Available in audio only.
Listen online
Download audio
Tag Archives: Confusion
WHAT WE DO NOT SEE
Listen online
Download audio
What We Do Not See
2 Corinthians 4:18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
1. THE UNSEEN HELP FOR US ALL.
A. BLESSINGS WE NEED.
1 Corinthians 2:9-12 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. 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.
B. THE PROMISES OF GOD FULFILLED TOTALLY. AN EXAMPLE IS THE PROMISE OF A NEW BODY.
2 Corinthians 4:16-5:2 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:
C. THE MINISTRY OF ANGELS. UNSEEN, BUT PRESENT DAILY.
- HEALING. STIRRED THE WATERS AT BETHSAIDA. John 5:4 For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had.
- MINISTRY TO ENCOURAGE AND LIFT. TEMPTATION OF JESUS. Matthew 4:11 Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.
- PROVIDE FOR OUR NEEDS. ELIJAH—FOOD. I Kings 19:5 And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat.
- BRING JUDGMENT—SODOM. Genesis 19:13 For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the LORD; and the LORD hath sent us to destroy it.
- BRING PHYSICAL DELIVERANCE—BRINGING LOT & GIRLS OUT OF SODOM. Genesis 19:16 And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him: and they brought him forth, and set him without the city.
- KEEPING MAN FROM A WORSE FATE. (ACCIDENTS, ETC. ?) KEPT ADAM FROM GARDEN. Genesis 3:24 So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.
- CARRIED MESSAGES FROM GOD. DANIEL. Daniel 8:15-17 And it came to pass, when I, even I Daniel, had seen the vision, and sought for the meaning, then, behold, there stood before me as the appearance of a man. And I heard a man’s voice between the banks of Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, make this man to understand the vision. So he came near where I stood: and when he came, I was afraid, and fell upon my face: but he said unto me, Understand, O son of man: for at the time of the end shall be the vision.
- CARRY OUT DECREES OF JUDGMENT. REVELATION. Revelation 15:6 And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white linen, and having their breasts girded with golden girdles.
- TO BRING SOULS TO THEIR PLACE OF JUDGMENT. Luke 16:22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; —AND THIS IS FUTURE, TOO.— Matthew 24:31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
2. WE MUST HAVE FAITH IN GOD TO ACCEPT THE UNSEEN.
A. WE HAVE NOT SEEN JESUS. He was before our time.
John 20:29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen Me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.
B. WE HAVE NOT SEEN THE FATHER.
Colossians 1:15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:
John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, He hath declared Him.
C. WE HAVE NOT SEEN GOD’S WRATH OR THE RAPTURE, BUT WE KNOW IT WILL COME.
Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
3. WE MUST DEPEND UPON HIS WORD TO KNOW ABOUT THE UNSEEN.
A. THAT IS THE BASIS FOR OUR FAITH.
Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
“What We Do Not See”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
031316
DOCTRINE THAT FLOATS
Listen online
Download audio
Doctrine That Floats
FAITH MUST FLOAT ABOVE THE STORMS
2 Corinthians 11:25 Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep;
1 Timothy 1:19 Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck:
Ephesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
***SOME PEOPLE THINK DOCTRINE IS NOTHING TO GET EXCITED ABOUT. BUT, THE POWER OF THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS DOCTRINE, AND IT IS SOMETHING TO GET EXCITED ABOUT ! FORGIVENESS FROM GOD IS DOCTRINE. AND IT IS SOMETHING TO GET EXCITED ABOUT ! HEAVEN IS A DOCTRINE. AND IT IS SOMETHING TO GET EXCITED ABOUT !
1. IMPORTANT DOCTRINE MAKES GOOD SENSE. LIKE WEARING A LIFE PRESERVER IN THE STORM. IT HELPS PEOPLE TO UNDERSTAND AND CARRY OUT THE PLAN OF GOD.
Mark 11:18 And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy him: for they feared him, because all the people was astonished at his doctrine.
A. THE DOCTRINE JESUS TAUGHT WAS WITH POWER AND IT AMAZED PEOPLE. IT CHANGED LIVES, NOT JUST DID MIRACLES AND TELL INTERESTING STORIES.
Luke 4:32 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for His Word was with power.
B. GOD’S DOCTRINE DOES AMAZING THINGS.
Acts 13:10-12 And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.
C. GODS’ PEOPLE FOLLOW THE UNCHANGING DOCTRINE OF THE CHURCH WHICH JESUS GAVE US. WE DO NOT ACCEPT THE DOCTRINES OF MEN WITH THE SAME DEGREE OF RELIABILITY.
Acts 2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
2. GOD’S PEOPLE REJECT DOCTRINES THAT DON’T COME FROM GOD.
A. WE ARE TOLD TO TAKE A STAND FOR WHAT IS TRUE.
Ephesians 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;
1 Timothy 1:3 As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine,
1 Timothy 1:10 For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;
B. THE LAST DAYS WILL BE FILLED WITH BAD DOCTRINE.
2 Timothy 4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
C. WHERE DO WE GET OUR DOCTRINE ?
2 Timothy 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
3. FALSE DOCTRINE SINKS PEOPLE. IT IS OFTEN BECAUSE PEOPLE DON’T KNOW BETTER, OR THEY ARE ANGRY AT GOD.
A. PEOPLE WHO ACCEPT FALSE TEACHING REGARDING JESUS DON’T KNOW GOD.
2 John 1:9 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.
B. PEOPLE WHO ARE SHIPWRECKED SPIRITUALLY HAVE ABANDONED THE TRUE DOCTRINES OF GOD.
1 Timothy 6:3-5 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
C. GOD IS AGAINST THOSE TO REJECT HIS TRUTHS. EVEN IF THEY CALL THEMSELVES THE CHURCH. CALLING YOURSELF A CHRISTIAN IS NOT A PROTECTION FROM THE JUDGMENT OF GOD WHEN YOU HOLD BASIC BELIEFS CONTRARY TO WHAT GOD SAID. ***GROUP CALLED “CHRISTIAN SCIENCE.” THEY ARE NEITHER CHRISTIAN NOR SCIENCE.
