Promises in Christian preaching highlight God's faithful commitments to His people, assuring provision, protection, and eternal life (Joshua 23:6-16; 1 John 2:24-3:3). Illustrations often use images of steadfastness, unclaimed blessings, and the need to 'hold fast' or 'claim' these divine assurances, emphasizing trust and the appropriation of God's word.
Many believers are defeated by fear. God is perceived as the Enemy instead of the Deliverer. Numbers 13-14 and Deuteronomy 1 demonstrate a historical case. Moses' 12 spies were defeated by fear (at least, 10 of them were)
a. Fear is a fact of life.
b. Fear distorts reality.
c. Fear leads to a barren life.
1> We lose sight of God.
2> If we don't deal with fears, they simmer instead of going away.
d. Fear is defeated by standing on promises of God.
Dawson Trotman, founder of the NAVIGATORS, did not think he had great faith, but a great God, and a Bible full of promises. He became a Christian at age 20 after contemplating John 1:12 and 5:24. He prayed constantly and asked God to use him to reach people. He was bold in challenging people to answer God's call to missions. Billy Graham said of him, "When our God is big, the world looks small - and Dawson saw the world as conquerable for Christ."
Sermon in Joshua series. Joshua's deathbed advice. Joshua 23:6-16
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HOLD FAST, HOLD TRUE
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I. The day is done.
A. Deathbed conversations are special.
II. The path is clear.
A. Give God all the credit. 23:3
B. Immerse yourself in God's Word. 23:6
C. Don't go over to the other side. 23:7
D. Live a life of separation from the world. 23:12
III. The promises are true. 23:14
A. Joshua had never been let down by God, but we are.
B. Context is important.
C. Note the conditions of the promises.
D. Remember the nature of the Promiser.
IV. Your God can do incredible things.
V. The consequences are real.
An aged and ragged Indian wandered into one of our Western settlements, begging for food to keep him from starving. A bright-colored ribbon from which was suspended a small, dirty pouch was seen around his neck. On being questioned, he said it was a charm given him in his younger days. Opening it, he displayed a faded, greasy paper, which he handed to the interrogator for inspection. It proved to be a regular discharge from the Federal Army, entitling him to a pension for life, and signed by General Washington himself! Here was a name which would be honored almost anywhere and which, if presented in the right place, would have insured him support and plenty for the remainder of his days. Yet he wandered about, hungry, helpless, and forlorn, begging bread of the charitable to keep him from famishing.
What a picture of men with all the promises of Jesus in their hands -- and of Christians, too, with the charter of their inheritance in full possession, yet starving in the wilderness!
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William Moses Tidwell, "Pointed Illustrations."
Some travelers, journeying along the seashore, climbed to the summit of a tall cliff, and looking over the sea, saw in the distance what they thought was a large ship. They waited in the hope of seeing it enter the harbor, but as the object on which they looked was driven nearer to shore by the wind, they found that it could at the most be a small boat, and not a ship. When however it reached the beach, they discovered that it was only a large faggot of sticks, and one of them said to his companions, “We have waited for no purpose, for after all there is nothing to see but a load of wood.”
Too often Satan will promise his followers many wondrous pleasures and joys. Yet when all is said and done, they will ultimately discover how empty his promises really were.
The man appeared daily at the noon hour at the Brooklyn city hall,
holding to the rails of the iron fence with hope and expectation in
his face, looking up toward the clock in the tower as it struck the
hour. Then, he would wait ten, twenty, thirty minutes. Then, the light
of hope and joy faded from his face. He became an old, beaten man, and
shuffled off in dejection. It was the tragedy of a broken promise. He
had been a man of affairs in the city, and in a time of financial
difficulty a friend had promised to meet him at the city hall and hand
him a large sum of money. But the friend did not keep his promise.
Disappointment broke the man's heart and upset his reason. Every day
after that, he came and looked wistfully at the clock, waiting for it
to strike, and looking in vain for the friend who promised he would
come. But we have a Friend who always keeps his
promise." He is faithful that promised." (\reference{Heb.
10:2}{Hebrews 10:2}) --McCartney
Dr. F. B. Meyer learned the secret of appropriation when he
was addressing a large group of children who became very unruly.
On the verge of losing his temper, he prayed in his heart, "Thy
patience, Lord!" Immediately all anger and annoyance died. From
then on he used the same formula for every difficult situation. When
he felt lonely, he said, "Thy companionship, Lord!" When
he was afraid, "Thy serenity, Lord!" When he felt critical of
others, "Thy love, Lord!" He found the Savior sufficient for his
every need when he appropriated by faith the promises of God!
The wife of an undistinguished writer once approached French poet
and dramatist Francois Coppee, a member of the French Academy, asking
him to support her husband's candidacy for a place in the Academy. "I
beg you, vote for my husband," she pleaded. "He'll die if he's not
elected." Coppee agreed, but the writer failed in his bid. When
another Academy seat became vacant a few months later the woman
returned, hoping Coppee would be gracious and vote for her husband
again.
"Ah, no," he replied. "I kept my promise but he did not keep his.
I consider myself free of any obligation."
We have to smile at the witty way Coppee avoided being forced into
making a promise he didn't want to keep. Thankfully, God did not need
to be forced into making His great promise to save sinners who had no
claim on His grace.
An aged Indian, halt, naked and famished, wandered into one of our Western settlements, begging for food to keep him from starving. While eagerly devouring the bread bestowed by the hand of charity, a bright colored ribbon, from which was suspended a small dirty pouch was seen around his neck. On being questioned, he said it was a charm given him in his younger days; and, opening it, displayed a faded, greasy paper, which he handed to the interrogator for inspection. It proved to be a regular discharge from the Federal army, entitling him to a pension for life, and signed by General Washington himself.
Now here was a name which would have been honored almost anywhere, and which, if presented in the right place, would have ensured him support and plenty for the remainder of his days, and yet he wandered hungry and forlorn. What a picture of men with all the promises of Jesus, yet starving in the wilderness! --Rev. C. Perrin
A poor old widow, living in the Scottish Highlands, was called upon
one day by a gentleman who had heard that she was in need. The old
lady complained of her condition and remarked that her son was in
Australia and doing well. "But does he do nothing to help you?"
inquired the visitor. "No, nothing." was the reply. "He writes to me
regularly once a month, but only sends me little picture with his
letter." "The gentleman asked to see one of the pictures that she had
received, and found each of them to be a draft of ten pounds. All the
old lady needed was to be able to recognize those "pictures" and she
could have had the bodily comforts she needed so much. That is the
condition of many of God's children. Our Heavenly Father has given us
many "exceeding great and precious promises" of which we are either
ignorant or which we fail to take as our own. --The Sunday Circle
William Penn, the founder of the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, was well liked by the Indians. Once they told him he could have as much of their land as he could encompass on foot in a single day. So, early the next morning he started out and walked until late that night. When he finally went to claim
his land, the Indians were greatly surprised, for they really didn't think he would take them seriously. But they kept their promise and gave him a large area which today is part of the city of Philadelphia. William Penn simply believed what they said. Should we do less with God!
San Francisco - After years of dealing with the big picture, Mayor
elect Willie Brown now faces the more prosaic task of making the city
work.
How will he keep his promises?
"Performance," he snapped at a press conference. "The level of
performance I'm prepared to engage in to make good on my promises."
"I'm also a pro. In 31 years, I've learned how to do the job. I'm
not into gloom, I'm not into doom. I hope San Francisco takes on my
style. I hope San Francisco take on my attitude. All if that comes
from me.
- {The Courier-Journal} Thursday, Dec. 14, 1995, A3.
