Last one

Preparing for my last Sunday morning sermon for 2014 is, for some reason, quite difficult. I  want to lift the congregation to amazing heights of joy and gladness (in Jesus). This has been a hard year and many have faced trouble, loss and even death. I will look forward rather than back, I will preach faith, Lord God, please help me.

S.O.A.P.

12-27-2014    Mark 15:5-15

S.            5 But Jesus yet answered nothing; so that Pilate marvelled.6 Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired.7And there was one named Barabbas, which lay bound with them that had made insurrection with him, who had committed murder in the insurrection.8 And the multitude crying aloud began to desire him to do as he had ever done unto them.9 But Pilate answered them, saying, Will ye that I release unto you the King of the Jews?10 For he knew that the chief priests had delivered him for envy.11 But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them.12 And Pilate answered and said again unto them, What will ye then that I shall do unto him whom ye call the King of the Jews?13 And they cried out again, Crucify him.14 Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him.15 And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged him, to be crucified.

O.           The crowd calls for the release of Barabbas and the crucifixion of Jesus.

A.           Following the crowd can lead to many mistakes and sin. I will follow the God and use Jesus as my example, even at great cost.

P.             Father; I am determined to follow the example of Jesus but I am week and unlearned. Teach me his ways, help me to think pure thoughts, have holy ideas and give me endurance that I might overcome. Amen.

I am not what I was.

8-6-2014         Acts 23:6-10

S.       6 But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.7 And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.8 For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.9 And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.10 And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle.

O.      Paul’s accusers become divided because of his declaration. He is rescued once again by the captain of the guard.

A.      We must speak a message that will be understood by the people. We must show people that we too have backgrounds similar to theirs. Then we can share the wonderful changes that have come into our life.

P.       Father; help me to be an open book to those I minister to. Help me to share the hope I have in a manner that will give all the glory to you. Amen. 

New Platform

8-4-2014         Acts 22:30

S.       30 On the morrow, because he would have known the certainty wherefore he was accused   of the Jews, he loosed him from his bands, and commanded the chief priests and all their council to appear, and brought Paul down, and set him before them.

O.      Paul’s arresting officer brings him before the Jews to have the charges against Paul clarified.

A.      The normal systems of justice are another platform from which we can share the gospel. We must be willing to share our message at every opportunity and in every situation. The people may never hear unless we speak up.

P.       Father; I ask for wisdom and courage in all of life’s experiences. I want to speak up for you and tell the world of your love and forgiveness. Use me Lord, Amen. 

Give to the poor.

7-19-2014      Acts 20:35

S.       35 I have shewed you all things, how that 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.

O.      Honest words about meeting the needs of others and the ultimate word on giving.

A.      Supporting the weak is more than money. Weakness comes to us when we are afraid, lonely and hurt. Supporting people in these times is just as important as filling their bellies. I will attempt to be there for the ones that are in these difficult times.

P.       Father; I see hurting people in every direction I look. I see hungry people in every direction I look. Guide me by your Holy Spirit in all my efforts to help and support. I am overwhelmed and inadequate for the task. I need you Father to fill me up and then pour me out. Amen.

New Town, Same Message.

6-25-2014      Acts 17:1-9

S.       1 Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:2 And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,3 Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.4 And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.5 But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.6 And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;7 Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus.8 And they troubled the people and the rulers of the city, when they heard these things.9 And when they had taken security of Jason, and of the other, they let them go.

O.      Thessalonica is the next city to hear the news of Jesus. Once again trouble is stirred up by un-believing Jews.

A.      Some will hear and believe and others will reject the message of Jesus. I must remember it is Jesus they are rejecting and not to be offended.

P.       Father; renew my energy, fill my heart and lead me to the ones that will hear and believe. Amen.

Erasing the Lines

6-20-2014      Acts 16:11-15

S.       11 Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis;12 And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days.13 And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither.14 And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.15 And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.

O.     Paul travels to Philippi where his ministry began with an all women group at the river and ends up in the home of Lydia.

A.      God has never set women as “second class” believers. Our ministry should be motivated by the Holy Spirit and never by societal banes. This is a “whosoever” message so I must be a “whosoever” minister.

P.       Father; set me free from the chains of social class, racism and all man-made mores. Open my eyes to see others as you see them and fill my heart to love them as you do. Amen.  

New Places

6-19-2014      Acts 16:5-10

S.       5 And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.6 Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,7 After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not.8 And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas.9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.10 And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.

O.      Proper doctrine and unity lead to church growth. Paul keeps spreading the message of Jesus in the places he is directed to go by the Holy Spirit. God gives Paul a vision concerning Macedonia.

A.      The leadership of the Holy Spirit is essential to the effective spreading of the gospel message. None of the disciples of Jesus in the early church attempted to minister without the Holy Spirit. Today the need for the gospel is greater than ever, more people equals more need. So the need to be Spirit Filled is greater than ever.

