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THE PARADE

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THE PARADE

 

1. THERE WAS ONLY ONE FOCUS OF ATTENTION: JESUS.

In parades, there are usually many floats, many bands playing, celebrities, and movie stars. In this case, all eyes were upon Jesus, and the parade was all about Him.

A. JESUS WAS THE ONE WHO HAD ALL THAT THEY NEEDED.

Zechariah 9:9 Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: He is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass.
Luke 19:30 Saying, Go ye into the village over against you; in the which at your entering ye shall find a colt tied, whereon yet never man sat: loose him, and bring him hither.
Luke 19:33 And as they were loosing the colt, the owners thereof said unto them, Why loose ye the colt?
Luke 19:35 And they brought him to Jesus: and they cast their garments upon the colt, and they set Jesus thereon.

B. JESUS WAS SHOWING HIS GREAT POWER BY RIDING IN ON A COLT THAT HAD NEVER BEEN RIDDEN BEFORE.

HE WAS THE ONLY ONE WHO COULD CONTROL THE EVENTS THAT HAPPEN TO YOU. HE MAKE ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR GOOD. WHAT WAS JESUS PROVING BY RIDING ON THE COLT INSTEAD OF ITS MOTHER WHO WAS PROBABLY TRAINED ?

  • HE HAD POWER OVER ALL THINGS. THIS DISCIPLES SAW THIS, BUT NOW IT WAS TIME FOR EVERYONE TO SEE.

Mark 1:27 And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth He even the unclean spirits, and they do obey Him.
Luke 8:25 And He said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for He commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey Him.

C. JESUS HAS THE POWER TO DIRECT YOUR LIFE.

HE ALONE CAN MAKE YOU A SUCCESS FOR ETERNITY. MAN CAN ONLY HELP OUT A LITTLE BIT. ***The scientists predict that most of Florida will be under water because of global warming. They say this will happen in about 200 years. But, they can’t even predict the weather just a day in advance !  A WILD COLT CAN EASILY GET HURT. HE CAN TRY TO JUMP FENCES THAT ARE TOO HIGH FOR HIM. HE CAN RACE AROUND AND BREAK A LEG IN A HOLE IN THE GROUND THAT HE DIDN’T SEE. YOU NEED JESUS TO GUIDE YOU EVERY STEP IF THE WAY !

  • THESE WERE PEOPLE WHO KNEW WHAT JESUS HAD DONE. WERE THE LEPERS THERE ? THE BLIND MEN ?

Luke 19:37 And when He was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen;
Matthew 4:24 And His fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto Him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and He healed them.
Matthew 12:15 But when Jesus knew it, He withdrew Himself from thence: and great multitudes followed Him, and He healed them all;
Matthew 15:30 And great multitudes came unto Him, having with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus’ feet; and He healed them:
Matthew 19:2 And great multitudes followed Him; and He healed them there.

 

2. THEY WERE HAPPY TO HAVE JESUS THERE.

A. THEY WERE ADMITTING THAT THEY KNEW WHO JESUS WAS. THEY KNEW HE WAS THE KING.

Luke 19:37-40 And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples. And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.

B. THIS WAS A PARADE FOR HOPE, BUT THERE WAS ANOTHER PARADE.

ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF THE CITY WAS ANOTHER PARADE. IT WAS BY THE ROMANS. THE CHIEF PRIESTS AND ALL WHO WANTED TO CONTINUE THEIR AUTHORITY UNDER THE ROMANS MARCHED WITH THEM. “cavalry on horses, foot soldiers, leather armor, helmets, weapons, banners, golden eagles mounted on poles, sun glinting on metal and gold.” The sound of “marching feet, the creaking of leather, the clinking of bridles, the beating of drums” would have had a sobering effect on all those who saw this parade. THIS WAS A PARADE OF OPPRESSION. THERE ARE ALWAYS OTHER THINGS PEOPLE CAN DO WHEN JESUS CALLS OUT TO THEM. THERE ARE ALWAYS THINGS THAT PEOPLE CAN DO ON SUNDAYS. BUT, IF WE WANT GOD’S BLESSINGS, WE FOCUS ON JESUS, AND PUT OTHER PARADES ASIDE.

