Heaven Is Our Home – Series What About The Children?
Heaven Is Our Home – Series
What About The Children?
Ill. As a young youth pastor I will never forget my first death call of a child. I was also a volunteer chaplain. I had two young children myself, so it hit home to go LRMC and try to comfort parents who just lost their child. The child pulled off a plastic flower from an arrangement at home and tried to swallow a little plastic flower. But it got caught in windpipe and she died in rout to the hospital. I saw the pain firsthand. Nothing grips us like the death of a child.
History records the heartbreaking moments when a whole country grieves over the death of a child. Abraham Lincoln had a son who died while they lived in the Whitehouse. When John F. Kennedy’s newborn son Patrick died the entire nation wept.
Most pastors will tell you the hardest sermons preached are over the tiniest caskets. What does the Bible say about the death of a child?
I want to bring comfort and teaching about this subject.
Children who die go straight to heaven – instantly. They bypass the sorrows of this life to the city of GOD. How do we know this?
Because of the character of GOD – HE is perfect in love and perfect in justice.
A scripture that describes GOD’S Fatherly love: Israel was panicking near the end of their wilderness years in desert. They were saying things in their tents like, “God hates us. He brought us out of Egypt, but we face greater and stronger people who want to destroy us!”
God said to them, “Do not be afraid of your enemies. The LORD goes before you and HE will fight for you, just as HE did in Egypt and in the wilderness, where you saw HE carried you, as a man carries his son.” Deut. 1:29-31
The word “children” is used nearly 100 times in gospels alone.
GOD loves the preborn:
“Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. How precious are YOUR thoughts to me, O GOD!” Psalm 139:13-17
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you.” Jer. 1:5
Ill. Remember story of Jonah? God sent prophet Jonah to the capital city of terrorist empire, Nineveh. The message GOD sent for Jonah to deliver to some of the meanest people on earth was simply, “Repent or I will come and destroy you.” 120k in Nineveh did revival of repentance.
In last chapter of Jonah the prophet is angry at GOD for not destroying the city anyway. He felt it made him look bad. He was prejudice. The reason GOD gives for not destroying the city is Jonah 4:11.
GOD says, “Should I not have pity on Nineveh, where more than one hundred twenty thousand people cannot discern their right hand and their left?” Jonah 4:11
In other words GOD was sparing Nineveh because there were so many children there who were too young to know the difference between their right or left hand.
GOD condemned infanticide:
“Also on your skirts is found the blood of the lives of the poor innocents.” Jer. 2:34
Children are innocent but not sinless!
What are GOD’S conditions for salvation?
What must a person do to be lost?
People say nothing, but that is not true. To be lost requires that you must refuse GOD’S offer of saving grace.
- Children are too young to know they are lost and GOD’s offer of salvation.
- Retarded people, mentally ill, people who have never heard gospel?
The age of accountability is not a chronological age: “For before the CHILD knows to refuse evil and choose good. . .” Isaiah 7:14
“Shall not the JUDGE of all the earth do what is right?” Gen. 18:25
How many of you were saved before age 10?
Between 11-20?
21-30?
31-40?
National Association of Evangelicals:
64% people get saved between ages 4-14.
34% people get saved between ages 15-29.
2% people get saved after age 30.
Only 3 out of every 100 get saved after age 30
Ill. Ever walk graveyards and see all the children who have died?
“66 % of everyone conceived has not lived to age 5.” Missiologist Don Richardson
Ill. Everyone knows about King David’s adultery with Bathsheba. Confronted by a prophet who tells him the baby will die.
When Nathan the prophet departed David’s house the LORD struck the child, and it became ill. David pleaded with GOD for the child and fasted and lay all night on the ground in prayer without food for seven days. On the seventh day the child died. David heard the servants whispering and said to them, “Is the child dead?” They answered, “he is dead.” So David arose from the ground, washed and anointed himself, changed his clothes; went into the house of the LORD and worshipped.” 2 Sam. 12:15-21
His servants were puzzled and later asked him about this strange behavior. His answer is revealing:
“While the child was alive and fasted and wept, for I said, ‘Who can tell whether the LORD will be gracious to me, that the child may live?
But now he is dead; why should I fast? Can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.” 2 Sam. 12:22-23
Where did David anticipate this reunion to be? Hell, grave? Heaven.
How old will our children be in heaven?
Will they know us, and will we know them?
Will you be in heaven with your child?
Parents of children in heaven do not automatically go there.
1. You must know you are lost, without GOD, without hope!
2. You must know GOD’S solution – Jn 14:6!
3. You must do more than just believe in HIM (James 2:19). You must receive HIM (John 1:12).
4. You must be born of GOD (by the SPIRIT) John 1:13.
5. How? Romans 10:9-10
A – accept the fact you are lost, headed for hell.
B – believe JESUS is alive and here now to save you.
C – confess with your mouth JESUS is your Lord/Savior.
D – Do it now!
Don’t Get Caught Slippin!
Don’t Get Caught Slippin!
But just last week I read this phrase in the Passion translation and wondered if GOD was trying to get my attention to tell me something?
Ill. When something keeps showing up – pay attention to GOD.
It means don’t get caught off guard, watch your back, stay focused.
“Be sober and watchful, (don’t get caught slippin) because your adversary the devil walks around as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him firmly in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.” I Peter 5:8-9
Peter writes this to Xns suffering under severe persecution from the government in the world. Remember your real enemy is not the people who cause you harm or get under your skin. Your real enemy is invisible – the devil works in stealth mode even causing other people to rise up against you.
- He has real and ongoing agenda to cause you harm, discouragement, depression, sickness, loss of money, etc.
- He has no greater goal that to cause you division and separation from GOD. He wants you to give up your faith dependence upon GOD and kick God to the curb.
“Don’t get caught slipping.” You have a very real enemy with assignments against you each week.
“Fight the good fight of faith” I Tim. 6:12
Fight to stay in faith and trust GOD. Pronounced (a-go-need-zoe-my)
“fight” – G75 agonizomai = strive, strenuous fight, labor fervently, contend with adversaries, to struggle with difficulties and dangers.
The devil is not after you. He is after your faith in GOD!
This word, a-go need zoe -my is used 7 times and the law of first use is seen in:
“Strive (G75) to enter the strait (narrow) gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” Luke 13:24
“shall not be able” = not possessing the strength level needed to trust GOD and enter in the narrow gate.
GOD’S will does not automatically come to pass. It is wrong to say or believe that if it is GOD’S will that it will automatically happen! Scripture says the reason GOD delays HIS coming is because HE does not want people to perish but to repent – but many people do perish!