P.       Father; fill me to the overflowing with your Holy Spirit. I surrender my all to you and seek to do your will perfectly throughout this day. Amen. 

More Help

6-18-2014      Acts 16:1-4

S.       1 Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek:2 Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.3 Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek.4 And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.

O.      Paul takes on Timothy as his student/helper here. Timothy is circumcised (no explanation is given as to why Timothy did not fall under the decision made at Jerusalem) and the group moves on to spread the word and the results of the Jerusalem council.

A.      God will place certain people in our lives that are to work alongside us. Working together can bring better result with less strain on a single individual. As we learn to depend on each other we gain better understanding about depending on God. The goals are unity, harmony and peace. These are in short supply in today’s me-istic society.

P.       Father; grant me wisdom and discernment to recognize which individuals I am to work beside. Speak into my spirit your holy instruction that I will know when to be student and when to be teacher. Amen.  

Doctrine

6-12-2014      Acts 15:1-3

S.       1 And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.2 When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question.3 And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phoenicia and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.

O.      This clash of doctrine sends Paul to Jerusalem to settle the matter. Along the way to Jerusalem Paul shares the news of gentile conversion and this brings much joy.

A.      Joy should always be the product men’s lives being saved by faith in Jesus. Doctrines are a necessary product of growth and development within the church.

P.       Father; lead me to people that I can help find salvation and joy. Give me the message and the method to properly share your love, hope and joy through Jesus. Amen. 

A Long-term Plan

5-31-2014      Acts 13:24-26

S.       24 When John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.25 And as John fulfilled his course, he said, Whom think ye that I am? I am not he. But, behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose.26 Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent.

O.      Salvation preached to the Jews by John the Baptist is Paul’s reference point.

A.      We must connect the events God uses in our history to reveal the relevance of the place we are standing in today.

P.       Father; show us your hand at work in the past and today. Help us see your on-going efforts to save, keep and bless your children. Amen.

Preach about Jesus

5-30-2014      Acts 13:13-23

S.       13 Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.14 But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in Pisidia, and went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down.15 And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.16 Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience.17 The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and exalted the people when they dwelt as strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an high arm brought he them out of it.18 And about the time of forty years suffered he their manners in the wilderness.19 And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, he divided their land to them by lot.20 And after that he gave unto them judges about the space of four hundred and fifty years, until Samuel the prophet.21 And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, by the space of forty years.22 And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.23 Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:

O.      At Antioch Paul teaches in the synagogue that Jesus is the long awaited Messiah. He uses Old Testament references about the history of the Jews to establish his claims.

A.      I am directed by this scripture to use historical reference when establishing my claims concerning Jesus. I must guide my listeners to Jesus……no matter the reference…..I must preach Jesus, as Saviour, as Lord, and as soon coming King.

P.       Father; I come to you and empty myself that you will fill me beyond full. Fill me with your Holy Ghost and fire…….that I may preach Jesus……in Spirit and Truth. Amen. 

Doctrine

5-29-2014        Acts 13:12

S.       12 Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.

O.      Confronting sin brings a man to repentance and belief in Jesus.

A.      Sin must be revealed and dealt with in a public manner.

P.       Father; give me wisdom and lead me by your Holy Spirit to deal with sin. Amen.

Politics before God

5-25-2014      Acts 12: 18-20

S.       18 Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.19 And when Herod had sought for him, and found him not, he examined the keepers, and commanded that they should be put to death. And he went down from Judaea to Caesarea, and there abode.20 And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him, and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was nourished by the king's country.

O.      Herod kills the guards that were on duty when Peter was set free by an angel. The local politicians start maneuvering to get back into a good standing with Herod.

A.      Sinful man will go to great lengths to avoid admitting that a “supernatural” event has taken place. Politicians will always look out for themselves and try to attach to the current leaders in power. I will attach myself to God…..in every situation…..even when I am un-popular and scorned.

P.       Father; I seek a right standing before you. Wash away all my sin, fill me with your spirit and lead me in each step I take. Amen.

Christians

5-20-2014      Acts 11:25-26

S.       25 Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

O.      The name “Christian” is first used to describe the followers of Jesus.

A.      To be a Christian is a wonderful blessing. To have my sin removed from all heavenly records and never worry about it being used against me. People should see me as a Christian because of how I live and speak, as a reflection of Jesus living in me. Not by some group I have joined or symbol I wear. “Not all that say Lord, Lord will enter Heaven”.

P.       Father; help me be a living example of your love and forgiveness. Amen.

God saved us to be his "Church"!

5-19-2014      Acts 11:22-24

S.       22 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.23 Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.24 For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.

O.      The news of what believers were doing came back to Jerusalem and the church leaders sent Barnabas to learn the news in a more perfect way. The term “church” is used to describe the followers of Jesus.

A.      God always looks on his redeemed ones as part of his “church”. God has an open door that is available to all who will enter. Jesus is that door. Once we enter we are grafted into a single body……the church……the bride of Christ.  We have many parts, but we all have the same purpose…..To Love God.

