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June 4, 2016

1 Peter – start date 6.4.2016

Filed under: New Testament — Adam Osborne @ 8:51 am

1 Peter

Chapters 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Author = Simon Peter
Date = approximately AD 64
Location = Babylon (1 Peter 5:13)
Topic = the doctrine of hope for the suffering Christians in Asia Minor; Christian hope in the time of trial; Suffering and the security of believers produces joy, Chapter 1:1-9.
Doctrine = elect, foreknowledge, sanctification, obedience, blood, Trinity, salvation (used three times), revelation (with cognate words, used five times), glory (with cognate words, used sixteen times), faith (five times), and hope (four times), SUFFERING USED 16 TIMES.


Chapter 1

Greeting

1Pe 1:1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,

Peter = once a disciple, now an apostle of Jesus, a man who walked and talked and prayed with Jesus himself. This Peter is now addressing the numerous Christians who are spread through Asia Minor. He is providing hope and encouragement to the believers who are suffering from persecution. This epistle is directed to Jews out of Palestine, located in Asia Minor

F.B.Meyer: Our inheritance is prepared and kept for us, as we for it. We who believe may count on the guarding power of God. Not till our spirit is joined to a perfected body in the presence of Christ will our salvation be complete.

1Pe 1:2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.

  • Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father = a controversial doctrine, but as I read it here, God called and elected Peter based on God’s foreknowledge that Peter would himself chose to believe in our risen Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The calvinist will try to preach that God just randomly elected some, while not electing others. But I believe that God calls ALL MEN to be saved, and our self-will plays into this one area. We must decide and confess Jesus as our Lord. God doesn’t want any man to perish, but all should have everlasting life.
  • Here we have the work of the Trinity in salvation:
    • “Elect according to the foreknowledge of God” — God the Father;
    • “Sanctification of the Spirit” (practical sanctification) — God the Holy Spirit;
    • “Blood of Jesus Christ” (proof of election), “obedience” — God the Son.

  • through sanctification of the Spirit =

Born Again to a Living Hope

1Pe 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

abundant mercy = his mercy shall last forever!
hope = the things to come.
resurrection = we have hope, because Jesus was raised from the dead, as we shall be raised from the dead.

1Pe 1:4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

inheritance = we are in the family of God, our Father, and we are co-heirs with Christ
incorruptible = nothing can change our position with Christ. Romans 8:38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers
fadeth not away = kingdoms, leaders, people on this earth shall fade away like grass, but our inheritance with Christ is everlasting.
reserved in heaven for you = our salvation is complete. We have our home in heaven, waiting for us, to live in glory forever.

It will always be new, it will never decay.
No night ever comes, it will always be day.
How it gladdens my heart with a joy that’s untold To think of that land where nothing grows old.

1Pe 1:5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

kept = eternally secure by the awesome power of God. Nothing, no one can touch our salvation, our hope, our security.
faith = our faith in the living Lord Jesus Christ, assures us of our salvation. Faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. Man must read and hear the Word to be saved, to be drawn to the Living Lord.
revealed in the last time = the final day of judgment, the end of this world will reveal our kinship with the Father of us all.

1Pe 1:6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:

Probably the “key verse” in this epistle.

greatly = not just a little, not just rejoice, but GREATLY rejoice. The believer has nothing but rejoicing on his mind. What can this world do to him, what can man do against an awesome, powerful, omnipresent, ruler such as the One and Only True God! We greatly rejoice.
now for a season = a short, short period here on this earth. A short 70, maybe 80 years, compared to eternity in Glory with God. For a short season you will suffer because you live in a fallen, broken world, influenced now, for a short time, by a lost sinful angel, who will lose in the end times.
heaviness = yes, the suffering we now go through, that tempts us, hurts us. As children of God, the Word tells us we will suffer, we will experience pain, but only for a short, short time. Then heaven awaits!
temptations = everything in this fallen world tempts us, tries to steer us away from our heavenly Father….but the devil has lost….he will not be the victor…because we have our Father in heaven who will reign forever in victory.

1Pe 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

trial of your faith = your faith will be tested, the troubles of this world will try to lead you away from our work here on this world
much more precious than of gold that perisheth = even gold, that awesome standard by which defines wealth and power, which ensures riches in this world for now, even it perishes, it is of no eternal value, but our faith is of eternity, we will have our faith here and now, and we will have our faith eternally in the glory of our Father when we reach heaven.
though it be tried with fire = our faith will be tested with trials and with fire, but praise be to Jesus, our faith will survive for eternity!
might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ = keep the faith! have hope! our salvation is complete! No matter what happens here and now, you are the victors through Jesus Christ our Lord and SAVIOR.

1Pe 1:8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:

Whom having not seen = let’s not forget who is writing this. This is Simon Peter, the Rock, who professed that Jesus is the Christ. Peter SAW Jesus, Peter saw him walk and teach on this earth, Peter saw Christ’s death, then Peter saw Christ after his resurrection. A personal witness! Peter is proclaiming hope for us, he is telling us to hang tight, Jesus was raised, and so shall we be!
yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory = ye believe in the risen Christ, the Kinsman Redeemer of the Old Testament has arrived, and that gives us joy, joy you can’t even utter because of his awesome Glory, and we shall reign with him!

1Pe 1:9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls = end the end, after all the trials and suffering and persecution, the end of such matters for believers in Christ is salvation of our very souls. How marvelous is our God, who takes sinful men such as us, and because of our faith and confession in his only begotten son, who suffered and died for our sins, saves our very souls and assures us of eternal salvation of our very souls.

1Pe 1:10 Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:

prophets have enquired and searched diligently = the prophets of the old testament, waited earnestly and faithfully for the promised messiah. He is here, his grace, the blood that he shed for us, came to us.

1Pe 1:11 Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.

Spirit of Christ which was in them = the prophets of old, the Holy Spirit empowered them to reveal to us, to testify to us beforehand, the suffering that our redeemer would endue for the salvation of our very souls, and the glory we will receive in heaven.

1Pe 1:12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.

was revealed, that not unto themselves = the Spirit revealed to them, the promise of the coming Messiah, not just to themselves, but revealed it to us through His Word.
now reported unto you = Peter and the other preachers are testifying of the risen Christ, they are preaching the gospel, the good news, which they received from the Holy Spirit who came down to heaven during the Pentecost.

Called to Be Holy

BACKGROUND: Timeframe was AD 60. King Nero was persecuting the church badly and Christians were being persecuted. This would be the official government stance until Constantine stopped it two hundred years later.

Sanctification
Sanctification is the experience, beginning in regeneration, by which the believer is set apart to God’s purposes, and is enabled to progress toward moral and spiritual maturity through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit dwelling in him.

1Pe 1:13 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

wherefore = because of the future inheritance God promised in the previous verses, Peter is pointing out that this is an INCENTIVE to holiness.

gird up the loins of your mind = is referred to the ancient practice of a man gathering up the long skirt of his outer robe by pulling it up between his legs and tying it around his waist with his belt. is prepared him for running or other strenuous activity (see 1 Kings 18:46; 2 Kings 4:29; 9:1 for the literal usage). Peter’s illustration vividly portrays intentional preparation for exertion.

hope = Strongs Concordance, Greek word number G1680. elopes (el-pece). From a primary help (to anticipate, usually with pleasure); expectation (abstractly or concretely), or confidence: – faith, hope. Lifeway explained that this archaic word, back when this book was written, was a confident trust.

hope = this form of hope is a “command”. Even though we already have a confident trusting hope because of our salvation, we are also called to practice the hope, the confident trust for the future, that we have already received.

grace = unmerited favor.

1Pe 1:14 As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:

not fashioning yourselves = STRONGS CONCORDANCE = G4964. Only used one other place in the bible, Romans 12:2. It means to pattern ones actions. This means we are to live differently than we used to, because we have been born again, and we have the power of the Holy Spirit within us.

1Pe 1:15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;

you also are to be holy = Holy means “set apart,” that is, set apart from sin and set apart to God and seeking God’s honor. Holiness involves all your conduct. Peter reminded these Christians again of God’s initiative in salvation. The Father had called them to Himself, and they had responded in faith. In calling them and in making them part of His family, God was declaring His intention to make His children like Him in moral character. Peter was making it plain that we are to be intentional in the pursuit of personal holiness. It’s not that we grudgingly avoid outward sins; rather, we seek God’s power and presence so that we delight in Him, and we long for holiness from the inside out.

1Pe 1:16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.

Be ye holy is a command. Quoted from Leviticus 11:44-45; 19:2; 20:7,26).

LIFEWAY EXPLORE THE BIBLE: God’s character is the foundation for ethics. Because God delights in attitudes and actions that reflect His character and hates what is contrary to His character, we are to imitate Him and thus honor Him. Just as natural children want to be like their parents, so we should imitate our heavenly Father.

1Pe 1:17 And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:
1Pe 1:18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;

redeemed = the reference is to the first-century practice of purchasing freedom for a human slave or a hostage by the payment of a monetary price. Although we grasp the concept today, we have not likely experienced redemption in this sense. We are more likely to use “redeemed” generally as an equivalent to “saved.” The term Peter used, however, was more precise than our usage suggests.

1Pe 1:19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:
1Pe 1:20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,
1Pe 1:21 Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.
1Pe 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:
1Pe 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
1Pe 1:24 For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:
1Pe 1:25 But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.

We should love one another. Verses 1:22-25


Chapter 2

A Living Stone and a Holy People

1Pe 2:1 So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.

“Malice” is congealed anger. It is an unforgiving spirit. Every wicked way of those who are without Christ.

We should detest malice.

We should detest deceit. We need to do the right thing, because it is the right thing. Put deceit out of our lives, if we are following Jesus, get rid of deceit.

We should detest hypocrisy. Your confession says “one thing”, but our actions say something else.

We should detest envy. Death to ‘self’ is the only sure way to get rid of envy.

We should detest slander.

“Guile” is the spirit of using cleverness to get even. Real separation is from the works of the flesh.

1Pe 2:2 Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation.

“Pure milk” is spiritual milk. Just as a hungry baby reaches for the bottle, a believer is to desire the Word. We are to desire God’s Word. The result of desiring God’s Word will be growth.

Matthew 4:4 Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.

Psalm 34:8 Taste and see that the Lord is good.

1Pe 2:3 if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.

At the moment of salvation a person is born with an appetite for the Word.

1Pe 2:4 As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious,

The living stone is Christ (Matthew 21:42-44). Peter identifies the stone as Christ:

This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. (Acts 4:11)

a living stone = Isaiah 28:16 16 therefore thus says the Lord GOD, “Behold, I am the one who has laid as a foundation in Zion, a stone, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone, of a sure foundation: ‘Whoever believes will not be in haste.’

1Pe 2:5 you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

Believers are living stones that are built on Christ

Eph 2:19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone,

1Co 3:11 For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

They constitute a living temple in which spiritual sacrifices of praise, possessions, and one’s person are presented.

    holy priesthood =

  • Revelation 20:6 (ESV) 6 Blessed and holy is the one who shares in the first resurrection! Over such the second death has no power, but they will be priests of God and of Christ, and they will reign with him for a thousand years.
  • Revelation 1:6 (ESV) 6 and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

1Pe 2:6 For it stands in Scripture: “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”

Isa 28:16 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.

1Pe 2:7 So the honor is for you who believe, but for those who do not believe, “The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,”

the head = Colossians 2:10 (ESV) and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority.

Psa 118:22 The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.

1Pe 2:8 and “A stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense.” They stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do.

1Pe 2:8 KJV: And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.

whereunto = Jude 1:4 (KJV) 4 For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.

Isa 8:14 And he shall be for a sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both the houses of Israel, for a gin and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.

1Pe 2:9 But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

Vernon McGee – Thru the Bible: A Christian is to live a life commensurate with his position in Christ. This is normal Christian living.
“Chosen generation”— these are believers who belong to a chosen generation because of the new birth. If you want to know if you belong to the elect, the real test is: Have you come? (John 6:37).
“Royal priesthood”— believers are priests
Israel had a priesthood; the church is a priesthood.
“Holy nation”— believers are holy because of their position in Christ. They are a nation because they are a new entity in the world

1 Corinthians 10:32 Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God,

“Peculiar people” (KJV) — not oddballs or weird. It literally means a people for acquisition, a people for God’s own possession.
“Show forth the praises” is publish or tell abroad His virtues.

1Pe 2:10 Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Eph 2:11-12 Therefore remember that at one time you Gentiles in the flesh, called “the uncircumcision” by what is called the circumcision, which is made in the flesh by hands—remember that you were at that time separated from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.

1Pe 2:11 Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.

Vernon McGee: Christians are to publish His praises by not manifesting the works of the flesh.

1Pe 2:12 Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.

Believers who are in business show forth His praises by honesty.

Submission to Authority

1Pe 2:13 Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme,

for the Lord’s sake: there you go right there, there is the reason why we are to do it, to Honor God, for His sake.

1Pe 2:14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good.

1Pe 2:15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people.

Vernon McGee: vv. 13-15 — Believers who submit to governments and those in authority reveal the praises of God.

1Pe 2:16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.
1Pe 2:17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

Vernon McGee: vv. 16, 17 — A believer’s relationship to others speaks louder than the pulpit. We are to treat all men equally.

Honor the emperor: My opinion here…. I think we Americans make a big mistake here. I see “church members” trash politicians and even the President all the time. I have seen it from the pulpit, from bible study groups, out in the public like on Facebook, etc. Here it is, in the bible, we should NOT be trashing politicians, especially the Office of the President of the United States like we do. It’s sinful and displeasing to God.

1Pe 2:18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust.

Wow…think about this one. How many of us talk trash about our bosses in public, behind our bosses back. “with all respect“, come on, we don’t do this, but we are called to do that! We need to be mindful of our tongues. There is a reason we don’t talk trash about our bosses, because God has told us not to. Isn’t that a good enough reason for you?

1Pe 2:19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly.

mindful of God: No, we wouldn’t just endure sorrow for any old reason, our sinful nature would not endure sorrow for a moment, but, when we consider, being mindful of God, who sent His one and only Son, to die such a horrible death, on our behalf……. shouldn’t that be a good reason to endure sorrow? Oh, and as a reminder, we will now live for ETERNITY. Enduring sorrow, for a short while, for the sake of the One who has Redeemed us to an eternity in Glory….well….nuf said.

1Pe 2:20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God.

Vernon McGee: vv. 18-20 — Christians in labor relationships also reveal the praises of God when their attitudes and actions are mild and fair.

1Pe 2:21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps.
1Pe 2:22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth.
1Pe 2:23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.

Vernon McGee: vv. 21-23 — The suffering of Christ is the theme of the remainder of this chapter. Christ suffered vicariously to set us an example as well as for our sins.

1Pe 2:24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.

Vernon McGee: v. 24 — Christ suffered a vicarious, substitutionary death for our sins. “By whose stripes ye were healed” is a quotation from Isaiah 53, which reveals that Isaiah is not speaking of physical healing, but that which is more important and profound — healing from sin.

1Pe 2:25 For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.


Chapter 3

Wives and Husbands

1Pe 3:1 Likewise, wives, be subject to your own husbands, so that even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives,

Vernon McGee: “Be in subjection” is submitting yourselves. This is a voluntary step, not a command. Obviously this refers to an unsaved husband who will not hear the Word of God, but who might be won by the conduct of the wife. This is real personal evangelism.

1Pe 3:2 when they see your respectful and pure conduct.
1Pe 3:3 Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—

Vernon McGee: This is a reference to Roman styles of arranging the hair and wearing of jewelry, which is very similar to modern styles. A Christian woman may win a husband by sex appeal, but she can never win him to the Lord by sex appeal.

1Pe 3:4 but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.

Vernon McGee: Inward, not outward, adornment wins the lost husband.

1Pe 3:5 For this is how the holy women who hoped in God used to adorn themselves, by submitting to their own husbands,
1Pe 3:6 as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord. And you are her children, if you do good and do not fear anything that is frightening.

Vernon McGee: Sarah and the wives of the other patriarchs did not hold their husbands by sex appeal.

1Pe 3:7 Likewise, husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered.

Vernon McGee: Christian husbands are to love and honor their wives because of their intelligent understanding of the marriage relationship. The apostle indicates that the prayers of a family are not answered when the marriage relationship is not right.

Suffering for Righteousness’ Sake

1Pe 3:8 Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.

Vernon McGee: Believers are to be like-minded, sympathetic, tenderhearted, and courteous (which means humble-minded).

1Pe 3:9 Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.

Vernon McGee: This is turning the other cheek.

1Pe 3:10 For “Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit;
1Pe 3:11 let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.

Vernon McGee: For the one who loves life and really wants to live, here is the key.

Vernon McGee: God has not guaranteed to hear the prayers of those who do evil, but He has guaranteed to hear the prayers of His own (see Psalm 34:15, 16).

1Pe 3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
1Pe 3:13 Now who is there to harm you if you are zealous for what is good?