A common misused phrase: GOD is in control!
No. If this were true then GOD causes cancer, abuse, murders because HE is in control. No HE gave man dominion over the earth. Man is in control.
Man is in control – but GOD is in charge.
Ill. GOD has commanded us to heal the sick, cast out devils, raise the dead. This is what is to be abiding faith. We don’t work it up – we live in it and practice it every day wherever we go. This is abiding faith.
If you have been a Xn for 6 months then you should already have experienced healing the sick, casting out devils. It is your everyday abiding faith.
Ill. It is not always dramatic like the exorcist movie to cast out devils. The other day I was near some people where I heard their voices being raised and it was getting heated. I took the authority of JESUS and began to bind and cast out of my sphere of dominion the devil and commanded him to leave. These people never saw me but in 30 seconds the arguing stopped, and voices were normalized. Was it coincidence?
You don’t need more faith. You need to use abiding faith, so that your faith becomes strong.
“Every man has been given a measure of faith” – Romans 12:3
Saving faith
- But there is also the gift of faith – I Cor. 12:9
Mountain moving faith
“Faith comes by hearing and by hearing by the Word (rhema) of GOD.” (Rhema - What GOD is saying to you). Romans 10:17
White board: Word in Greek is logos or rhema
Logos = word
Rhema = right now spoken word
Ill. Woman with issue of blood believed GOD told her to touch JESUS and be healed. She acted on the rhema she believed she received.
Abiding faith is an overall outlook on life that draws upon the goodness of GOD and HIS promises, enabling you to believe that everything will work together for my good.
Ill. A lady came up to me a few Sundays ago and was very distraught. She got a bad report from a doctor, and she feared it was cancer. She was so afraid. She was falling apart in front of me.
- I counseled her that fear was overcoming her faith. I told her to get into the WORD and see what GOD has to say about healing. I prayed for her but did not see her faith light up. But here is the problem:
Faith comes by hearing the (rhema) Word of GOD.
What is GOD saying to you?
Fear also comes by hearing the devil.
You have a choice.
It is difficult to learn how to exercise faith in a crisis, when we have not been operating in abiding faith.
It is difficult to move from ground zero into the gift of faith. It’s not impossible but it is better to be daily operating in abiding faith.
Don’t get caught slippin!
One of the pieces of the armor of GOD we are told to put on is the shield of faith. PIC of shield of faith:
“above all, taking the shield of faith, which is able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one.” Eph. 6:16
Since faith comes by hearing GOD speak to you, then your shield of faith is made up of the rhema words GOD has spoken to you throughout your lifetime. The accumulation of your rhema’s is your shield of faith to stop the devil’s fiery darts.
- Show small shield = beginner
- Large shield = seasoned saint
Ill. The most vulnerable times of attack from the enemy is after you have a great victory.
GT just had great victory = 20 years + debt gone!
Ill. Back in Baptist church we had a revival and then momentum to pay off the debt – hallelujah. Within a year division and strife came from within!
This is a warning! “Be sober and watchful, (don’t get caught slippin) because your adversary the devil walks around as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him firmly in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.” I Peter 5:8-9
Stairway to Heaven John 1-2
Stairway to Heaven
John 1-2
Ill. 1971 the British rock group Led Zeppelin released a song by this title. Some said it was demonic, some said it had hidden meaning if you play the record backwards. Played at many high school graduation parties:
There's a lady who's sure
All that glitters is gold
And she's buying a stairway to Heaven
When she gets there she knows
If the stores are all closed
With a word she can get what she came for
and she's buying a stairway to Heaven
A materialistic and selfish woman. It is clear that this individual equates “heaven” with shopping. Apparently even if stores are closed, she can still get access to “what she came for” “with a word”, insinuating that she is so powerful and wealthy that with just a phone call, the shops will be opened for her. We think making money is the stairway to heaven, but materialism is not it.
The original stairway to heaven is found in Genesis 28 with Jacob.
- Jacob camped and GOD spoke to him through a dream.
- Dream: ladder from earth to heaven with angels.
- GOD repeats the blessing to Jacob given to Abraham and Isaac.
- Jacob was a deceiver at this time – but Grace given to him.
- “Surely GOD was in this place, and I knew it not!”
- Altar/Bethel – but GOD is everywhere!
- “If GOD will . . . then I will serve HIM.” Let’s make a deal.
- “Of all YOU give me I will give a tenth to YOU.” Gn. 28:22
Ill. Fast forward to JESUS beginning HIS ministry. HE has called Andrew and Peter, John and Philip. Philip is so excited he tells his friend Nathanael they have found the Messiah. Nathanael is skeptical.
When JESUS meets him HE says – “Here is an honest man with no phoniness in him. Nathanael says, “You don’t know me.”
JESUS answered with a word of knowledge by the HOLY SPIRIT, “Right before Philip came to you, I saw you under the fig tree.” John 1:48
- Nathanael was amazed and confess JESUS as Son of GOD!
JESUS probably told him more than was recorded here.
“You will experience even more impressive things than this. I prophesy to you eternal truth: From now on you will see an open heaven and gaze upon the Son of Man like a stairway to heaven with messengers of GOD climbing up and down on HIM!” John 1:51
“I prophesy to you” = a promise for all believers to spiritually see and have access to heaven.
“Messengers of GOD climbing up and down upon HIM” – angels, people, or Pastors (Rev. 1-3) sent from GOD.
Ill. See the platform and stairs to heaven – JESUS – Jn 14:6
We have a stairway to heaven (JESUS).
“I AM the Way (to GOD),
The Truth (about GOD),
The LIFE (of GOD). No one comes to the FATHER but by ME.” Jn 14:6
There are no chapter breaks of verses in the original. Chapter one flows into chapter 2 without a break.
Now on the third day there was a wedding feast in the village of Cana, and the mother of JESUS was there. JESUS and HIS disciples were all invited to the banquet, but there were so many guests they ran out of wine. When Mary realized it, she came to HIM and said, “They have run out of wine, can’t you do something about it?” Jn 2:1-3 TPT
“Run out of wine” = a picture of how the joy of this world runs out and fades away.
JESUS said, “MY dear one, don’t you understand that if I do this, it won’t change anything for you, but it will change everything for ME. MY hour of unveiling has not yet come.” Jn 2:4
(JESUS knows when HE performs a miracle HIS life will no longer be private. This will change everything for HIM.)
Mary went to the servers and said, “Whatever HE tells you to do, make sure that you do it.”
There were six stone water pots nearby for washing rituals. JESUS told the servers to fill them and take some to the master of ceremonies. When they poured out the pitcher and the water became wine. Jn 2:5-9
Moses (Law) turned water into blood.