Revelation 2:14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.
Revelation 2:15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.
HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU BEEN REJECTING GOD’S DOCTRINE ? HE SAID THAT YOU NEEDED TO BE SAVED. HE SAID THAT YOU NEEDED TO PUT YOUR FAITH IN CHRIST AND REPENT OF YOUR SINS. IF YOU PUT THAT OFF, YOU PUT OFF GOD. YOU PUT OFF HIS DOCTRINE. YOU ARE SHIPWRECKED. YOUR LIFE WILL GO UNDER, AND YOUR SOUL WILL GO DOWN.
YOU NEED SALVATION.
YOU CAN OBTAIN IT TODAY !
“Doctrine That Floats”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
022116
Guest Speaker: Stephen MacWilliams “Blind Ignorant And Happy”- 2-7-16
POWERFUL WORDS: “SALVATION”
Listen to PART 1
Download
Listen to PART 2
Download
THIS SERIES ON “POWERFUL WORDS” EXAMINES SOME IMPORTANT WORDS USED IN THE BIBLE WHICH PEOPLE DON’T UNDERSTAND ANYMORE. EVEN MANY CHRISTIANS DON’T SEEM TO UNDERSTAND THEIR TRUE MEANING.
SALVATION
1. SAVED FROM WHAT ?
– FROM THE WRATH OF GOD.
Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.
AND WHY IS GOD ANGRY ? HE IS ANGRY AT PEOPLE WHO WILL NOT RESPOND TO HIS OFFER OF A FREELY GIVEN FORGIVENESS AND A CLEAN GARMENT WASHED BY HIS LOVE.
Luke 14:21 So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.
NEED TO BE SAVED FROM THE JUDGMENT BY GOD UP AHEAD.
SOME JUDGMENTS OCCUR ON EARTH. SOME CALL IT KARMA.
1 Timothy 5:24 Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.
–EVEN NATIONS WILL BE JUDGED ON EARTH. BUT, THAT DOES NOT AVOID THE GREATER JUDGMENT TO COME. ISRAEL AND EVERY NATION HAS BEEN JUDGED BY GOD AT SOME TIME FOR DISOBEYING HIS CLEAR LAWS.
2 Chronicles 34:21 Go, enquire of the LORD for me, and for them that are left in Israel and in Judah, concerning the words of the book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is poured out upon us, because our fathers have not kept the word of the LORD, to do after all that is written in this book.
–PERHAPS THE MOST NOTABLE EVENT WAS WHEN GOD JUDGED THE ENTIRE EARTH IN THE DAYS OF NOAH. THIS IS NOT SOMETHING WHICH IS FOLKLORE. IT IS SOMETHING PROVEN BY MAN’S SCIENCE THAT HAS FINALLY MADE ITS WAY FROM INSISTING THAT THE EARTH WAS FLAT TO FINALLY ACCEPTING THE BIBLE’S TEACHING OF A ROUND EARTH, AND THAT CONTINENTS WERE ONCE ONE GIANT CONTINENT THAT WAS BROKEN APART.
Genesis 6:7 And the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man, and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.
Genesis 6:13 And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.
Genesis 19:13 For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the LORD; and the LORD hath sent us to destroy it.
ALL PEOPLE WILL BE JUDGED AFTER THEY LEAVE THIS EARTH.
Hebrews 9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:
John 3:36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
IS THERE ANY REASON TO BELIEVE IN DIVINE JUDGMENT ? SINCE THERE IS JUDGMENT NOW, WHY NOT A FINAL JUDGMENT OF A PERSON’S LIFE LATER ?
Hebrews 10:26-27 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
THERE ARE NATURAL EVENTS WHICH REVEAL THAT DIVINE JUDGMENT IS A REALITY. IT IS KNOWN AS “CAUSE AND EFFECT.” IF YOU CONSTANTLY POLLUTE THE WATER, THERE ARE NATURAL CONSEQUENCES. IF YOU TAKE TOO MANY PIECES OF PIE AFTER DINNER, THERE ARE NATURAL CONSEQUENCES. ALL NATURE BEARS WITNESS TO THIS PRINCIPLE.
BUT, IT GOES FURTHER THAN THAT. IT SPEAKS OF OUR LIVES. WHAT IF WE DO THINGS WHICH GO AGAINST THE ORDER WHICH GOD ESTABLISHED ? THERE WILL BE CONSEQUENCES. GOD WILL BRING THOSE TO PASS AFTER YOUR LIFE HERE.
Hebrews 10:26-27 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
MEN WILL NOT HAVE A CHANCE TO ESCAPE JUDGMENT BECAUSE THEY ARE BROUGHT TO IT BY THE ANGELS.
Matthew 13:40-43 As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. The Son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity; And shall cast them into a furnace of fire: there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
IS THERE ANY REASON TO BELIEVE THAT A LOVING GOD WOULD SEND PEOPLE TO HELL ?