I will bless Thee, Genesis 12:2
I will not fail Thee, Joshua 1:5
I will heal Thee, 2 Kings 20:5
I will guide Thee, Psalms 32:8
I will instruct Thee, Psalms 32:8
I will teach Thee, Psalms 32:8
I will deliver Thee, Psalms 50:15
I will satisfy Thee, Psalms 132:15
I will help Thee, Is. Isaiah 41:10
I will strengthen Thee, Isaiah 41:10
I will uphold Thee, ; Isaiah 41:10
I will hold Thine hand, Isaiah 42:6
I will not forget Thee, Isaiah 49:15
I will comfort Thee, Isaiah 66:13
I will forgive, Jeremiah 31:34
I will restore, Jeremiah 30:17
I will be your God, Ezekiel 36:28
I will put my Spirit within you, Ezekiel 36:27
I will save you, Ezekiel 36:27, Ezekiel 36:29
I will love him, John 14:21
I will manifest myself, John 14:21
I will come again, John 14:3
I will sup with him, Revelation 3:20
I will give Thee a crown of life, Revelation 2:10
If nothing else, this year's presidential campaign confirms that politicians will promise just about anything to get elected. In both major parties, leadership and vision have given way to the politics of pandering.
Well politicians have always made promises to get elected. But why do we continue to let them do it? Why do we encourage this kind of campaigning?
Basically, many people are looking to government to make them happy. But there's the rub: the underlying belief that happiness is a matter of getting everything you want; that is, happiness as wish-fulfillment.
Believe it or not, the most penetrating critique of this state of political affairs may be found, not on the editorial page, or in our pulpits, but on the Big Screen. The film I'm thinking about is the recently released Bedazzled, a remake of the 1967 classic.
By reviving this classic myth of wish fulfillment, Bedazzled offers a surprisingly sharp critique of the modern pursuit of happiness.
The film introduces a love-sick technical-support representative named Elliot. Elliot's good-hearted, but extremely socially awkward. When his attempts to attract a co-worker (Allison) fall flat, Elliot exclaims that that he "would give anything to have that girl in [his] life."
Well, at that moment the Devil, in the form of a beautiful woman, appears. She offers Elliot everything he could ever want -- in exchange for his soul. In this respect, of course, Bedazzled is a clear adaptation of the classic Faust myth, as told in Christopher Marlowe's play, Dr. Faustus. Faust, you may recall, sold his soul to the Devil in exchange for absolute knowledge. Nothing less would satisfy him.
But unlike Bedazzled, Dr. Faustus is a grave and sobering tale -- one ending with Faustus' eternal damnation. Perhaps that's why Bedazzled, a comedy, weaves in another classic myth -- Aladdin and the Magic Lamp.
You see, the Devil doesn't just offer Elliot his heart's desire -- she grants him seven wishes. But when Elliot signs over his soul, he doesn't exactly get what he bargained for.
The Devil twists Elliot's wishes in malicious ways. For example, when Elliot wishes to be rich and powerful, she turns him into a Colombian drug lord.
Well, Elliot doesn't have to use up all seven wishes to see that he's made a bad deal. He soon realizes that having it all still doesn't make him happy. What's more, he learns that getting what you want sometimes has some undesirable strings attached.
Now, Bedazzled is not a good film, and I don't recommend you see it. In its attempts to be humorous, it employs cheap vulgar gags and presents a New Age view of good and evil. But at a basic level, the film does recognize that happiness is about much more than mere wish-fulfillment.
What? Hollywood getting something right?
Sure, even pre-Christian cultures (like ancient Greece) recognized that happiness is not a matter of circumstances. The ancient Greeks, for example, believed that happiness is about the character of our souls -- which is, of course, what Christians believe.
While I don't recommend you see Bedazzled, popular culture powerfully shapes the thinking of our nation, and we've got to understand its messages. So when your friends see a film like this and talk about it, as they will, you can be sure that they get its real point: that wish-fulfillment, the things so attractive in this world, doesn't add up to happiness.
True happiness is nothing less than peace in the human soul -- something they'll find only in Christ.
For further reading:
Aristotle, The Nicomachean Ethics
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Copyright (c) 2001 Prison Fellowship Ministries. Reprinted with permission. "BreakPoint with Chuck Colson" is a radio ministry of Prison Fellowship Ministries.
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Precious Promises Proven!
Read: 1 John 2:24-3:3
This is the promise that He has promised us--eternal life. . --1 John 2:25
A man makes some unusual markings in his Bible. Next to some verses he puts a P, next to others PP, and by others PPP. He explains, "A single P refers to a promise of God, PP to a precious promise, and PPP to a precious promise proven!"
In his Bible study, he has found many promises, though he realizes not all apply to him (such as those given specifically to Israel). But promises that reveal God's unchanging love for all believers are precious to him. The PPP verses contain promises that he has trusted God to keep, and God has proven that He is true to His Word.
We too would benefit by discovering and believing God's promises. These truths from 1 John will help us:
We must first trust God's promise to give us eternal life in Jesus (2:25; 5:1) if we are to experience the benefits of the Lord's promises to His children.
The goal of His promises to us is to make us like His Son, Jesus Christ (3:2-3).
God's Spirit lives within us and helps us to understand the promises of His Word (2:27).
As we read God's Word, let's search for the promises that apply to us. Then as we act on them, they will become precious promises proven. --DJD
O cleansing Word, O precious Word,
Your promises are true;
They give me grace to live like Christ;
Their truths are fresh and new. --Anon.
All of God's promises are backed by His wisdom, love, and power.
"Before enlightenment chop wood and carry water. After enlightenment chop wood and carry water." - Ancient Chinese Proverb
A typical conversation I have with individuals (almost weekly) is something to the effect of: "When I get to this point in my career, I will... or when I get to this income level, I will... or when I achieve this reward, then I will... These statements are always followed by some action or behavior that they are going to put into practice AFTER they achieve or acquire their "magic bullet."
Examples:
- When I get this next level in my business, then I will spend more time with my family. - When I make $$$ then I will donate a portion of my income to a worthy cause.
We could come up with numerous examples but I think you get the gist. When I hear this comment, regardless of the context or the promise, my answer is typically, "No you probably won't." Why? Because if the habit has not been developed it will not be acted upon. Life does not miraculously change until YOU change.
The ancient proverb above is telling us that enlightenment, success, happiness (you choose the term) is not a destination but a process.
You and I both know that no award, no pin or leadership level, no income, no new toy, no promotion will make us happy and/or successful. Life will not miraculously change when your next goal is attained. You will still chop wood, carry water, pay bills, and wonder sometimes where the money to pay those bills is going to coming from.
The difference comes in the attitude with which you do these things. When true success and happiness (enlightenment) is reached you will learn that the journey IS the adventure, the excitement, and the fun of life. The journey is success and happiness - And the journey never ends.
How can you become more successful and happy now:
1. A Course in Miracles says, "I can choose peace rather than this!" Choose to be at peace and enjoy what life is giving you RIGHT NOW!
2. The beginner/amateur hopes and wishes ... the professional KNOWS. Carl Jung when asked, "Do you believe in God" answered, "I don't believe ... I know," knowing is power! KNOW that whatever is happening right now is part of a larger plan happening perfectly for your own personal growth, development and betterment.
3. Develop good habits now. Live and invest in the things that you say are important to you. Make your beliefs, your habits, and your actions congruent. Don't do them "someday" - do them today.
4. Realize that you never own anything. Every "thing" you have will someday belong to someone else when you are gone. You are only using "your things" for a time. Enjoy them -- but don't let them own you.
5. Success and happiness is not some means to eliminate life's daily tasks. You will always be (at some level) chopping wood and carrying water. Allow your work to be your passion and your love made manifest through action.
*
I have two brothers with diabetes, so when I came down with some of the same symptoms, my first thought was to have the doctor check me out. "Your blood sugar is fine," she said. "You do not have diabetes." Reading the fine print on some medical publications, however, I discovered the symptoms I've been experiencing are actually the side effects of the medicine my doctor has me taking. Everything is fine.