Romans 13:3 For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Would you have no fear of the one who is in authority? Then do what is good, and you will receive his approval,

Proverbs 16:7 When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.

1Pe 3:14 But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you will be blessed. Have no fear of them, nor be troubled,

Vernon McGee: Suffering for the right should bring joy to the child of God.

Matthew 5:10-12 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account.
12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Mark 8:35 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it.

1Pe 3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

answer: This is where we get the term “apologetics” from. “The term referring to reasoned arguments in support of or defending a position. G 627. apologia, [ap-ol-og-ee’-ah], From the same as G626; a plea (“apology”): – answer (for self), clearing of self, defense.

G627 apologeomai [ap-ol-og-eh’-om-ahee] Middle voice from a compound of G575 and G3056; to give an account (legal plea) of oneself, that is, exculpate (self): – answer (for self), make defence, excuse (self), speak for self.

Vernon McGee: By our lives and lips we can sanctify God in our hearts. Our lives should bring glory to God. Also, the believer should be able to explain his position in Christ.

always being prepared: believers honor God by sharing the good news with unbelievers.

1Pe 3:16 having a good conscience, so that, when you are slandered, those who revile your good behavior in Christ may be put to shame.

Vernon McGee: Be sure that those who speak evil of you are in error.

1Pe 3:17 For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.

Vernon McGee: Be sure our suffering comes to us because of doing good, not evil.

1Pe 3:18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit,

Vernon McGee: Again, Christ’s suffering for our sins is cited as the hope in our suffering.

1Pe 3:19 in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison,

Vernon McGee: When did Christ preach to the spirits in prison? In His day or in Noah’s day? The next verse answers it.

1Pe 3:20 because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water.

Vernon McGee: “When” is the key word. It was in the days of Noah. Noah preached the gospel in his day. In Christ’s day, the spirits of those men to whom Noah had preached were in prison, for they had rejected the message of Noah.

1Pe 3:21 Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ,

Vernon McGee: “Baptism” is identification. “By the resurrection of Jesus Christ” is salvation — a believer is identified with Him.

corresponds = “symbolizes” …. or …. “is compared to”

    Lifeway, Explore the Bible: Consider the following:

  • The flood was the water of judgment because most humans perished in the water. Baptism by immersion provides a picture of judgement showing what we deserve: death and burial.
  • The flood marked the transition from Noah’s old life to his new life. Baptism is the sign of our transition from an old life of sin to our new life in Christ.
  • Noah and his family came out of the water of the flood, saved from disaster. Believers come up out of the waters of baptism, portraying our salvation.
    Lifeway, Explore the Bible

..but as an appeal to God for a good conscience = baptism provides the pledge of a good conscience toward God. What has happened inside a person (cleansing of fin) is represented outwardly by the washing of baptism. Baptism, doesn’t make someone a Christian or prove ones a Christian. Baptism functions as a sign or symbol of the faith in christ that one confesses at the time of baptism.

1Pe 3:22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers having been subjected to him.

Vernon McGee: We are seated in Christ in heaven.


Chapter 4

Stewards of God’s Grace

1Pe 4:1 Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;
1Pe 4:2 That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.
1Pe 4:3 For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries:
1Pe 4:4 Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you:
1Pe 4:5 Who shall give account to him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.
1Pe 4:6 For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.
1Pe 4:7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
1Pe 4:8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
1Pe 4:9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
1Pe 4:10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
1Pe 4:11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Suffering as a Christian

1Pe 4:12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
1Pe 4:13 But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
1Pe 4:14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
1Pe 4:15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men’s matters.
1Pe 4:16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
1Pe 4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?
1Pe 4:18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
1Pe 4:19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.


Chapter 5

Shepherd the Flock of God

1Pe 5:1 The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:

Peter identifies himself with his readers. They understand that Peter fully understands what the reader is going through, has been going through, and what will be going through.

Exhort = he is strongly encouraging them.

1Pe 5:2 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;

shepherd – we have kind of lost what this would mean. The shepherd, the sheep hear and understand and follow his voice. The shepherd, he stands to defend and protect the flock.

The verb used here is the same verb that Jesus told Peter when Jesus asked him 3 times if he loved them, then told Peter to feed and shepherd the sheep.

    attitudes:

  • not out of compulsion, not out of something you “have to do”
  • not for dishonest gain, but serve eagerly
  • not lording over the flock, lead by example

1Pe 5:3 Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
1Pe 5:4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

chief Shepherd = referring as to when Christ shall return.

fadeth not away = any glory or accolades we get here is short and temporary, but the crown of glory in heaven fadeth NOT away, we will be in heaven for ETERNITY.

1Pe 5:5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

ye younger = not necessarily referring to “youth”, but “young in Christ”.

be subject = Peter has used this term many times in this book, employers, families, but in this context, he is meaning “all of you.”

Peter quoted Proverbs 3:34 in this verse…God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.

1Pe 5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

the mighty hand of God” = used frequently in the Old Testament when referring to God’s power, God’s ability to deliver his people.

1Pe 5:7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
1Pe 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

Be sober, be vigilant = Be alert, be ready, be watchful. There is always temptation, both morally and spiritually. Remember what happened in Gethsemene, where they fell asleep, then Peter denied Christ 3 times. Our enemies; the world, the flesh, the devil is ready to destroy you, “devour” you.

1Pe 5:9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
1Pe 5:10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.

establish = putting you in rightful place.
strengthen = putting you in a firm foundation.
settle you = support you.

1Pe 5:11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Final Greetings

1Pe 5:12 By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand.
1Pe 5:13 The church that is at Babylon, elected together with you, saluteth you; and so doth Marcus my son.
1Pe 5:14 Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen.

April 8, 2016

Mark – start date 4.8.2016

Filed under: Old and New Testament — Adam Osborne @ 3:18 pm

A bible study by Adam Osborne, JR.

Chapter 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 

Introduction

Author: Mark

Theme: The life and teaching of Jesus Christ the Savior

Stories include: Jesus’ baptism and temptation; Jesus calms a storm; Jesus heals a boy; the Lord’s Supper; the garden of Gethsemane; Jesus is executed but rises from the dead.

THE GOSPEL OF MARK

Chapter One

John the Baptist Prepares the Way

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in a]the Prophets:

“Behold, I send My messenger before Your face,
Who will prepare Your way before You.”
“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:
‘Prepare the way of the Lord;
Make His paths straight.’ ”

John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching a baptism of repentance b]for the remission of sins. Then all the land of Judea, and those from Jerusalem, went out to him and were all baptized by him in the Jordan River, confessing their sins.

Now John was clothed with camel’s hair and with a leather belt around his waist, and he ate locusts and wild honey. And he preached, saying, “There comes One after me who is mightier than I, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to stoop down and loose. I indeed baptized you with water, but He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.”

John Baptizes Jesus

It came to pass in those days that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized by John in the Jordan. 10 And immediately, coming up c]from the water, He saw the heavens d]parting and the Spirit descending upon Him like a dove. 11 Then a voice came from heaven, “You are My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”

Satan Tempts Jesus

12 Immediately the Spirit e]drove Him into the wilderness. 13 And He was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered to Him.

Jesus Begins His Galilean Ministry

14 Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching the gospel f]of the kingdom of God, 15 and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God g]is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.”

Four Fishermen Called as Disciples

16 And as He walked by the Sea of Galilee, He saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. 17 Then Jesus said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you becomefishers of men.” 18 They immediately left their nets and followed Him.

19 When He had gone a little farther from there, He saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the boat mending their nets. 20 And immediately He called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants, and went after Him.

Jesus Casts Out an Unclean Spirit

21 Then they went into Capernaum, and immediately on the Sabbath He entered the synagogue and taught. 22 And they were astonished at His teaching, for He taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.

23 Now there was a man in their synagogue with an unclean spirit. And he cried out, 24 saying, “Let us alone! What have we to do with You, Jesus of Nazareth? Did You come to destroy us? I know who You are—the Holy One of God!”

25 But Jesus rebuked him, saying, h]“Be quiet, and come out of him!”26 And when the unclean spirit had convulsed him and cried out with a loud voice, he came out of him. 27 Then they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, i]“What is this? What new j]doctrine is this? For with authority He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him.” 28 And immediately His fame spread throughout all the region around Galilee.

Peter’s Mother-in-Law Healed

29 Now as soon as they had come out of the synagogue, they entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. 30 But Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick with a fever, and they told Him about her at once. 31 So He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and immediately the fever left her. And she served them.

Many Healed After Sabbath Sunset

32 At evening, when the sun had set, they brought to Him all who were sick and those who were demon-possessed. 33 And the whole city was gathered together at the door. 34 Then He healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and He did not allow the demons to speak, because they knew Him.

Preaching in Galilee

35 Now in the morning, having risen a long while before daylight, He went out and departed to a k]solitary place; and there He prayed. 36 And Simon and those who were with Him searched for Him. 37 When they found Him, they said to Him, “Everyone is looking for You.”

38 But He said to them, “Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also, because for this purpose I have come forth.”

39 And He was preaching in their synagogues throughout all Galilee, and casting out demons.

Jesus Cleanses a Leper

40 Now a leper came to Him, imploring Him, kneeling down to Him and saying to Him, “If You are willing, You can make me clean.”

41 Then Jesus, moved with compassion, stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.” 42 As soon as He had spoken, immediately the leprosy left him, and he was cleansed. 43 And He strictly warned him and sent him away at once, 44 and said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone; but go your way, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing those things which Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.”

45 However, he went out and began to proclaim it freely, and to spread the matter, so that Jesus could no longer openly enter the city, but was outside in deserted places; and they came to Him from every direction.

 

Chapter Two

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Jesus Forgives and Heals a Paralytic

And again He entered Capernaum after some days, and it was heard that He was in the house. a]Immediately many gathered together, so that there was no longer room to receive them, not even near the door. And He preached the word to them. Then they came to Him, bringing a paralytic who was carried by four men. And when they could not come near Him because of the crowd, they uncovered the roof where He was. So when they had broken through, they let down the bed on which the paralytic was lying.

When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven you.”

And some of the scribes were sitting there and reasoning in their hearts, “Why does this Man speak blasphemies like this? Who can forgive sins but God alone?”

But immediately, when Jesus perceived in His spirit that they reasoned thus within themselves, He said to them, “Why do you reason about these things in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Arise, take up your bed and walk’? 10 But that you may know that the Son of Man has b]power on earth to forgive sins”—He said to the paralytic, 11 â€œI say to you, arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.”12 Immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went out in the presence of them all, so that all were amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!”

Matthew the Tax Collector

13 Then He went out again by the sea; and all the multitude came to Him, and He taught them. 14 As He passed by, He saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, “Follow Me.” So he arose and followed Him.

15 Now it happened, as He was dining in Levi’s house, that many tax collectors and sinners also sat together with Jesus and His disciples; for there were many, and they followed Him. 16 And when the scribes c]and Pharisees saw Him eating with the tax collectors and sinners, they said to His disciples, “How is it that He eats and drinks with tax collectors and sinners?”

17 When Jesus heard it, He said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I did not come to call therighteous, but sinners, d]to repentance.”

Jesus Is Questioned About Fasting

18 The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were fasting. Then they came and said to Him, “Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but Your disciples do not fast?”

19 And Jesus said to them, “Can the e]friends of the bridegroom fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them they cannot fast. 20 But the days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days. 21 No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment; or else the new piece pulls away from the old, and the tear is made worse. 22 And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; or else the new wine bursts the wineskins, the wine is spilled, and the wineskins are ruined. But new wine must be put into new wineskins.”

Jesus Is Lord of the Sabbath

23 Now it happened that He went through the grainfields on the Sabbath; and as they went His disciples began to pluck the heads of grain. 24 And the Pharisees said to Him, “Look, why do they do what is not lawful on the Sabbath?”

25 But He said to them, “Have you never read what David did when he was in need and hungry, he and those with him: 26 how he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and ate the showbread, which is not lawful to eat except for the priests, and also gave some to those who were with him?”

27 And He said to them, “The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath. 28 Therefore the Son of Man is also Lord of the Sabbath.”


Chapter Three

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Healing on the Sabbath

And He entered the synagogue again, and a man was there who had a withered hand. So they watched Him closely, whether He would heal him on the Sabbath, so that they might a]accuse Him. And He said to the man who had the withered hand, b]“Step forward.” Then He said to them, “Is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they kept silent. And when He had looked around at them with anger, being grieved by the hardness of their hearts, He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.”And he stretched it out, and his hand was restored c]as whole as the other. Then the Pharisees went out and immediately plotted with the Herodians against Him, how they might destroy Him.

A Great Multitude Follows Jesus

But Jesus withdrew with His disciples to the sea. And a great multitude from Galilee followed Him, and from Judea and Jerusalem and Idumea and beyond the Jordan; and those from Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude, when they heard how many things He was doing, came to Him. So He told His disciples that a small boat should be kept ready for Him because of the multitude, lest they should crush Him. 10 For He healed many, so that as many as had afflictions pressed about Him to touch Him. 11 And the unclean spirits, whenever they saw Him, fell down before Him and cried out, saying, “You are the Son of God.” 12 But He sternly warned them that they should not make Him known.

The Twelve Apostles

13 And He went up on the mountain and called to Him those He Himself wanted. And they came to Him. 14 Then He appointed twelve, d]that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach, 15 and to have e]power f]to heal sicknesses and to cast out demons: 16 g]Simon, to whom He gave the name Peter; 17 James the son of Zebedee and John the brother of James, to whom He gave the name Boanerges, that is, “Sons of Thunder”; 18 Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Cananite; 19 and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him. And they went into a house.

A House Divided Cannot Stand

20 Then the multitude came together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread. 21 But when His own people heard about this,they went out to lay hold of Him, for they said, “He is out of His mind.”

22 And the scribes who came down from Jerusalem said, “He has Beelzebub,” and, “By the ruler of the demons He casts out demons.”

23 So He called them to Himself and said to them in parables: “How can Satan cast out Satan? 24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. 25 And if a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. 26 And if Satan has risen up against himself, and is divided, he cannot stand, but has an end. 27 No one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. And then he will plunder his house.

The Unpardonable Sin

28 â€œAssuredly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they may utter; 29 but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal condemnation”— 30 because they said, “He has an unclean spirit.”

Jesus’ Mother and Brothers Send for Him

31 Then His brothers and His mother came, and standing outside they sent to Him, calling Him. 32 And a multitude was sitting around Him; and they said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers h]are outside seeking You.”

33 But He answered them, saying, “Who is My mother, or My brothers?” 34 And He looked around in a circle at those who sat about Him, and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! 35 For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother.”


Chapter Four

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The Parable of the Sower

And again He began to teach by the sea. And a great multitude was gathered to Him, so that He got into a boat and sat in it on the sea; and the whole multitude was on the land facing the sea. Then He taught them many things by parables, and said to them in His teaching:

“Listen! Behold, a sower went out to sow. And it happened, as he sowed, that some seed fell by the wayside; and the birds a]of the air came and devoured it. Some fell on stony ground, where it did not have much earth; and immediately it sprang up because it had no depth of earth. But when the sun was up it was scorched, and because it had no root it withered away. And some seed fell among thorns; and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded nob]crop. But other seed fell on good ground and yielded a crop that sprang up, increased and produced: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.”

And He said c]to them, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”

The Purpose of Parables

10 But when He was alone, those around Him with the twelve asked Him about the parable. 11 And He said to them, “To you it has been given to know the d]mystery of the kingdom of God; but to those who are outside, all things come in parables, 12 so that

‘Seeing they may see and not perceive,
And hearing they may hear and not understand;
Lest they should turn,
And their sins be forgiven them.’ ”

The Parable of the Sower Explained

13 And He said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? 14 The sower sows the word. 15 And these are the ones by the wayside where the word is sown. When they hear, Satan comes immediately and takes away the word that was sown in their hearts. 16 These likewise are the ones sown on stony ground who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with gladness; 17 and they have no root in themselves, and so endure only for a time. Afterward, when tribulation or persecution arises for the word’s sake, immediately they stumble. 18 Now these are the ones sown among thorns; they are the ones who hear the word, 19 and the cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. 20 But these are the ones sown on good ground, those who hear the word, e]accept it, and bear fruit: some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some a hundred.”

Light Under a Basket

21 Also He said to them, “Is a lamp brought to be put under a basket or under a bed? Is it not to be set on a lampstand? 22 For there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has anything been kept secret but that it should come to light. 23 If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.”

24 Then He said to them, “Take heed what you hear. With the same measure you use, it will be measured to you; and to you who hear, more will be given. 25 For whoever has, to him more will be given; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him.”

The Parable of the Growing Seed

26 And He said, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should f]scatter seed on the ground, 27 and should sleep by night and rise by day, and the seed should sprout and grow, he himself does not know how.28 For the earth yields crops by itself: first the blade, then the head, after that the full grain in the head. 29 But when the grain ripens, immediately he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.”