GOD REVEALS WHAT HE WILL DO. WHO BETTER TO BELIEVE THAN GOD HIMSELF ?
Revelation 20:15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
–JESUS OFTEN WARNED ABOUT COMING JUDGMENT.
John 5:28-29 Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
IS THERE ANY REASON TO BELIEVE THAT THERE IS LIFE AFTER DEATH, AND THAT THERE IS A LITERAL HEAVEN WHERE PEOPLE CAN GO ?
***WE NEED PEOPLE WHO HAVE PERSONALLY EXPERIENCED THIS TO BE WITNESSES OF IT.
- JESUS TESTIFIED OF IT. TODAY, THERE ARE COUNTLESS EYEWITNESSES OF BOTH HEAVEN AND HELL BECAUSE PEOPLE WERE BROUGHT BACK THROUGH CPR FROM BOTH OF THOSE PLACES !
JESUS TAUGHT BY CITING ACCOUNTS OF WHAT HAPPENED TO REAL PEOPLE.
Luke 16:20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,
Luke 16:22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;
- –JESUS SPEAKS OF JUDGMENT OVER THE BEHAVIOR OF A PERSON.
Matthew 25:41-43 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not.
2. EVIDENCE OF THE NEED FOR SALVATION.
EVERYONE HAS DONE WRONG AT SOME POINT. THE BIBLE EXPLAINS THIS.
Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
EVEN THE BEST OF PEOPLE HAVE COMMITTED SIN.
—DAVID. CONSIDERED TO BE A SAVED, RIGHTEOUS MAN, DESCRIBED AS “A MAN AFTER GOD’S OWN HEART…” EVEN HE SINNED AND KNEW THAT HE DID. .
2 Samuel 12:13 And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.
2 Samuel 24:17 And David spake unto the LORD when he saw the angel that smote the people, and said, Lo, I have sinned, and I have done wickedly: but these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand, I pray thee, be against me, and against my father’s house.
–THE CONDITION OF SIN HAS AFFECTED ALL PEOPLE.
Romans 3:10 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:
–WE ARE ALL CONSIDERED BY GOD TO BE SINNERS. AND OUR SINS BEGIN EARLY.
Psalms 58:3 The wicked are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies.
ANY REMAINING CONSCIENCE THAT A PERSON HAS TESTIFIES THAT THEY HAVE SINNED.
Romans 2:15 Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)
WE ALL KNOW OF THINGS THAT IF WE HAD TO DO THEM OVER, WE WOULD. WHAT IS THAT ? A KNOWLEDGE THAT WE SHOULD HAVE DONE GOOD AND DIDN’T. OUR OWN CONSCIENCE TELLS THAT WE COULD HAVE DONE GOOD AND BLEW IT.
James 4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
1 John 5:17 All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.
WHY WOULD GOD SEND HIS SON TO SUFFER AND DIE IF EVERYONE WAS GOING TO BE BETTER OFF AFTER THEY DIED ?
–FACT: THEY WOULD NOT BE BETTER OFF ! WITHOUT THE PAYMENT FOR SINS, WE ALL ARE DOOMED TO HELL ! THEREFORE, WE ALL NEED SALVATION ! HOW DOES IT COME ?
- BIBLICAL SALVATION MEANS THAT THERE ARE NO MORE SINS APPLIED TO US.
- THEY HAVE BEEN COVERED BY CHRIST. (“ATONEMENT” MEANS “COVERING”)
Romans 5:11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.
- THEY HAVE BEEN TAKEN AWAY BY CHRIST.
1 Corinthians 6:11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
- THEY HAVE BEEN JUSTIFIED BY CHRIST.
Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.
- YOU HAVE BEEN REDEEMED OUT OF THE HAND OF SATAN, AND BORN INTO THE KINGDOM OF GOD.
Acts 20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
JESUS CAME TO SAVE US FROM OUR SINS AND PROVIDE TRUE SALVATION !
Matthew 18:11 For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.
1 Timothy 1:15 This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
“POWERFUL WORDS: ‘SALVATION’ ”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
020716 & 021017
WITHOUT DIVINE PURPOSE
Listen online
Download audio
WITHOUT DIVINE PURPOSE
We are speaking about a life that fails to actively submit to doing Divine purpose. Living a life that is without purpose, or without even knowing that there is a Divine purpose.
IMAGINE IF A MAN WAS SET DOWN BY HELICOPTER IN A CITY, AND JUST LEFT THERE. WHAT WILL HE DO ? MOST MEN WILL SEEK TO FIND SOME WAY TO PRESERVE THEIR OWN LIVES. FIND FOOD. FIND SHELTER.
BUT, THE CHRISTIAN IS ALWAYS DROPPED INTO THIS WORLD WITH A GREATER MISSION–TO PUT GOD FIRST ! WE HAVE A PURPOSE BEYOND MERELY SURVIVING.
WHAT ARE WE WITHOUT THE PURPOSE WHICH GOD HAS GIVEN FOR OUR LIVES ?
1. THE PURPOSE OF GOD IS A LIFE-LONG PURPOSE.
- SOLOMON DIDN’T TAKE THAT SERIOUSLY. HE MADE IT A ONE-SHOT EFFORT.
1Kings 5:5 And, behold, I purpose to build an house unto the name of the LORD my God, as the LORD spake unto David my father, saying, Thy son, whom I will set upon thy throne in thy room, he shall build an house unto My name. See I Kings 11:1-8
- NOT ALL RELIGIOUS PURPOSES PLEASE GOD. HE SHOULD BE GIVEN EXACTLY WHAT HE WANTS.