Charlsie wakes up in the middle of the night anxious. A nameless, faceless fear invades her bedroom threatening to rob her of her peace. She wonders, "If I'm a Christian and the Lord is with me, why do I have this fear? What's wrong with me?" As her pastor, I assure Charlsie that she's just fine, and that there could be a hundred reasons for such anxieties, and that she would do well to shrug it off and go back to sleep.
"I don't feel saved," Robert says. I say, "How does 'saved' feel?" "Aw, preacher, you know what I mean," he says. "No, I don't. Tell me," I say. Robert describes how distant God often feels to him. That's when I tell him the story of Rachel. Rachel is a preschooler, I suppose, and lives with her mom and dad. Her father is a pastor and recognizes a great spiritual lesson when he sees one, so he passed this one on to us.
Recently, Rachel has been awakening in the middle of the night, afraid and crying. Only crawling into bed with her mom and dad soothes her fears. Then, her mom announced to the family that she would be out of town for a few days on a business trip. Her dad could see he needed to take pre-emptive action. "Rachel," he said, "I have an idea. While Mom is away, suppose I sleep in your room on the top bunk bed." She thought it was a great idea.
That night, Rachel went to sleep on time. A couple of hours later, when her dad crawled into the upper berth, she was sleeping soundly, and she slept like that all night. The next morning, her dad congratulated her on a full night's sleep.
"It's because you were in the room with me," she said. "But how did you know I was there?" he asked. "You were asleep when I came in and you never woke up the whole night."
Rachel said, "Because you said you would be there."
Of all the promises our Lord has given us, nothing means as much as his promise to be with us. Nothing banishes fears or inspires courage so instantly as the knowledge that the Lord is by our side.
In the Old Testament days, whenever God called someone to serve him, they began putting up excuses: I'm too old, too young, can't speak, that sort of thing. Invariably, God's response was the same each time: "I will be with you." God thought the fact that he was near should take care of all fears of the enemy and doubts about ourselves. David said, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me."
In the New Testament, we see a change of tone. Instead of the Lord specifically promising each individual he calls that he will be with us, he gives to all disciples a blanket promise: "Lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the world." Mark 3 tells us Jesus chose 12 apostles "to be with him." And maybe best of all is Hebrews 13:5-6: "'I will never leave thee nor forsake thee,' so that we may boldly say, 'The Lord is my Helper and I will not be afraid.'"
We may have to learn what Rachel already knows: to take the Father at his word. You will not often feel him near for the simple reason that God's Spirit is not detectable by the human senses, no more than our eyes can see him or our hands can touch him. Believe that he is here, and go forward accordingly.
When the apostle Paul was facing a second trial before Caesar, he knew it could be the end of the line. Yet, as he reminisces in 2 Timothy 4, he went forward with confidence. The first time he appeared before Caesar, all the other disciples had abandoned him and he went alone. "Nevertheless, the Lord stood with me," Paul said, "and strengthened me." Why? "So that through me the gentiles might hear the gospel." Think of the congregation Paul had that day -- all the dignitaries of Rome, from Nero on down.
It reminds us of the promise of the Lord Jesus in Matthew 10, preparing the disciples for the time when they would be tried in courts and beaten in synagogues, brought before kings and governors "as a testimony to them and to the gentiles." When that happens, Jesus said, "Do not worry about what you are to say. The Holy Spirit will give you what you are to say." He would be there and he would be on duty.
So, did Paul feel the Lord's presence that day? We're not told. I guarantee he felt a lot of things -- like hostility from the bleachers where the Roman officials sat in judgment and hatred and ugliness from the crowd. Did he feel the Lord's nearness? There are two answers: 1) We do not know and 2) This is not about feelings. It's about the Lord keeping his promises and our believing him.
Try this. The next time you feel estranged from the Lord, give him thanks that he is near. Ask him to remove any sin that separates you from him (Isaiah 59:2 comes to mind) and reaffirm your faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Then, go to this little three-word prayer: "Thank you, Jesus." Say it over and over: "Thank you, Jesus." I promise you the last thing on earth the evil one wants is you praising the Lord. Let anxiety and worry jump-start your thanks to the Lord Jesus. Watch how an indescribable peace settles in.
Fear, always remember, is "False Evidence Appearing Real." Faith? "Forsaking All, I Take Him."
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McKeever is pastor of First Baptist Church, Kenner, Louisiana.
« Leader's notes shown in these braces »
A. 2 Peter (NAS) 1:2 Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; 3 seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. 4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, in order that by them you might become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.
B. Realizing God’s Promises
1. Faith can be viewed as comprising three elements
a. the intellectual — a positive recognition of the truth of what God says in His word, and especially the recognition of man’s deep sinfulness and need of the redemption in Jesus Christ
b. the emotional — conviction of one’s sin and clinging in trust to Jesus Christ as the object of our faith
c. the volitional — a surrender of the soul as guilty and defiled to Christ and reception and appropriation of Christ as the source of pardon and of spiritual life
d. the last two of these both involve repentance — turning from our sin — while the first is sometimes spoken of separately, as in our text today, as the “knowledge of Jesus Christ our Lord” or the “knowledge of God” or such phrases
2. so knowledge in this sense is believing knowledge that discerns the promises of God and claims them for our own, as in prayer; respecting these precious and magnificent promises …
a. … what assurance of their being kept do you find herein?
(A) God’s «divine power»
(B) the fact that God «called us»
(C) God’s own «glory and excellence»
b. … of what do they consist in this passage?
(A) G________ and P________« — grace & peace»
(B) Everything« pertaining to life and godliness»
c. … what is their purpose or objective?
(A) gaining «spiritual life and godliness»
(B) becoming «Christ-like, partaking of the divine nature»
(C) escaping «the lust and corruption in the world»
« Leader information shown in these braces. »
A. The Promise of His Coming
1. 2 Peter 3 (NAS) 3:4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.” … 3:8 But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 3:9 The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.
2. Although God has put eternity in the hearts of man (Ecclesiastes 3:11, NKJV and other versions) yet by man’s very nature, he is limited to looking at things in a very short time-frame. Even when we plant trees — one of our longer term occupations — we seldom are looking beyond a future generation or two.
a. so how does this affect our attitude toward God’s promises?
(A) « we do not fully appreciate those beyond our life-time »
(B) how did this affect Sarah in Gen 18:12 « — she perceived God as One who was limited by time and by age as she herself was »
b. … and our attitude to God, when we pray?
(A) « we dwell on short-term, material needs and requests; on “this day’s bread” and less on the spiritual and abiding »
(B) when do we want our prayers answered; see for example, Psalm 27:13? « — David wanted to see an answer while he was still alive, at the very latest »
c. what do we need to do to overcome this deficiency?
(A) « “let this mind be in you…,” immerse ourselves in God’s word, look at needs in terms of eternity, see salvation and fellowship with God as our greatest needs »
[B. Prayer Requests, etc]
“Concerning the gospel [they are] enemies for your sake, but concerning the election [they are] beloved for the sake of the fathers. For the gifts and the calling of God [are] irrevocable. For as you were once disobedient to God, yet have now obtained mercy through their disobedience, even so these also have now been disobedient, that through the mercy shown you they also may obtain mercy. For God has committed them all to disobedience, that He might have mercy on all.” (Romans 11:28-32 NKJV)
The Doings Of God In Harmony With His Ancient Purpose
• as…Gospel — i.e., your relation to it
• enemies — opposed to it
• for…sakes — it is offered to you since they have rejected it
• but…election — Deut 7:7-8, 10:15 — God’s original choice of them
• fathers — the patriarchs
• without repentance[irrevocable] — Mal 3:6 — God’s dealings to Jew and Gentile no evidence of change of mind in Him
• yet…unbelief[disobedience] — because the Gospel is offered to you on their rejection of it
• that…mercy — the mercy shown to you on your repentance and faith
• they…mercy — Isa 40:10 — encouraged to hope that, if penitent and believing Gentiles are saved, much more shall we, if also we repent and believe — Luther, in trial, was comforted by oft repeating this text
In times past — Anon.