The Parable of the Mustard Seed

30 Then He said, “To what shall we liken the kingdom of God? Or with what parable shall we picture it? 31 It is like a mustard seed which, when it is sown on the ground, is smaller than all the seeds on earth;32 but when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all herbs, and shoots out large branches, so that the birds of the air may nest under its shade.”

Jesus’ Use of Parables

33 And with many such parables He spoke the word to them as they were able to hear it. 34 But without a parable He did not speak to them. And when they were alone, He explained all things to His disciples.

Wind and Wave Obey Jesus

35 On the same day, when evening had come, He said to them, “Let us cross over to the other side.” 36 Now when they had left the multitude, they took Him along in the boat as He was. And other little boats were also with Him. 37 And a great windstorm arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that it was already filling. 38 But He was in the stern, asleep on a pillow. And they awoke Him and said to Him, “Teacher, do You not care that we are perishing?”

39 Then He arose and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace,g] be still!” And the wind ceased and there was a great calm. 40 But He said to them, “Why are you so fearful? Howh] is it that you have no faith?” 41 And they feared exceedingly, and said to one another, “Who can this be, that even the wind and the sea obey Him!”


Chapter Five

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A Demon-Possessed Man Healed

Then they came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the a]Gadarenes. And when He had come out of the boat, immediately there met Him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no one could bind b]him, not even with chains, because he had often been bound with shackles and chains. And the chains had been pulled apart by him, and the shackles broken in pieces; neither could anyone tame him. And always, night and day, he was in the mountains and in the tombs, crying out and cutting himself with stones.

When he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and worshiped Him. And he cried out with a loud voice and said, “What have I to do with You, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I implorec] You by God that You do not torment me.”

For He said to him, “Come out of the man, unclean spirit!” Then He asked him, “What is your name?”

And he answered, saying, “My name is Legion; for we are many.” 10 Also he begged Him earnestly that He would not send them out of the country.

11 Now a large herd of swine was feeding there near the mountains. 12 So all the demons begged Him, saying, “Send us to the swine, that we may enter them.” 13 And d]at once Jesus gave them permission. Then the unclean spirits went out and entered the swine (there were about two thousand); and the herd ran violently down the steep place into the sea, and drowned in the sea.

14 So those who fed the swine fled, and they told it in the city and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that had happened. 15 Then they came to Jesus, and saw the one who had been demon-possessed and had the legion, sitting and clothed and in his right mind. And they were afraid. 16 And those who saw it told them how it happened to him who had been demon-possessed, and about the swine. 17 Then they began to plead with Him to depart from their region.

18 And when He got into the boat, he who had been demon-possessed begged Him that he might be with Him. 19 However, Jesus did not permit him, but said to him, “Go home to your friends, and tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and how He has had compassion on you.” 20 And he departed and began to proclaim in e]Decapolis all that Jesus had done for him; and all marveled.

A Girl Restored to Life and a Woman Healed

21 Now when Jesus had crossed over again by boat to the other side, a great multitude gathered to Him; and He was by the sea. 22 And behold, one of the rulers of the synagogue came, Jairus by name. And when he saw Him, he fell at His feet 23 and begged Him earnestly, saying, “My little daughter lies at the point of death. Come and lay Your hands on her, that she may be healed, and she will live.” 24 So Jesus went with him, and a great multitude followed Him and thronged Him.

25 Now a certain woman had a flow of blood for twelve years, 26 and had suffered many things from many physicians. She had spent all that she had and was no better, but rather grew worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came behind Him in the crowd and touched His garment. 28 For she said, “If only I may touch His clothes, I shall be made well.”

29 Immediately the fountain of her blood was dried up, and she felt in her body that she was healed of the f]affliction. 30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in Himself that power had gone out of Him, turned around in the crowd and said, “Who touched My clothes?”

31 But His disciples said to Him, “You see the multitude thronging You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?’ ”

32 And He looked around to see her who had done this thing. 33 But the woman, fearing and trembling, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him and told Him the whole truth. 34 And He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction.”

35 While He was still speaking, some came from the ruler of the synagogue’s house who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?”

36 As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, He said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not be afraid; only believe.” 37 And He permitted no one to follow Him except Peter, James, and John the brother of James. 38 Then He came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and saw g]a tumult and those who wept and wailed loudly. 39 When He came in, He said to them, “Why make this commotion and weep? The child is not dead, but sleeping.”

40 And they ridiculed Him. But when He had put them all outside, He took the father and the mother of the child, and those who were with Him, and entered where the child was lying. 41 Then He took the child by the hand, and said to her, “Talitha, cumi,” which is translated, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” 42 Immediately the girl arose and walked, for she was twelve years of age. And they were overcome with great amazement. 43 But He commanded them strictly that no one should know it, and said that something should be given her to eat.

 

Chapter Six

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Jesus Rejected at Nazareth

Then He went out from there and came to His own country, and His disciples followed Him. And when the Sabbath had come, He began to teach in the synagogue. And many hearing Him were astonished, saying, “Where did this Man get these things? And what wisdom is this which is given to Him, that such mighty works are performed by His hands! Is this not the carpenter, the Son of Mary, and brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And are not His sisters here with us?” So they were offended at Him.

But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country, among his own relatives, and in his own house.”Now He could do no mighty work there, except that He laid His hands on a few sick people and healed them. And He marveled because of their unbelief. Then He went about the villages in a circuit, teaching.

Sending Out the Twelve

And He called the twelve to Himself, and began to send them out two by two, and gave them power over unclean spirits. He commanded them to take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bag, no bread, no copper in their money belts— but to wear sandals, and not to put on two tunics.

10 Also He said to them, “In whatever place you enter a house, stay there till you depart from that place. 11 And a]whoever will not receive you nor hear you, when you depart from there, shake off the dust under your feet as a testimony against them. b]Assuredly, I say to you, it will be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city!”

12 So they went out and preached that people should repent. 13 And they cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them.

John the Baptist Beheaded

14 Now King Herod heard of Him, for His name had become well known. And he said, “John the Baptist is risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him.”

15 Others said, “It is Elijah.”

And others said, “It is c]the Prophet, or like one of the prophets.”

16 But when Herod heard, he said, “This is John, whom I beheaded; he has been raised from the dead!” 17 For Herod himself had sent and laid hold of John, and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife; for he had married her. 18 Because John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.”

19 Therefore Herodias d]held it against him and wanted to kill him, but she could not; 20 for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just and holy man, and he protected him. And when he heard him, he e]did many things, and heard him gladly.

21 Then an opportune day came when Herod on his birthday gave a feast for his nobles, the high officers, and the chief men of Galilee. 22 And when Herodias’ daughter herself came in and danced, and pleased Herod and those who sat with him, the king said to the girl, “Ask me whatever you want, and I will give it to you.” 23 He also swore to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half my kingdom.”

24 So she went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask?”

And she said, “The head of John the Baptist!”

25 Immediately she came in with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.”

26 And the king was exceedingly sorry; yet, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he did not want to refuse her. 27 Immediately the king sent an executioner and commanded his head to be brought. And he went and beheaded him in prison, 28 brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother. 29 When his disciples heard of it, they came and took away his corpse and laid it in a tomb.

Feeding the Five Thousand

30 Then the apostles gathered to Jesus and told Him all things, both what they had done and what they had taught. 31 And He said to them, “Come aside by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” For there were many coming and going, and they did not even have time to eat. 32 So they departed to a deserted place in the boat by themselves.

33 But f]the multitudes saw them departing, and many knew Him and ran there on foot from all the cities. They arrived before them and came together to Him. 34 And Jesus, when He came out, saw a great multitude and was moved with compassion for them, because they were like sheep not having a shepherd. So He began to teach them many things. 35 When the day was now far spent, His disciples came to Him and said, “This is a deserted place, and already the hour islate. 36 Send them away, that they may go into the surrounding country and villages and buy themselves g]bread; for they have nothing to eat.”

37 But He answered and said to them, “You give them something to eat.”

And they said to Him, “Shall we go and buy two hundred denarii worth of bread and give them something to eat?”

38 But He said to them, “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.”

And when they found out they said, “Five, and two fish.”

39 Then He commanded them to make them all sit down in groups on the green grass. 40 So they sat down in ranks, in hundreds and in fifties. 41 And when He had taken the five loaves and the two fish, He looked up to heaven, blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to His disciples to set before them; and the two fish He divided among them all. 42 So they all ate and were filled. 43 And they took up twelve baskets full of fragments and of the fish. 44 Now those who had eaten the loaves were h]about five thousand men.

Jesus Walks on the Sea

45 Immediately He i]made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while He sent the multitude away. 46 And when He had sent them away, He departed to the mountain to pray. 47 Now when evening came, the boat was in the middle of the sea; and He was alone on the land. 48 Then He saw them straining at rowing, for the wind was against them. Now about the fourth watch of the night He came to them, walking on the sea, and would have passed them by. 49 And when they saw Him walking on the sea, they supposed it was a ghost, and cried out; 50 for they all saw Him and were troubled. But immediately He talked with them and said to them, “Bej] of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”51 Then He went up into the boat to them, and the wind ceased. And they were greatly amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marveled. 52 For they had not understood about the loaves, because their heart was hardened.

Many Touch Him and Are Made Well

53 When they had crossed over, they came to the land of Gennesaret and anchored there. 54 And when they came out of the boat, immediately k]the people recognized Him, 55 ran through that whole surrounding region, and began to carry about on beds those who were sick to wherever they heard He was. 56 Wherever He entered, into villages, cities, or the country, they laid the sick in the marketplaces, and begged Him that they might just touch the hem of His garment. And as many as touched Him were made well.

 

Chapter Seven

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Defilement Comes from Within

Then the Pharisees and some of the scribes came together to Him, having come from Jerusalem. Now a]when they saw some of His disciples eat bread with defiled, that is, with unwashed hands, b]they found fault. For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands c]in a special way, holding the tradition of the elders. When they come from the marketplace, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other things which they have received and hold, like the washing of cups, pitchers, copper vessels, and couches.

Then the Pharisees and scribes asked Him, “Why do Your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashed hands?”

He answered and said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of youhypocrites, as it is written:

‘This people honors Me with their lips,
But their heart is far from Me.
And in vain they worship Me,
Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’

For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men—d]the washing of pitchers and cups, and many other such things you do.”

He said to them, “All too well you e]reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your tradition. 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.’ 11 But you say, ‘If a man says to his father or mother, “Whatever profit you might have received from me isCorban”—’ (that is, a gift to God), 12 then you no longer let him do anything for his father or his mother, 13 making the word of God of no effect through your tradition which you have handed down. And many such things you do.”

14 When He had called all the multitude to Himself, He said to them, “Hear Me, everyone, and understand: 15 There is nothing that enters a man from outside which can defile him; but the things which come out of him, those are the things that defile a man. 16 Iff] anyone has ears to hear, let him hear!”

17 When He had entered a house away from the crowd, His disciples asked Him concerning the parable. 18 So He said to them, “Are you thus without understanding also? Do you not perceive that whatever enters a man from outside cannot defile him, 19 because it does not enter his heart but his stomach, and is eliminated, g]thus purifying all foods?” 20 And He said, “What comes out of a man, that defiles a man. 21 For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22 thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lewdness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within and defile a man.”

A Gentile Shows Her Faith

24 From there He arose and went to the region of Tyre h]and Sidon. And He entered a house and wanted no one to know it, but He could not be hidden. 25 For a woman whose young daughter had an unclean spirit heard about Him, and she came and fell at His feet. 26 The woman was a i]Greek, a j]Syro-Phoenician by birth, and she kept k]asking Him to cast the demon out of her daughter. 27 But Jesus said to her, “Let the children be filled first, for it is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the little dogs.”

28 And she answered and said to Him, “Yes, Lord, yet even the little dogs under the table eat from the children’s crumbs.”

29 Then He said to her, “For this saying go your way; the demon has gone out of your daughter.”

30 And when she had come to her house, she found the demon gone out, and her daughter lying on the bed.

Jesus Heals a Deaf-Mute

31 Again, departing from the region of Tyre and Sidon, He came through the midst of the region of Decapolis to the Sea of Galilee. 32 Then they brought to Him one who was deaf and had an impediment in his speech, and they begged Him to put His hand on him. 33 And He took him aside from the multitude, and put His fingers in his ears, and He spat and touched his tongue. 34 Then, looking up to heaven, He sighed, and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.”

35 Immediately his ears were opened, and the l]impediment of his tongue was loosed, and he spoke plainly. 36 Then He commanded them that they should tell no one; but the more He commanded them, the more widely they proclaimed it. 37 And they were astonished beyond measure, saying, “He has done all things well. He makes both the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.”

 

Chapter Eight

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Feeding the Four Thousand

In those days, the multitude being very great and having nothing to eat, Jesus called His disciples to Him and said to them, “I havecompassion on the multitude, because they have now continued with Me three days and have nothing to eat. And if I send them away hungry to their own houses, they will faint on the way; for some of them have come from afar.”

Then His disciples answered Him, “How can one satisfy these people with bread here in the wilderness?”

He asked them, “How many loaves do you have?”

And they said, “Seven.”

So He commanded the multitude to sit down on the ground. And He took the seven loaves and gave thanks, broke them and gave them to His disciples to set before them; and they set them before the multitude. They also had a few small fish; and having blessed them, He said to set them also before them. So they ate and were filled, and they took up seven large baskets of leftover fragments. Now those who had eaten were about four thousand. And He sent them away, 10 immediately got into the boat with His disciples, and came to the region of Dalmanutha.

The Pharisees Seek a Sign

11 Then the Pharisees came out and began to dispute with Him, seeking from Him a sign from heaven, testing Him. 12 But He sighed deeply in His spirit, and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Assuredly, I say to you, no sign shall be given to this generation.”

Beware of the Leaven of the Pharisees and Herod

13 And He left them, and getting into the boat again, departed to the other side. 14 Now a]the disciples had forgotten to take bread, and they did not have more than one loaf with them in the boat. 15 Then He charged them, saying, “Take heed, beware of the b]leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.”

16 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, “It is because we have no bread.”

17 But Jesus, being aware of it, said to them, “Why do you reason because you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive nor understand? Is your heart c]still hardened? 18 Having eyes, do you not see? And having ears, do you not hear? And do you not remember? 19 When I broke the five loaves for the five thousand, how many baskets full of fragments did you take up?”

They said to Him, “Twelve.”

20 â€œAlso, when I broke the seven for the four thousand, how many large baskets full of fragments did you take up?”

And they said, “Seven.”

21 So He said to them, “How is it you do not understand?”

A Blind Man Healed at Bethsaida

22 Then He came to Bethsaida; and they brought a blind man to Him, and begged Him to touch him. 23 So He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the town. And when He had spit on his eyes and put His hands on him, He asked him if he saw anything.

24 And he looked up and said, “I see men like trees, walking.”

25 Then He put His hands on his eyes again and made him look up. And he was restored and saw everyone clearly. 26 Then He sent him away to his house, saying, d]“Neither go into the town, nor tell anyone in the town.”

Peter Confesses Jesus as the Christ

27 Now Jesus and His disciples went out to the towns of Caesarea Philippi; and on the road He asked His disciples, saying to them, “Who do men say that I am?”

28 So they answered, “John the Baptist; but some say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.”

29 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”

Peter answered and said to Him, “You are the Christ.”

30 Then He strictly warned them that they should tell no one about Him.

Jesus Predicts His Death and Resurrection

31 And He began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. 32 He spoke this word openly. Then Peter took Him aside and began to rebuke Him. 33 But when He had turned around and looked at His disciples, He rebuked Peter, saying, “Get behind Me, Satan! For you are not e]mindful of the things of God, but the things of men.”

Take Up the Cross and Follow Him

34 When He had called the people to Himself, with His disciples also, He said to them, “Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. 35 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it. 36 For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? 37 Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? 38 For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.”


Chapter Nine

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1 And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the kingdom of God after it has come with power.”

The Transfiguration

And after six days Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his clothes became radiant, intensely white, as no one on earth could bleach them. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses, and they were talking with Jesus. And Peter said to Jesus, “Rabbi, it is good that we are here. Let us make three tents, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” For he did not know what to say, for they were terrified. And a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud, “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” And suddenly, looking around, they no longer saw anyone with them but Jesus only.

And as they were coming down the mountain, he charged them to tell no one what they had seen, until the Son of Man had risen from the dead. 10 So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what this rising from the dead might mean. 11 And they asked him, “Why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” 12 And he said to them, “Elijah does come first to restore all things. And how is it written of the Son of Man that he should suffer many things and be treated with contempt? 13 But I tell you that Elijah has come, and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written of him.”