Isaiah 1:11 To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices unto Me? saith the LORD: I am full of the burnt offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I delight not in the blood of bullocks, or of lambs, or of he goats.
- KING SAUL SACRIFICED AND WORSHIPED, BUT DISOBEYED GOD. DID HIS RELIGIOUS ACTIVITIES NULLIFY HIS DISOBEDIENCE ? NO.
1 Samuel 15:21-26 But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God in Gilgal. And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, He hath also rejected thee from being king. ¶ And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice. Now therefore, I pray thee, pardon my sin, and turn again with me, that I may worship the LORD. And Samuel said unto Saul, I will not return with thee: for thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD hath rejected thee from being king over Israel.
—————————————–
SERVICE TO GOD SHOULD BE YOUR PURPOSE, NOT DOING SOMETHING TO MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD OR TO AVOID OFFENDING PEOPLE. WHAT DID JESUS TELL HIS DISCIPLES TO DO ? DID EVERYONE LIKE WHAT THEY HAD TO SAY ? NO. SO, DID JESUS TELL THEM TO SAY NOTHING ? OR, TO TRY AND KEEP THE PEACE BY MAKING NEUTRAL STATEMENTS ?
THIS IS WHAT JESUS SAID…
GO… TEACH… BAPTIZE.
NOT MAKE YOURSELF ACCEPTABLE AND PLEASING TO EVERYONE. BY TELLING THE TRUTH, YOU ALWAYS RISK REJECTION. YOU ALWAYS RISK HAVING PEOPLE NOT WANT TO BE AROUND YOU ANY MORE. BUT IT IS BETTER TO HAVE GOD PLEASED WITH YOU THAN PEOPLE !
Matthew 28:19-20 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
- PART OF OUR DIVINE PURPOSE MAY BE LAYING DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN.
1 John 3:16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.
IF YOU CAN’T STAND UP FOR THE BRETHREN YOU SURELY WON’T GIVE YOUR LIFE FOR THEM. HONOR THE TESTIMONY OF CHRIST IN THE BRETHREN. DON’T ALLOW OTHERS TO TEAR THEM DOWN. STAND UP FOR TRUTH.
- IT MAY INVOLVE SUFFERING FOR THE LORD. THIS IS SOMETHING THAT PEOPLE OBSERVE AND GIVE GOD GLORY WHEN THEY SEE A GODLY PURPOSE FOCUS ON THE LORD RATHER THAN THEMSELVES.
2. THE DEVIL WILL ALWAYS TRY TO PUSH PEOPLE AWAY FROM THEIR GOD-GIVEN PURPOSE.
When I was in high school, everyone was trying to get me to do things which were not the purpose of God. Even pastors were pointing me in the wrong direction.
- EZRA. From the secular world.
Ezra 4:5 And hired counsellors against them, to frustrate their purpose, all the days of Cyrus king of Persia, even until the reign of Darius king of Persia.
IF YOU TELL THE TRUTH SOME PEOPLE WILL SAY THAT YOU ALWAYS ARE AGAINST THEM WHEN THAT IS FURTHEST FROM THE TRUTH.
1 Kings 22:8 And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, There is yet one man, Micaiah the son of Imlah, by whom we may enquire of the LORD: but I hate him; for he doth not prophesy good concerning me, but evil. And Jehoshaphat said, Let not the king say so.
WE OFTEN SPEAK OF PETER’S FAILURE TO WALK ON WATER. BUT, IT IS SOMETHING THAT HE DID AT THE CALLING OF GOD. THE DEVIL TEMPTED HIM TO FAIL.
Matthew 14:28 And Peter answered Him and said, Lord, if it be Thou, bid me come unto Thee on the water.
HE WANTED TO FULFILL THE PURPOSE OF GOD BY HIS OBEDIENCE AND FELL. WHAT HAPPENED THEN ? JESUS LIFTED HIM UP, AND HIS FAITH WAS INCREASED EVEN BY THE NUMBER OF STEPS WHICH HE MADE ON TOP OF THE WATER.
**HAVE YOU EVER FAILED AT SOMETHING YOU THINK GOD WANTED YOU TO DO ?
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
THINK OF THE NUMBER OF STEPS THAT YOU TOOK BEFORE YOU SANK. THE FACT THAT YOU WERE ABLE TO GET EVEN THAT FAR SHOULD ENCOURAGE YOUR FAITH AND CHALLENGE YOU TO TRY AGAIN. BEING FAITHFUL TO THE AUTHORITY OF GOD –even after we fail–IS IMPORTANT FOR US TO MOVE AHEAD TO SUCCESS.
HOW DID PAUL GET TO THIS POINT IN HIS LIFE ? BY SUCCEEDING EVERY TIME HE TRIED ? NO. AND CERTAINLY NOT BY QUITTING ONCE HE FAILED. HE CAME TO THIS POINT BECAUSE EACH FAILURE HAD A LITTLE SUCCESS IN IT, AND HIS FAITH KEPT GROWING.