JESUS (Grace) turned water into wine.
JESUS always had a different perspective on life, death, and everything else because He spent so much time with His Father God. If we would spend more time with our Father God, we would have a different perspective too.
Ill. Last week I prayed with someone being tormented by fear. Doctor said they may have cancer. I felt compassion and prayed but encouraged this soul to get alone with GOD and HIS WORD and see what HE says about this. I want to pray and see everything changed for the better. But most of the time the people have to learn to access the stairway to heaven for themselves. Go to GOD – talk, listen, wait. Then do whatever HE tells you.
WWJD = HE only did what HE saw the FATHER doing. HE only said what HE heard the FATHER saying. Jn 5:19-20, 8:28, 12:19-20.
The LORD says to you, “Come buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen diligently to ME and eat what is good . . . Incline your ear and come to Me. Listen so that your soul may live.” Vs 2b-3
“For MY thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are MY ways your ways, says the LORD.” Vs 8
GT 20th Anniversary Celebrating GOD is Faithful!
GT 20th Anniversary
Celebrating GOD is Faithful!
20 years ago was a very scary time for us. January 20 years ago we resigned the church we had been in for 10 years. It would turn out to be one of the best things that ever happened to us but at that moment we did not realize it.
We were disappointed by betrayal of some and supported by many more. After resignation we spent a week in a cabin in the woods just trying to hear GOD about what was next.
TW was saying I believe GOD wants us to start a church together. We consulted a multitude of counselors and concluded that GOD had already spoken to us.
“I told you to resign the church, but I did not tell you to resign from being a pastor. My sheep need their shepherd. You’re it!”
That was how GOD communicated to me that we were to work with TW and start GT.
Emotionally I was still shell shocked by all that transpired, and I was not sure about starting a church – especially now.
Ill. I liken this time to Moses and Israel facing the Red Sea and Pharoah and his army behind them.
Moses put on his pastor hat and tried to comfort the people to trust GOD. Moses said to Israel, “GOD will fight the battle for you. And you? You quit crying!” Ex. 14:14 Msg.
But when Moses got alone with GOD he said, “O GOD, do something!”
God said to Moses: “Why cry to ME? Speak to Israel and tell them to get moving. Hold up your staff and split the sea and walk through.” Ex. 14:15-6 Msg.
I called TW and said It’s a go! We set the date 4-6-03 to start GT.
The hardest part of starting something new is – to just start!
We needed to rent a place, sound equipment, etc. but we had no money. A few people had promised to give a little start-up money, but it would not be near enough.
Rumors were flying all around town. A Pastor was telling people we are a cult and won’t last 6 months. I recalled an old song from the 70’s and changed it into a worship song.
They say our love won't pay the rent
Before it's earned, our money's all been spent
I guess that's so, we don't have a pot
But at least I'm sure of all the things we got.
GOD, I got YOU GOD, I got YOU GOD
I got you to hold my hand
I got you to understand
I got you to walk with me
I got you to talk with me
I got you; I won't let go
I got you to love me so
I got ---YOU, GOD.
Ill. At that time my mom lived in Daytona and was a beautician. Her and the other girls at the beauty shop would pool their money each week and buy some lottery tickets. My mom prayed to GOD to somehow get some money to help us start this new church. She called me one morning and her voice was shaking and sounded weird.
“Gary I asked GOD if He would cause me to win some money I would give it all to the new church to help you. Guess what I won, we won in a pool and my part after taxes was close to 20k!”
Excited but perplexed – the lottery???
Ill. GOD reminded me of sending Peter fishing and gold coin to pay taxes. IT was years later before I told that story. I could see the newspaper headlines “Mama won the lotto and starts a church!”
Ill. Mark Ricker was key person in helping start this church. He was the contractor. He gave us a sign at the beginning of GT that will still have hanging in our foyer at home.
Pic: of GOD is faithful sign at our home here.
Life is uncertain but,
GOD is faithful.
“It is the mercies of GOD that we are not consumed.
HIS compassions fail not; They are new every morning,
Great is YOUR faithfulness.” Lam. 3:22-23
GOD’S faithfulness is not based on our faithfulness.
“If we are faithless, HE remains faithful, for HE cannot deny Himself.” 2 Tim. 2:13
ill. I was telling a parent the other day who is going through a difficult time with a teen making bad decisions. Do you have any Word, promise from GOD about them? No. Then get alone with God and ask HIM for one word you can hold onto during this time.
“Those who are suffering because you are doing what GOD said, take it in stride. Trust HIM. HE knows what HE is doing. HE is a faithful Creator, WHO will continue to do what is right.” 1 Peter 4:19
There are so many things here on earth that oppose us:
“There is no such thing as unopposed spiritual progress.” Bill Johnson
“But GOD” = the two words that can change anything!
Psalm 73:26 flesh fails “But GOD is the strength . . .”
I Cor. 3:6 We sow/water “But GOD causes the growth”
I Cor. 10:13 Temptation “But GOD is faithful”
2 Thes. 3:3 Wicked people “But GOD is faithful”
“Let us firmly hold the profession of our faith without wavering, for HE WHO promised is faithful.” Heb. 10:23
Concl:
GOD’S Peace Ruling In You!
GOD’S Peace Ruling In You!
“May the LORD of peace HIMSELF
Give you HIS peace
At all times and in every situation.” 2 Thes. 3:16
Gospel tracts “Steps to peace with GOD”.
Break it down by meditation:
“May the LORD of peace HIMSELF”
- The Originator of peace
- Jehovah Shalom – only in Judges 6
Story tell Judges 6 with my highlights
Peace in Hebrew is “Shalom” – greeting in Israel
“May all be fulfilled in your life”
Restore and make right – implying something wrong has happened.
Paleo Hebrew Picture = Destroy the authority that establishes chaos.
“May the LORD of peace HIMSELF
Give you HIS peace” 2 Thes. 3:16
GOD wants to give you HIS peace but peace must be received by faith.
JESUS said, “MY peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Jn 14:27
This peace from JESUS is not natural or just human. It is divine peace.
GOD’S peace empowers you with authority over the situation.
Ill. Tell about elder lady car hijacking. JESUS is with me. I will pray for you. She had and maintained the awareness of GOD’S presence through it all.
We have a responsibility to believe GOD and “let not our hearts be troubled.”
Ill. What if the situation you are in goes south and not like this elderly lady? IF you stay in peace, faith, not let your emotions hi-jack your peace, spirit, or faith then you will see the hand of GOD.