Jesus Heals a Boy with an Unclean Spirit

14 And when they came to the disciples, they saw a great crowd around them, and scribes arguing with them. 15 And immediately all the crowd, when they saw him, were greatly amazed and ran up to him and greeted him. 16 And he asked them, “What are you arguing about with them?” 17 And someone from the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a spirit that makes him mute. 18 And whenever it seizes him, it throws him down, and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid. So I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they were not able.” 19 And he answered them, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to me.” 20 And they brought the boy to him. And when the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. 21 And Jesus asked his father, “How long has this been happening to him?” And he said, “From childhood. 22 And it has often cast him into fire and into water, to destroy him. But if you can do anything, have compassion on us and help us.” 23 And Jesus said to him, “ â€˜If you can’! All things are possible for one who believes.” 24 Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!” 25 And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.” 26 And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse, so that most of them said, “He is dead.” 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. 28 And when he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” 29 And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer.”

Jesus Again Foretells Death, Resurrection

30 They went on from there and passed through Galilee. And he did not want anyone to know, 31 for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him. And when he is killed, after three days he will rise.” 32 But they did not understand the saying, and were afraid to ask him.

Who Is the Greatest?

33 And they came to Capernaum. And when he was in the house he asked them, “What were you discussing on the way?” 34 But they kept silent, for on the way they had argued with one another about who was the greatest. 35 And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” 36 And he took a child and put him in the midst of them, and taking him in his arms, he said to them, 37 â€œWhoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me.”

Anyone Not Against Us Is for Us

38 John said to him, “Teacher, we saw someone casting out demons in your name, and we tried to stop him, because he was not following us.” 39 But Jesus said, “Do not stop him, for no one who does a mighty work in my name will be able soon afterward to speak evil of me. 40 For the one who is not against us is for us. 41 For truly, I say to you, whoever gives you a cup of water to drink because you belong to Christ will by no means lose his reward.

Temptations to Sin

42 â€œWhoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him if a great millstone were hung around his neck and he were thrown into the sea. 43 And if your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than with two hands to go to hell, to the unquenchable fire. 45 And if your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life lame than with two feet to be thrown into hell. 47 And if your eye causes you to sin, tear it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye than with two eyes to be thrown into hell, 48 â€˜where their worm does not die and the fire is not quenched.’ 49 For everyone will be salted with fire. 50 Salt is good, but if the salt has lost its saltiness, how will you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.”

————–COMMENTS / SERMONS CHAPTER NINE ———————————

WHO IS THE GREATEST

Mark 9:30-41

Rev. Jason Pamblanco, Leonardtown Baptist Church

01.02.22

  • Jesus predicts his death.
  • The highlight this time is on John.
  • This is the only time when Jesus talks about his death, that he talks about being “betrayed”.
  • Isaiah 53:6 All we like sheep have gone astray; We have turned, every one, to his own way; And the LORD has laid on Him the iniquity of us all.
  • Isaiah 53:12 Therefore I will divide Him a portion with the great, And He shall divide the spoil with the strong, Because He poured out His soul unto death, And He was numbered with the transgressors, And He bore the sin of many, And made intercession for the transgressors.
  • God had a plan.  God turned over Christ for us, to die, for OUR sins.
  • Acts 2:23 Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death;
  • While Jesus was talking about his upcoming death, the disciples were discussing who would have the upper hand.
  • When Jesus sat down, he took the posture of a “teacher.” This is the way the Rabbis taught, sitting down amongst the people being taught.
  • We need to make sure our church where anyone and everyone feels welcome. We need to get out of our comfort zone and welcome people. Ask people their name. Get to know someone.
  • Jesus teaches us to “get over ourselves.” Do not think about social standing. Ask yourself, “shouldn’t I know that person?” Don’t avoid them out of pride. Get to know who they are.
  • Jesus teaches us to be the greatest, we are to be servants of all.  He flipped their thinking from what people thought.
  • Mark 9:38…the problem from John’s perspective was “he wasn’t following us.”  Jesus response was “don’t stop him”….
  • There is no middle ground for Jesus.  You are either for him, or against him. There is no middle ground.  You are either hot or cold, no lukewarm.
  • Verse 41… even the simplest kindness done to Jesus, he will receive his eternal reward.
  • Two simple questions for application from today’s message?
    • Are your arms open to receive the overlooked?
    • Are your hands out to serve others in Christ’s name? A small act of kindness.
  • What a privilege we have to serve others.  This year let’s serve King Jesus.

———-END OF JASON PAMBLANCO SERMON ON MARK NINE —————


Chapter Ten

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Marriage and Divorce

10 Then He arose from there and came to the region of Judea by the other side of the Jordan. And multitudes gathered to Him again, and as He was accustomed, He taught them again.

The Pharisees came and asked Him, “Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?” testing Him.

And He answered and said to them, “What did Moses command you?”

They said, “Moses permitted a man to write a certificate of divorce, and to dismiss her.”

And Jesus answered and said to them, “Because of the hardness of your heart he wrote you this a]precept. But from the beginning of the creation, God ‘made them male and female.’ ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh’; so then they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let not man separate.”

10 In the house His disciples also asked Him again about the same matter. 11 So He said to them, “Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her. 12 And if a woman divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery.”

Jesus Blesses Little Children

13 Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14 But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God. 15 Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” 16 And He took them up in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them.

Jesus Counsels the Rich Young Ruler

17 Now as He was going out on the road, one came running, knelt before Him, and asked Him, “Good Teacher, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”

18 So Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. 19 You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not bear false witness,’ ‘Do not defraud,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother.’ ”

20 And he answered and said to Him, “Teacher, all these things I have kept from my youth.”

21 Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.”

22 But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

With God All Things Are Possible

23 Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” 24 And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is b]for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God! 25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”

26 And they were greatly astonished, saying among themselves, “Who then can be saved?”

27 But Jesus looked at them and said, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.”

28 Then Peter began to say to Him, “See, we have left all and followed You.”

29 So Jesus answered and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother c]or wife or children or d]lands, for My sake and the gospel’s, 30 who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time—houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions—and in the age to come, eternal life. 31 But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”

Jesus a Third Time Predicts His Death and Resurrection

32 Now they were on the road, going up to Jerusalem, and Jesus was going before them; and they were amazed. And as they followed they were afraid. Then He took the twelve aside again and began to tell them the things that would happen to Him: 33 â€œBehold, we are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and to the scribes; and they will condemn Him to death and deliver Him to the Gentiles; 34 and they will mock Him, and e]scourge Him, and spit on Him, and kill Him. And the third day He will rise again.”

Greatness Is Serving

35 Then James and John, the sons of Zebedee, came to Him, saying, “Teacher, we want You to do for us whatever we ask.”

36 And He said to them, “What do you want Me to do for you?”

37 They said to Him, “Grant us that we may sit, one on Your right hand and the other on Your left, in Your glory.”

38 But Jesus said to them, “You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink the cup that I drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?”

39 They said to Him, “We are able.”

So Jesus said to them, “You will indeed drink the cup that I drink, and with the baptism I am baptized with you will be baptized; 40 but to sit on My right hand and on My left is not Mine to give, but it is for thosefor whom it is prepared.”

41 And when the ten heard it, they began to be greatly displeased with James and John. 42 But Jesus called them to Himself and said to them, “You know that those who are considered rulers over the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 43 Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant. 44 And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.”

Jesus Heals Blind Bartimaeus

46 Now they came to Jericho. As He went out of Jericho with His disciples and a great multitude, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the road begging. 47 And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”

48 Then many warned him to be quiet; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!”

49 So Jesus stood still and commanded him to be called.

Then they called the blind man, saying to him, “Be of good cheer. Rise, He is calling you.”

50 And throwing aside his garment, he rose and came to Jesus.

51 So Jesus answered and said to him, “What do you want Me to do for you?”

The blind man said to Him, f]“Rabboni, that I may receive my sight.”

52 Then Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has g]made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus on the road.


Chapter Eleven

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A Different Kind of King

Rev. Mark Dooley, LBC
3.20.2016

Jesus Comes to Jerusalem as King

11 As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethphage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples,2 saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. 3 If anyone asks you, ‘Why are you doing this?’ say, ‘The Lord needs it and will send it back here shortly.’”
4 They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway.As they untied it, 5 some people standing there asked, “What are you doing, untying that colt?” 6 They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go. 7 When they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their cloaks over it, he sat on it. 8 Many people spread their cloaks on the road, while others spread branches they had cut in the fields. 9 Those who went ahead and those who followed shouted,
“Hosanna!”
“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
10 â€œBlessed is the coming kingdom of our father David!”
“Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
11 Jesus entered Jerusalem and went into the temple courts. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve.

1. Jesus is a unique King. When we encounter Jesus, we encounter a different kind of King. Jesus comes humble, to serve. Instead of riding into town on a Horse, the animal representing war, he came riding into town on a donkey. Kings are born to reign, but Jesus had come to die.

2. Jesus is a self-aware King. Royal kings “strut” and have bravado. But not Jesus, he was meek and lowly. Jesus shies away from publicity, he sought to avoid the lime light. Jesus acted and moved in certain ways, that he knew would enact a response.

3. Jesus is a compassionate King. Jesus wept over Jerusalem. When was the last time you saw a King weep? He opened blind eyes, he healed the sick. What more compassion could he have shown than to die such a horrible death for us? He willingly died in our place so that we do not have to face the wrath of God. He was the suffering servant. In reality he was the spotless lamb of God, but he died for us.

4. Jesus is a righteous King. Jesus tells us what we need to hear, rather than what we want to hear. He warns us of judgment; he warns us of an eternal hell. He does not sugar coat it. See Matt 24 and 25. He tells us that we can not face eternity without him.


Chapter Twelve

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The Parable of the Wicked Vinedressers

12 Then He began to speak to them in parables: “A man planted a vineyard and set a hedge around it, dug a place for the wine vat and built a tower. And he leased it to a]vinedressers and went into a far country. Now at vintage-time he sent a servant to the vinedressers, that he might receive some of the fruit of the vineyard from the vinedressers. And they took him and beat him and sent him away empty-handed. Again he sent them another servant, b]and at him they threw stones, wounded him in the head, and sent him away shamefully treated. And again he sent another, and him they killed; and many others, beating some and killing some. Therefore still having one son, his beloved, he also sent him to them last, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ But those c]vinedressers said among themselves, ‘This is the heir. Come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ So they took him and killed him and cast him out of the vineyard.

“Therefore what will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the vinedressers, and give the vineyard to others. 10 Have you not even read this Scripture:

‘The stone which the builders rejected
Has become the chief cornerstone.
11 This was the Lord’s doing,
And it is marvelous in our eyes’?”

12 And they sought to lay hands on Him, but feared the multitude, for they knew He had spoken the parable against them. So they left Him and went away.

The Pharisees: Is It Lawful to Pay Taxes to Caesar?

13 Then they sent to Him some of the Pharisees and the Herodians, to catch Him in His words. 14 When they had come, they said to Him, “Teacher, we know that You are true, and d]care about no one; for You do not e]regard the person of men, but teach the way of God in truth. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? 15 Shall we pay, or shall we not pay?”

But He, knowing their hypocrisy, said to them, “Why do you test Me? Bring Me a denarius that I may see it.” 16 So they brought it.

And He said to them, “Whose image and inscription is this?” They said to Him, “Caesar’s.”

17 And Jesus answered and said to them, f]“Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”

And they marveled at Him.

The Sadducees: What About the Resurrection?

18 Then some Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to Him; and they asked Him, saying: 19 â€œTeacher, Moses wrote to us that if a man’s brother dies, and leaves his wife behind, and leaves no children, his brother should take his wife and raise up offspring for his brother. 20 Now there were seven brothers. The first took a wife; and dying, he left no offspring. 21 And the second took her, and he died; nor did he leave any offspring. And the third likewise. 22 So the seven had her and left no offspring. Last of all the woman died also. 23 Therefore, in the resurrection, when they rise, whose wife will she be? For all seven had her as wife.”

24 Jesus answered and said to them, “Are you not thereforeg]mistaken, because you do not know the Scriptures nor the power of God? 25 For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. 26 But concerning the dead, that they rise, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the burning bush passage, how God spoke to him, saying, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? 27 He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living. You are therefore greatly h]mistaken.”

The Scribes: Which Is the First Commandment of All?

28 Then one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, i]perceiving that He had answered them well, asked Him, “Which is the j]first commandment of all?”

29 Jesus answered him, “The k]first of all the commandments is:‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 And you shalllove the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ l]This is the first commandment. 31 And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater thanthese.”

32 So the scribe said to Him, “Well said, Teacher. You have spoken the truth, for there is one God, and there is no other but He. 33 And to love Him with all the heart, with all the understanding, m]with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love one’s neighbor as oneself, is more than all the whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.”

34 Now when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, He said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.”

But after that no one dared question Him.

Jesus: How Can David Call His Descendant Lord?

35 Then Jesus answered and said, while He taught in the temple, “How is it that the scribes say that the Christ is the Son of David?36 For David himself said by the Holy Spirit:

‘The Lord said to my Lord,
“Sit at My right hand,
Till I make Your enemies Your footstool.” ’

37 Therefore David himself calls Him ‘Lord’; how is He then his Son?”

And the common people heard Him gladly.

Beware of the Scribes

38 Then He said to them in His teaching, “Beware of the scribes, who desire to go around in long robes, love greetings in the marketplaces,39 the best seats in the synagogues, and the best places at feasts,40 who devour widows’ houses, and n]for a pretense make long prayers. These will receive greater condemnation.”

The Widow’s Two Mites

41 Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. 42 Then one poor widow came and threw in two o]mites, which make a p]quadrans. 43 So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; 44 for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had,her whole livelihood.”


Chapter Thirteen

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Jesus Predicts the Destruction of the Temple

13 Then as He went out of the temple, one of His disciples said to Him, “Teacher, see what manner of stones and what buildings are here!”

And Jesus answered and said to him, “Do you see these great buildings? Not one stone shall be left upon another, that shall not be thrown down.”

The Signs of the Times and the End of the Age

Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John, and Andrew asked Him privately, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign when all these things will be fulfilled?”

And Jesus, answering them, began to say: “Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am He,’ and will deceive many. But when you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be troubled; for such things must happen, but the end isnot yet. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. And there will be earthquakes in various places, and there will be famines a]and troubles. These are the beginnings ofb]sorrows.

“But watch out for yourselves, for they will deliver you up to councils, and you will be beaten in the synagogues. You will c]be brought before rulers and kings for My sake, for a testimony to them.10 And the gospel must first be preached to all the nations. 11 But when they arrest you and deliver you up, do not worry beforehand,d]or premeditate what you will speak. But whatever is given you in that hour, speak that; for it is not you who speak, but the Holy Spirit.12 Now brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; and children will rise up against parents and cause them to be put to death. 13 And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. But he whoe]endures to the end shall be saved.

The Great Tribulation

14 â€œSo when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ f]spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not” (let the reader understand), “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.15 Let him who is on the housetop not go down into the house, nor enter to take anything out of his house. 16 And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. 17 But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! 18 And pray that your flight may not be in winter. 19 For in those days there will be tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the creation which God created until this time, nor ever shall be. 20 And unless the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake, whom He chose, He shortened the days.

21 â€œThen if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or, ‘Look, He is there!’ do not believe it. 22 For false christs and false prophets will rise and show signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even theg]elect. 23 But take heed; see, I have told you all things beforehand.

The Coming of the Son of Man

24 â€œBut in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; 25 the stars of heaven will fall, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. 26 Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. 27 And then He will send His angels, and gather together His h]elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of earth to the farthest part of heaven.

The Parable of the Fig Tree

28 â€œNow learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender, and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. 29 So you also, when you see these things happening, know that i]it is near—at the doors! 30 Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.31 Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

No One Knows the Day or Hour

32 â€œBut of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. 33 Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is. 34 It is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch.35 Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning— 36 lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. 37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”

 

Chapter Fourteen

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The Plot to Kill Jesus

14 After two days it was the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take Him by a]trickery and put Him to death. But they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar of the people.”

The Anointing at Bethany

And being in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, as He sat at the table, a woman came having an alabaster flask of very costly b]oil of spikenard. Then she broke the flask and poured it on His head. But there were some who were indignant among themselves, and said, “Why was this fragrant oil wasted? For it might have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor.” And they criticizedc] her sharply.

But Jesus said, “Let her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a good work for Me. For you have the poor with you always, and whenever you wish you may do them good; but Me you do not have always. She has done what she could. She has come beforehand to anoint My body for burial. Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.”

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus

10 Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Him to them. 11 And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. So he sought how he might conveniently betray Him.

Jesus Celebrates the Passover with His Disciples

12 Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread, when they d]killed the Passover lamb, His disciples said to Him, “Where do You want us to go and prepare, that You may eat the Passover?”

13 And He sent out two of His disciples and said to them, “Go into the city, and a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water; follow him.14 Wherever he goes in, say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says, “Where is the guest room in which I may eat the Passover with My disciples?” ’ 15 Then he will show you a large upper room, furnished and prepared; there make ready for us.”

16 So His disciples went out, and came into the city, and found it just as He had said to them; and they prepared the Passover.

