recommendations:
Weekly Recommendation: "A Gardener Looks at the Fruits of the Spirit"Weekly Recommendation: "The God Who Loves"Weekly Recommendation: "The Greatest of These is Love"
Weekly Recommendation: "Kingdom Living"
Weekly Recommendation: "Foxe's Book of Martyrs"
Weekly Recommendation - "A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23"
Weekly Recommendation: "Traveling Light"
Weekly Recommendation - "Restore My Soul"
Weekly Recommendation - "A Grief Observed"Weekly Recommendation - "Finding Peace"
Weekly Recommendation - "Heaven"
Weekly Recommendation: "When Bad Things Happen to Good People"
Other:
True Love From Veggie Tales
Bonhoeffer: The Meaning of Poor In Spirit and the Joy of Being Spiritual Bankrupt
Bonhoeffer on Matthew 5:7-9
Mephibosheth and the Sanctity of the Disable: God's Glory In the Face of Deformity
Theodicy as Evidence of a Theos
"I Am so Easily Satisfied With Just Going About" - A Gut Check
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
July 19, 2009: Hebrews 11:30ff - The Legacy of Suffering Joy
Audio is not available (so don't click on the title for the link) but my notes have been made available. To view them, click here.
Monday, July 20, 2009
The Fruit of the Spirit: Joy
Here is the series of sermons and links from our look at the second Fruit of the Spirit: Joy.
Sermons:
June 15, 2009 - Matthew 5:1-5: Joy of Spiritual Humility
June 28, 2009 - Matthew 5:6: Starving? Why Wait?
July 12, 2009 - Matthew 5:7-9: The Joy of Holiness
July 19, 2009 - Matthew 5:10-12: The Joy of Persecution
(Sunday Night) - July 19, 2009: Hebrews 11:30ff - The Legacy of Suffering Joy
Recommended Books:
Weekly Recommendation: "Kingdom Living"
Weekly Recommendation: "Foxe's Book of Martyrs"
Other:
Bonhoeffer: The Meaning of Poor In Spirit and the Joy of Being Spiritual Bankrupt
Bonhoeffer on Matthew 5:7-9
Sermons:
June 15, 2009 - Matthew 5:1-5: Joy of Spiritual Humility
June 28, 2009 - Matthew 5:6: Starving? Why Wait?
July 12, 2009 - Matthew 5:7-9: The Joy of Holiness
July 19, 2009 - Matthew 5:10-12: The Joy of Persecution
(Sunday Night) - July 19, 2009: Hebrews 11:30ff - The Legacy of Suffering Joy
Recommended Books:
Weekly Recommendation: "Kingdom Living"
Weekly Recommendation: "Foxe's Book of Martyrs"
Other:
Bonhoeffer: The Meaning of Poor In Spirit and the Joy of Being Spiritual Bankrupt
Bonhoeffer on Matthew 5:7-9
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Weekly Recommendation: "Foxe's Book of Martyrs"
When I was a teenager, something that both frightened and encouraged me while always leaving me fascinated was stories of various martyrs throughout history. One of the first books I picked up recounting the many accounts of martyrs throughout the history of the church is John Foxe's "Foxe's Book of Martyrs." I have read this book a number of times and to this day find myself fascinated, encouraged, and frightened. I am always reminded of the truth that compared to these great men and women who were willing to suffering greatly for the gospel, I am an utter and complete wimp.Oh, if only I had faith like these great men and women of God!
The stories in this book are rather grotesque as many have been rather creative in how to torture and murder God's elect. Christians were beheaded, crucified, burned, boiled, dragged, decapitated, branded, inpaled, eaten alive, raped, frozen, shot, and other horrific forms of execution.
But there is one thing that the reader must be aware of: Foxe is writing in a time, as a Protestant, when Catholics were the enemy. Much of Foxe's book covers the many wars, battles, fights, and executions between Protestant and Catholics during the centuries of Reformation. Foxe is very bias towards Protestants and says strong things about the Catholic Church. This bias clouds his judgments at times. Foxe frequently condemns the blood shed on account of Catholic barbarity and yet ignores the same ruthless acts of Protestants. Nonetheless, one is blown away by the boldness of Christians throughout the centuries regardless of the cost.
This book also serves as a good survey of Church History especially regarding the Reformation. Foxe gives special attention to men such as John Wycliff, William Tyndale, John Huss, Martin Luther, and the St. Bartholew Massacre. This is a fascinating read that will leaving you nausiated, and yet with a new sense of boldness.
The reason I am recommending this classic book (originally published in 1563) is because this Sunday we will be looking at Matthew 5:10-12 where Jesus says that Joy belongs to those who are willing to be persecuted for the sake of the gospel. Christians in America are clueless to what it means to be persecuted for their faith. The best we can do is to loose a friend, to be ignored, or to not get a promotion at work. Sadly, we think this is normal. A brief look of a book like this will bring us back to reality.
At the same time, I want us to think about why Christians aren't being persecuted so heavily in our culture. The culture is increasingly becoming post-Christian. Although there are increasing signs of persecution through taxes, hate crimes, etc., most Christians are oblivious to persecution. Why? I think it is because Christians have adopted a false gospel. The gospel is an offense. That is why so many of our brothers and sisters have been persecuted throughout the years. People only get angry when offended, and sadly, the cheap grace we preach today does not call men to repent leaving them either spiritually broken or offended.
I encourage everyone to read this book and be gripped by the hard truths of the gospel and go out boldly and live the faith Christ has called us to live.
For More:
You can read the entire book online by clicking here.
You can also download and listen to the entire book for free by clicking here.