- We are all in training here on earth for this peace of GOD to dominate our lives. We are taught in James
“Let everyone be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger (react).” James 1:19
“May the LORD of peace HIMSELF
Give you HIS peace
At all times and in every situation.” 2 Thes. 3:16
Ill. I start out in the morning alone with GOD and stay until I know HIS peace is ruling in my heart.
“Let the peace of CHRIST rule in your heart. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace.” Col. 3:15
“Let rule” G1018 – to umpire, direct, decide. Only used here!
Ill. I start out in morning with HIS peace ruling then along the way I slip back onto the throne of my life without even being aware of it. So this morning I asked GOD to have HS to wrn me, stop me, correct me, speak to me when I am not paying attention especially when a suddenly happens. (The truth is the HS already does that with a still small voice.”
Sometimes life can be overwhelming with issues you don’t know how to handle. GOD never wants us to wig out, panic, or be overwhelmed, but the enemy does.
Ill. While driving down to south Florida to pick up Andrew I was talking to GOD. LORD, Andrew needs so much. A car, a phone, a job, a place to live. I know he feels overwhelmed and so do I. What do I tell him?
Take just one day at a time!
That is the only word I had from GOD.
So I start out each morning with GOD saying,
“I will let YOU lead me.”
This involves: Surrender – submit – sacrifice = Peace
How do you know you have the peace of GOD
ruling in you right now?
- My body is relaxed.
- No hurry even if I am late.
- Awareness of GOD’S presence.
- Thankful.
- Light hearted – sense of humor.
- You just know = confidence.
Ill. As I look back over troubles/trials all my life but now in light of eternity – I begin to see and say with Apostle Paul
“For our light affliction which lasts but a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory . . .” 2 Cor. 4:17
“Be anxious (pulled in different directions) over anything, but in everything, be saturated in prayer and supplication, your faith-filled requests to GOD, overflowing with gratitude. Tell HIM every detail of your life, THEN GOD’S wonderful peace that passes all understanding, will guard your heart and mind through JESUS CHRIST.” Phil. 4:6-7 TPT
Ill. If you can’t sleep at night because you are worried about something then the peace of GOD is not guarding your heart and mind from Satan who is tormenting you. You can stop him!
Concl: Whatever you are going through right now you can still have and should have the peace of GOD ruling in your heart.
Resurrection Grace, The Key to Abundant LIFE
Resurrection Grace, The Key to Abundant LIFE
Romans 6:3-4 , Acts 4:33
Many times Easter messages are about proving the resurrection so people will believe. Instead this message is about resurrection life you can see and experience form JESUS right now – today that is available.
- HE was crucified between 2 thieves. HE was buried and was resurrected on the third day just as HE told everyone HE would be.
- He stayed on earth for 40 days showing HIMSELF alive to HIS disciples. Then He ascended into heaven bodily and over 500 people saw HIM at one time.
The only man-made thing in heaven today is the scars on JESUS’ body!
Summary after the Ascension of JESUS:
JESUS went up.
HOLY SPIRIT came down.
The Church went out (in resurrection grace).
Surprisingly many people believe in JESUS historically and that HE is alive today, but that is about as far as it goes. They either don’t know about resurrection grace or have not seen it at work and not received it. This seemed to be a common problem about the early churches. Paul even addressed this issue by raising a question to the church people in Rome.
“Do you not know that we who were baptized into CHRIST JESUS were baptized into HIS death? Therefore we were buried with HIM by baptism into death, that just as CHRIST was raised up from the dead by the glory of the FATHER, even so we also should walk in NEWNESS OF LIFE.” Romans 6:3-4
Unfortunately so many people will pray the prayer of salvation and say they received JESUS. They got a “get out of hell card”, but no newness of life. What’s wrong with this picture?
Here is a snapshot of believers after the resurrection and ascension:
“All the believers were of one heart and one soul, and no one said that what he possessed was his own. But to them all things were in common. With great power the Apostles testified to the resurrection of the LORD JESUS, and GREAT GRACE WAS ON THEM ALL.” Acts 4:32-33
Salvation Grace = unmerited favor from GOD – Ephesians 2:8-9
“For by grace (unmerited favor) are you saved. You receive salvation through faith and not of your effort, or your good works, it is a gift from GOD. So don’t go around bragging that you did something amazing!”
Resurrection Grace = the ability of GOD to do supernatural things through you.
“GOD is able to make all grace abound to you, so that you having all sufficiency may be able to do things only GOD can do.” 2 Cor. 9:8
“Now to HIM WHO is able to do far more abundantly all that we can ask or think, according to the power (grace) that works within us.” Eph. 3:20
There are 8 recorded instances of JESUS appearing after HIS resurrection. Nearly every case the disciples had a hard time recognizing HIM.
- Mary Magdalene thought HE was the gardener (Mk 16:9).
- Emmaus disciples spent an hour yet not recognize HIM.
- JESUS showed scars to prove it was HIM to disciples.
- John 21:12 none dared ask HIM, WHO are YOU? They wanted to!
- Matt. 28:16-17 spent 3 ½ years with HIM - “but some doubted”
Why? The answer is in I Cor. 2:14
“The natural man receives not the things of the Spirit of GOD: for they are foolishness to him, neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Cor. 2:14
JESUS resurrected body was not natural anymore. He could pass through walls and doors, appear and disappear. HE now had to be spiritually discerned and the disciples were not spiritual. They had only known JESUS through the 5 physical senses, not by the Spirit. They were still carnal, fleshly dominated. They were not born again yet and could not discern spiritually.
- John leaned upon JESUS’ breast while HE was in the flesh. But in Revelation 1 when he saw JESUS by the Spirit he fell as dead.
A new way to know GOD = by Holy Spirit discernment and faith.
A new way to live = by being led by the HOLY SPIRIT and faith.
The average Christian wants to experience GOD in some emotional way through our senses instead of enjoying what we already have in the SPIRIT by faith.
(We want to walk by the flesh rather than by the Spirit and faith!)
The flesh is flesh and the Spirit is Spirit. They are two different realms!
“The true worshippers will worship the FATHER in Spirit and truth.” John 4:24
Ill. Many XN songs glorify being hungry for GOD to the point of desperation. Many of these songs are describing people longing for GOD in their flesh, in the physical, so they won’t have to walk by the Spirit.
Once you are born again by the SPIRIT, 1/3rd of your salvation is over.
Your born again Sspirit is complete – Col. 2:9-10
Everything you need is IN YOUR Sspirit – 2 Pt 1:3-4
You have all the fruit OF THE Sspirit – Gal. 5:22-23
JESUS is with you always – Matt. 28:20, Heb. 13:5
Ill. I had to learn that GOD was always with me even when my emotions tell me that HE is gone. I had to learn that I don’t need another special touch or proof of HIS Presence – I believe based on HIS Word to me.