17 In the evening He came with the twelve. 18 Now as they sat and ate, Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, one of you who eats with Me will betray Me.”

19 And they began to be sorrowful, and to say to Him one by one, “Isit I?” e]And another said, “Is it I?”

20 He answered and said to them, “It is one of the twelve, who dips with Me in the dish. 21 The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had never been born.”

Jesus Institutes the Lord’s Supper

22 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it,and gave it to them and said, “Take, f]eat; this is My body.”

23 Then He took the cup, and when He had given thanks He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. 24 And He said to them, “This is My blood of the g]new covenant, which is shed for many. 25 Assuredly, I say to you, I will no longer drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”

26 And when they had sung h]a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

Jesus Predicts Peter’s Denial

27 Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumblei]because of Me this night, for it is written:

‘I will strike the Shepherd,
And the sheep will be scattered.’

28 â€œBut after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.”

29 Peter said to Him, “Even if all are made to j]stumble, yet I will not be.”

30 Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that today, even this night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.”

31 But he spoke more vehemently, “If I have to die with You, I will not deny You!”

And they all said likewise.

The Prayer in the Garden

32 Then they came to a place which was named Gethsemane; and He said to His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” 33 And He took Peter, James, and John with Him, and He began to be troubled and deeply distressed. 34 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch.”

35 He went a little farther, and fell on the ground, and prayed that if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. 36 And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me;nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.”

37 Then He came and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “Simon, are you sleeping? Could you not watch one hour? 38 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

39 Again He went away and prayed, and spoke the same words. 40 And when He returned, He found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy; and they did not know what to answer Him.

41 Then He came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? It is enough! The hour has come; behold, the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 42 Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.”

Betrayal and Arrest in Gethsemane

43 And immediately, while He was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, with a great multitude with swords and clubs, came from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. 44 Now His betrayer had given them a signal, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him and lead Him away safely.”

45 As soon as he had come, immediately he went up to Him and said to Him, “Rabbi, Rabbi!” and kissed Him.

46 Then they laid their hands on Him and took Him. 47 And one of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.

48 Then Jesus answered and said to them, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take Me? 49 I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize Me. But the Scriptures must be fulfilled.”

50 Then they all forsook Him and fled.

A Young Man Flees Naked

51 Now a certain young man followed Him, having a linen cloth thrown around his naked body. And the young men laid hold of him, 52 and he left the linen cloth and fled from them naked.

Jesus Faces the Sanhedrin

53 And they led Jesus away to the high priest; and with him were assembled all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes. 54 But Peter followed Him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he sat with the servants and warmed himself at the fire.

55 Now the chief priests and all the council sought testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but found none. 56 For many bore false witness against Him, but their testimonies k]did not agree.

57 Then some rose up and bore false witness against Him, saying, 58 â€œWe heard Him say, ‘I will destroy this temple made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.’ ” 59 But not even then did their testimony agree.

60 And the high priest stood up in the midst and asked Jesus, saying, “Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?” 61 But He kept silent and answered nothing.

Again the high priest asked Him, saying to Him, “Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?”

62 Jesus said, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.”

63 Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “What further need do we have of witnesses? 64 You have heard the blasphemy! What do you think?”

And they all condemned Him to be deserving of death.

65 Then some began to spit on Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him, and to say to Him, “Prophesy!” And the officers l]struck Him with the palms of their hands.

Peter Denies Jesus, and Weeps

66 Now as Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came. 67 And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, “You also were with Jesus of Nazareth.”

68 But he denied it, saying, “I neither know nor understand what you are saying.” And he went out on the porch, and a rooster crowed.

69 And the servant girl saw him again, and began to say to those who stood by, “This is one of them.” 70 But he denied it again.

And a little later those who stood by said to Peter again, “Surely you are one of them; for you are a Galilean, m]and your n]speech shows it.”

71 Then he began to curse and swear, “I do not know this Man of whom you speak!”

72 A second time the rooster crowed. Then Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” And when he thought about it, he wept.

 

Chapter Fifteen

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Jesus Faces Pilate

15 Immediately, in the morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council; and they bound Jesus, led Him away, and delivered Him to Pilate. Then Pilate asked Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?”

He answered and said to him, “It is as you say.”

And the chief priests accused Him of many things, but He answered nothing. Then Pilate asked Him again, saying, “Do You answer nothing? See how many things a]they testify against You!” But Jesus still answered nothing, so that Pilate marveled.

Taking the Place of Barabbas

Now at the feast he was accustomed to releasing one prisoner to them, whomever they requested. And there was one named Barabbas, who was chained with his fellow rebels; they had committed murder in the rebellion. Then the multitude, b]crying aloud, began to ask him to do just as he had always done for them. But Pilate answered them, saying, “Do you want me to release to you the King of the Jews?” 10 For he knew that the chief priests had handed Him over because of envy.

11 But the chief priests stirred up the crowd, so that he should rather release Barabbas to them. 12 Pilate answered and said to them again, “What then do you want me to do with Him whom you call the King of the Jews?”

13 So they cried out again, “Crucify Him!”

14 Then Pilate said to them, “Why, what evil has He done?”

But they cried out all the more, “Crucify Him!”

15 So Pilate, wanting to gratify the crowd, released Barabbas to them; and he delivered Jesus, after he had scourged Him, to be crucified.

The Soldiers Mock Jesus

16 Then the soldiers led Him away into the hall called c]Praetorium, and they called together the whole garrison. 17 And they clothed Him with purple; and they twisted a crown of thorns, put it on His head,18 and began to salute Him, “Hail, King of the Jews!” 19 Then they struck Him on the head with a reed and spat on Him; and bowing the knee, they worshiped Him. 20 And when they had mocked Him, they took the purple off Him, put His own clothes on Him, and led Him out to crucify Him.

The King on a Cross

21 Then they compelled a certain man, Simon a Cyrenian, the father of Alexander and Rufus, as he was coming out of the country and passing by, to bear His cross. 22 And they brought Him to the place Golgotha, which is translated, Place of a Skull. 23 Then they gave Him wine mingled with myrrh to drink, but He did not take it. 24 And when they crucified Him, they divided His garments, casting lots for them to determine what every man should take.

25 Now it was the third hour, and they crucified Him. 26 And the inscription of His d]accusation was written above:

THE KING OF THE JEWS.

27 With Him they also crucified two robbers, one on His right and the other on His left. 28 e]So the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “And He was numbered with the transgressors.”

29 And those who passed by blasphemed Him, wagging their heads and saying, “Aha! You who destroy the temple and build it in three days, 30 save Yourself, and come down from the cross!”

31 Likewise the chief priests also, mocking among themselves with the scribes, said, “He saved others; Himself He cannot save. 32 Let the Christ, the King of Israel, descend now from the cross, that we may see and f]believe.”

Even those who were crucified with Him reviled Him.

Jesus Dies on the Cross

33 Now when the sixth hour had come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. 34 And at the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which is translated, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”

35 Some of those who stood by, when they heard that, said, “Look, He is calling for Elijah!” 36 Then someone ran and filled a sponge full of sour wine, put it on a reed, and offered it to Him to drink, saying, “Let Him alone; let us see if Elijah will come to take Him down.”

37 And Jesus cried out with a loud voice, and breathed His last.

38 Then the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. 39 So when the centurion, who stood opposite Him, saw that g]He cried out like this and breathed His last, he said, “Truly this Man was the Son of God!”

40 There were also women looking on from afar, among whom were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the Less and of Joses, and Salome, 41 who also followed Him and ministered to Him when He was in Galilee, and many other women who came up with Him to Jerusalem.

Jesus Buried in Joseph’s Tomb

42 Now when evening had come, because it was the Preparation Day, that is, the day before the Sabbath, 43 Joseph of Arimathea, a prominent council member, who was himself waiting for the kingdom of God, coming and taking courage, went in to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. 44 Pilate marveled that He was already dead; and summoning the centurion, he asked him if He had been dead for some time. 45 So when he found out from the centurion, he granted the body to Joseph. 46 Then he bought fine linen, took Him down, and wrapped Him in the linen. And he laid Him in a tomb which had been hewn out of the rock, and rolled a stone against the door of the tomb. 47 And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses observed where He was laid.


Chapter Sixteen

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He Is Risen

16 Now when the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices, that they might come and anoint Him. Very early in the morning, on the first day of the week, they came to the tomb when the sun had risen. And they said among themselves, “Who will roll away the stone from the door of the tomb for us?” But when they looked up, they saw that the stone had been rolled away—for it was very large. And entering the tomb, they saw a young man clothed in a long white robe sitting on the right side; and they were alarmed.

But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him. But go, tell His disciples—and Peter—that He is going a]before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.”

So they went out b]quickly and fled from the tomb, for they trembled and were amazed. And they said nothing to anyone, for they were afraid.

Mary Magdalene Sees the Risen Lord

c]Now when He rose early on the first day of the week, He appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom He had cast seven demons. 10 She went and told those who had been with Him, as they mourned and wept. 11 And when they heard that He was alive and had been seen by her, they did not believe.

Jesus Appears to Two Disciples

12 After that, He appeared in another form to two of them as they walked and went into the country. 13 And they went and told it to the rest, but they did not believe them either.

The Great Commission

14 Later He appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen. 15 And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.16 He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. 17 And these signs will follow those who d]believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; 18 theye] will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”

Christ Ascends to God’s Right Hand

19 So then, after the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. 20 And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen.

 

Psalms – start date 4.8.2016

Filed under: Old and New Testament — Adam Osborne @ 2:15 pm

Psalms


Chapters: | 1 | 2 | 3| 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |9 | |10 | |11 |16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 29 | | 30 | | 31 | | 51 | 63 |84 | 95 |


Chapter 1

The Way of the Righteous and the Wicked

Psa 1:1 Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

Blessed–literally, “oh, the happiness”–an exclamation of strong emotion, as if resulting from reflecting on the subject. The use of the plural may denote fulness and variety

Psa 1:2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

law–all of God’s word then written, especially the books of Moses

meditate – to moan, growl, utter, speak, muse. See Isaiah 31:4…. the lioness is growling over her prey, she is declaring it hers, it belongs to her. Meditating on God’s word is the same, it is yours, it belongs to you.

Isaiah 31:4 For thus hath the LORD spoken unto me, Like as the lion and the young lion roaring on his prey, when a multitude of shepherds is called forth against him, he will not be afraid of their voice, nor abase himself for the noise of them: so shall the LORD of hosts come down to fight for mount Zion, and for the hill thereof.

Psa 1:3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Jer 17:8 They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”

shall prosper–literally, “make prosper,” brings to perfection.

Psa 1:4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.

like the chaff–which, by Eastern modes of winnowing against the wind, was utterly blown away.

Matthew 3:12 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.

Psa 1:5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

stand in the judgment–be acquitted. They shall be driven from among the good. They will be present for the judgment, but they will not be able to endure it. They will not stand, but kneel.

Mat 25:45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. Mat 25:46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

Psa 1:6 For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.

knoweth the way–attends to and provides for them

Hebrews 4:13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

Hosea 13:5 I did know thee in the wilderness, in the land of great drought.

way of the wicked–All their plans will end in disappointment and ruin

Proverbs 4:19 The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.

Summary of Chapter 1. There are two paths in life you can take. One path leads to life, the other path leads to death.

Deu 30:19 I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: Deu 30:20 That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.



Chapter2



Chapter3



Chapter4



Chapter5



Chapter6



Chapter7



Chapter8



Chapter9



Chapter10



Chapter11



Chapter12



Chapter13



Chapter14



Chapter15



Chapter16



Chapter17



Chapter18



Chapter 19

The Law of the Lord Is Perfect

Psa 19:1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.
Psa 19:2 Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.
Psa 19:3 There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.
Psa 19:4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
Psa 19:5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
Psa 19:6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.

    God speaks through his creation! There are some things that we can learn about God through his creation.

  • He exists. The heavens declare the glory of God.
  • We learn about God through General Revelation, available to everyone. You don’t need scripture to know that God exists.
  • All of creation tells us that God is a designer. He designed everything for a purpose. Man needs oxygen, so God created plants to give us oxygen. Think about the physics involved on this earth spinning around like a globe on an axis!
  • God’s stamp, his signature is on everything. He is a God of order, power, laws, omnipotence,
  • God is a caring God, God is a loving God, just look at nature.
  • It doesn’t matter if you believe it or not, God’s glory is happening every day. The heavens declare the glory of God every day.
  • It doesn’t matter what your IQ is, it doesn’t matter what language you speak.
  • See Romans Chapter One!

Psa 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
Psa 19:8 The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
Psa 19:9 The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
Psa 19:10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
Psa 19:11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
Psa 19:12 Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.
Psa 19:13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
Psa 19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.

    God speaks through His Word.

  • The “law” (the Old Testament); the statutes.
  • They are telling us God’s truths.
  • God’s GRACE is revealed in His written Word.



Sola Scriptura
Psalms 19:7-11
Rev Mark Dooley, Leonardtown Baptist Church
11.5.2017

Psa 19:7 The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple; 8 the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes; 9 the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the rules of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether. 10 More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. 11 Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.

  1. The world around us reveals God to us. Verses 1 to 6.
  2. Romans 1:19-20 For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. 20 For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.

  3. The witness within us reveals God to us. Verses 12-14
  4. The Word before us reveals God to us. Verses 7-11


Chapter20



Chapter21



Chapter22



Chapter23

The Lord Is My Shepherd

Note: Notice in Psalms, it is assumed that you believe in God. He is very close, very intimate. In Psalms, the people who do not believe in God are called “fools” (see Psalm Chapter 14).

Psa 23:1 A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

This is the summary for the entire 23rd psalm. God is our shepherd, and we will not want or lack anything. This does not mean you will get everything you want, it means you will receive everything you need. When you are going through trails or distress, sometimes you will just get manna, so don’t complain. You need to have an “attitude of gratitude” (Barb Darden catch phrase). God decides what you need, not us.

Sheep/Shepherd is a huge metaphor throughout the bible. It is important for you to understand this relationship or you cannot fully understand the full context of the writers meaning.

John 10:11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

Matt 9:36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.

Luke 15:3-6 And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.

Matt 25:31-33 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.

Matt 26:31 Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.

Psa 23:2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

We will not lack rest. We will not lack restoration. In Hebrew, it is important here to understand the emphasis of rest, yes he is leading you, which is good, but the emphasis is rest. The purpose of rest is restoration, to be fully recharged. Then, to go back out into the world.

Psa 23:3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.

We will not lack guidance. He will never steer you wrong. He will put you on the narrow path, the right path.

Psa 23:4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

We will not lack protection. This also translates in the Hebrew to “deep shadows, deep valleys”…so as you have ups and downs in your life, he will lead you.

Psa 23:5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

We will not lack abundance.

Psa 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

We will not lack hope. “Surely” also translates to ONLY.



Chapter 33

The Steadfast Love of the Lord

Psa 33:1 Shout for joy in the LORD, O you righteous! Praise befits the upright.

befits = literally means to be at home.

Psa 33:2 Give thanks to the LORD with the lyre; make melody to him with the harp of ten strings!
Psa 33:3 Sing to him a new song; play skillfully on the strings, with loud shouts.

skillfully = We should not give to God anything less than our very best.

Psa 33:4 For the word of the LORD is upright, and all his work is done in faithfulness.
Psa 33:5 He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the steadfast love of the LORD.
Psa 33:6 By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, and by the breath of his mouth all their host.
Psa 33:7 He gathers the waters of the sea as a heap; he puts the deeps in storehouses.
Psa 33:8 Let all the earth fear the LORD; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him!
Psa 33:9 For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm.
Psa 33:10 The LORD brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; he frustrates the plans of the peoples.
Psa 33:11 The counsel of the LORD stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations.
Psa 33:12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!
Psa 33:13 The LORD looks down from heaven; he sees all the children of man;
Psa 33:14 from where he sits enthroned he looks out on all the inhabitants of the earth,
Psa 33:15 he who fashions the hearts of them all and observes all their deeds.
Psa 33:16 The king is not saved by his great army; a warrior is not delivered by his great strength.
Psa 33:17 The war horse is a false hope for salvation, and by its great might it cannot rescue.
Psa 33:18 Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear him, on those who hope in his steadfast love,
Psa 33:19 that he may deliver their soul from death and keep them alive in famine.

that he may deliver = salvation. The death of Christ on the cross accomplished our salvation!

Psa 33:20 Our soul waits for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.
Psa 33:21 For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name.
Psa 33:22 Let your steadfast love, O LORD, be upon us, even as we hope in you.