C. IT WAS A SAD TIME FOR JESUS.

HE KNEW THAT MOST OF THE PEOPLE WOULD NOT TURN TO HIM TO BE SAVED. EVEN THOUGH THEY KNEW WHO HE WAS.

Luke 19:41-42 And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.

JESUS CARED FOR THOSE PEOPLE. HE SEEMED TO IGNORE ALL THE PALMS, AND SAW THROUGH TO WHERE THEY REALLY NEEDED SOMETHING–FORGIVENESS AND ETERNAL LIFE ! DON’T BE FOOLISH LIKE THOSE PEOPLE WHO REJECTED HIM. BE SAVED TODAY !

 

3. THEY NEEDED JESUS TO SAVE THEM.

A. THERE ARE PEOPLE WHO JUST LOVE A PARADE.

***Many people today love Christian music. They love to worship in church. They love to show their Bible to others. But, when they are asked to stand up for Jesus, they back down like cowards. THEY ARE THERE WHEN IT IS EASY TO WORSHIP JESUS AND BE FAITHFUL TO HIM. BUT WHEN PEOPLE ARE PRESENT WHO DON’T LIKE JESUS, THEY STAND BACK AND WON’T SAY ANYTHING FOR THE LORD.

B. WHERE WILL YOU BE WHEN THE TEACHERS AND THE POLICE AND THE TAX COLLECTORS, AND THE FALSE RELIGIONS SAY TO BACK DOWN AND QUIT TALKING ABOUT JESUS ?

***Where was this crowd when Jesus was being condemned ?

Mark 15:11-14 But the chief priests moved the people, that he should rather release Barabbas unto them. 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? And they cried out again, Crucify him. Then Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done? And they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him.

 

“The Parade”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
030616

WHAT WE DO NOT SEE

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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

NOT HEARING GOD’S VOICE

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NOT HEARING GOD’S VOICE

 

WE HAVE STUDIED THIS BEFORE, BUT WHEN PEOPLE ASK, “HOW CAN I HEAR GOD ?”, IT IS A GOOD REMINDER TO REVIEW THE BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES.

GOD CONSIDERS OUR HEARING HIM TO BE A BIG DEAL.  HE MENTIONS IT OVER AND OVER.

Revelation 3:22  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.

 

1. GET YOUR PRIORITIES RIGHT.

* When you have a lot of screens open on your computer, it tests the capabilities of the machine. When it reaches it’s limit, it cannot hear the commands given by the keyboard or the mouse. It is frozen, cold.

A. TAKE TIME TO MEDITATE. IT WILL BLESS YOU.

Joshua 1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.; that thy profiting may appear to all.

B. DON’T ALLOW YOUR LIFE TO BE FILLED WITH UNIMPORTANT THINGS.

Paul sorted things out, and labeled all things that do not profit the Lord.

Philippians 3:8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,

C. TAKING ON MORE THAN YOU GOD WANTS YOU TO HAVE.

*GOD WILL NOT PLACE MORE ON YOU THAN YOU ARE ABLE.

1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

 

2. SQUASH THE DISTRACTIONS.

A. ALLOWING TOO MANY VOICES TO BE HEARD AT ONCE. MUST STOP ALLOWING IT !

John 10:27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.

B. OVERWHELMED BY YOUR OWN VOICE AND GOALS.

ESPECIALLY CONCERNING IS THAT FOR THE CHRISTIAN, THIS IS ALLOWING THE OLD NATURE TO RULE. REJECTED FIRST ANSWER, KEPT ON PLEADING WITH GOD. WAS DISTRACTED BY THE MEN, THE MONEY, AND HIS OWN HEART’S DESIRE. DIDN’T READ GOD’S TRUE WILL CORRECTLY.