P.       Father; Thank you for inviting me to be your child, for sending Jesus to pay my “sin-debt”, for raising Jesus on the third day, for the Holy Bible to be my guide, for believers that help me to live right, for being with me every day, for the Holy Ghost baptism and for hope. Use me today to be a blessing. Amen. 

5-18-2014      Acts 11:19-21

S.       19 Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phoenicia, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.20 And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Greeks, preaching the Lord Jesus.21 And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.

O.      Holy Ghost filled Gentiles are now preaching to anyone and everyone that will listen. Many are being turned to the faith. Up to this point the message was only being told to the Jews by those fleeing persecution in Jerusalem.

A.      Even when I am in difficult situations the message must be spread. I must look to the Holy Spirit in my problems and difficulties to help me share Jesus.

P.       Father; Fill me to the full today, anoint my mind, hands and voice to preach Jesus. Amen.

Holy Ghost Outpouring

5-15-2014      Acts 10:27-48

S.       27 And as he talked with him, he went in, and found many that were come together. 28 And he said unto them, Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another nation; but God hath shewed me that I should not call any man common or unclean. 29 Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for: I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me? 30 And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, 31 And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. 32 Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. 33 Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. 34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: 35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. 36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) 37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; 38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. 39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree. 40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; 41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. 42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. 43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. 44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. 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. Then answered Peter, 47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? 48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.

O.      God reveals the reason that he brought Peter to the house of Cornelius. Peter preaches redemption to these gentiles, they believe on Jesus and God fills them with the Holy Ghost. Peter’s Jewish friends find this to be very astonishing but the “see and hear” the evidence. All are filled with the Holy Ghost, baptized in water and fellowship lasts for many days.

A.      The message of Jesus is all I need to help others flow fully into the way of God. I will keep Jesus central to all my ministry. Jesus is enough, more than enough.

P.       Father; Help me to preach Jesus effectively and share your love today. Amen.

Miracles

4-22-2014           Acts 5:12-16

S.            12 And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch. 13 And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them. 14 And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women.) 15 Insomuch that they brought forth the sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and couches, that at the least the shadow of Peter passing by might overshadow some of them. 16 There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Jerusalem, bringing sick folks, and them which were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed every one.

O.           Sings and wonders help many people believe in Jesus. Healing seems to be the prominent miracle.

A.           I will seek to be used by God in the same ways.

P.            Father; I acknowledge you as the true source of all miracles. Please use me in these gifts. Amen.

Instant "Judgement" of sin!

4-21-2014           Acts 5:1-11

S.            1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, 2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet. 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. 5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. 6 And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him. 7 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. 8 And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. 9 Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. 10 Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. 11 And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things.

O.           God deals with hypocrisy and lying in the church. Sin was not overlooked, covered up, coped with or set aside. There was direct immediate result seen by all. How do modern religions explain this “punishment”?  Were these two people “unsaved”? Clearly this sin did not hurt anyone else or even cause hardship. God’s standards are high and his actions are fair. Modern religion must be wrong in their teachings concerning sin and its consequences!  

A.           Sin must be my enemy and I must avoid sin at all cost. I am not alone in my fight against sin. God has provided three companions to aid me in recognizing sin and conquering it, my conviction, his word and the Holy Ghost. Conviction; God breathed life into me and I became a living soul with knowledge of right and wrong. His Word; the Bible is filled with examples if sin, those who failed and God’s blueprint for building a life free of sin and the Holy Ghost; The Spirit of God to live inside us and “empower” us in the overcoming of sin.  God’s design is revealed to mankind in and through his Son, Jesus. Jesus laid down his “God-ness”, became a man and lived as a human. Jesus never sinned. Jesus died on the Cross. Jesus rose from the dead. Jesus is living proof of the love of God for sinning man and “proof” that sin can be eliminated.

P.            Father; forgive my sin, fill me with the Holy Ghost and direct me in my fight to destroy sin by revealing your truth about sin. Open my mind to your Word that “religion made by man” will not lead me into wicked deception and folly. Amen.   

Holy Ghost

4-11-2014           Acts 2:37-41

S.            37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? 38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. 41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.

O.           Peter’s preaching revealed the sin of Israel so deeply that the people ask for direction. Peter said “Repent” and be “Baptized” and they too could enjoy the “Gift” of the Holy Ghost. Peter also made it clear that this “Gift” will be available to “All” believers, forever. It must have been a big crowd because three thousand people responded and joined the disciples.

A.           My preaching must be like the preaching of Peter…….not the same words……not the same text…..not the same pattern…..but, the same SPIRIT! Every day our life preaches a sermon. Make your “Sermon” one worth hearing (or seeing). BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY GHOST!

P.            Father; thank you for my filling……I ask to be always FULL, full of the Holy Ghost. Amen.