3. ABOVE ALL IT IS GOD’S DIVINE PURPOSE FOR YOU TO BE SAVED AND SERVING HIM ACCEPTABLY !
Galatians 1:3-4 “Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:”
1 Timothy 2:1, 3-6 ” I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.”
2 Peter 3:9 “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
Hebrews 12:28 “Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear:”
“Without Divine Purpose”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
020316
DEALING WITH CHANGE
Listen online
Download audio
We all know how to change. It is something that takes place without us thinking about it, while other things in life require reactions to change. We react to the warmer weather by wearing more appropriate clothing. When it gets cold, we react by putting on heavier clothes. When we change the hour on our clocks, most of us change and adapt very well.
1. SOME THINGS PROVIDE SPIRITUAL SECURITY AND SHOULD NEVER CHANGE.
A. WE SHOULD REMAIN FAITHFUL TO THE ESTABLISHED TRUTH OF GOD’S WORD.
Jude 1:3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
Psalms 119:89 For ever, O LORD, Thy word is settled in heaven.
THE MESSAGE THAT CHANGING DOCTRINE SENDS TO OTHERS. ** CLARIFY THAT IF SOMETHING IS WRONG, IT NEEDS TO BE CHANGED. BUT TO CHANGE YOUR VIEWS JUST TO ATTRACT PEOPLE, OR BE MORE POPULAR IS DEAD WRONG ! Doing so brings into question your standard of living.
B. CHANGE IS VISIBLE BY YOUR ACTIONS. EVEN A CHANGE IN YOUR THINKING HAS ITS’ EFFECTS IN THINGS YOU DO.
Titus 1:9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.
Titus 2:7 In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
John 15:4 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.
***YOU GO TO A STORE THAT HAS FRUIT TREES. YOU COME ACROSS DOZENS THAT ARE LABELED ORANGE TREES. IT IS ORANGE SEASON, AND THE TREES ARE LARGE ENOUGH TO BEAR FRUIT, BUT YOU DON’T SEE ANY. SO YOU ASK A SALESPERSON THERE WHY THEY DON’T HAVE FRUIT. HE SAYS THAT THEY DO ? WHERE ? “THE FRUIT IS INVISIBLE, BUT IT IS THERE. LOTS AND LOTS OF FRUIT.” SO, DO YOU BUY THE TREE ? OF COURSE NOT ! PEOPLE DON’T BUY THE BELIEF IN JESUS WHEN THEY DON’T SEE FRUIT.
C. IT IS A STATEMENT OF FAITH.
FAILING TO STAY ON THE ETERNAL TRUTH JUST TO PLEASE OR ATTRACT MORE PEOPLE DOES PREDICTABLE THINGS. IT DOESN’T BRING MORE PEOPLE TO THE KINGDOM, IT MAKES THEM MORE DOUBTFUL !
—it gives them the false impression that there is no absolute truth.
—it shows people that the church cannot be relied upon to proclaim the truth.
—it confirms that the church doesn’t understand the importance of knowing truth. That Truth may be forfieted in order to get more numbers.
—it creates serious doubts, and cripples true faith.
2. CHANGING OUR BEHAVIOR. WE SHOULD EXPECT TO BE CONSTANTLY CHANGING !
2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
A. FOR THE BETTER.
—SOME WILL BRING UP THE PAST.
—SOME WILL CRITICIZE IT AS MERELY A STAGE.
***LOOK AT THAT NEW CHRISTIAN. ISN’T IT WONDERFUL THAT THEY HAVE SUCH FAITHFULNESS TO ATTEND EVERY SERVICE, AND SUCH ENTHUSIASM TO SHARE THEIR FAITH.” THEN THEY SAY TO THEM THAT ONE DAY THEY WILL SLOW DOWN IN THEIR ENTHUSIASM AND BECOME “MATURE.” IT ISN’T MATURTITY, IT IS DEATH ! DON’T LET ANYONE PUT DOWN YOU ENTHUSIASM FOR THE LORD. THE CHANGE SHOULD NOT BE ONE OF SLOWING DOWN, BUT INCREASING IN YOUR LOVE AND SERVICE FOR GOD !
—MUST MAKE KNOWN THE REASON FOR THE CHANGE.
1 Peter 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
B. SOME HAVE A FEAR THAT THAT IF THEY CHANGE THINGS WILL BE MORE DIFFICULT FOR THEM.
AFRAID OF WHAT PEOPLE MIGHT SAY. FEAR THAT YOU MIGHT NOT BE ABLE TO CONTINUE. ***SOMEONE HAS AN EXPERIENCE WITH THE LORD, AND THEY GROW MORE IN LOVE WITH HIM. SOMETIMES PEOPLE ARE AFRAID TO LET IT CHANGE THEM FOR FEAR OF WHAT OTHERS MIGHT SAY.
—GOD WILL BE FAITHFUL TO HELP YOU.
Philippians 1:6 Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:
Philippians 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.
—REQUIRES FAITH ON YOUR PART.
James 1:6-7 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.
3. CHANGING OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD.
A. BY FAITH IN THE CLEANSING POWER OF THE BLOOD OF CHRIST.
Ephesians 2:13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
”Dealing With Change”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
101115
FEELING GOOD DOING WRONG
CAN WE FEEL GOOD WHEN WE ARE WRONG ?
YES. MANY PEOPLE DECEIVE THEMSELVES INTO THINKING THAT THEY ARE GOING TO HEAVEN. THEIR REASONING IS THAT THEY HAVEN’T DONE ANYTHING WORTHY OF HELL, AND THEY HAVE SOME GOOD WORKS TO BACK THAT UP.
KEY: OUR JUDGMENT OF RIGHT AND WRONG MUST BE BASED ON GOD’S WORD, NOT OUR OWN FEELINGS. ALL HAVE SINNED. AND GOD DOESN’T WANT US FEELING GOOD ABOUT BAD.