BAALIM.

Numbers 22:12, 19-22. And God said unto Balaam, Thou shalt not go with them; thou shalt not curse the people: for they are blessed.  … Now therefore, I pray you, tarry ye also here this night, that I may know what the LORD will say unto me more. And God came unto Balaam at night, and said unto him, If the men come to call thee, rise up, and go with them; but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do. And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab. And God’s anger was kindled because he went: and the angel of the LORD stood in the way for an adversary against him. Now he was riding upon his ass, and his two servants were with him.

—Simply put, it means that you really don’t want to hear.  You want to do what YOU want to do, and that is what you think you hear from God. The results of this are foretold.

Luke 6:47-49 Whosoever cometh to Me, and heareth My sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like: But he that heareth, and doeth not, is like a man that without a foundation built an house upon the earth; against which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell; and the ruin of that house was great.

C. THERE ARE ALWAYS THINGS TO DO.

BUT, DO YOU FULFILL WHAT GOD WANTS FIRST ? DOES GOD GET TOP PRIORITY ALL THE TIME ? IT MAY BE THAT ONE TIME WHEN HE ISN’T MOST IMPORTANT THAT YOU NEED TO HEAR HIM THE MOST.

2 Timothy 4:11 Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.

APOLLOS—Will come at a convenient time. He had other things to do.

1 Corinthians 16:12 As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall have convenient time.

D. NOT ENOUGH DEDICATION TO STUDY THE WORD.

 

3. MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE RIGHT CONDITIONS.

A. SOME CANNOT RECEIVE ANSWERS.

Matthew 13:9-12 Who hath ears to hear, let him hear. And the disciples came, and said unto Him, Why speakest Thou unto them in parables? He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.

B. YOU HAVE TO HAVE SPIRITUAL ROOTS TO HEAR.

Matthew 13:19-21 When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.

C. MUST RECEIVE THE SIMPLE SOUNDS FIRST—LIKE GETTING SAVED.

Revelation 22:17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

“Not Hearing God’s Voice”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
030916

WHAT SHALL THIS MAN DO ?

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WHAT SHALL THIS MAN DO ?

 

THERE IS A NEED TO KEEP CONSCIOUS AWARENESS OF YOUR PURPOSE AND GOALS IN LIFE.

John 21:21-22  Peter seeing Him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do?  Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou Me.

 

1. HOLDING ONTO THEM REQUIRES CONTINUAL EFFORT.

Jude 1:3-4 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.

A. THE DEVIL WILL OPPOSE THE PLANS OF GOD.

And he uses people, demons, or whatever he can to do it.

MARK 8:33 But when He had turned about and looked on His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind Me, Satan: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of men.

B. THE FLESH WILL OPPOSE THE PLANS OF GOD.

Will find it easy to forget them, or put them on a back shelf. God wants us to be about His Work ! We have to do whatever it takes to remember that ! Notes, reminders, daily ! IT TAKES LABOR–WORK–TO STAY ON COURSE FOR GOD.

Acts 20:35 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.

–IF WE BACKSLIDE, IT BECOMES INCREASINGLY DIFFICULT TO HEAR FROM GOD.

Romans 8:7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

C. FAMILY MAY OPPOSE THE PLANS OF GOD. THESE ARE THE MOST DIFFICULT TO REJECT WHEN THEY PULL YOU AWAY FROM GOD.

—Some family members actually oppose themselves ! But, we must help them.

2Timothy 2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

Matthew 10:33-37 But whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven. Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. And a man’s foes shall be they of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.

D. THE LOST—EVEN FRIENDS—WILL OPPOSE THE PLANS OF GOD.

Should we be shocked, surprised ? No.

John 15:20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept My saying, they will keep yours also.