Remembrance of our former condition fitted to –
I. Promote humility;
II. Awaken gratitude;
III. Soften our censures;
IV. Strengthen our hopes of others
Not believed — T. Robinson
Not obeyed the call of the Gospel.
I. The Gospel is –
1. A testimony;
2. An invitation.
II. As such, it is therefore to be –
1. Believed;
2. Obeyed. Unbelief and disobedience are united in rejecting the Gospel.
Providence always at work — God’s work of Providence is “His most holy, wise, and powerful preserving and governing of all His creatures and all their actions.” It has no Sabbath. No night suspends it, and from its labours God never rests. If, for the sake of illustration, I may compare small things with great, it is like the motion of the heart. Beating our march to the grave, since the day we began to live, the heart has never ceased to beat. Our limbs grow weary; not it. We sleep; it never sleeps. Needing no period of repose to recruit its strength, by night and day it throbs in every pulse; and constantly supplying nourishment to the meanest as well as to the noblest organs of our frame, with measured, steady, untired stroke, it drives the blood along the bounding arteries, without any exercise of will on our part, and even when the consciousness of our own existence is lost in dreamless slumbers. — Dr Guthrie
“They are so, in respect to God the Giver; He never repents that He hath called His people into the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ; and they are so on the believer’s part, who is never sorry, whatever afterwards he meets with, that He is brought to Christ.” — Flavel
”… ‘it’s no good! Õ says the buyer; then off he goes and boasts about his purchase.” (20:14) — For reading & meditation: Proverbs 20:1-22
We continue following the steps that help us become strong at the broken place of financial disaster: (5) Ask God to help you resist the powerful pressures of this modern-day consumer society. I once listened to a sermon in which the preacher likened Satan’s conversation with Eve in the Garden of Eden to the subtle tactics of modern advertising. The main point he made was that if Eve could become discontent with all she had in that lush garden called Paradise, there is little hope for us unless we identify and reject modern methods of alluring advertising.
What exactly is alluring advertising? One definition puts it like this: “Alluring advertising is a carefully planned appeal to our human weakness, which is designed to make us discontented with what we have so that we can rationalize buying things we know we do not need and should not have.” Not all advertising, of course, falls into this category, but much of it does.
Charles Swindoll, an American author, claims that some advertising is not just alluring, but definitely demonic. I agree. He says that he and his family have developed a simple technique to overrule television commercials that attempt to convince us that we need a certain product in order to be happy. He describes it like this: “Every time we feel a persuasive tug from a television commercial, we simply shout at the top of our voices: ‘Who do you think you’re kidding!’” He claims it really works. God expects us to discipline ourselves in relation to many things, and not the least is the discipline of spiritual “sales resistance.”
PRAYER:
Father, help me, I pray, to see right through the alluring advertising of today’s world, and develop within me the wisdom and strength to build up a strong spiritual “sales resistance.” For Your honor and glory I ask it. Amen
FURTHER STUDY:
1. What are the three avenues which advertising exploits?
2. What is John’s admonition?
2 Peter 1:3–4 — Through Knowing Christ — « Leader information shown in this fashion »
A. Christ’s Gifts: 2 Peter 1:3a
1. various translations of the first part of this verse …
a. AV – According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness …
b. NAS – seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, …
c. NIV – His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness …
d. J. B. Phillips – He has by his own action given us everything that is necessary for living the truly good life, …
e. NLT – As we know Jesus better, His divine power gives us everything we need for living a godly life. …
2. “his” – looking back we see this refers to « … Jesus, the Lord of us »
3. “divine” – this is the same word as that for « “God” but changed into an adjective; it is the power Jesus Christ possesses as God »
4. “power” – there are three common words for power in the NT
a. there is kratos which is R « uling » _______ power
b. there is exousia which is the power of A « uthority » _________
c. here it is dynamis, which is the power to D « o » ___ things!
5. “all things” – what restriction is there on these? « — they are limited to those which will accomplish what follows for us. »
6. “life” – what kind of life is under consideration here? « — eternal or spiritual, not mere physical, life »
7. “godliness” – this word is a compound of the prefix “eu” meaing “well” and a word meaning worship; it is sometimes also translated “piety;” given the other translations plus such verses as Ephesians 2:10 and James 2:18, what do you think that this means? « — it is the change in life that gives evidence that our faith is genuine, saving faith »
B. The Conduit: 2 Peter 1:3b
1. various translations of the second part of this verse …
a. AV(KJV) – … through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:
b. NAS – … through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence.
c. NIV – … through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.
d. J. B. Phillips – … in allowing us to know the one who has called us to him, through his own glorious goodness.
e. NLT – … He has called us to receive His own glory and goodness!
2. « » “through” – such a common word, but what does it mean? — « grammatically it is the instrument, the efficient or intermediate cause; practically speaking in this context, it is the “conduit” through which God has chosen to effect some purpose He has »
3. “knowledge” – that conduit is fully or truly knowing? « … the One who has called, summoned, invited us »
4. “to” or “by” – the original Greek can be read two ways;
a. “to” is consistent with 1 Peter 5:10 which implie « s — what is God’s purpose or destiny for us … see 2 Thessalonians 2:14 »
b. “by” is perhaps more consistent with the Greek and implies « — the accomplishment of our salvation represents glory to God … see Romans 15:7, Phlippians 2:11 »
5. “glory” – to God is the whole object of our … « salvation, worship »
6. “virtue” – is excellence, especially moral excellence, and is shown in the power of God that accomplishes our salvation
C. The Promises: 2 Peter 1:4a
1. various translations of the first part of this verse …
a. AV(KJV) – Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: …
b. NAS – For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, …
c. NIV – Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, …
d. J. B. Phillips – It is through this generosity that God’s greatest and most precious promises have become available to us men, …
e. NLT – And by that same mighty power, He has given us all of His rich and wonderful promises. …
2. “whereby” – this is literally “through (or by) which things” – you will see in the various translations a doubt as to which things are in view; what are the possibilities?
a. NLT takes it to be « — the power that gives us all things, v. 3 »
b. Philips takes to be — « God’s generosity in giving “all things” »
c. the other translations are not specific, but the major two other possibilities are
(A) near reference « — God’s glory and excellence »
(B) far reference « — my preference (sustained by the syntax and consistent with what follows): part of the “all things” »
d. so, perhaps you see the danger of idea based translation (or paraphrasing) … feeling the need to particularize what the Bible leaves non-specific
3. “are given” – the perfect passive, which means « — the action is completed but the result still stands »
4. “precious” – this is what comes first in the valuable, usually money; is that in view here? Why or why not?
5. “exceeding great” – the superlative degree of “great” … these are the greatest!
6. “promises” – these are described in the next part of the verse — « comes from the middle voice of verb to announce; the action is directed at both the subject and object of the verb which tells us that God, by promising, binds Himself to deliver »
D. The Purpose: 2 Peter 1:4b
1. various translations of the second part of this verse …
a. AV(KJV) – … that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
b. NAS – … in order that by them you might become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.
c. NIV – … so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
d. J. B. Phillips – … making it possible for you to escape the inevitable disintegration that lust produces in the world and to share in God’s essential nature.
e. NLT – … He has promised that you will escape the decadence all around you caused by evil desires and that you will share His divine nature.