The Power of Praise in the Believer’s Life

Psalm 33:1-22

Rev. Mark Dooley

1. The right to praise (verse 1).

2. The rigors of praise (verses 2-5)

3. The reasons for praise (verses 6-19)

  • (a) God’s creation which exhibits His power (verses 6-9)
  • (b) God’s control which exhibits His providence (verses 10-11)
  • (c) God’s care which exhibits His plan (verses 12-19)

4. The results of praise (verses 20-22)


A MIGHTY FORTRESS IS OUR GOD

Psalm 46:1-11

1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, 3 though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High. 5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns. 6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts. 7 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah

8 Come, behold the works of the Lord , how he has brought desolations on the earth. 9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the chariots with fire. 10 “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” 11 The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah

• Vv1-3. Gross calamity surrounds us.
• Calamity happens to all of us. They are a reality of life. How do you respond to them? We can not handle them on our own.
• When you face calamity the only place to run is to Jesus.
• Whatever your refuge is, if it is not Jesus, it WILL FAIL you.
• Psalm 142:5; John 16:33
• Vv 4-7. God’s comfort strengthens us.
• God will help us.
• God will give you victory and will strengthen us.
• Vv8-11. God’s calling sustains us.
• Matthew 14. A terrible storms at sea. Out of nowhere Jesus appears, in the midst of them. Jesus walks on the water.
• God is an EVER PRESENT help in time of trouble.
• Peter started to take his eyes off of Jesus and Peter started to sink.
• The wind and waves will come in our lives. We need to keep our eyes ON HIM.



Chapter 51

Create in Me a Clean Heart, O God

Psa 51:1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet came unto him, after he had gone in to Bathsheba. Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
Psa 51:2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.

Notice that David says “MINE” iniquity. David is admitting, it is HIS since, no one else. No excuses, it’s his.

Psa 51:3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
Psa 51:4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
Psa 51:5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.

Original sin. From the days of Adam and Eve in the garden.

Psa 51:6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.

David admits that he knows the Commandments. He knows that God has taught him right and wrong.

Psa 51:7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.

David wants more than just forgiveness. He wants to be changed. He wants to put away the old, and enjoy the new. He is struggling, he is passionate.

Psa 51:8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
Psa 51:9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
Psa 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

David is looking for a new heart, a heart that will not do wrong, will not sin. He doesn’t want to sin. He is pleading.

Psa 51:11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.
Psa 51:12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.
Psa 51:13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.

Evangelism in the Psalms. David wants to evangelize. He is not content being happy alone, he wants to help others. David is an adulterer, a murder, a liar, but he wants to evangelize. If you feel that you cannot evangelize, that is of the devil. Do not wait until you are perfect, because you will never be perfect, go ahead and evangelize.

Psa 51:14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
Psa 51:15 O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.

When you have joy, praise is what comes out of your mouth. As God removes those obstacles from you, joy is what naturally comes out.

Psa 51:16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.
Psa 51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.

David is recognizing that God has pleasure with a broken spirit and a contrite heart.

Psa 51:18 Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem.
Psa 51:19 Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering: then shall they offer bullocks upon thine altar.

We should LIVE in Psalm 51, because we sin daily.

REPENTANCE

Rev. Allen Acker, 08.12.2012

Psalms 51:1-12. 1 Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin!

3 For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. 4 Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight, so that you may be justified in your words and blameless in your judgment. 5 Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me. 6 Behold, you delight in truth in the inward being, and you teach me wisdom in the secret heart.

7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. 8 Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones that you have broken rejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sins, and blot out all my iniquities. 10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. 11 Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.

2 truths in this psalm
1. Our sin is worse than we thought.
2. God’s Mercy is greater than we can imagine.

• Vv1-2. Mercy is needed.
• Transgression – David understood his transgression
• Iniquity –
• Sin – fell short
• Vv 3-6. Confession is offered.
• He acknowledges his sins. He admits his sin against the Lord. God defines sin, but we only sin against God. Since God defines sin, it is only against him that we sin.
• Vv 7-9. Cleansing requested.
• We must be washed in the blood ofChrist
• Vv 10:13 Renewal Desired
• David desires renewal AND he wants to help others from what he has learned.
• He now can worship rightly. We workshop God because He has already paid the price of our sin with His blood. David had previously worshipped himself by putting himself before God
• Vv 14-17 Worship Given
• Vv 18-19 Blessing Conferred



Chapter52



Chapter53




Chapter54



Chapter55



Chapter 63

My Soul Thirsts for You

Psa 63:1 A Psalm of David, when he was in the wilderness of Judah. O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is;
Psa 63:2 To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.
Psa 63:3 Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee.
Psa 63:4 Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.
Psa 63:5 My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:
Psa 63:6 When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.
Psa 63:7 Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.
Psa 63:8 My soul followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me.
Psa 63:9 But those that seek my soul, to destroy it, shall go into the lower parts of the earth.
Psa 63:10 They shall fall by the sword: they shall be a portion for foxes.
Psa 63:11 But the king shall rejoice in God; every one that sweareth by him shall glory: but the mouth of them that speak lies shall be stopped.

“Seeking God in Worship”
Rev Mark Dooley
Leonardtown Baptist Church
8.6.2017

1. A definition of seeking.
Psa 14:1 The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good. Psa 14:2 The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God.

Man in his natural state doesn’t seek God. But when you come to Christ, then you will seek God.

2. Who we seek.
thou art my God.

3. When we seek.
Psa 143:8 Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee.

Psa 5:3 My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.

Psa 59:16 But I will sing of thy power; yea, I will sing aloud of thy mercy in the morning: for thou hast been my defence and refuge in the day of my trouble.

Corporate worship would be a par of our lives. We should seek God when we are alone, daily.

4. Why we seek Him

a. So we can view His glory. Verse 2.
b. To experience His love. Verse 3.
c. To exalt his name. Verse 4.
d. To delight in his abundance. Verse 5.
e. To grasp his Word. Verse 6.
f. T receive his aide. Verse 7.
G So we might know is presence. Verse 8.

John 10:28-30 Joh 10:28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand. 30 I and my Father are one.


Psalm 73

When Life Conflicts With Truth

Psalm 73:1-28
Rev Mark Dooley

1 Truly God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. 2 But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled, my steps had nearly slipped. 3 For I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 4 For they have no pangs until death; their bodies are fat and sleek. 5 They are not in trouble as others are; they are not stricken like the rest of mankind. 6 Therefore pride is their necklace; violence covers them as a garment. 7 Their eyes swell out through fatness; their hearts overflow with follies. 8 They scoff and speak with malice; loftily they threaten oppression. 9 They set their mouths against the heavens, and their tongue struts through the earth. 10 Therefore his people turn back to them, and find no fault in them. 11 And they say, “How can God know? Is there knowledge in the Most High?” 12 Behold, these are the wicked; always at ease, they increase in riches. 13 All in vain have I kept my heart clean and washed my hands in innocence. 14 For all the day long I have been stricken and rebuked every morning. 15 If I had said, “I will speak thus,” I would have betrayed the generation of your children.

16 But when I thought how to understand this, it seemed to me a wearisome task, 17 until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end.

18 Truly you set them in slippery places; you make them fall to ruin. 19 How they are destroyed in a moment, swept away utterly by terrors! 20 Like a dream when one awakes, O Lord, when you rouse yourself, you despise them as phantoms. 21 When my soul was embittered, when I was pricked in heart, 22 I was brutish and ignorant; I was like a beast toward you.

23 Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. 24 You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory. 25 Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. 26 My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.

27 For behold, those who are far from you shall perish; you put an end to everyone who is unfaithful to you. 28 But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.

• V 1. Depending upon God’s promise.
• Vv 2-14. Doubting God’s Plan. Though he doubted, he did not disobey. He continued to trust and obey. We will all have doubts. But though we will all have doubts we still trust in God.
• Vv 15-26. DrawingNear to God’s Presence. True worship puts things in to true perspective. He is all we need. Jesus is all that we truly need.
• Vv27 -28. Declaring God’s Praise.




Chapter 84

My Soul Longs for the Courts of the Lord

Psa 84:1 To the chief Musician upon Gittith, A Psalm for the sons of Korah. How amiable are thy tabernacles, O LORD of hosts!

The ancient Jews believed God dwelt there, in the temple. The temple was the place where they went to meet God. In the Old Testament, God didn’t dwell with the people full time. He met them in the temple.

1Ki 8:27 But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded?

Exodus 25:8 And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.

However TODAY, God dwells within us. His Spirit is within us, in our hearts.

1 Cor 3:16-17 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? 17 If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.

1 Cor 6:19-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 6:20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.

Gittith = harp

amiable = loved

Korah = Korahites were gatekeepers. Korah was the great grandson of Levi. Singers of praise. Stands outside all day, creating people as they came in. Think about a modern day bell hop.

LORD = notice the CAPITOL letters of LORD. This refers to Jehovah. Self Existent or eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God: – Jehovah, the Lord.

Psa 84:2 My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God.

longeth = kâsaph (kaw-saf’) A primitive root; properly to become pale, that is, (by implication) to pine after; also to fear: – [have] desire, be greedy, long, sore.

courts = châtsêr (khaw-tsare’) From H2690 in its original sense; a yard (as inclosed by a fence); also a hamlet (as similarly surrounded with walls): – court, tower, village.

heart = lêb (labe) The heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the centre of anything

crieth = rânan (raw-nan’) A primitive root; properly to creak (or emit a stridulous sound), that is, to shout (usually for joy): – aloud for joy, cry out, be joyful, (greatly, make to) rejoice, (cause to) shout (for joy), (cause to) sing (aloud, for joy, out), triumph.

God = ‘êl (ale) strength; as adjective mighty; especially the Almighty (but used also of any deity): – God (god), X goodly, X great, idol, might (-y one), power, strong. Compare names in “-el.”

Psa 84:3 Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God.

hosts = tsâbâ’ tsebâ’âh (tsaw-baw’, tseb-aw-aw’) a mass of persons (or figurative things), especially regularly organized for war (an army); by implication a campaign, literally or figuratively (specifically hardship, worship): – appointed time, (+) army, (+) battle, company, host, service, soldiers, waiting upon, war (-fare).

God = ‘Ä•lôhı̂ym (el-o-heem’) gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme God; occasionally applied by way of deference to magistrates; and sometimes as a superlative: – angels, X exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), X (very) great, judges, X mighty.

Psa 84:4 Blessed are they that dwell in thy house: they will be still praising thee. Selah.
Psa 84:5 Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them.
Psa 84:6 Who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools.

Baca = valley of tears

Here the author is saying that as he worships the Lord, he can even be happy in the valley of tears.

Psa 84:7 They go from strength to strength, every one of them in Zion appeareth before God.

Zion = a mountain of Jerusalem

Psa 84:8 O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer: give ear, O God of Jacob. Selah.

prayer = intercession, supplication; by implication a hymn

Psa 84:9 Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of thine anointed.

shield = (that is, the small one or buckler); figuratively a protector; also the scaly hide of the crocodile

anointed = mâshı̂yach maw-shee’-akh STRONGS From H4886; anointed; usually a consecrated person (as a king, priest, or saint); specifically the Messiah

Psa 84:10 For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.
Psa 84:11 For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
Psa 84:12 O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.




Chapter 95

Let Us Sing Songs of Praise

Psa 95:1 O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.

LORD: notice, all CAPS. yehôvâh yeh-ho-vaw’ From H1961; (the) self Existent or eternal; Jehovah, Jewish national name of God: – Jehovah, the Lord.

noise: figuratively to split the ears (with sound), that is, shout (for alarm or joy): – blow an alarm, cry (alarm, aloud, out), destroy, make a joyful noise, smart, shout (for joy), sound an alarm, triumph.

salvation: From H3467; liberty, deliverance, prosperity: – safety, salvation, saving.

Psa 95:2 Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.

psalms: a song to be accompanied with instrumental music: – singing, song.

Psa 95:3 For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods.

God: ‘êl ale Shortened from H352; strength; as adjective mighty; especially the Almighty (but used also of any deity): – God (god), X goodly, X great, idol, might (-y one), power, strong.

For Yahweh is a great God. The object is to exalt Jehovah, the true God, as distinguished from all who were worshipped as gods. The first idea is that he is “great;” that he is exalted over all the universe; that he rules over all, and that he is to be worshipped as such.

Psa 95:4 In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also.

In his hand – In his power, or under his control as his own. That is, he so possesses all things that they can be claimed by no other. His right over them is absolute and entire.

deep places – means the interior, the inmost depth

The strength of the hills is his also – “The heights of the hills are his.” The word rendered “strength” – תועפות tô‛âphôth – means properly swiftness or speed in running; then, weariness, wearisome labor; and hence, wealth obtained by labor; “treasures.” Here the expression means “treasures of the mountains;” that is, treasures obtained out of the mountains, the precious metals, etc.

Psa 95:5 The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land.

The sea is his – Margin, as in Hebrew, “Whose the sea is.” That is, The sea belongs to him, with all which it contains.

And he made it – It is his, “because” he made it. The creation of anything gives the highest possible right over it.

And his hands formed the dry land – He has a claim, therefore, that it should be recognized as his, and that all who dwell upon it, and derive their support from it, should acknowledge him as its great Owner and Lord.

Psa 95:6 O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.

ALBERT BARNES: Let us kneel before the Lord our Maker – The usual attitude of prayer in the Scriptures. See the notes at Dan 6:10; compare 2Ch 6:13; Luk 22:41; Act 7:60; Act 9:40; Act 20:36; Act 21:5. All the expressions here employed denote a posture of profound reverence in worship, and the passage is a standing rebuke of all irreverent postures in prayer; of such habits as often prevail in public worship where no change of posture is made in prayer, and where a congregation irreverently sit in the act of professedly worshipping God. People show to their fellowmen the respect indicated by rising up before them: much more should they show respect to God – respect in a posture which will indicate profound reverence, and a deep sense of his presence and majesty. Reverently kneeling or standing “will” indicate this; sitting does not indicate it.

Psa 95:7 For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice,
Psa 95:8 Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness:

As in the provocation … – “contention.” The original is “Meribah.” See Exo 17:7, where the original words Meribah, rendered here “provocation,” and “Massah,” rendered here “temptation,” are retained in the translation.

Psa 95:9 When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my work.
Psa 95:10 Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways:

ALBERT BARNES. Forty years long – All the time that they were in the wilderness. During this long period their conduct was such as to try my patience and forbearance.

Was I grieved – The word used here – קוט qûṭ – means properly to loathe, to nauseate, to be disgusted with. It is translated “loathe” in Eze 6:9; Eze 20:43; Eze 36:31; and grieved in Psa 119:158; Psa 139:21. It is here expressive of the strong abhorrence which God had of their conduct. Compare Rev 3:16.

With this generation – With the entire generation that came out of Egypt. They were all cut off in the wilderness, except Caleb and Joshua.

And said, It is a people – It is a characteristic of the entire people, that they are disposed to wander from God.

That do err in their heart – In the Epistle to the Hebrews Heb 3:10 where this is quoted, it is, “They do always err in their heart.” The sense is substantially the same. See the notes at that place.

Psa 95:11 Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest.

ALBERT BARNES: That they should not enter into my rest – as in Hebrew, “If they enter into my rest.” The “rest” here referred to was the land of Canaan. They were not permitted to enter there as a place of “rest” after their long and weary wanderings, but died in the wilderness. The meaning is not that none of them were saved (for we must hope that very many of them were brought to the heavenly Canaan), but that they did not come to the promised land. Unbelief shut them out; and this fact is properly made use of here, and in Heb. 3, as furnishing a solemn warning to all not to be unbelieving and rebellious, since the consequence of unbelief and rebellion must be to exclude us from the kingdom of heaven, the true place of “rest.”


Psalm 118

His Steadfast Love Endures Forever

Psa 118:1 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!
Psa 118:2 Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures forever.”
Psa 118:3 Let the house of Aaron say, “His steadfast love endures forever.”
Psa 118:4 Let those who fear the LORD say, “His steadfast love endures forever.”
Psa 118:5 Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me free.
Psa 118:6 The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?
Psa 118:7 The LORD is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me.


As believers we should engage iin the practice of gratitude. We should daily give thanks for what He has blessed us with.

Psa 107:1 O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
Psa 107:2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;
Psa 107:3 And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south.
Psa 107:4 They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in.
Psa 107:5 Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them.
Psa 107:6 Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses.

Psa 118:8 It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.
Psa 118:9 It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes.

We have the privilege of gratitude. That is manifest in His protection, His presence, and His provision. God’s hands are bigger than ours, and He can provide for us much more than we could provide ourselves.

Psa 118:10 All nations surrounded me; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!
Psa 118:11 They surrounded me, surrounded me on every side; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!
Psa 118:12 They surrounded me like bees; they went out like a fire among thorns; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!
Psa 118:13 I was pushed hard, so that I was falling, but the LORD helped me.
Psa 118:14 The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.
Psa 118:15 Glad songs of salvation are in the tents of the righteous: “The right hand of the LORD does valiantly,
Psa 118:16 the right hand of the LORD exalts, the right hand of the LORD does valiantly!”
Psa 118:17 I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the LORD.
Psa 118:18 The LORD has disciplined me severely, but he has not given me over to death.
Psa 118:19 Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the LORD.
Psa 118:20 This is the gate of the LORD; the righteous shall enter through it.