I believe GOD is always with me because of what HIS Word says, whether I feel HIM or not!
Believing GOD means that we believe and act upon GOD’s Word above what we see, hear, feel, or think.
“GOD has distributed to every man the measure of faith.” Romans 12:3
Faith must be released by believing and speaking:
We have the same spirit of faith. As it is written, I believed and therefore I have spoken.” So we also believe and therefore speak.” 2 Cor. 4:13
Ill. JESUS illustrated this by Mark 11:12-23 that we did last week.
The day before HE cursed a fig tree. The next day HE and the disciples were walking the same path by that same tree and noticed it dried up.
Peter said to JESUS “Rabbi, look!”
JESUS said, “Have faith in GOD (Have GOD’S faith). For truly I say whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed . . .” Mark 11:22-23
Walking in resurrection grace is (being Spirit-led).
Saying what GOD is saying.
Doing what GOD tells you to do.
GOD’S SPIRIT will urge you, prompt you, lead you, but never force you!
HE will lead you right now to do the right thing. But HE still requires you to use the faith that HE gives you to do it. Faith is trusting HIM.
Anyone can be led by the Spirit today.
This changes everything in your life. You no longer look at things through just physical eyes only. I don’t try to get GOD to give me a tangible feeling – I don’t ask for it and yet many times I get wonderful experiences.
Consider Your Ways and GOD’S Ways. - Haggai
Consider Your Ways and GOD’S Ways. - Haggai
520 B.C Solomons temple and most of Jerusalem had been destroyed by the Babylonians. Jewish people taken captive to Babylon for about 70 years. A new empire of the Medes and Persians arose under King Cyrus. He was kind to the Jews and allowed several deportations to go back to Jerusalem and rebuild their temple and city. Several years had gone by (see Ezra) and the altar in the Temple had been repaired and the foundation.
But opposition came by the Samaritans and the rebuilding of the Temple had stopped for about 17 years. People kept saying it is not time to rebuild the temple. The economy is bad, people are struggling. Interesting that we have been in this building 17 years.
By now we have a new King, King Darius of the Medo-Persian empire. GOD sends a prophet to leaders of Israel – Zerubbabel, appointed by King Cyrus to be the governor over Jerusalem, and Joshua the high priest. So you have a combo of the political and spiritual.
“In the second year of King Darius . . . the word of the LORD came by
Haggai the prophet to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the high priest, saying, thus says the LORD of Hosts: These people say, the time has not yet come to rebuild the house of the LORD. Then the word of the LORD came by Haggai the prophet saying: Is it time for you yourselves to live in paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? Haggai 1:1-4
The people realize they have been divinely placed by GOD in their homeland for such a time as this. People got distracted by other things. The temple the gathering place of worship to GOD was in disrepair. God raised up a prophet called Haggai (festive or celebration) to address the heart of the issue.
People are saying it is not the right time to raise money and take care of the house of GOD. Times are hard. The economy is not good. People are busy and there is a lot going on. The prophet cuts to the real issue – the heart.
Self-interests have replaced GOD’S interest!
You could hear the construction going on all around the Temple. New houses were being built every day just like all around us! Today all around us new houses have sprung up. Most at least 400k and some million-dollar homes. Just last year I remember hearing the nail guns all day putting on the roofs of the houses many of you now live in.
People are moving to The Villages from
Inbound Net inflow
Metros Dec '22 - Feb '23
1 New York, NY 2,582
2 Washington, DC 1,463
3 Boston, MA 1,112
4 Chicago, IL 854
5 Miami, FL 628
6 Los Angeles, CA 609
7 Philadelphia, PA 524
8 San Francisco, CA 470
9 Seattle, WA 350
10 Denver, CO 20
Ill. I think prophet Haggai heard the construction going on of people’s houses while he walked in the temple of GOD that was uncompleted and lacked funds to finish it. Maybe he heard GOD say, “What’s wrong with this picture?”
GOD is not against you having a nice home and things. But something is wrong if you are focusing on building your own kingdom of security and not putting GOD’s business first.
“Thus says the LORD of Hosts: Consider you ways!” vs 5, 7.
Then GOD tells them what to do through the prophet.
“Go up to the mountain and bring wood and rebuild the Temple that I may take pleasure in it and be glorified”, says the LORD. Vs 8
GOD calls upon man to do things HE could easily do HIMSELF. But HE chooses to work through us.
Our assignment from GOD has never been about what we can do for GOD, but about what HE can do through us.” Bill Johnson
GOD is an abundant GOD and wants to bless our lives here abundantly in every way, spiritually, emotionally, physically, financially, materially. But when man fails to put GOD first in any area of his life then that area begins to suffer because of it. In this particular case it was financial.
“Consider your ways. You sow much but reap little. You don’t have enough. . . you earn wages to put into a bag with holes in it. Consider your ways. You’ve had great ambitions for yourselves, but nothing has come of it. The little you have brought to my Temple I’ve blown away—there was nothing to it. And why? Because while you’ve taken care of your own houses, my house (church) needs help. That’s why. Because of your stinginess.” Haggai 1:5-9
Money has an assigned purpose from GOD. To provide for your needs and others, etc. But money used for the wrong purposes can harm you. Moses warned Israel that once they got into the promise land and built their houses and lands to be careful – Deut. 28-38 lest you forget the LORD your GOD.
GOD established the tithe for man to exercise his faith in GOD as HIS sole provider and finance the Kingdom of GOD ministry on earth.
The tithe was learned before the Law was given. Abraham and Jacob gave tithes voluntarily not mandatory. (Gen. 14 and 28).
The tithe was mandatory under the Law. Mal. 3
Today the tithe continues through the cross and becomes a kingdom principle of how GOD can work through us. Matt. 23:23
The first tenth of your income is called GOD’S tithe. 2 Chron. 31:5
It is to be given to honor GOD on the first day of the week. 1 Cor. 16:2
The result of GOD speaking through the prophet so directly was wonderful!
“Then Zerubbabel the governor and Joshua the high priest, with all the people, obeyed the voice of the LORD their GOD . . . and the LORD stirred up the spirit of all the people, and they came and worked together on the house of the LORD.” Haggai 1:12-14
Everything was going great and then GOD spoke again through the prophet to Zerubbabel and Joshua.
“Be strong Zerubbabel, I am with you. Be strong Joshua, be strong all you people for I am with you. Do not fear!” Haggai 2:4-5
This sounded weird. All was going well. Why would GOD tell me this?