HAMAN FELT GOOD ABOUT DOING WRONG.
Esther 5:8-9 If I have found favour in the sight of the king, and if it please the king to grant my petition, and to perform my request, let the king and Haman come to the banquet that I shall prepare for them, and I will do to morrow as the king hath said. Then went Haman forth that day joyful and with a glad heart: but when Haman saw Mordecai in the king’s gate, that he stood not up, nor moved for him, he was full of indignation against Mordecai.
SINCE PEOPLE HAVE THE POTENTIAL TO FEEL GOOD WHEN THEY DO EVIL, IT EXPLAINS HOW SOME OF THE MOST EVIL PEOPLE IN HISTORY HAVE BEEN ABLE TO BE SO SINCERE. THEY HAD NO GUILT OR SHAME OVER WHAT THEY DID.
ON A SMALLER SCALE, CAN A CHRISTIAN BECOME SO FAR AWAY FROM GOD THAT THEY NO LONGER SEE SIN AS SIN ?
1. CAN A PERSON LOSE FEELINGS OF CONVICTION ?
THIS COMES THROUGH SEVERAL FACTORS AND ALL OF THEM HAVE TO BE RADICALLY AFFECTED:
A. THE CONSCIENCE.
The men brought a woman in adultery. They thought they were doing good. Not so. Their conscience was not working FULLY, but their consciences responded to the Word when Jesus spoke it.
John 8:9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.
B. THE SPIRIT OF GOD.
John 16:8 And when He is come, He will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
C. BLINDNESS TO THE WORD OF GOD.
Ephesians 4:18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:
2. CAN PEOPLE LOSE FEELINGS TOWARD GOD AND HIS STANDARDS ?
A. WITHOUT FEELING TOWARD THE THINGS OF GOD.
Ephesians 4:19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
B. HOW CAN CHRISTIANS LOSE FEELINGS FROM GOD ?
CAN CHRISTIANS FEEL GOOD ABOUT SIN ? YES. WE CAN GRIEVE THE HOLY SPIRIT BY NOT LISTENING TO HIM, BUT LISTENING TO OTHERS.
Ephesians 4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
IF IT WAS NOT POSSIBLE TO GRIEVE THE SPIRIT, HE WOULD NOT HAVE WARNED US NOT TO DO IT.
C. DECEPTION. OUR CONSCIENCE, MIND, AND SPIRIT CAN BE DECEIVED.
–DECEIVING SELF.
James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
–WANTING TO DO THE SIN SO MUCH THAT IT OVERPOWERS THE CLEAR WORD OF GOD.
1 Kings 13:15-22 Then he said unto him, Come home with me, and eat bread. And he said, I may not return with thee, nor go in with thee: neither will I eat bread nor drink water with thee in this place: For it was said to me by the word of the LORD, Thou shalt eat no bread nor drink water there, nor turn again to go by the way that thou camest.He said unto him, I am a prophet also as thou art; and an angel spake unto me by the word of the LORD, saying, Bring him back with thee into thine house, that he may eat bread and drink water. But he lied unto him. So he went back with him, and did eat bread in his house, and drank water. And it came to pass, as they sat at the table, that the word of the LORD came unto the prophet that brought him back: And he cried unto the man of God that came from Judah, saying, Thus saith the LORD, Forasmuch as thou hast disobeyed the mouth of the LORD, and hast not kept the commandment which the LORD thy God commanded thee, But camest back, and hast eaten bread and drunk water in the place, of the which the LORD did say to thee, Eat no bread, and drink no water; thy carcase shall not come unto the sepulchre of thy fathers.
–DECEIVED BY WHAT OTHERS SAY.
2 Timothy 3:13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.
–DECEIVED BY SPIRITS.
1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
3. HOW DO WE GET THE FEELINGS BACK ?
A. GET CLEAN.
WHEN CRUSTED WITH MUD, IT IS HARDER TO FEEL THE ENVIRONMENT ON THE OUTSIDE. GET CLEANSED THROUGH THE WORD.
John 15:3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.
B. CHASTEN YOURSELF.
1 Corinthians 11:31 For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.
DO SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR SIN. PUNISHING YOURSELF WORKS. When a child gets their hand hurt by putting it on hot iron, they are sure to remember not to do it anymore ! Conviction from the Word can hurt and make us unwilling to commit the sin again.
C. BE BORN AGAIN.
Matthew 23:26 Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also.
D. CHRISTIANS NEED TO BE CLEANSED IN A WAY THAT ONLY GOD CAN DO. BUT, PART OF THE RESPONSIBILITY COMES ON US.
2 Corinthians 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
–JESUS WILL FINISH THE JOB IN HEAVEN IF WE BEGIN DOWN HERE.
1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
”Feeling Good, Doing Wrong”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
081615
HAVING A GOOD MIND
Download
INSANITY GRIPS THE WORLD.
THERE COMES A POINT IN A HUMAN’S DEVELOPMENT WHEN THEY HAVE REJECTED GOD’S WILL SO MUCH THAT GOD ALLOWS AN INFLUENCE OVER THEM WHICH DESTROYS THEIR ABILITY TO THINK AND REASON PROPERLY.
WHY DO PEOPLE THINK DIFFERENTLY TODAY ? THEY HAVE BEEN BLINDED. FIRST, AS A RESULT OF JUDGMENT FROM GOD. SECONDLY, FROM THEM YIELDING TO THE INFLUENCE OF THE DEVIL.