WERE THERE FRIENDS WHO TRIED TO KEEP THE DISCIPLES FROM FOLLOWING THE LORD ? WHAT ABOUT RELATIVES OF THE DISCIPLES ? WHAT ABOUT THE WORLDLY FRIENDS OF MATTHEW ? THE PROFESSIONAL PEOPLE WHO MUST HAVE RIDICULED DR. LUKE.

 

2. KEEP THE VISION WHICH COMES FROM GOD. MAN’S VISION WILL DISTRACT, TAKE YOU AWAY.

A. SOMETIMES FAR FROM IT.

Galatians 1:6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from Him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:

B. OUR OWN WILL MUST YIELD TO GOD‘S PURPOSE—A DAILY REQUIREMENT.

Whenever our own will gets in the way. Must be HIS purpose !

2 Timothy 1:9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,

C. THE FLESH TRIES FUTILE COVER-UPS.

A sacrifice is not a substitute for God’s calling.

1 Samuel 15:22 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.

3. PRESERVE THEM REGARDLESS OF WHAT APPEARS PHYSICALLY.

2 Corinthians 5:7 “(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)”

A. SIGHT CAN BE DISCOURAGING.
B. SIGHT CAN BE DECEPTIVELY POSITIVE.

 

“What Shall This Man Do ?”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
030616

EXPANDING KNOWLEDGE

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EXPANDING KNOWLEDGE

 

THE MOST IMPORTANT KNOWLEDGE… OUR KNOWLEDGE OF GOD.

HOW DO WE GET THIS KNOWLEDGE ?  GOD REVEALS IT IN VARIOUS WAYS.

Romans 1:19  Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

BY HIS SPIRIT.

1 Corinthians 2:10-11  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.

BY WHAT HE REVEALS THROUGH HIS POWER AND EXPERIENCE.

Philippians 3:10  That I may know Him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings, being made conformable unto His death;

 

1. EXPAND YOU KNOWLEDGE BEYOND THE LOW AND SMALL KNOWLEDGE THAT PEOPLE HOLD TODAY.

How can you serve God without some greater power than you had before getting saved ?  If that is true, how does a Believer get it ?  We know that the work of Satan is more focused because there are fewer and fewer Christians.  If that is so, then the work of the Holy Spirit is also intensified in the Last Days through fewer people.  Look what He was able to do with a few little fish.

A. GROW IN YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE CAPABILITIES OF GOD THROUGH YOU.   START SMALL AT FIRST, THEN GROW IN IT.   ***Like getting new car.  don’t max out things to begin with.  Learn capabilities little by little.  THEN, you can be confident it will do what you expect.    

Mark 8:7  And they had a few small fishes: and He blessed, and commanded to set them also before them.  

This would be the only miracle that some of them would see.  Did they go away with their knowledge of God increased ?  Yes.  But, many today do the same thing, and never grow in their knowledge of God’s power.

B. MANY RELIGIOUS PPL HAVE A HEAD-KNOWLEDGE, but no personal experience with the pwr of God.

Mark 12:24  And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God? 

C. THE STRENGTH OF THE LORD ONLY FLOWS THROUGH THOSE WHO ARE “CONNECTED.” YOU CAN BE ! 

John 15:5  I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing.

 

2. EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF WHAT IS UP AHEAD. .

A. LEARN FROM YOUR EXPERIENCES. GOD GAVE YOU A LONG TERM MWEMORY.  THAT HAD A PURPOSE.  GOD DOES NOT GIVE LONG TERM MEMORIES TO SOME OF HIS CREATURES BECAUSE THEY DON’T NEED IT.  YOU NEED IT.  YOU CAN BENEFIT FROM YOUR EXPERIENCES.  LEARN FROM THEM.   SOME PEOPLE GET MARRIED MULTIPLE TIMES AND MAKE THE SAME MISTAKES EVERY TIME.  THEY ARE LIKE BUTTERFLIES.   THEY DON’T HAVE A LONG TERM MEMORY.