“In a little while I will shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and dry land. I will shake the nations, and they will come with the wealth of the nations, and I will fill this house with glory, says the LORD of Hosts. The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine, says the LORD of Hosts. The glory of the latter house will be greater than the former. And in this place I will give peace.” Haggai 2:6-11
Now of all times to shake the nations – not now GOD! Shaking of the nation’s means the economy will stop. When things in our world get shaken people do not spend money.
GOD knows the future knows what is going to happen. “I am going to shake the nations – and as a result they will come to this place. I know how to get the silver and gold into the right hands so that the people will experience ME using them.”
“ I am giving you a promise now while the seed is still in the barn. You have not yet harvested your grain, and your grapevines, fig trees, pomegranates, and olive trees have not yet produced their crops. But from this day onward I will bless you.” Haggai 2:18-19 NLT
Mark down the day GOD tells you to do something and you obey that voice of the LORD.
GOD is anxious to bless you. He is challenging you to obey HIS voice to you and plant the seed into the ground by faith. The blessing of the LORD begins that moment.
NOTE: Their seed was still in the barn. Because they were expecting times to get hard, so they hoarded their seed. They were saving their seed for the hard times. This is the opposite way the KOG works.
GOD told Isaac to sow seed in the time of famine – Gen. 26:1
Ill. I have told people who were struggling financially to start tithing even when they saw no way to do it. The tithe of all your income belongs to GOD (Lev. 27:30). I tell them that tithing is not sowing seed. Sowing seed is giving beyond GOD’S tithe. Seed is different from tithe.
“You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves a person who gives cheerfully. And God will generously provide all you need. . . GOD WHO supplies seed to the sower and supplies bread for your food will also multiply your seed sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness.” 2 Cor. 9:6-10
For 17 years we have carried a mortgage on this church. WE owe:
$812,585.68 mortgage (Mort – death and gage – wage)
$32,300.65 paid in interest last year
$6,337.69 monthly payment
Part of my vision for this church is to be debt free.
I believe GOD has been speaking to me about this for some time. It’s very simple how HE wants to do this.
1. Tell the people the need.
2. Teach them to activate Mark 11:23 together in unity.
3. Tell them to listen to ME and obey MY voice.
“Have GOD’S kind of faith. For truly I say to you whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, he will have whatever he says.” Mark 11:23
Confession of faith:
Lord, YOU said that whosoever says to this mountain, be removed and thrown into the sea and does not doubt in his heart but believes what he says will come to pass. Mark down this day, April 2nd, 2023, that we, YOUR church, Grace Tabernacle agree that is it no longer YOUR will for YOUR church to remain in debt. Therefore as a united body, we decree and declare on this day for this mountain of debt to be paid off, cancelled, moved into the sea of forgetfulness. According to YOUR WORD, if we believe what we are saying and do not doubt, then it will come to pass. Therefore we thank YOU in advance that this debt is paid in full. Thank YOU, in JESUS’ name. Amen
GOD’S Math Number 9 = Divine Completeness or Judgment
GOD’S Math Number 9 = Divine Completeness or judgment
9 is the last of single digits. Beyond this is just a combination of previous digits like one and zero and one and one, etc.
Therefore number nine marks the end. Nine is also 3 three times. 3 signifies divine completeness. Hence 9 indicates the finality of Divine things.
- We have nine planets moving around the sun.
- Woman is pregnant 9 mos. before giving birth to new life.
It is a number of finalities.
Sometimes 9 is a number of judgments. There are nine Supreme Court justices. There are
9 situations where judgment fire came down from heaven to earth.
1. Sodom (Gen. 19:24).
2. On Aaron’s son (Lev. 10:2).
3. First offerings out from Egypt (Lev. 9:24).
4. On rebellious (Num. 11:1).
5. Uprising of Korah (Num. 16:35).
6. Elijah’s offering (I Kgs 18:38).
7. On Elijah’s enemies (2 Kgs 1:10).
8. On David’s sacrifice (I Chron. 21:26).
9. Solomon’s sacrifice (2 Chron. 7:1).
9 persons are recorded in Scripture as having been stoned:
1. Blasphemer (Lev. 24:16).
2. Sabbath breaker (Num. 15:36).
3. Achan (Josh. 7:25).
4. Abimilech (Jud. 9:53).
5. Adoram (I Kings 12:18).
6. Naboth (I Kings 21:10).
7. Zechariah (2 Chron. 24:21).
8. Stephen (Acts 7:59).
9. Paul (Acts 14:19).
PIC of Beatles album with song Revolution number 9:
John Lennon claimed that number 9 seemed to follow his life a lot. The Beatles' famous televised appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show happened on February 9, 1964, and Lennon's son Sean was born on his birthday, October 9.
1960’s Beatles publicity rumor that Paul McCartney died in car crash on September 9th. and was replaced by imposter. They rumored that hidden clues could be found in their songs. First example of backward masking of hidden messages. John Lennon recorded short phrases “number nine” and when played backwards it came out “turn me on dead man” on a song titled “Revolution Number 9”. Lennon died on December 8, 1980, where it was December 9 in England, at Roosevelt Hospital (nine letters) on 9th Avenue in Manhattan (also nine letters).
When asked in 1960 how he expected to die. His answer was, “I’ll probably be popped off by some loony.” That comment came true.
Ill. In Samaria JESUS met ten men who were lepers. They cried out to HIM to have mercy on them. HE said to them, “Go show yourselves to the priest.” As they went they were cleansed.
One of them when he saw that he was healed, returned with a loud voice glorifying GOD, and fell down on his face at HIS feet giving HIM thanks. And he was a Samaritan.
JESUS said, “Were there not the ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Were there not any found to return and give glory to GOD except this foreigner?” Then HE said to him, “Rise and go on your way, your faith has made you well.” Luke 17:17-19
JESUS died the 9th hour and became the first fruits of the resurrection:
When the sixth hour had come, there was great darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. At the ninth hour JESUS cried out with a loud voice saying, “Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?” which means,
“MY GOD, MY GOD, why have YOU forsaken ME?” Mark 15:33-34
- JESUS is quoting Psalm 22:1. The answer to HIS question is Psalm 22:3 “But YOU are holy, O YOU WHO inhabits the praises of Israel.” Psalm 22:3
JESUS brought Divine Completeness to our sin on the cross:
“GOD made HIM WHO knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of GOD in HIM.” 2 Cor. 5:21
Picture of the dove of the HOLY SPIRIT
The dove has nine main feathers on each wing to lift and propel it forward.