2 Corinthians 3:14 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.
2 Corinthians 4:4 In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
CAN SATAN CHANGE A PERSON’S THINKING ?
CAN GOD CHANGE IT BACK ? GOD GIVES IT TO US. BUT WE CAN LOSE IT.
2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
RENEWING OF THE MIND.
Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
1. THE WORLD HAS ALREADY CONCLUDED THAT THE CHRISTIAN FAITH IS INSANE.
**Government officials have stated that for a person to think that homosexuality is wrong or that abortion is wrong, that those people are not mentally balanced. In other words, they are calling true Christians insane.
A. THE WORLD ACCUSED JESUS OF BEING INSANE.
John 10:20 And many of them said, He hath a devil, and is mad; why hear ye him?
HE WAS CONSIDERED INSANE BECAUSE HE SPOKE THE TRUTH AND WAS UNWILLING TO AGREE WITH THE WORLD’S LOGIC.
B. CHRISTIANS ACCUSED OF BEING INSANE.
Acts 26:24-25 And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad. But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.
–MISUSE OF THE GIFTS WILL CAUSE THE WORLD TO ASSUME WE ARE INSANE.
1 Corinthians 14:23 If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?
–FALSE CHRISTIANS ARE INDEED AWAY FROM THE MIND OF CHRIST.
1 Timothy 6:5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
2. WE DON’T WANT TO ALLOW THE INSANITY OF THIS WORLD TO AFFECT US.
A. BEING TOO SPONTANEOUS IN OUR SPEACH DOES NOT ALLOW OUR HEARTS TO BE REVIEWED BY THE SP[IRIT OF GOD. THIS RESULTS IN FOOLISH TALK.
**THE WORLD TODAY WANTS INSTANT COMMUNICATION AND INSTANT ANSWERS. THIS IS NOT GOOD. THEY NEED TO ALLOW GOD’S SPIRIT TO WORK.
Proverbs 29:11 A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise man keepeth it in till afterwards.
–O.T. JURIES SOUGHT ANSWERS FROM GOD. THEY TOOK TIME TO COME TO A DECISION. TODAY, EVERYTHING IS TRIED IMMEDIATELY IN THE PRESS, AND PEOPLE ACCEPT THOSE VERDICTS BECAUSE THEY ARE TOO BUSY TO THINK AND PRAY THINGS THROUGH.
Leviticus 24:12 And they put him in ward, that the mind of the LORD might be shewed them.
B. MISINTERPRETING INFORMATION CAN MAKE A PERSON’S MIND DRAW THE WRONG CONCLUSIONS. NEBUCHADNEZZAR THOUGHT THE ACHIEVEMENTS WERE HIS OWN.
Daniel 5:20-21 But when his heart was lifted up, and his mind hardened in pride, he was deposed from his kingly throne, and they took his glory from him: And he was driven from the sons of men; and his heart was made like the beasts, and his dwelling was with the wild asses: they fed him with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven; till he knew that the most high God ruled in the kingdom of men, and that he appointeth over it whomsoever he will.
3. THOUGH INSANITY MAY BECOME EPIDEMIC, CHRISTIANS STILL HAVE POWER AND HEALING FOR THE MIND AND SOUL.
A. WE ARE ENCOURAGED TO HAVE THE MIND OF CHRIST.
DOES HE FREELY SHARE THINGS WITH US ? YES ! WHAT IF ADAM AND EVE HAD SOUGHT THE MIND OF THE LORD INSTEAD OF ACTING SPONTANEOUSLY ?
Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
B. WE ARE EXPECTED TO BE REASONABLE PEOPLE. PEOPLE WHO ACT UPON GODLY LOGIC, NOT THE LOGIC OF THIS WORLD.
Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
HERE’S WHAT YOU MUST DO–
1. RECOGNIZE THAT THIS WORLD AND IT’S THINKING IS DOOMED.
2. ACCEPT THE FACT THAT THE WORLD WILL DO EVERYTHING IT CAN TO INFECT YOU WITH ITS DOOMING LOGIC AND REASONING.
3. RECOGNIZE THAT GOD CAN HELP YOU TO RESIST THE WORLD AND ITS THINKING.
4. GOD ALONE CAN GIVE YOU POWER OVER ALL THE POWER OF THE ENEMY.
5. YOU MUST SEEK GOD’S POWER, AND DESIRE TO ESCAPE THE WAYS OF THE WORLD.
6. SALVATION IS NOT AVAILABLE ANYWHERE ELSE BUT IN JESUS CHRIST.
7. YOU CANNOT BE PASSIVE. YOU HAVE TO MAKE DECISIONS OF FAITH AND FOLLOW THROUGH WITH THEM.
”Having A Good Mind”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
080215
PSALM 55
PSALM CHAPTER 55
~~ Concerns Over God Hearing Us ~~
1. THE QUESTION OF GOD HEARING.
A. ASKING HIM TO HEAR.
—IMPLIES THAT HE HAS TO HEAR ALREADY.
IS. 65:24, JER. 1:5. BUT, HE WANTS US TO PRAY, ANYWAY.
—DAVID WANTED GOD TO HEAR A SPECIFIC THING.
DOES GOD HEAR EVERYTHING WE BRING TO HIM ?
I SAM. 8:18, JOB 35:13, 2 COR. 12:8 (WERE ALL PAUL’S
PRAYERS IGNORED ?).