Genesis 30:27  And Laban said unto him, I pray thee, if I have found favour in thine eyes, tarry: for I have learned by experience that the LORD hath blessed me for thy sake.

B. LEARN WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU LEAVE THIS EARTH.

Luke 16:26  And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.

C. INCREASE YOUR KNOWLEDGE ABOUT GOD. HOW MUCH DO YOU REALLY KNOW ABOUT HIM ?  IS THAT KNOWLEDGE GROWING ?  IT SHOULD BE IF YOU ARE PAYING ATTENTION TO HIM AND WHAT HE DOES.

Colossians 1:10  That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

D. RECEIVE KNOWLEDGE THAT COMES FROM, GOD, AND THINGS WORK BETTER. LIKE GETTING A WHOLE NEW COMPUTER PROGRAM TO FIND PROBLEMS AND FIX THEM.

Colossians 3:10  And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

E. LIFE IS MORE THAN WHAT MOST KNOW IN THIS MATERIALISTIC WORLD. ** SOME LIVE TO GO SHOPPING.  SOME LIVE TO GET PAYCHECK SO THEY CAN SPEND IT.

Luke 12:23  The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment.

F. DISCIPLES LEARNED THE NATURE OF THE RESURRECTION THROUGH THE WITNESS OF JESUS. TODAY, WE HAVE THE WORD OF GOD, AND THEIR TESTIMONIES AS GOD REVEALED THEM THROUGH HIS SPIRIT.

Acts 4:33  And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.

 

“Expanding Knowledge”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
022416

 

 

DOCTRINE THAT FLOATS

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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

 

 

OTHERS

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“OTHERS”

 Acts 3:2  And a certain man lame from his mother’s womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple;

THERE COULD HAVE BEEN MANY WRONG POSSIBLE ACTIONS TAKEN BY PETER AND JOHN.

  1. THEY COULD HAVE PLACED THE EXPECTATIONS OF MOST OF THE BEGGARS ON THEIR AGENDA (what were they people gathered for ? To obtain an alms).

 

  1. THEY COULD HAVE PLACED THEIR OWN PRIORITIES UPON HIM. THEY WANTED TO GO AND WORSHIP, SO THE COULD HAVE BRUSHED HIM OFF.

 

  1. THEY COULD HAVE LOWERED THEIR EXPECTATIONS BY ASKING FOR SOMETHING NICE FOR HIM. LIKE A NEW SUIT OF CLOTHES, OR A FULL HEAD OF HAIR.

 

  1. THEY COULD HAVE EXCEEDED THE PLAN OF GOD BY ASKING FOR THE MOON. THEY COULD HAVE ASKED FOR HIS HEALING OF HIS LAMENESS, AND FOR EVERY MOLE, WART OR BLEMISH TO DISAPPEAR, FOR EVERY TOOTH TO BE HEALED, AND FOR HIS EYES AND EHARING TO BE PERFECT TILL HE DIES.

 

 HOW DO YOU MINISTER TO OTHERS ?  WITH GODLY LOVE ?

SOME HERE DO THAT, AND ARE SUCH POWERFUL BLESSINGS TO OTHERS.   BUT, SOME COME UP VERY VERY SHORT.

 ———————————-

****Interactive portion of message where scriptures are given to each person who is asked to read the scripture aloud and tell what verse means to them.****

 DO THESE VERSES TELL US WHAT GOD WANTS US TO DO FOR EACH OTHER ?

YES !

–John 13:34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

–John 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

–John 15:17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.

–Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

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

–Romans 14:13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way.

–Romans 15:7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.

–Romans 15:14 And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

–Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

–Ephesians 4:2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

–Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

–Colossians 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

–Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

–1 Thessalonians 4:9 But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.

–1 Thessalonians 4:18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

–1 Thessalonians 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

–Hebrews 3:13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

–Hebrews 10:24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

–Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

–1 Peter 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:

–1 John 3:11 For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.

–1 John 3:23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.