9 gifts of the HOLY SPIRIT to lift and propel us ( I Cor. 12:8-10).
1. Word of wisdom
2. Word of knowledge
3. Faith
4. Gifts of healings
5. Working of miracles
6. Prophecy
7. Discerning of spirits
8. Tongues
9. Interpretation of tongues
9 = bearing fruit of the Spirit - Gal. 5:22-23 Galatians is the 9th book NT.
1. Love
2. Joy
3. Peace
4. Patience
5. Kindness
6. Goodness
7. Faith
8. Meekness
9. Self- control
The dove has 5 tail feathers (Directional guidance).
5 -fold directional gifts given to the church:
1. Apostle
2. Prophet
3. Evangelist
4. Pastor
5. Teacher
A dove is actually in the pigeon family of birds. But doves are different from birds. From a distance a pigeon may look like a dove.
Gifts of the HS and fruit of HS can be counterfeited. From a distance they may look the same. Over time the truth is revealed and some who have been thought of as manifesting the dove were in reality manifesting nothing more than pigeon religion.
Concl: When GOD preaches through number 9 it is either a message of HIS SPIRIT moving through judgment or showing divine completion.
Your Body Now And Your Future Resurrected Body Romans 8:22-23 and I Corinthians 15
Your body now and your future resurrected body
Romans 8:22-23 and I Corinthians 15
The FDA are currently testing antiaging drugs to slow down aging and increase life spans. Metformin is a drug used to treat diabetes but has been found to help anti- aging as well.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology are working on brain implants to eliminate depression, as well as artificial limbs that can feel sensations. One of the advances involves hearing aids that not only help hearing but can also zoom in on conversations beyond natural ears. A digital nervous system that could dodge a bullet.
After the flood lifespans dropped drastically. According to Psalm 90 people could expect to live to 70-80. Today the avg lifespan is 76 males, 82 females.
Your body is a gift from GOD while you are on earth.
“YOU brought my inner parts into being; YOU wove me in my mother’s womb. I will praise YOU for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:13-14
Amazing facts of your body:
The femur bond can support 30 times your weight.
Messages from the brain travel to nerves at 200 mph.
The gluteus maximus is the largest muscle in the body.
DNA uncoiled would stretch 10 billion miles.
The strongest muscle in the body is the jaw muscle!
Blood travels over 12k miles a day.
You blink an average of 12k times a day.
You shed 1.5 lbs. of skin yearly. By age 70 = 105 lbs.
Man without GOD
Human spirit is dead to GOD – Gen. 2:17, Ephesians 2:1
Soul is alive forever – Eccl. 12:7
Body is alive on earth to house the soul.
Ill. Little girl asked her mom where humans came from. She told her GOD made Adam and Eve and they had children. Later the little girl asked her dad the same question. He told her we evolved from monkeys. Confused the girl ask her mom how come dad says we came from monkeys, and you say we came from GOD? O that’s easy honey. The monkeys were the origin of your dad’s side of the family and humans were the origin of mine.
Man with GOD (Born again of the SPIRIT)
Sspirit makes us new and alive to GOD – 2 Cor. 5:17, I Cor. 6:17
Soul must be renewed by us- Romans 12:1-2
Body houses HOLY SPIRIT/Ss while we live on earth – I Cor. 3:16
There is a hunger in all who are born again for the redemption process that was unleashed at the cross that isn’t finished yet to happen. God has placed eternity in our hearts that longs for the same redemption that happened in our spirit body to happen in our body.
“We who have the first-fruits of the SPIRIT, also inwardly groan as we passionately long to experience our full status as GOD’S sons – including our physical bodies being transformed.” Romans 8:23 TPT
“firsfruits” = means more fruit to come.
2 Cor. 5:5, Eph. 1:14 calls HS an earnest or down payment. Meaning there is more of salvation for us to experience. Our full redemption is not complete yet until we experience a resurrected body like JESUS.
Paul identified the thing that gives him the most trouble in this life is his flesh. “For I know that in me (my flesh) dwells no good thing, for the will to do what is right is present with me, but how to perform what is good I do not find.” Romans 7:18
Flesh = Greek word sarx = carnal from carne, carnivorous refers to the physical senses and the strong cravings of the flesh as well as the unrenewed mind that is carnal.
NIV Bible and others falsely translated flesh as sinful nature.
A Christian does not have a sinful nature. It was crucified on the cross when you received JESUS. HE took your sinful nature and all your sins.
- Galatians 2:20 “I am crucified with CHRIST . . .”
- 2 Peter 1:4 “partakers of the Divine nature”
Your new DNA is the (Divine Nature of the Almighty).
“As you yield freely and fully to the dynamic life and power of the HOLY SPIRIT, you will abandon the cravings of your self-life. For your self-life craves the things that offend the HOLY SPIRIT and hinder HIM from living free within you . . . so you have two incompatible and conflicting forces within you. Your self-life of the flesh and the new creation life of the SPIRIT. . . the cravings of the self-life are obvious: sexual immorality, lustful thoughts, pornography, chasing after things instead of GOD, manipulating others, hatred, senseless arguments, temper tantrums, uncontrolled addictions. . . those who use their freedom for these things will not inherit the kingdom realm of GOD (now). Gal. 5:16-21
Not saying carnal Xns won’t go to heaven! But it is saying the carnal Xns will not inherit their inheritance that JESUS died to given them now, which is the kingdom of GOD now – the ruling of GOD in their life now!
They are forfeiting the KOG now from operating in their life.
PIC: self-directed lost life w/o CHRIST.
PIC of self-directed XN:
PIC of Spirit-led life: Which one are you right now?
Questions about the resurrection in I Cor. 15:35
1. How are the dead raised up?
2. What kind of body do they have?
“There are celestial bodies and terrestrial bodies. . . so also is the resurrection of the dead. The body is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption. It is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. . . we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet, the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. . . and this mortal will put on immortality.” I Cor. 15:40-53
Ill. Paul used a metaphor of a seed of corn planted but comes out of the ground as a whole stalk. It is still corn but better.
In the resurrection you will still be you, but with a better resurrected body.
PIC of a seed of corn next to a corn stalk:
Our bodies now are inferior to what we need for everlasting life.
Our bodies now grow old and wear out.
Our bodies now can experience disease, deterioration and death.
Our resurrected bodies will be incorruptible. No disease, death.
Our new bodies will be identifiable. Lk 9:28 radiant, recognizable.
Our new bodies will be incredible. Power, travel earth to heaven.