Jesus is our righteousness. As believers, we should find joy at the pinnacle of gratitude. We bring only sin to the table, but Jesus brings righteousness. But then, Jesus takes our sins from us, and puts the sins upon himself. By doing this, we are made righteous, because of what he has done for us. Do we display a grateful heart? Do we give thanks to the Lord, whose love endures forever?

Psa 118:21 I thank you that you have answered me and have become my salvation.
Psa 118:22 The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.

This scripture of course is talking about Jesus. The builders, being the Jews, rejected Jesus as the coming Messiah. But now, Jesus is the cornerstone of which our salvation is made. Jesus, the Lord God almighty.

Psa 118:23 This is the LORD’s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.
Psa 118:24 This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Psa 118:25 Save us, we pray, O LORD! O LORD, we pray, give us success!
Psa 118:26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD! We bless you from the house of the LORD.
Psa 118:27 The LORD is God, and he has made his light to shine upon us. Bind the festal sacrifice with cords, up to the horns of the altar!
Psa 118:28 You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God; I will extol you.
Psa 118:29 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!


Psalm 126

Restore Our Fortunes, O Lord

Psa 126:1 A Song of Ascents. When the LORD restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream.
Psa 126:2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.”
Psa 126:3 The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad.
Psa 126:4 Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like streams in the Negeb!
Psa 126:5 Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!
Psa 126:6 He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.

Sermon on Psalm 126:1-6

Our Troubles Are Not Permanent

Rev. Mark Dooley

Leonardtown, Baptist Church

6.19.2016

  • 1. Delight in deliverence (vv. 1-3)

    • Verse 3: Only the Lord can deliver us. The Lord HAS DONE great things for us. When life isn’t going well, just stop and think, the Lord has delivered us. This fact alone should give us great joy.

    2. Persist in prayer (v.4)

    3. Be steadfast in service (vv. 5-6)

    • When we are in Christ, we can be steadfast.

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    Better Days Are Coming

    Psalms 126:1-6
    Rev Mark Dooley 08.26.2012

    1 When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. 2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” 3 The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad.

    4 Restore our fortunes, O Lord , like streams in the Negeb! 5 Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy! 6 He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.

    Vv. 1-3. Deliverance.
    • After 70 years of discipline, God restored the Jews.
    • Colossians 1:20. Have you been set free from your sins through the blood of Jesus Christ?
    • Deut 10:21; Job 5:8-9; 1Sam 12:21; the greatness of God
    • Luke 1:49;

    V4 Temperance
    • Rejoicing was tempered by the fact that all of the Jews had not returned with them.
    • Ezra 9:8
    • Some Jews stayed in captivity because it was easier than returning home and rebuilding their homes.

    Vv 5-6 Persistence
    • We must be persistent if we are going to be effective for the Lord JesusChrist
    • We must persist in what God has called us to do.
    • Don’t give up. God will deliver.

    Psalm 136

    Chapter 1

    His Steadfast Love Endures Forever

    Psa 136:1 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:2 O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:3 O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:4 To him who alone doeth great wonders: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:5 To him that by wisdom made the heavens: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:6 To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:7 To him that made great lights: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:8 The sun to rule by day: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:9 The moon and stars to rule by night: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:10 To him that smote Egypt in their firstborn: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:11 And brought out Israel from among them: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:12 With a strong hand, and with a stretched out arm: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:13 To him which divided the Red sea into parts: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:14 And made Israel to pass through the midst of it: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:15 But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:16 To him which led his people through the wilderness: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:17 To him which smote great kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:18 And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:19 Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:20 And Og the king of Bashan: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:21 And gave their land for an heritage: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:22 Even an heritage unto Israel his servant: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:23 Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:24 And hath redeemed us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:25 Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:26 O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.


    His Love Endures Forever

    Psalm 136: 1-26

    Rev. Mark Dooley, Leonardtown Baptist Church

    Thankful for his person, verses 1-3

    Psa 136:1 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:2 O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:3 O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever.

    There is no other God but Yahweh. All other gods are false god. He is the one and the only. The bible never tries to “prove” it, there is no need.

    Thankful for His providence, verses 4-9

    Psa 136:4 To him who alone doeth great wonders: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:5 To him that by wisdom made the heavens: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:6 To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:7 To him that made great lights: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:8 The sun to rule by day: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:9 The moon and stars to rule by night: for his mercy endureth for ever.

    God not only created the church, but he sustains His church every day. This means YOU. The church isn’t a building, it’s YOU. You cannot have a church without people. God accomplishes His will through His people.

    Thankful for his protection, verses 10-22.

    Psa 136:10 To him that smote Egypt in their firstborn: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:11 And brought out Israel from among them: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:12 With a strong hand, and with a stretched out arm: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:13 To him which divided the Red sea into parts: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:14 And made Israel to pass through the midst of it: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:15 But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:16 To him which led his people through the wilderness: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:17 To him which smote great kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:18 And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:19 Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:20 And Og the king of Bashan: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:21 And gave their land for an heritage: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:22 Even an heritage unto Israel his servant: for his mercy endureth for ever.

    Who do you rely on for your protection? Our government, our police force, can NOT provide us with ultimate protection. But the abundance of violent crime and murder prove that even they can’t always protect us. But if you belong to God, He will keep you until the very end. Although you might face danger on this earth, that is not the end of it. Even after you die, you will be with God forever more.

    Thankful for his provision, verses 23-26.

    Psa 136:23 Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy endureth for ever:
    Psa 136:24 And hath redeemed us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:25 Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever.
    Psa 136:26 O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.

    In Jesus we find our ULTIMATE provision. When God frees us from our enemies, we must remember that the last enemy is death. God frees us from our last enemy. Semper Fi, Forever Faithful, is what we should be for God, because He is forever faithful.


    Chapter 105

    Psa 105:1 O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people.
    Psa 105:2 Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works.
    Psa 105:3 Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.
    Psa 105:4 Seek the LORD, and his strength: seek his face evermore.
    Psa 105:5 Remember his marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the judgments of his mouth;
    Psa 105:6 O ye seed of Abraham his servant, ye children of Jacob his chosen.
    Psa 105:7 He is the LORD our God: his judgments are in all the earth.
    Psa 105:8 He hath remembered his covenant for ever, the word which he commanded to a thousand generations.
    Psa 105:9 Which covenant he made with Abraham, and his oath unto Isaac;
    Psa 105:10 And confirmed the same unto Jacob for a law, and to Israel for an everlasting covenant:

    Psa 105:11 Saying, Unto thee will I give the land of Canaan, the lot of your inheritance:
    Psa 105:12 When they were but a few men in number; yea, very few, and strangers in it.
    Psa 105:13 When they went from one nation to another, from one kingdom to another people;
    Psa 105:14 He suffered no man to do them wrong: yea, he reproved kings for their sakes;
    Psa 105:15 Saying, Touch not mine anointed, and do my prophets no harm.
    Psa 105:16 Moreover he called for a famine upon the land: he brake the whole staff of bread.
    Psa 105:17 He sent a man before them, even Joseph, who was sold for a servant:
    Psa 105:18 Whose feet they hurt with fetters: he was laid in iron:
    Psa 105:19 Until the time that his word came: the word of the LORD tried him.
    Psa 105:20 The king sent and loosed him; even the ruler of the people, and let him go free.

    Psa 105:21 He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his substance:
    Psa 105:22 To bind his princes at his pleasure; and teach his senators wisdom.
    Psa 105:23 Israel also came into Egypt; and Jacob sojourned in the land of Ham.
    Psa 105:24 And he increased his people greatly; and made them stronger than their enemies.
    Psa 105:25 He turned their heart to hate his people, to deal subtilly with his servants.
    Psa 105:26 He sent Moses his servant; and Aaron whom he had chosen.
    Psa 105:27 They shewed his signs among them, and wonders in the land of Ham.
    Psa 105:28 He sent darkness, and made it dark; and they rebelled not against his word.
    Psa 105:29 He turned their waters into blood, and slew their fish.
    Psa 105:30 Their land brought forth frogs in abundance, in the chambers of their kings.

    Psa 105:31 He spake, and there came divers sorts of flies, and lice in all their coasts.
    Psa 105:32 He gave them hail for rain, and flaming fire in their land.
    Psa 105:33 He smote their vines also and their fig trees; and brake the trees of their coasts.
    Psa 105:34 He spake, and the locusts came, and caterpillers, and that without number,
    Psa 105:35 And did eat up all the herbs in their land, and devoured the fruit of their ground.
    Psa 105:36 He smote also all the firstborn in their land, the chief of all their strength.
    Psa 105:37 He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and there was not one feeble person among their tribes.
    Psa 105:38 Egypt was glad when they departed: for the fear of them fell upon them.
    Psa 105:39 He spread a cloud for a covering; and fire to give light in the night.
    Psa 105:40 The people asked, and he brought quails, and satisfied them with the bread of heaven.
    Psa 105:41 He opened the rock, and the waters gushed out; they ran in the dry places like a river.
    Psa 105:42 For he remembered his holy promise, and Abraham his servant.
    Psa 105:43 And he brought forth his people with joy, and his chosen with gladness:
    Psa 105:44 And gave them the lands of the heathen: and they inherited the labour of the people;
    Psa 105:45 That they might observe his statutes, and keep his laws. Praise ye the LORD.

    Remembering Deliverance

    21Aug2016

    Rev. Mark Dooley, Leonardtown Baptist Church

    Psalm 105:-145

    • Remember God’s Gracious election. Verses 1-15
    • Remember God’s wise preparation. Verses 16-25
    • Remember God’s awesome judgments. Verses 26-41
    • Remember God’s dependable promises. Verses 42-45

    Romans – start date 4.8.2016

    Filed under: Old and New Testament — Adam Osborne @ 1:54 pm

    ROMANS

    CHAPTER 1

    A Letter to the Romans – Gospel Greetings

    Romans 1:1-7
    1 Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God,
    2 which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures,
    3 concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh
    4 and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord,
    5 through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations,
    6 including you who are called to belong to Jesus Christ,
    7 To all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

    The letter of the Romans is a representation of the full Gospel. It provides a representation of the entire Scripture. Many consider Romans to be the most important letter ever written.

    How can a converted Pharisee write such a letter? What is it about Romans that has had such a significant influence on the Church? Romans is a pure representation of the Gospel. Romans clearly represents the Good News of Jesus Christ.

    Romans is not a book… it is a letter. Paul wanted to go to Rome, but had not made it yet… in advance of his travel to Rome, he wrote this letter. To address issues in the Church, Paul approached it by clearly laying out the truth of the Gospel:

    Chapters 1-11 – Gospel Explained
    Chapters 12-16 – Gospel Applied

    God uses ordinary Christians to do amazing things.

    Paul is motivated by three things:

    1) A Gospel Centered Calling (v. 1)
    Paul desires a fellowship with the Christians in Rome… Christians he hasn’t even met. He wants to properly introduce himself. He provides his credentials:

    * A servant/slave to Jesus Christ. He does not belong to himself… he belongs to Jesus! He is completely owned by God. He is a devoted servant of Jesus Christ.
    * An apostle. An ambassador to represent Jesus Christ. As a result, Paul’s writings had the full weight of Christ behind them. He had a purpose. He was set apart for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

    Paul wasn’t set apart for this purpose when Christ transformed him on the road to Damascus.

    Galatians 1:15
    15 But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace,

    Paul knew that he was called to be an apostle before he was born!

    2) A Gospel Saturated Message (v. 2-4).
    Paul provides a summary of the Gospel. He provides the source and substance of the Gospel.
    The source of the Gospel is GOD! This is not Paul’s gospel. It didn’t originate with the apostles. It originated with God Himself! Grace is not limited to the New Testament. It is found throughout Scripture… starting with Genesis 3. Throughout the Old Testament, a promise is made and foreshadowed.
    Since it belongs to God, it is not ours to change! We need to accept the entirety of Scripture. We have no responsibility or authority to change the Gospel. God doesn’t need our creativity. The Gospel stands on its own. The Gospel of God is about Jesus Christ! No Jesus, No Gospel! Note that Paul doesn’t just identify the subject of the Gospel being God’s Son, he further clarifies that God’s Son is Jesus Christ our Lord!

    2 Samuel 7:12-13
    12 When your days are fulfilled and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come from your body, and I will establish his kingdom.
    13 He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever.

    Matthew 1:1-17
    1 The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.
    2 Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers,
    3 and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram,
    4 and Ram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon,
    5 and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse,
    6 and Jesse the father of David the king. And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah,
    7 and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asaph,
    8 and Asaph the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah,
    9 and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah,
    10 and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amos, and Amos the father of Josiah,
    11 and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon.
    12 And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel,
    13 and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor,
    14 and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud,
    15 and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob,
    16 and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ.
    17 So all the generations from Abraham to David were fourteen generations, and from David to the deportation to Babylon fourteen generations, and from the deportation to Babylon to the Christ fourteen generations.

    Paul is saying that Jesus was appointed as Our Lord through his death and resurrection. He went from a lowly servant to The Eternal King! The Eternal Lord must be able to overcome death… JESUS DID!

    Stop trusting in yourself… trust in our eternal Savior! This is the Good News that makes us who we are!

    3) A Gospel Driven Mission (v. 5-7).
    Paul’s mission was clear. To bring about the obedience of Faith… the activity of Faith, responding to the Gospel. The Gospel produces obedience. The Gospel transforms us. A Gospel separate from obedience doesn’t make sense. He does not perform this mission for his own sake… he does it for the sake of the name of Jesus Christ!

    We should be compelled by Paul’s mission and focus. Is our life focused on the mission of sharing the Gospel and strengthening the faith of others? Is Christ the focus of our life (vs. ourselves)? Do we shine His light in everything we do?

    Based on the sermon of Pastor Adam Polk on 10 September 2017.



    CHAPTER 4

    Sola Fide – Through Faith Alone

    Romans 4:1-8 and Luke 18:35 – 43

    Rev. Mark Dooley, Leonardtown Baptist Church

    11. 19.2017

    Abraham Justified by Faith

    Romans 4:1 What then shall we say was gained by Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? 2 For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. 3 For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.” 4 Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. 5 And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness, 6 just as David also speaks of the blessing of the one to whom God counts righteousness apart from works: 7 “Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; 8 blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin.”

    Jesus Heals a Blind Beggar

    Luke 18:35 As he drew near to Jericho, a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging. 36 And hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what this meant. 37 They told him, “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by.” 38 And he cried out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” 39 And those who were in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent. But he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” 40 And Jesus stopped and commanded him to be brought to him. And when he came near, he asked him, 41 “What do you want me to do for you?” He said, “Lord, let me recover my sight.” 42 And Jesus said to him, “Recover your sight; your faith has made you well.” 43 And immediately he recovered his sight and followed him, glorifying God. And all the people, when they saw it, gave praise to God.

    • BELIEF – The basis of justification by faith. VV. 1-3
    • Ephesians 2:9 Salvation is “not from works, so that no one can boast.”

      Genesis 15:6 Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him for righteousness.

    • RIGHTEOUSNESS – The application of justification by faith. VV. 4-5
    • Ephesians 2:8 You are saved by grace through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is God’s gift.

    • FORGIVENESS – The tangible blessings of justification by faith. VV. 6-8
    • Luke 18:38 Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me…….your faith has saved you

    CHAPTER 5

    Romans 5:1-11
    Rev. Mark Dooley
    12.27.2015

    Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; 4 And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. 6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

    Looking under God’s Christmas tree, THE CROSS. We find precious gifts under the tree.

      1. JUSTIFICATION: God declaring us righteous in His sight. Just as if I had never sinned. We are justified in his sight. The blood that Jesus shed on the cross justified us. He accepts us on the condition that our faith is on the blood that Jesus shed for us on the cross
      2. PEACE: Peace is through our maker, especially those who trust in our Maker. Do not trust in the peace that the world gives because that is not peace. Our focus should not be on this troubled world, our focus should be on our Maker, Jesus Christ. That will bring true peace.
      3. ACCESS: Access to God by faith in his son Jesus.
      4. HOPE:
      5. TRIUMPH: Paul says he will glory in trouble because it provides a opportunity to trust God, to draw us to God and help us see that God will triumph and bring us through.
      6. DELIVERANCE: We are saved (delivered) from God’s wrath.
      7. RECONCILIATION: We are now reconciled with Christ, brought back to a relationship with Christ. We could never reconcile our debt to God, but Jesus Christ paid our entire debt, for everyone, out of a pure gift of love.