–1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

–1 John 4:11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

–Hebrews 10:24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

–Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

–Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

–Luke 14:10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.

 ———————————-

 THREE QUESTIONS:

 

  1. WHAT WOULD JESUS WANT DONE ?

 

  1. WHAT WOULD THAT PERSON WANT DONE ?

 

  1. WHAT WOULD I LIKE TO HAVE DONE IF I WAS THAT PERSON ?

 ———————————-

LOVE IS A COMMAND FROM GOD.  AND IT IS FAR MORE THAN WHAT MOST CHRISTIAN WANT IT TO BE WHEN APPLIED TO OTHERS. 

John 13:34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

John 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

John 15:17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.

Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;

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

Romans 14:13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way. 

Romans 15:7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.

Romans 15:14 And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

LOVE DOES SOMETHING.  IT JUST DOESN’T “FEEL.”

Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

Ephesians 4:2 With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;

Ephesians 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.

Colossians 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

1 Thessalonians 4:9 But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.

1 Thessalonians 4:18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

Hebrews 3:13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

Hebrews 10:24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

Hebrews 10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

1 Peter 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:

1 John 3:11 For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.

1 John 3:23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.

1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

1 John 4:11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. 

Hebrews 10:24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

BE HUMBLE.

Romans 12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

GOD FIRST, OTHERS SECOND.

Philippians 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Luke 14:10 But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.

 

TRYING TO HELP A BROTHER OR SISTER IN CHRIST ?

HOW DO WE DO THIS ?   PASS THIS TEST–

  1. HOW WOULD JESUS FEEL ? IF WE KNOW IT, CONSIDER HOW JESUS WOULD HANDLE IT. DO WE REALLY KNOW ?  IS THERE A BIBLICAL BASIS FOR YOUR CONCLUSION ?

ARE WE DOING IT BECAUSE GOD COMMANDED US TO LOVE AS HE LOVED ?   SOME SEE THIS AS THEIR ESCAPE FROM DOING SOMETHING.   THEY FIGURE THAT IF THEY CANNOT LOVE AS JESUS DID THEY ARE EXCUSED FROM DOING ANYTHING.   NOT SO !  INSTEAD, JESUS SET A STANDARD BEFORE US WHERE WE ARE SUPPOSED TO COME UP TO THOSE STANDARDS, NOT THROW THEM AWAY SAYING THAT WE CANNOT DO THEM.

 

  1. HOW WOULD YOU FEEL ? CONSIDER HOW YOU WOULD FEEL IN THE SAME CIRCUMSTANCES. James 2:8 If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:

 

  1. HOW WOULD THE OTHER PERSON FEEL ? CONSIDER HOW THE OTHER PERSON WOULD TAKE WHAT YOU SAY OR DO.

ASK YOURSELF WHAT RESPONSE A PERSON MIGHT HAVE TO WHAT YOU SAY.  (Do NOT say, “I would have this or that reaction.”  You could take things differently than the other person).  THIS IS TAKING ANOTHER PERSON INTO CONSIDERATION.   THE FIRST AND THIRD POINTS ARE MOST IMPORTANT.

YOU CAN CONSIDER HOW YOU WOULD REACT, BUT THE FOREMOST CONSIDERATION IS THE OTHER PERSON.

WRONGLY, MOST CHRISTIANS MINISTER TO OTHERS AS IF IT WAS NOT BIG DEAL TO BE CONSIDERATE.   JUST SPEAK YOUR MIND AND SAY SOMETHING SPIRITUAL, AND EVERYTHING WILL BE OK.   NOT SO !

 

POSSIBLE SITUATIONS:

 

A PERSON HAVING FINANCIAL TROUBLES.  You don’t talk about all the things that they COULD have done.   Help them think about what’s ahead if they seek God’s will.

 

A PERSON WHO IS SICK.  Do we tell them about all the problems at work that they missed out on ?  Is that thoughtful ?   Do you tell them all the problems at work, and how bad different people have been ?  Do you drop the rumor that says their job is about to be taken by someone else ?