B. GETTING OVER THE ILLUSION OF ABANDONMENT.
HEB. 13:5, ISAIAH 49:7, GENESIS 28:15.
2. DEALING WITH FALSE FEELINGS.
A. THE MOURNING. PS. 38:6-8.
B. THE PHYSICAL CONSEQUENCES OF A LACK OF FAITH.
JOHN 5:6, MATT. 9:22—IT TOOK A LONG TIME IN COMING.
(THESE REQUIRE HEALING, JUST AS OTHER PHYSICAL
PROBLEMS DO).
C. PARTIAL RESULTS POSSIBLE. MATT. 9:29.
3. THE REASONS FOR DAVID’S CONDITION. V. 3
A. THE VOICE OF THE ENEMY.
— IT RESULTS IN CONFUSION (“AM I REALLY GUILTY ?”)
PSALM 44:15-16—
B. OPPRESSION OF THE WICKED. TAKING WHAT IS NOT
THEIRS TO TAKE. EZEKIEL 22:29.
C. ACCUSATIONS BY THE ENEMY. THE ONLY WAY TO APPEAR
JUSTIFIED BEFORE PEOPLE FOR EVIL ACTIONS. JN. 18:29.
D. THE VEHEMENCE OF THE ENEMY. PS. 124:2-6, ISAIAH 7:4-6.
— DON’T BE AFRAID OF THEM. MATT. 10:28, REV. 2:10,.
—GOD IS WITH HIS PEOPLE WHO SERVE HIM. JER. 1:8, 19,
ISAIAH 41:10-13.
4. DAVID’S HUMAN DESIRES—LIKE OUR OWN. V.4-8.
A. TO AVOID THE FEELINGS OF FEARFULNESS. 4-5.
IS FEAR OF MEN A CONDITION ACCEPTABLE TO GOD ?
2 TIM. 1:7, HEB. 13:5-6 (LOSE SIGHT OF THE LORD’S
PRESENCE ?), IF FEAR DISPLACES FAITH, WHAT IS THE
FEARFUL PERSON’S RELATIONSHIP TO GOD ?
B. TO RUN AWAY. JONAH—JONAH 1:3,
JOHN MARK— ACTS 15:38, ELIJAH—1 KINGS 19:1-3.
C. TO GET OUT OF THE ATTACK QUICKLY. V. 8.
SOME ATTACKS REQUIRE ENDURANCE. 2 TIM. 4:5
SOME TROUBLES HELP US STAY CLOSE TO THE LORD.
2 COR. 12:9.
5. THE DEPTH OF DAVID’S HURT.
A. IT CAME FROM A FRIEND. MATT. 26:50 DO THE PEOPLE OF
GOD HAVE OPPORTUNITY TO UNDERSTAND WHAT GOD
FEELS ?) 2 TIM. 4:10.
B. IT WAS UNEXPECTED. PROV. 3:25, ATTACKS OF A
SPIRITUAL ENEMY ARE OFTEN VERY SUDDEN. LUKE 9:39.
6. THE QUICK RECOGNITION OF AN ENEMY.
A. SOMETIMES THEY ARE CONCEALED ENEMIES. JAMES 4:4,
(NOT COMMITTED) LUKE 11:23, PS. 143:3.
B. SOMETIMES THEY BECOME ENEMIES AFTER BEING
FRIENDS. MATTHEW 26:50. ACTS 20:28-31,
JOB 2:11, 19:19, 42:7.
C. WE HAVE A STEADFAST FRIEND IN THE LORD. V. 16.
DANIEL 6:26, HEBREWS 6:19, FOR US—1 COR. 15:58.
7. THE BATTLE IS THE LORD’S.
A. THE ULTIMATE DESTINY OF SUCH AN ENEMY. V. 15.
1 SAMUEL 17:47, 2 CHRON. 20:15.
B. THE CRY FOR HELP BEGINS THE WAR. V. 16.
—JUSTIFIABLE CRY. MATT. 15:25, PS. 109:26.
—NOT JUSTIFIABLE CRY. LUKE 10:40.
—CONTINUING IN PRAYER KEEPS IT GOING. V.17.
LUKE 11:5-10, COL. 4:2.
C. GOD TAKES OVER AND GIVES US PEACE. 2 COR. 1:4.
WE ARE INVOLVED, BUT NOT CRUCIAL. EXODUS 14:13-14.
D. WHY THE ENEMY IS CONFIDENT. V. 19.
NO CHANGES, NO FEAR OF GOD. JESUS’ FEELINGS
TOWARD THEM. MATT. 11:20, REV. 9:20, 16:9, 16:11.
8 THE OUTCOME SHOULD HAVE BEEN KNOWN ALREADY.
PS. 71:24,
A. THE DEEDS OF THE WICKED. V. 21.
—WORDS WERE MISLEADING, DECEITFUL.
—HIS INTENT WAS TO DO HARM. PROV. 2:11-14, PS. 119:95.
(DO THEY THINK THEY PRAY ?) 1 PET. 3:12
—HOW IS THE CHRISTIAN PROTECTED ? LUKE 10:19,
EPH. 6:10 (ALL OF IT !).
—CAN GOD USE EVIL PEOPLE TO BRING CHASTENING ?
EZEKIEL 38:6. EX.—USING RUSSIA IN LAST DAYS.
B. THE FAITH OF THE BELIEVER. V. 22. ACTS 7:10, PS. 34:17.
C. THE ACTIONS OF GOD. V. 23. PS. 21:7. I SAM. 17:37.