2. “by these” – by what? « — the promises just mentioned »
3. « » “partakers” – which means (see other translations) « — those who share »
4. “divine nature” – the same word divine as used in verse 3;
a. what promise does this fulfil? « — consider Ezekiel 36:26–27 »
b. how is it effected at this very instant? « – 1 Corinthians 3:16 »
5. “having escaped … “ – “being fled from” … this points to a single past action where release was realized … the time when the Holy Spirit regenerated us (the Titus 3:5 point)
a. from what? « — the corruption or decadence resulting from evil desires … from lusts »
b. what promise does this fulfil? « — consider Ezekiel 37:27 »
c. how is it effected in the believer? « – 2 Corinthians 6:16–7:1 »
What God has condemned and crucified, in union with Christ, is also buried. “Behold, I will do a new thing… “ Isaiah 43:19
Thought: It is part of God’s divine self-disclosure to do a “new thing.” Take your concordance and look up the word “new” in both Testaments. In its context, the prophet Isaiah looks to the day when God’s ancient people will be re-gathered, re-quickened, and restored to His original purpose for them (see Ezekiel 34 and Romans 9, 10 and 11). But, as always, there is a message for you and me in this text as we experience God’s “new thing” for this new year.
1. We must forget what is behind us. “Remember ye not the former things” (v. 18). This does not mean that we should lose our minds or memories! It is a call to bury the past. So many of us neglect the doctrine of “buried with Christ” (Rom. 6:4). Our arch-accuser, Satan, plagues us with introspection. We have no business digging up our decaying bones. What God has condemned and crucified, in union with Christ, is also buried.
2. We must face what is before us. “Behold, I will do a new thing,… it shall spring (sprout) forth” (v.19). You may be overwhelmed by the incredible problems that face you — spiritually, personally, nationally, and globally, but look at verses 19-21. What God promises to His people of old, He can do for us. If you are lost, He has a map for you; if you are thirsty, He has a river for you; if you’re scared, He has a word for you, and so on.
3. We must foresee what is beyond us. “This people I have formed for myself; they shall show forth Thy praise” (v. 21). A day is coming when “at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven and things in earth and those under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Phil. 2:10-11) — God’s “new thing.”
Thrust:
God’s “new thing” is just ahead,
Wait for it, it’s sure to come;
Cease to fret with faithless dread,
Christ will come to take us home.
1. Glorious things of thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God;
He whose word cannot be broken
Formed thee for His own above:
On the Rock of Ages founded,
What can shake thy sure repose?
With salvation's walls surrounded,
Thou mayst smile at all Thy foes.
2. See, the streams of living waters,
Springing from eternal love,
Well supply they sons and daughters
And all fear of want remove:
Who can faint while such a river
Ever flows their thirst to assuage?
Grace which, like the Lord, the giver,
Never fails from age to age.
3. Round each habitation hov’ring,
See the cloud and fire appear
For a glory and a cov’ring,
Showing that the Lord is near!
Glorious things of thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God;
He whose word cannot be broken
Formed thee for His own abode.
Another New Year is upon us. For many of us there have been too many and they have come too quickly. As Christians we understand the idea of new beginnings. In salvation God has given us new life and new hope. We know that we don’t have to wait until Jan. 1 for a second chance to get things right. By the grace of God, everything can be made right today, right now.
However, celebrating the New Year is a helpful exercise. It gives us an excuse to refocus our efforts, to redirect our thoughts, and to resolve the lingering weaknesses in our lives: to be more holy. To that end, many of us make New Year’s resolutions.
Many of my spiritual heroes made resolutions of their own.
Jonathan Edwards, the great Puritan preacher, kept a diary. In that diary he wrote 70 resolutions, things that he resolved to do. Many of us would do well to emulate his resolve:
“Resolved, that I will do whatsoever I think to be most to God’s glory and to my own good, profit, and pleasure, in the whole of my duration, without any consideration of the time, whether now or never so many myriads of ages hence.”
Another Puritan, Matthew Henry, had great resolve, as well:
“I do in the beginning of this New Year solemnly make a fresh surrender of myself, my whole self, body, soul, and spirit, to God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, my Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier, covenanting and promising, not in any strength of my own, for I am very weak, but in the strength of the grace of Jesus Christ, that I will endeavour this year to stand complete in the Will of God.”
What resolutions are you going to make this year? Lose weight? Find time? Break habits? Mend fences?
I would like to suggest a few things that we all should be resolved to do in the New Year:
1) Praise God for every new day (Psalm 118:24)
2) Read through the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16-17)
3) Pray daily for one another and the church (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
4) Share your faith with at least one new person each week (Romans 10:14)
May Matthew Henry’s New Year’s prayer be yours:
“Lord grant that this year I may be more holy, and walk more closely than ever in all holy conversation; I earnestly desire to be filled with thy holy thoughts, to be carried out in holy affections, determined by holy aims and intentions, and governed in all my words and actions by holy principles. O that a golden thread of holiness may run through the whole web of this year.”
________
Peter Beck is pastor of Kenwood Baptist Church in Louisville, Ky., and a Ph.D. student at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, also located in Louisville.
*
I have written to him the great things of my law, but they were counted as a strange thing. — Hosea 8:12.
I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food. — Job 23:12.
The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver. — Psalm 119:72.
Suppose you were to meet God, and you knew it was God Himself, speaking to you, and He should reach out a Book in His hand, and tell you to take that Book, and that the Book contains exceeding great and precious promises, of all that you need, or ever can need, to resist temptation, to overcome sin, and to make you fit for Heaven … Now, if you were to receive such a Book directly from the hand of God, and knew that God had written it for you with His own hand, would you not believe it? And would you not read it a great deal more than you now read the Bible? Now, the truth is, The Bible is that Book. — Charles Finney.
How precious is the Book divine,
by inspiration given!
Bright as a lamp its doctrines shine,
to guide our souls to Heaven.
A church member was expecting $300,000 in a will from a family member. The member said to the pastor, "If I get the $300,000 I will give one-third to the church." The pastor said, "How will you give one-third of this amount when you can't give one-tenth of what you now earn?"
It's not what we would do if we had much money - it's what we are doing with what we have now!
In the last two centuries, railroads have sought and conquered many remarkable places. From California, however, comes one of the strangest of railroad stories. It tells of a train that actually runs over treetops. In the building of the road a huge ravine was encountered, the sides and bottom of which were heavily wooded, two giant redwood monarchs of the forest towering far above the less pretentious growth, and imparting an air of almost regal impressiveness. The big redwoods were sawed off seventy-five feet from the ground, this being the exact height from the level of the ravine to the tops of the lowest of the other trees. Next, trees on either side were sawed off of sufficient height to make their tops in a direct line with the tops of the redwoods as well as of the edges of the banks. And thus the trains roll above the treetops and stand upon the living trees. So God's promises upon which the Christian rests are not dead stumps, but living trees that are vital with the life of God.
Carvosso had seen all his children converted, except one, and burdened with the lost one he sought counsel of a Christian leader, who said: "Why don't you claim a promise of the Lord?" "I don't understand you," he replied. "Well, the Book is full of promises, some bearing right on your case. Seize one of these and throw all your weight upon it until God feels your confidence in heaven." "I'll do it," said the father. They parted, and he looked up, and there came sweeping into his heart the words: "Thou shalt not leave one hoof behind thee" (see Exodus 10:26). It was enough.
For ten days he saw no change. On the tenth day, he was plowing near his house when a message came from his wife: "Do come at once, it seems our daughter will die." He understood it, and when he reached the room he asked: "Daughter, what's the matter?" She cried in agony: "Oh, father, pray for me; I do believe I am lost." In a very little time she rested by faith upon the finished work of Christ for salvation, and he said: "Now, daughter, tell me all about it." "I don't know anything about it," said she, "except that Sunday night ten days ago, just before you came home from the meeting, something got hold of my heart that I could not shake off. I have been miserable ever since." "I know all about it," said the father; "that very night I claimed the promise made to Israel-that is what has moved you."
I shall yet praise Him. — Psalm 42:11.