    CHAPTER 6


    CHAPTER 7


    CHAPTER 8


    CHAPTER 9


    SOLA GRATIA – BY GRACE ALONE

    Romans 9:6-29

    Rev. Mark Dooley, Leonardtown Baptist Church

    11.26.2017

    Rom 9:6 But it is not as though the word of God has failed. For not all who are descended from Israel belong to Israel, 7 and not all are children of Abraham because they are his offspring, but “Through Isaac shall your offspring be named.” 8 This means that it is not the children of the flesh who are the children of God, but the children of the promise are counted as offspring. 9 For this is what the promise said: “About this time next year I will return, and Sarah shall have a son.” 10 And not only so, but also when Rebekah had conceived children by one man, our forefather Isaac, 11 though they were not yet born and had done nothing either good or bad, in order that God’s purpose of election might continue, not because of works but because of him who calls 12 she was told, “The older will serve the younger.” 13 As it is written, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.” 14 What shall we say then? Is there injustice on God’s part? By no means! 15 For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” 16 So then it depends not on human will or exertion, but on God, who has mercy. 17 For the Scripture says to Pharaoh, “For this very purpose I have raised you up, that I might show my power in you, and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.” 18 So then he has mercy on whomever he wills, and he hardens whomever he wills. 19 You will say to me then, “Why does he still find fault? For who can resist his will?” 20 But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? Will what is molded say to its molder, “Why have you made me like this?” 21 Has the potter no right over the clay, to make out of the same lump one vessel for honorable use and another for dishonorable use? 22 What if God, desiring to show his wrath and to make known his power, has endured with much patience vessels of wrath prepared for destruction, 23 in order to make known the riches of his glory for vessels of mercy, which he has prepared beforehand for glory 24 even us whom he has called, not from the Jews only but also from the Gentiles? 25 As indeed he says in Hosea, “Those who were not my people I will call ‘my people,’ and her who was not beloved I will call ‘beloved.'” 26 “And in the very place where it was said to them, ‘You are not my people,’ there they will be called ‘sons of the living God.'” 27 And Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: “Though the number of the sons of Israel be as the sand of the sea, only a remnant of them will be saved, 28 for the Lord will carry out his sentence upon the earth fully and without delay.” 29 And as Isaiah predicted, “If the Lord of hosts had not left us offspring, we would have been like Sodom and become like Gomorrah.”

    • You are saved by grace.
    • You are kept by grace.
    • You will die by grace.
    • We contribute nothing, anything we try to contribute to it, we slap grace in the face.
    • If God was fair, we would ALL bust hell wide open.
    • We should be thankful today that God doesn’t act by fairness, but he operates by grace.

    Verse 13 As it is written, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.”

    Luke 14:26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple.

    What does this mean? This means that God has to be your number one love. You must love the Lord, first and foremost, loving the Lord supremely over all.

    Romans 8:29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.

    Praise God that He chooses to love us, to save us. God wants everyone to be saved.

    2 Peter 3:9 The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.

    1 Timothy 2:4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.


    CHAPTER 10


    Contact Adam


    April 3, 2016

    Luke = start date 4.3.2016

    Filed under: Old and New Testament — Adam Osborne @ 9:59 am
    Chapter 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 17 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 |

    The Value of Life

    Chapter Twelve

    Luke 12:4-7

    Based on the sermon of Pastor Adam Polk on 17 January 2016.

    4 “I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. 5 But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has authority to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him! 6 Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. 7 Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.

    We should be discussing this topic every week, not just on “Sanctity of Life Sunday”.
    All life is valuable to God

    Jesus is teaching His disciples to be faithful, even in difficult times. They (we) should not out fear persecutors, they (we) should fear God!

    Truths:

    1) God values all life. Luke 4:4-7 clearly shows that God values all life. Even sparrows, 5 sold for 2 cents, are all important to God (every one of them).
    What might be considered insignificant by the world is not insignificant to God. All of creation is important to God, because God owns creation!

    2) God especially values human life. In this scripture, the value of human life is noted to be more important to God than the value of sparrows… noting that God cares for each sparrow!

    Psalm 139:13-16
    13 For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. 14 I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. 16 Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.

    God formed us! God was intricately involved in our creation.

    So, why are we more important than other life on this earth? Because we were made in His image!

    Genesis 1:26-27
    26 Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.”
    27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.

    We have a spiritual aspect of our lives, we have discernment, we have moral awareness.

    God is indeed involved in our creation …but He is also involved in our conformance to His Son throughout our lives.

    The issue of abortion continues to be a struggle. 53 million abortions since 1963.
    73% of those state to have religious associations.

    When we abort a child, we are not protecting the right of the woman, we are challenging the sovereignty of God.

    If you are struggling with abortion, reach out to Christ! He loves you!

    We must extend this to all aspects of human life. Those with physical and mental challenges, those caught in human trafficking, those who are homeless… He cares about each and every life!

    3) God values even the details of our lives. He cares about every hair on our head! God’s care for us doesn’t end when we are born… He is so aware of us, He knows more about us than we know ourselves! God has given us breath, God numbers each of our days. If He is so involved in our lives, we can trust Him in every aspect of our lives. He knows everything we are going through.

    So, what can we?

    1) Find our value and identity in the Lord. We are valuable because we bear the image of God. We seek to find value in our relationships, in our success, in our appearance. These things are not what defines us. God defines us! We are valuable to the Lord because He created us!

    2) Engage in matters of social justice seeking to defend the vulnerable.

    Proverbs 31:8-9
    8 Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. 9 Open your mouth, judge righteously, defend the rights of the poor and needy.

    We should actively engage on issues relating to the sanctity of human life… All issues relating to the sanctity of human life. Shine the light of Jesus Christ in your life! Life needs a Gospel voice… It doesn’t need a Republican voice… It doesn’t need a Democrat voice… It needs a Christian voice.

    3) Fight for “life”. Get informed and get involved!

    You
    -Psalm 139 Project
    -serve in crisis pregnancy centers
    -consider adoption

    4) Pray for life! Pray for ways that will help life, not hinder it.

    Based on the sermon of Pastor Adam Polk on 17 January 2016.


    Jesus on Trial

    Based on the sermon of Pastor Adam Polk on 26 September 2021.
     
    Luke 23:1–25 (ESV): Jesus Before Pilate
     
    23 Then the whole company of them arose and brought him before Pilate. 2 And they began to accuse him, saying, “We found this man misleading our nation and forbidding us to give tribute to Caesar, and saying that he himself is Christ, a king.” 3 And Pilate asked him, “Are you the King of the Jews?” And he answered him, “You have said so.” 4 Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, “I find no guilt in this man.” 5 But they were urgent, saying, “He stirs up the people, teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee even to this place.” 
    Jesus Before Herod
    6 When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. 7 And when he learned that he belonged to Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him over to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. 8 When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had long desired to see him, because he had heard about him, and he was hoping to see some sign done by him. 9 So he questioned him at some length, but he made no answer. 10 The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing him. 11 And Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him. Then, arraying him in splendid clothing, he sent him back to Pilate. 12 And Herod and Pilate became friends with each other that very day, for before this they had been at enmity with each other. 
    13 Pilate then called together the chief priests and the rulers and the people, 14 and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was misleading the people. And after examining him before you, behold, I did not find this man guilty of any of your charges against him. 15 Neither did Herod, for he sent him back to us. Look, nothing deserving death has been done by him. 16 I will therefore punish and release him.” 
    Pilate Delivers Jesus to Be Crucified
    18 But they all cried out together, “Away with this man, and release to us Barabbas”— 19 a man who had been thrown into prison for an insurrection started in the city and for murder. 20 Pilate addressed them once more, desiring to release Jesus, 21 but they kept shouting, “Crucify, crucify him!” 22 A third time he said to them, “Why? What evil has he done? I have found in him no guilt deserving death. I will therefore punish and release him.” 23 But they were urgent, demanding with loud cries that he should be crucified. And their voices prevailed. 24 So Pilate decided that their demand should be granted. 25 He released the man who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, for whom they asked, but he delivered Jesus over to their will. 
     
    Rejection comes in various ways to all of us, but Jesus endured much as He was rejected.  He endured rejection so that we could be accepted.
     
    1) An affirmation of innocence.
    It becomes apparent that Jesus was innocent of the Chief Priests’ accusations.  Their agenda was to falsely accuse Jesus so that they could put Him to death.  They sought false testimony against Him.  Pilate focuses on the third accusation – that Jesus is the King of the Jews.  After questioning Jesus, Pilate sees no guilt and sends him on to Herod.  
    Luke wants us to see the innocence of Jesus.  Why is it such a big deal that Jesus was innocent?  Because it is foundational to the Gospel!  
     
    Hebrews 4:15 (ESV): 15 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. 
     
    If Jesus wasn’t without blemish, He would not have been an adequate sacrifice for us!  We are dependent on His innocence.  Jesus was absolutely perfect in every way.
     
    2) A spectacle of injustice.
     
    It is important to see the human element going on behind the scenes.  The trial and crucifixion of Jesus was an incredible injustice!  Pilate and Herod both found Jesus innocent.  However, the Chief Priests continued their protest.  They pressured the Government leaders to crucify Him, even after His innocence was declared three times.
    (A) This was an injustice fueled by moral blindness.
    Everything about Jesus arrest, prosecution, and crucifixion was being driven by the religious leaders!  It was not the Government…. The religious leaders would have done anything to have Jesus crucified!  Sin HAS NO LIMITS!  We cannot externally work our way out of sin – it must start with our heart! 
    (B) This was an injustice fueled by indifference.
    Herod and Pilate allow the crucifixion to continue… even when they found Jesus innocent!  Luke is showing us the folly of indifference.  When reading this Scripture, we can find ourselves feeling a bit sorry for Pilate…. “He tried” we can say – but due to his indifference, Jesus was crucified.  We don’t need a hardened heart to reject Jesus… we only need to show indifference.  It’s easy to see those who actively reject the Gospel.  The danger is being more like a Pilate or Herod – being indifferent to the truth of Jesus.  The road to Hell is paved with indifference.
    (C) This was an injustice fueled by compromise.  V22 – I found no guilt; V24 – their demand should be granted. Pilate was more concerned with the voices of the crowd than with the innocence of Jesus.
    If we absorb more from social media and the news than we do from the Word of God, we are on the cusp of falling off the ledge.  Don’t compromise yourself!
     
    3) A moment of irony.
     
    Acts 4:23–31 (ESV): The Believers Pray for Boldness
    23 When they were released, they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them. 24 And when they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said, “Sovereign Lord, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them, 25 who through the mouth of our father David, your servant, said by the Holy Spirit, 
      “ ‘Why did the Gentiles rage, 
    and the peoples plot in vain? 
     26  The kings of the earth set themselves, 
    and the rulers were gathered together, 
    against the Lord and against his Anointed’— 
    27 for truly in this city there were gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate, along with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, 28 to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place. 29 And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, 30 while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” 31 And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness. 
     
    Although the religious leaders were scheming to crucify Jesus, they ultimately contributed to fulfilling God’s great plan!
     
    Barabbas story could be seen as our story – a guilty man, rightly condemned, being set free through Jesus crucifixion!  
     
    1 Peter 3:18–20 (ESV): 18 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, 19 in which he went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison, 20 because they formerly did not obey, when God’s patience waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight persons, were brought safely through water. 
     
    We are the unrighteous!  Jesus stood in our place to accept the guilt and judgment of God!  We have been set free from the curse of sin!  We have been set free from the guilt of our sin!  Shouldn’t our life demonstrate the glory of our salvation?  There is nothing we can do to repay God – the gift of our salvation was free to us!  It was costly for Christ, but not for us.  
     
    Isaiah 53:4–12 (ESV): 4  Surely he has borne our griefs 
    and carried our sorrows; 
      yet we esteemed him stricken, 
    smitten by God, and afflicted. 
     5  But he was pierced for our transgressions; 
    he was crushed for our iniquities; 
      upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, 
    and with his wounds we are healed. 
     6  All we like sheep have gone astray; 
    we have turned—every one—to his own way; 
      and the Lord has laid on him 
    the iniquity of us all. 
     7  He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, 
    yet he opened not his mouth; 
      like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, 
    and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, 
    so he opened not his mouth. 
     8  By oppression and judgment he was taken away; 
    and as for his generation, who considered 
      that he was cut off out of the land of the living, 
    stricken for the transgression of my people? 
     9  And they made his grave with the wicked 
    and with a rich man in his death, 
      although he had done no violence, 
    and there was no deceit in his mouth. 
     10  Yet it was the will of the Lord to crush him; 
    he has put him to grief; 
      when his soul makes an offering for guilt, 
    he shall see his offspring; he shall prolong his days; 
      the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand. 
     11  Out of the anguish of his soul he shall see and be satisfied; 
      by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, 
    make many to be accounted righteous, 
    and he shall bear their iniquities. 
     
    Based on the sermon of Pastor Adam Polk on 26 September 2021.

    ———————————————————————————————

    He Is Risen
    Luke 24:1-12

    Based on the sermon of Pastor Adam Polk on 27 March 2016

    1 But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. 2 And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, 3 but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. 4 While they were perplexed about this, behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel. 5 And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, 7 that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.” 8 And they remembered his words, 9 and returning from the tomb they told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest. 10 Now it was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and Mary the mother of James and the other women with them who told these things to the apostles, 11 but these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. 12 But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home marveling at what had happened.

    The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a foundational truth of Christianity. Without it, Christianity fails. As a result, there have been many skeptics attempting to disprove it.
    There were skeptics among the religious leaders, the government officials, and the people. However, some of the first skeptics were Jesus’ disciples!

    Note that the disciples’ skepticism was captured in the Book of Luke. It would have been easy to “clean up” that part, but Luke captured the truth. The disciples were men growing in their faith and their understanding of Christ Jesus. As we consider the truth of the resurrection and how it impacted the Disciples, we can learn some things.

    How does the resurrection impact our walk in faith?

    1) The source of faith.
    It helps to confirm the source of our faith. Consider walking with Jesus for a few years, watching His incredible miracles, and learning from His teachings.
    After Jesus died, the disciples were scattered, confused, and afraid.
    When the women went to tend to the body of Jesus, there was no anticipation of Jesus’ rising. They were expecting to tend to a dead body. Many times before Jesus’ crucifixion, He told them that He would rise from the dead… But they were not waiting in excitement.
    When the women reach the tomb, they meet two “men…in dazzling apparel”. The women then went to the disciples to tell them about what they saw. However, the disciples did not believe them. They did not believe what Jesus had previously said. We must be careful not to criticize the disciples, because we so often don’t take Jesus at His word. Faith is a continuous battle. Our minds will often reject the truth, even when it is staring us in our face. This should be a reminder to take God at His word, and a rebuke for all those times when we don’t.
    Too often we allow the experiences of this life to lead us, instead of trusting in Him. Fear and doubt will fester in our lives if we rely on the world, instead of believing Him.
    We have a choice to make each and every day. Will we remember and trust in God’s word, or will we trust in the things of this world?

    2) The development of faith.
    It reminds us that God is faithful to keep His promises. The resurrection has a big stamp that says, “I am faithful to keep my Word!” It should not shock us when God does what He says He is going to do.

    1 Corinthians 15:3-4
    3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures,

    God has proven himself time and time again… But we still struggle with trusting Him.

    1 Corinthians 15:12-23
    12 Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. 14 And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain. 15 We are even found to be misrepresenting God, because we testified about God that he raised Christ, whom he did not raise if it is true that the dead are not raised. 16 For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised. 17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. 18 Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. 19 If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied.

    20 But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ.

    1 Peter 1:3-9
    3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, 5 who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 6 In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, 7 so that the tested genuineness of your faith–more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire–may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, 9 obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.

    If you have not yielded to God, call to Him! God has every right to condemn us, but He gave us His Son to die on the cross for our sins. He willingly took the punishment that we deserved. If you believe in Him, your sins will be forgiven! Believe in Him!

    3) The obedience of faith.
    Peter ran to the tomb. Although the disciples were slow to understand, they started to “get it.”

    Luke 24:36-43
    36 As they were talking about these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, “Peace to you!” 37 But they were startled and frightened and thought they saw a spirit. 38 And he said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts? 39 See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself. Touch me, and see. For a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” 40 And when he had said this, he showed them his hands and his feet. 41 And while they still disbelieved for joy and were marveling, he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” 42 They gave him a piece of broiled fish, 43 and he took it and ate before them.

    Luke 24:50-53
    50 Then he led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up his hands he blessed them. 51 While he blessed them, he parted from them and was carried up into heaven. 52 And they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, 53 and were continually in the temple blessing God.

    We watch the disciples going from skeptics to martyrdom. Are we on this path? Is your faith waivering? If so, you are in good company. The disciples of Jesus Christ did the same!

    Based on the sermon of Pastor Adam Polk on 27 March 2016


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    THE WORK OF THE SPIRIT
    Luke 24:45-49
    Rev Mark Dooley
    10.19.2014

    45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. 48 You are witnesses of these things. 49 I am going to send you what my Father has promised; but stay in the city until you have been clothed with power from on high.”

    1. Forgiveness is ARRANGED and Publicized by God (V. 45). Isaiah 53:3-6
    2. Forgiveness is Accomplished and PERFORMED by Christ. (V46)
    3. Forgiveness is ANNOUNCED and Powered by the Spirit. (V 47-49)

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