See also the Voices of the Martyrs, USA ministry webpage which continues the legacy of John Foxe
Monday, July 13, 2009
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Bonhoeffer on Matthew 5:7-9
This Sunday we will be looking at Matthew 5:7-9. As I studied this text, I was encouraged and enjoyed reading some of what Dietrich Bonhoeffer had to say on these verses. Here is a sampling:
Matthew 5:7 - "These men w/o possessions or power, these strangers on earth, these sinners, these followers of Jesus, have in their life with him renounced their own dignity, for they are merciful. As if their own needs and their own distress were not enough, they take upon themselves the distress and humiliation and sin of others . . . For the only honor and dignity they know is their Lord’s own mercy, to which alone they owe their very lives. He was not ashamed of his disciples, he became the brother of mankind and bore their shame unto the death of the cross. This is how Jesus, the crucified, was merciful. His followers owe their lives entirely to that mercy. It makes them forget their own honor and dignity, and seek the society of sinners . . . "Blessed are the merciful, for they have the Merciful for their Lord." (111-112)
Matthew 5:8 - "Who is pure in heart? Only those who have surrendered their hearts completely to Jesus that he may reign in them alone. Only those whose hearts are undefiled by their own evil - and by their own virtues too . . . If men renounce their own good, if in penitence they have renounced their own hearts, if they rely solely upon Jesus, then his words purifies their hearts. Purity of heart is here contrasted with all outward purity, even the purity of high intentions. The pure heart is pure alike of good and evil it belongs exclusively t Christ and looks only to him who goes on before." (112)
Matthew 5:9 - "The followers of Jesus have been called to peace. When he called them they found their peace, for he is their peace. But now they are told that they must not only have pace but make it . . . The peacemakers will carry the cross with their Lord, for it was on the cross that peace was made. Now that they are partners in Christ’s work of reconciliation, they are called the sons of God as he is the Son of God." (112-113)
To Bonhoeffer, in the end, these Beatitudes regarding Sanctification (the doctrine that describes the Christian life as growing in holiness) rooted in the cross. I think he's right. The cross is the center of everything; especially the Chrisitan life and its road to holiness.
For More:
Bonhoeffer: The Meaning of Poor In Spirit and the Joy of Being Spiritual Bankrupt
Weekly Recommendation: "The Cost of Discipleship"
Matthew 5:7 - "These men w/o possessions or power, these strangers on earth, these sinners, these followers of Jesus, have in their life with him renounced their own dignity, for they are merciful. As if their own needs and their own distress were not enough, they take upon themselves the distress and humiliation and sin of others . . . For the only honor and dignity they know is their Lord’s own mercy, to which alone they owe their very lives. He was not ashamed of his disciples, he became the brother of mankind and bore their shame unto the death of the cross. This is how Jesus, the crucified, was merciful. His followers owe their lives entirely to that mercy. It makes them forget their own honor and dignity, and seek the society of sinners . . . "Blessed are the merciful, for they have the Merciful for their Lord." (111-112)
Matthew 5:8 - "Who is pure in heart? Only those who have surrendered their hearts completely to Jesus that he may reign in them alone. Only those whose hearts are undefiled by their own evil - and by their own virtues too . . . If men renounce their own good, if in penitence they have renounced their own hearts, if they rely solely upon Jesus, then his words purifies their hearts. Purity of heart is here contrasted with all outward purity, even the purity of high intentions. The pure heart is pure alike of good and evil it belongs exclusively t Christ and looks only to him who goes on before." (112)
Matthew 5:9 - "The followers of Jesus have been called to peace. When he called them they found their peace, for he is their peace. But now they are told that they must not only have pace but make it . . . The peacemakers will carry the cross with their Lord, for it was on the cross that peace was made. Now that they are partners in Christ’s work of reconciliation, they are called the sons of God as he is the Son of God." (112-113)
To Bonhoeffer, in the end, these Beatitudes regarding Sanctification (the doctrine that describes the Christian life as growing in holiness) rooted in the cross. I think he's right. The cross is the center of everything; especially the Chrisitan life and its road to holiness.
For More:
Bonhoeffer: The Meaning of Poor In Spirit and the Joy of Being Spiritual Bankrupt
Weekly Recommendation: "The Cost of Discipleship"
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Friday, June 19, 2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
Weekly Recommendation: "Kingdom Living"
As we begin to look at the Beatitudes as we discuss joy, I have been blessed with the John MacArthur book, "Kingdom Living: Here and Now." John MacArthur is one of the most influential persons in my life. I weekly devour his books, articles, sermons, and lectures. He stands as the best Bible teacher in America today. I have been repeatedly enriched from him.
Kingdom Living is essentially his series of sermons on the beatitudes in book form. MacArthur has simply taken the transcripts from him sermons and with minor edits, has published them. Nonetheless, this book stands as an insightful and practical guide into understanding Jesus' teaching in the Beatitudes and how to have real, lasting joy.
The book is fairly simple and easy to read. MacArthur frequently refers the reader to various stories and texts in the Old Testament. MacArthur is a firm believer in illustrating the Bible by using the Bible.
So for those wanting to learn more about the Beatitudes and on Jesus' teaching on joy, I can think of no better source than this.
Kingdom Living is essentially his series of sermons on the beatitudes in book form. MacArthur has simply taken the transcripts from him sermons and with minor edits, has published them. Nonetheless, this book stands as an insightful and practical guide into understanding Jesus' teaching in the Beatitudes and how to have real, lasting joy.
The book is fairly simple and easy to read. MacArthur frequently refers the reader to various stories and texts in the Old Testament. MacArthur is a firm believer in illustrating the Bible by using the Bible.
So for those wanting to learn more about the Beatitudes and on Jesus' teaching on joy, I can think of no better source than this.
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