A Christian sufferer read many comforting and assuring words in the Psalms. Not realizing their fulfilment in her life, she wrote in the margin, “Not true of me” and then added these two words, “Not yet.”
I cannot praise Him – cannot praise Him now
For things which sadden, – things which tears beget
Things which bring heartache, things which cloud the brow
But I shall praise Him, I shall praise Him yet
I cannot praise for days and nights of pain
When throbbing nerves could tend to make me fret
When prayers and cries seem mockingly in vain
But I shall praise Him, I shall praise Him yet
I cannot praise when treasured ones depart
When death’s cold stamp on dearest forms hath set
When sorrow’s billows overwhelm the heart
But I shall praise Him, I shall praise Him yet
Yes, I shall praise Him, I shall praise Him yet
With clearer vision, I shall yet behold
And I shall praise Him with no half regret
For I shall see the shadows changed to gold. — J. D. Smith.
Do thou for me. — Psalm 109:21.
The psalmist does not say what he wanted God to do for him. He leaves it open. So this most restful prayer is left open for all perplexed hearts to appropriate according to their several necessities. And so we leave it open for God to fill up in His own way. Only a trusting heart can pray this prayer at all; the very utterance of it is an act of faith. We could not ask anyone whom we did not know intimately and trust implicitly to do for us without even suggesting what. — F. R. Havergal.
We leave it to Himself
To choose and to command;
With wonder filled, we soon shall see
How wise, how strong His hand,
Isaiah 55: Invititation to the Thirsty
God’s Calling; Drawing Night to God; Drawing Water with Joy
Who is speaking in this chapter?
• throughout most of the chapter, God’s own words are recorded
• verses 6-7: the inspired prophet’s application of God’s words to the people
Who is being addressed … a group of individual? — see Acts 13:26-38
• In one sense it is addressed to the nation of Israel
• verses 3, 6, 7 indicate it is individuals who must respond
• Paul’s sermon, however, applies it in part to Jesus Christ
• this illustrates one way in which His thoughts are higher than our thoughts
What indications are there that the invitation given extends beyond the Jewish people (verses 1, 5)
• all or everyone
• nations
There are promises in Scripture that are conditioned by obedience to some command (eg., 1 Chronicles 28:9, 2 Chronicles 7:14, Matt 11:28-30); in verses 6-7, what are the
Commands Promises
• seek the Lord (spiritual will) • compassion
• call on Him (attitude, need) • mercy
• forsake, turn away (confess, repent) • pardon
• turn to, return to
How do verses 10 to 11 enlarge upon or explain verses 8 and 9?
• his ways and thoughts are immeasurable and without limit
• rain accomplishes its purpose; God’s commanding word does, too
As a result, what does that mean in looking at verses 6 to 7? … at verses 1 and 2?
• truth, effect of these promises is eternal
Sometimes Scripture uses words that echo back to earlier themes; one example is Christ’s words to the woman at the well (John 4) which echo this chapter; what is the echo in verses 12 and 13?
So … what kind of well-being is envisaged in this chapter?
Isaiah 61 — The Ministry of the Messiah
60:1-3 The Lord Jesus Christ — read Luke 4:16-19
• in what ways was He equipped for His ministry?
° Holy Spirit
° anointed
° sent
• what were some of the elements of His mission?
° preacher
° healer
° deliverer
° comforter
° planter (John 15)
° liberty (John 8:31-36)
• what effect do these things have upon Christian believers today?
• the ‘acceptable year’ — may refer to year of jubilee
• ‘day of vengeance’ — see 2 Thess 1:7-9
60:4-9 Application of this prophecy
• in what ways do the promises here hold true for the Jews? What are some marks they have left upon the world?
° arts — music, literature, theatre
° sciences, medicine
° finance
• in what ways do the promises here hold true for the church? — some passages to read
° Revelation 1:6, 5:9-10
° Luke 1:74-76 (Zacharias re John the Baptist)
• what are some marks that the church has left in history?
° hospitals
° schools
° orphanages (George Mueller of Bristol a pioneer)
° social care (Salvation Army second only to Government in Canada in this field)
60:10-11 What is the situation of the redeemed of the Lord?
For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. — 2 Corinthians 1:20.
Our blessed Lord might say to us, as He did to the twelve, “Why are ye so fearful? How is it that ye have no faith?” We step on the solid rock of God’s Word much as timorous people would venture on thin ice over deep water, or as one might risk a serious sum of money in buying a ticket in a lottery, which he hoped might turn out a prize, but which he thought was likely to be a blank. God’s promise is no ice, no lottery ticket – it is the surest of all certainties. Let our faith be courageous and firm. — J. D.
The work which His goodness began,
The arm of His strength will complete;
His promise is “Yea and Amen,”
And never was forfeited yet. — A. Toplady.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. — 2 Corinthians 4:17.
Alexander Peden, in one of his sermons, speaks of a woman being asked how she did in these evil (trying) times. “I do very well,” she answered, “I get more good of one verse now than I got of the Whole Book lang syne. He hath cast me the keys of the pantry door and bidden me take my fill.” Yes,
Trials make the promise sweet;
Trials give new life to prayer;
Trials bring me to His feet,
Lay me low and keep me there.
« Leader information shown in these braces. »
A. The Promise of His Coming
1. 2 Peter 3 (NAS) 3:4 and saying, “Where is the promise of His coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all continues just as it was from the beginning of creation.” … 3:8 But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 3:9 The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.
2. Although God has put eternity in the hearts of man (Ecclesiastes 3:11, NKJV and other versions) yet by man’s very nature, he is limited to looking at things in a very short time-frame. Even when we plant trees — one of our longer term occupations — we seldom are looking beyond a future generation or two.
a. so how does this affect our attitude toward God’s promises?
(A) « we do not fully appreciate those beyond our life-time »
(B) how did this affect Sarah in Gen 18:12 « — she perceived God as One who was limited by time and by age as she herself was »
b. … and our attitude to God, when we pray?
(A) « we dwell on short-term, material needs and requests; on “this day’s bread” and less on the spiritual and abiding »
(B) when do we want our prayers answered; see for example, Psalm 27:13? « — David wanted to see an answer while he was still alive, at the very latest »
c. what do we need to do to overcome this deficiency?
(A) « “let this mind be in you…,” immerse ourselves in God’s word, look at needs in terms of eternity, see salvation and fellowship with God as our greatest needs »
[B. Prayer Requests, etc]
Dawson Trotman, founder of the NAVIGATORS, did not think he had great faith, but a great God, and a Bible full of promises. He became a Christian at age 20 after contemplating John 1:12 and 5:24. He prayed constantly and asked God to use him to reach people. He was bold in challenging people to answer God's call to missions. Billy Graham said of him, "When our God is big, the world looks small - and Dawson saw the world as conquerable for Christ."
1. Standing on the promises of Christ my King,
Through eternal ages let His praises ring!
Glory in the highest I will shout and sing –
Standing on the promises of God.
Chorus
Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Saviour;
Standing, standing;
I'm standing on the promises of God.
2. Standing on the promises that cannot fail
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail;
By the living Word of God I shall prevail –
Standing on the promises of God.
3. Standing on the promises of Christ the Lord,
Bound to Him eternally by love's strong cord,
Overcoming daily with the Spirit's sword –
Standing on the promises of God.
4. Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
List'ning ev'ry moment to the Spirit's call,
Resting in my Saviour as my all in all –
Standing on the promises of God.
*
1. Standing on the promises of Christ my King,
Through eternal ages let His praises ring!
Glory in the highest I will shout and sing –
Standing on the promises of God.
Chorus
Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Saviour;
Standing, standing;
I'm standing on the promises of God.
2. Standing on the promises that cannot fail
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail;
By the living Word of God I shall prevail –
Standing on the promises of God.
3. Standing on the promises of Christ the Lord,
Bound to Him eternally by love's strong cord,
Overcoming daily with the Spirit's sword –
Standing on the promises of God.
4. Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
List'ning ev'ry moment to the Spirit's call,
Resting in my Saviour as my all in all –
Standing on the promises of God.
*
I have written to him the great things of my law, but they were counted as a strange thing. — Hosea 8:12.
I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food. — Job 23:12.
The law of thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver. — Psalm 119:72.
Suppose you were to meet God, and you knew it was God Himself, speaking to you, and He should reach out a Book in His hand, and tell you to take that Book, and that the Book contains exceeding great and precious promises, of all that you need, or ever can need, to resist temptation, to overcome sin, and to make you fit for Heaven … Now, if you were to receive such a Book directly from the hand of God, and knew that God had written it for you with His own hand, would you not believe it? And would you not read it a great deal more than you now read the Bible? Now, the truth is, The Bible is that Book. — Charles Finney.
How precious is the Book divine,
by inspiration given!
Bright as a lamp its doctrines shine,
to guide our souls to Heaven.
What God has condemned and crucified, in union with Christ, is also buried. “Behold, I will do a new thing… “ Isaiah 43:19
Thought: It is part of God’s divine self-disclosure to do a “new thing.” Take your concordance and look up the word “new” in both Testaments. In its context, the prophet Isaiah looks to the day when God’s ancient people will be re-gathered, re-quickened, and restored to His original purpose for them (see Ezekiel 34 and Romans 9, 10 and 11). But, as always, there is a message for you and me in this text as we experience God’s “new thing” for this new year.
1. We must forget what is behind us. “Remember ye not the former things” (v. 18). This does not mean that we should lose our minds or memories! It is a call to bury the past. So many of us neglect the doctrine of “buried with Christ” (Rom. 6:4). Our arch-accuser, Satan, plagues us with introspection. We have no business digging up our decaying bones. What God has condemned and crucified, in union with Christ, is also buried.
2. We must face what is before us. “Behold, I will do a new thing,… it shall spring (sprout) forth” (v.19). You may be overwhelmed by the incredible problems that face you — spiritually, personally, nationally, and globally, but look at verses 19-21. What God promises to His people of old, He can do for us. If you are lost, He has a map for you; if you are thirsty, He has a river for you; if you’re scared, He has a word for you, and so on.
3. We must foresee what is beyond us. “This people I have formed for myself; they shall show forth Thy praise” (v. 21). A day is coming when “at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven and things in earth and those under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Phil. 2:10-11) — God’s “new thing.”
Thrust:
God’s “new thing” is just ahead,
Wait for it, it’s sure to come;
Cease to fret with faithless dread,
Christ will come to take us home.
1. Glorious things of thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God;
He whose word cannot be broken
Formed thee for His own above:
On the Rock of Ages founded,
What can shake thy sure repose?
With salvation's walls surrounded,
Thou mayst smile at all Thy foes.
2. See, the streams of living waters,
Springing from eternal love,
Well supply they sons and daughters
And all fear of want remove:
Who can faint while such a river
Ever flows their thirst to assuage?
Grace which, like the Lord, the giver,
Never fails from age to age.
3. Round each habitation hov’ring,
See the cloud and fire appear
For a glory and a cov’ring,
Showing that the Lord is near!
Glorious things of thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God;
He whose word cannot be broken
Formed thee for His own abode.
“Concerning the gospel [they are] enemies for your sake, but concerning the election [they are] beloved for the sake of the fathers. For the gifts and the calling of God [are] irrevocable. For as you were once disobedient to God, yet have now obtained mercy through their disobedience, even so these also have now been disobedient, that through the mercy shown you they also may obtain mercy. For God has committed them all to disobedience, that He might have mercy on all.” (Romans 11:28-32 NKJV)
The Doings Of God In Harmony With His Ancient Purpose
• as…Gospel — i.e., your relation to it
• enemies — opposed to it
• for…sakes — it is offered to you since they have rejected it
• but…election — Deut 7:7-8, 10:15 — God’s original choice of them
• fathers — the patriarchs
• without repentance[irrevocable] — Mal 3:6 — God’s dealings to Jew and Gentile no evidence of change of mind in Him
• yet…unbelief[disobedience] — because the Gospel is offered to you on their rejection of it
• that…mercy — the mercy shown to you on your repentance and faith
• they…mercy — Isa 40:10 — encouraged to hope that, if penitent and believing Gentiles are saved, much more shall we, if also we repent and believe — Luther, in trial, was comforted by oft repeating this text
In times past — Anon.
Remembrance of our former condition fitted to –
I. Promote humility;
II. Awaken gratitude;
III. Soften our censures;
IV. Strengthen our hopes of others
Not believed — T. Robinson
Not obeyed the call of the Gospel.
I. The Gospel is –
1. A testimony;
2. An invitation.
II. As such, it is therefore to be –
1. Believed;
2. Obeyed. Unbelief and disobedience are united in rejecting the Gospel.
Providence always at work — God’s work of Providence is “His most holy, wise, and powerful preserving and governing of all His creatures and all their actions.” It has no Sabbath. No night suspends it, and from its labours God never rests. If, for the sake of illustration, I may compare small things with great, it is like the motion of the heart. Beating our march to the grave, since the day we began to live, the heart has never ceased to beat. Our limbs grow weary; not it. We sleep; it never sleeps. Needing no period of repose to recruit its strength, by night and day it throbs in every pulse; and constantly supplying nourishment to the meanest as well as to the noblest organs of our frame, with measured, steady, untired stroke, it drives the blood along the bounding arteries, without any exercise of will on our part, and even when the consciousness of our own existence is lost in dreamless slumbers. — Dr Guthrie
“They are so, in respect to God the Giver; He never repents that He hath called His people into the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ; and they are so on the believer’s part, who is never sorry, whatever afterwards he meets with, that He is brought to Christ.” — Flavel
1. Standing on the promises of Christ my King,
Through eternal ages let His praises ring!
Glory in the highest I will shout and sing –
Standing on the promises of God.
Chorus
Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God my Saviour;
Standing, standing;
I'm standing on the promises of God.
2. Standing on the promises that cannot fail
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail;
By the living Word of God I shall prevail –
Standing on the promises of God.
3. Standing on the promises of Christ the Lord,
Bound to Him eternally by love's strong cord,
Overcoming daily with the Spirit's sword –
Standing on the promises of God.
4. Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
List'ning ev'ry moment to the Spirit's call,
Resting in my Saviour as my all in all –
Standing on the promises of God.
*
If nothing else, this year's presidential campaign confirms that politicians will promise just about anything to get elected. In both major parties, leadership and vision have given way to the politics of pandering.
Well politicians have always made promises to get elected. But why do we continue to let them do it? Why do we encourage this kind of campaigning?
Basically, many people are looking to government to make them happy. But there's the rub: the underlying belief that happiness is a matter of getting everything you want; that is, happiness as wish-fulfillment.
Believe it or not, the most penetrating critique of this state of political affairs may be found, not on the editorial page, or in our pulpits, but on the Big Screen. The film I'm thinking about is the recently released Bedazzled, a remake of the 1967 classic.
By reviving this classic myth of wish fulfillment, Bedazzled offers a surprisingly sharp critique of the modern pursuit of happiness.
The film introduces a love-sick technical-support representative named Elliot. Elliot's good-hearted, but extremely socially awkward. When his attempts to attract a co-worker (Allison) fall flat, Elliot exclaims that that he "would give anything to have that girl in [his] life."
Well, at that moment the Devil, in the form of a beautiful woman, appears. She offers Elliot everything he could ever want -- in exchange for his soul. In this respect, of course, Bedazzled is a clear adaptation of the classic Faust myth, as told in Christopher Marlowe's play, Dr. Faustus. Faust, you may recall, sold his soul to the Devil in exchange for absolute knowledge. Nothing less would satisfy him.