 

A WOMAN IN THE HOSPITAL WITH 2 BROKEN LEGS FROM CAR ACCIDENT.  Do you visit and tell how the Lord saved you from a very similar situation ?  Or, do you tell her that you had a relative who had the very same thing, and she never was able to walk right again ?   What does THAT leave her thinking ?

 

“CONSIDER ONE ANOTHER”

  • HAVE I CONSIDERED THEIR SPIRITUAL CONDITION ?  ARE THEY BACKSLIDDEN ?  IN REBELLION ?   WEAK ?  A NEW CHRISTIAN ?   **You will be totally unsuccessful if you spend time talking about specifics of the Greek language or intricate meanings of a Greek word in Scripture that blessed you so much this morning.  If you expect too much of them, you miss the mark.  If you shoot too low, you insult their intelligence and their spiritual life.
  • DO I HAVE A PLAN TO EDIFY ?   Or, do I speak off the top of my head, which may not bring the best results ?
  • DID I PUT MYSELF IN THAT PERSON’S PLACE AND KNOWING THEIR (NOT my own) PERSONALITY, DO I UNDERSTAND WHAT I CAN DO TO HELP THAT PERSON ?   People often say, “I would take it this way.”   BUT, you are NOT them !   Try to consider them, not yourself !
  • DO I POINT THE PERSON TO CHRIST ?
  • CAN I LIFT THAT CHRISTIAN’S SPIRIT ?

“Others”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
021716

 

 

POWERFUL WORDS: “SALVATION”

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This entry is part 4 of 4 in the series Powerful Words

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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

 

FULL TANK FOR THE JOURNEY

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Full Tank For The Journey – 1-6-16 Wednesday Evening
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1. FILLED WITH THE RIGHT THINGS…IF WE RECEIVE THEM BY FAITH.

A. IS MY MOUTH FILLED WITH THE RIGHT THINGS ?

Profanity has become an acceptable language for the average person today. But Christians are not average, and profanity does not belong anywhere in their speech. Christians have better things to talk about than damning people and talking about excrement and immoral sex.

Psalms 71:8 Let my mouth be filled with Thy praise and with Thy honour all the day.

Psalms 104:28 That Thou givest them they gather: Thou openest Thine hand, they are filled with good.

–SPEAKING IN A GODLY WAY OFTEN BRINGS THE SCORN OF THOSE WHO ARE UNGODLY.

Psalms 123:4 Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorning of those that are at ease, and with the contempt of the proud.

B. IS MY ENTIRE BEING FILLED WITH THE LORD ?

***HOW DID THEY KNOW THEY WERE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT ?

Acts 13:52 And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost.

Acts 13:52 And the disciples were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost.

–IT IS A COMMAND FROM GOD FOR US, TOO.

Ephesians 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

C. ARE WE FILLED WITH COMFORT OVER DEATH ?

NOT JUST LOSS OF LOVED ONES, BUT LOSS OF THINGS PRECIOUS TO US. OUR COUNTRY HAS DIED. MANY ARE LAMENTING EVERY DAY WHEN THEY SEE THE STENCH OF DEATH OVER WASHINGTON DC. MANY CHRISTIANS FALL BY THE WAYSIDE. DO WE FEEL THE COMFORT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT REMINDING US THAT JESUS IS COMING SOON AND WE WILL HAVE REWARDS FROM HIM ?

2 Corinthians 7:4 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.

D. ARE WE FILLED ENOUGH TO BE DOING GOOD THINGS THAT GET NOTICED.

WE ARE NOT TO BE NOTICED, BUT CHRIST IN US IS. (ACTIONS—ALL CALCULATED TO DO GOOD FOR HIM).

Romans 15:14 And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

2. WE NEED TO GET RID OF THE THINGS WHICH FILLED US BEFORE.

WE NEED TO HATE THE THINGS THAT WERE IN OUR LIVES PREVIOUSLY. NOT JUST JOKE ABOUT THEM OR SIMPLY RECOGNIZE THEIR PRESENCE.