But unlike Bedazzled, Dr. Faustus is a grave and sobering tale -- one ending with Faustus' eternal damnation. Perhaps that's why Bedazzled, a comedy, weaves in another classic myth -- Aladdin and the Magic Lamp.
You see, the Devil doesn't just offer Elliot his heart's desire -- she grants him seven wishes. But when Elliot signs over his soul, he doesn't exactly get what he bargained for.
The Devil twists Elliot's wishes in malicious ways. For example, when Elliot wishes to be rich and powerful, she turns him into a Colombian drug lord.
Well, Elliot doesn't have to use up all seven wishes to see that he's made a bad deal. He soon realizes that having it all still doesn't make him happy. What's more, he learns that getting what you want sometimes has some undesirable strings attached.
Now, Bedazzled is not a good film, and I don't recommend you see it. In its attempts to be humorous, it employs cheap vulgar gags and presents a New Age view of good and evil. But at a basic level, the film does recognize that happiness is about much more than mere wish-fulfillment.
What? Hollywood getting something right?
Sure, even pre-Christian cultures (like ancient Greece) recognized that happiness is not a matter of circumstances. The ancient Greeks, for example, believed that happiness is about the character of our souls -- which is, of course, what Christians believe.
While I don't recommend you see Bedazzled, popular culture powerfully shapes the thinking of our nation, and we've got to understand its messages. So when your friends see a film like this and talk about it, as they will, you can be sure that they get its real point: that wish-fulfillment, the things so attractive in this world, doesn't add up to happiness.
True happiness is nothing less than peace in the human soul -- something they'll find only in Christ.
For further reading:
Aristotle, The Nicomachean Ethics
_____________
Copyright (c) 2001 Prison Fellowship Ministries. Reprinted with permission. "BreakPoint with Chuck Colson" is a radio ministry of Prison Fellowship Ministries.
*
Another story from the battle of Chosin Reservoir in the Korean War. In the frantic retreat from the Chosin Reservoir, Colonel Faith's Task Force attempted to break out with over 500 wounded men. The trucks were so overloaded they tied wounded on the fenders and hoods; as more soldiers were hit they had to be left on the side of the road. Chinese mortars and machine guns raked the column mercilessly.
Private Louse Grappo, 17 years old, lay in one truck with a bullet through his leg. He heard an explosion near his ear. His shoulder didn't hurt, but he finally realized shrapnel had pierced his helmet. The twang of the steel helmet made his ears ring and the concussion almost knocked him out. "My God!" he exclaimed. He had taken thirteen pieces of shrapnel and a large piece of flesh was missing from his right shoulder.
Inside his mittens was a rosary. "I'm a young kid," he prayed. "I don't even know what it is to have a girlfriend, or to go to a dance. If you will just let me live to experience life, I'll go to Mass and Communion every day for a year." But he knew he was lying. He thought about what he had just promised, then said, "God, I'm
The entire task force was stopped dead and cut to pieces by the Chinese all night. When Grappo came to in the morning, most of the trucks except his were on fire. He heard Chinese all over the place; ammo was exploding. He peered out of his truck and saw what looked like a campground with hundreds of people lying asleep, but they were all dead. Only he and one other man were alive on his truck. He got out, and unable to walk, crawled along railroad tracks until he came to the frozen reservoir. Chinese fired at him, but he didn't care if he died; he just kept moving. The next thing he knew, he was looking up at a Marine colonel.
"Before enlightenment chop wood and carry water. After enlightenment chop wood and carry water." - Ancient Chinese Proverb
A typical conversation I have with individuals (almost weekly) is something to the effect of: "When I get to this point in my career, I will... or when I get to this income level, I will... or when I achieve this reward, then I will... These statements are always followed by some action or behavior that they are going to put into practice AFTER they achieve or acquire their "magic bullet."
Examples:
- When I get this next level in my business, then I will spend more time with my family. - When I make $$$ then I will donate a portion of my income to a worthy cause.
We could come up with numerous examples but I think you get the gist. When I hear this comment, regardless of the context or the promise, my answer is typically, "No you probably won't." Why? Because if the habit has not been developed it will not be acted upon. Life does not miraculously change until YOU change.
The ancient proverb above is telling us that enlightenment, success, happiness (you choose the term) is not a destination but a process.
You and I both know that no award, no pin or leadership level, no income, no new toy, no promotion will make us happy and/or successful. Life will not miraculously change when your next goal is attained. You will still chop wood, carry water, pay bills, and wonder sometimes where the money to pay those bills is going to coming from.
The difference comes in the attitude with which you do these things. When true success and happiness (enlightenment) is reached you will learn that the journey IS the adventure, the excitement, and the fun of life. The journey is success and happiness - And the journey never ends.
How can you become more successful and happy now:
1. A Course in Miracles says, "I can choose peace rather than this!" Choose to be at peace and enjoy what life is giving you RIGHT NOW!
2. The beginner/amateur hopes and wishes ... the professional KNOWS. Carl Jung when asked, "Do you believe in God" answered, "I don't believe ... I know," knowing is power! KNOW that whatever is happening right now is part of a larger plan happening perfectly for your own personal growth, development and betterment.
3. Develop good habits now. Live and invest in the things that you say are important to you. Make your beliefs, your habits, and your actions congruent. Don't do them "someday" - do them today.
4. Realize that you never own anything. Every "thing" you have will someday belong to someone else when you are gone. You are only using "your things" for a time. Enjoy them -- but don't let them own you.
5. Success and happiness is not some means to eliminate life's daily tasks. You will always be (at some level) chopping wood and carrying water. Allow your work to be your passion and your love made manifest through action.
*
Isaiah 61 — The Ministry of the Messiah
60:1-3 The Lord Jesus Christ — read Luke 4:16-19
• in what ways was He equipped for His ministry?
° Holy Spirit
° anointed
° sent
• what were some of the elements of His mission?
° preacher
° healer
° deliverer
° comforter
° planter (John 15)
° liberty (John 8:31-36)
• what effect do these things have upon Christian believers today?
• the ‘acceptable year’ — may refer to year of jubilee
• ‘day of vengeance’ — see 2 Thess 1:7-9
60:4-9 Application of this prophecy
• in what ways do the promises here hold true for the Jews? What are some marks they have left upon the world?
° arts — music, literature, theatre
° sciences, medicine
° finance
• in what ways do the promises here hold true for the church? — some passages to read
° Revelation 1:6, 5:9-10
° Luke 1:74-76 (Zacharias re John the Baptist)
• what are some marks that the church has left in history?
° hospitals
° schools
° orphanages (George Mueller of Bristol a pioneer)
° social care (Salvation Army second only to Government in Canada in this field)
60:10-11 What is the situation of the redeemed of the Lord?
1. Glorious things of thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God;
He whose word cannot be broken
Formed thee for His own above:
On the Rock of Ages founded,
What can shake thy sure repose?
With salvation's walls surrounded,
Thou mayst smile at all Thy foes.
2. See, the streams of living waters,
Springing from eternal love,
Well supply they sons and daughters
And all fear of want remove:
Who can faint while such a river
Ever flows their thirst to assuage?
Grace which, like the Lord, the giver,
Never fails from age to age.
3. Round each habitation hov’ring,
See the cloud and fire appear
For a glory and a cov’ring,
Showing that the Lord is near!
Glorious things of thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God;
He whose word cannot be broken
Formed thee for His own abode.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. — 2 Corinthians 4:17.
Alexander Peden, in one of his sermons, speaks of a woman being asked how she did in these evil (trying) times. “I do very well,” she answered, “I get more good of one verse now than I got of the Whole Book lang syne. He hath cast me the keys of the pantry door and bidden me take my fill.” Yes,
Trials make the promise sweet;
Trials give new life to prayer;
Trials bring me to His feet,
Lay me low and keep me there.
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