A. WITH THE DEVICES OF THE SINFUL HEART.

Proverbs 1:30-31 They would none of my counsel, they despised all my reproof. Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices.

B. WE NEED TO BE AWARE THAT WE CAN FALL BACK INTO THE WRONG WAYS IF WE DO NOT TREASURE AND MAINTAIN OUR WALK WITH THE LORD.

Proverbs 14:14 The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself.

3. ARE THERE CONSEQUENCES TO BEING ONLY PARTLY FULL ?

*For one thing, you won’t go as far on half a tank as you can with a full tank. If you are working like a bulldozer, you can only get half the work done that God wants before you run out of steam.

A. CONSEQUENCES TO BEING FILLED WITH THE WRONG THINGS.

Haggai 1:6 Ye have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes.

B. CONSEQUENCES TO BEING FILLED WITH BAD THINGS LEADS TO MORE BAD ACTIONS.

Luke 6:11 And they were filled with madness; and communed one with another what they might do to Jesus.

 

“Full Tank For The Journey”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
010616

THANKFUL HE WILL LEAD

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Isaiah 48:17  Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go.

 

Psalms 23:2-3  He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters.  He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

 

1. WE NEED LEADING WHEN GOING THROUGH A FIELD OF LAND MINES.

A. TRYING TO AVOID TROUBLES YOURSELF RESULTS IN DISAPPOINTMENT. YOU DON’T HAVE THE KNOWLEDGE OF LIFE THAT JESUS DOES.

John 15:5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing.

B. JESUS LEADS US INTO HIGHER EXPERIENCES WITH GOD.

Mark 9:2 And after six days Jesus taketh with Him Peter, and James, and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves: and He was transfigured before them.

TOO MANY ARE SATISFIED TO BE “AVERAGE CHRISTIANS.” IN TODAY’S WORLD, THAT IS BARELY EVEN A CHRISTIAN AT ALL.  Someone was telling me about a young person who he described as average. What does that mean, I asked. “She reads her Bible once a day or less, prays before meals, and tries not to cuss and get mad at people.” If THAT is the AVERAGE CHRISTIAN today, we are in trouble. God has MORE than that for us ! Seek His leadership !

2. JESUS LEADS US TO BETTER ACTIVITIES.

THERE ARE PLENTY OF THINGS TO DO, BUT SOME ARE BETTER THAN OTHERS.

A. SOME THINGS ARE ETERNAL.

**Give a man a fish, and he can eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he can have food for a lifetime. God sets the standard even higher. He has activities for us which will bring rewards for eternity.

Mark 1:17 And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after Me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.

3. JESUS LEADS US TO GOOD THINGS AND A BLESSING FROM GOD.

A. THOSE WHO FOLLOW JESUS ARE NOTICED. YOU CAN’T BE A SILENT DISCIPLE.

Matthew 18:2-6 And Jesus called a little child unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in My name receiveth Me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in Me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

WHAT DID JESUS DO IN BRINGING THE DISCIPLES TO HIMSELF ? HE CALLED THEM FIRST, DIDN’T HE ? THEN, HE SET THEM IN TEAMS AND TOLD THEM WHAT TO DO. HE IS USING A LITTLE CHILD TO ILLUSTRATE THIS.

4. JESUS IS THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN GET US SAFELY THROUGH THE ROAD OF LIFE.

MANY PEOPLE WILL TRY TO LEAD YOU, INFLUENCE YOU. BEWARE !

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

HE ALONE LEADS US TO SALVATION. NO ONE ELSE CAN DO THIS. THIS IS WHY WE CALL HIM SAVIOR.

Romans 2:4 Or despisest thou the riches of His goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

“Thankful He Will Lead”
A Bible Study with Dr. Ed J. MacWilliams
112915