Ill. One thing I have noticed from every near-death experience of a Christian. Those who say they have seen the other side but have come back here, is they have no longer any fear of death. In fact they look forward to it. Someone said once you lose your fear of death is when you can really begin to live.
“When this corruptible will have put on incorruption, and this mortal will have put on immortality then “Death is swallowed up in victory”
. . . but thanks be to GOD WHO gives us the victory through our LORD JESUS CHRIST!” I Cor. 15:54-57
“Therefore my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immoveable, always abounding in the work of the LORD, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the LORD.” I Cor. 15:58
Heaven is my home series: Where are my loved ones now?
Heaven is my home series: Where are my loved ones now?
Overall church attendance goes up and down seasonally. But the interest in the afterlife is growing. Every week there are more best-selling books about the afterlife or someone’s near death experience.
We have eternity in our hearts is what Solomon said.
Last week shared that 37% of atheist, agnostics and people with no identifiable religion say that they believe in heaven and 27% of those say they believe in hell.
- Even atheist can’t live with that level of despair while rejecting what the Bible explains it to us.
Ill. I’ve been with a lot of people at their deathbed and presided over many funerals. I’ve been with a lot of loved ones who said goodbye to their spouse. I’ve talked to more people going through grief than I can remember.
2 kinds of grief:
1. Good grief – has a time limit. Brings healing and closure.
It is GOD-focused. “HE leads me THROUGH the valley of the shadow of death.” GOD uses your grief as credentials for you to be able to minister to others in their grief. Not a pity party of how bad it is, but a healing party of how good GOD is!
- Here is where you experience Matthew 5:4, 2 Cor. 3:4
2. Bad grief – never ends and affects your health. No closure and is self-focused and can be demonic.
People have two primary questions about deceased loved ones:
1. Where are they now?
2. What are they doing now?
These are not new questions. Paul had these questions asked to him as well.
“I do not want you ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. For if we believe that JESUS died and rose again, even so GOD will bring with HIM those who sleep in JESUS . . . Therefore comfort one another with these words.” I Thes. 4:12-18
Ill. “fallen asleep” is JESUS’ description of death from an earth point of view. In Matthew 9 Jairus’ daughter has just died. He said to JESUS,
“But come lay YOUR hand on her, and she will live.” JESUS went with him to his house and saw the musicians and mourners making a noise, JESUS said to them, “Depart. The girl is not dead but is sleeping.” And they laughed HIM to scorn. But when the people were put outside . . .” Matthew 9:23-25
- Luke’s account of this was HE only allowed Peter, James and John and the girls’ mother and father to be there w/HIM = 5+ grace. HE removed the doubters.
- Acts 7 Stephen the first martyr too “fell asleep” under stoning.
- Also I Cor. 11 “asleep” Greek word koimao = sleep.
This is a picture of what happens to our bodies when they die.
Body is just a temporary earth house for our soul.
“cemetery” = sleeping place for the body until resurrection.
What happens to the real person?
To answer this question we must look to the words of JESUS in Luke 16.
Here JESUS tells us a real-life example of Two people on earth, the same two people after this life, two places in eternity, all based on two choices in Luke 16.
Two people who died:
“The beggar died and was carried by angels to Abraham’s presence (Paradise).
The rich man also died and was buried. In Hades being in torment . . .” Luke 16:22
- Angelic escort. Many near death say they see angels and loved ones who have died and are in heaven.
Two places after death before the cross:
Paradise – comfort, awareness, love, fellowship
Hades – torment, flames, misery and memory
“The rich man cried out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue. For I am tormented in this flame’ . . . Abraham said between us there is a great gulf so that no one can pass from here to you nor you to us.
The rich man said send someone to testify to my house because I have five brothers, lest they also come to this place of torment.” Lk 16:25-27
Lazarus could not see this man in torment but the man in torment could see Lazarus’ comforted.
PIC: Hades and Paradise
Ill. I believe people in hell will remember services like this when GOD gave them opportunity to hear and respond to the gospel.
Every believer who died before the ascension of CHRIST was taken to Paradise. To the thief on the cross who believed JESUS said “today”.
Paradise was taken captive to heaven at JESUS’ ascension.
“For CHRIST also once suffered for sins, the JUST for the unjust, so that HE might bring us to GOD, being put to death in the flesh, but made alive by the SPIRIT, by Whom HE also went and preached to the spirits in prison, who in times past were disobedient . . .” I Peter 3:18-19
When JESUS died HE went to Paradise. He told the thief on the cross this.
After resurrection HE spent 40 days on earth and then led HIS disciples to the Mount of Olives. HE lifted HIS hands and blessed them and ascended in the air before their eyes.
But according to Ephesians 4 something else happened no visible to the eyes of the disciples. HE relocated Paradise and all in it to the third heaven forever. HE took Paradise captive.
“When HE ascended on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts to men. In saying “HE ascended” it means HE also descended into the lower parts of the earth. HE Who descended is also HE Who ascended far above all the heavens that HE might fill all things.” Eph. 4:8-9
Two places where souls go after death:
Heaven for saved people – Paradise is now in heaven.
Hades = place of the dead. The place for lost people.
It is not purgatory. It has no exits. It is not the ultimate hell.
According to the Bible there will be a day at the very last moment of human history describes in Rev. 20:11-15 as the Great White Throne Judgment.
“I saw a great white throne and HIM Who sat on it. From HIS face the earth and the heaven fled away, and no place was found for them. I saw the dead, small and great, standing before GOD. Books were opened . The dead were judged according to their works as recorded in the books. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. Anyone whose name was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire.” Rev. 20:11-15
People who say they cannot believe in hell are disagreeing with JESUS and all the writers of the Bible who did!
One more question about what happens to us after we die.
Do we have bodies or are we ghost like?
In Luke 16 both the rich man and Lazarus had bodies after death. But 2 Cor. 5 gives us insight.
“We are convinced that even if these bodies we live in are folded up at death like tents, we still have a GOD-built home that no human hands have built, which will last forever in the heavenly realm. We inwardly sigh as we live in these physical tents, longing to put on our new body for our life in heaven . . . we won’t find ourselves naked.” 2 Cor. 5:1-5 TPT
GOD gives us temporary heavenly bodies as we await the glorified bodies at the last Resurrection when CHRIST returns.
Summary Review:
When saved people die their physical bodies fall asleep.
Their souls are escorted by angels to heaven.
They are given intermediate bodies until the 2nd Coming.
Lost or unsaved people die, and their bodies are buried.
Their souls go to Hades to await the Great White Throne Judgment.
After this they are assigned to everlasting hell.
Two people = saved or lost
Two places = heaven or hell
Two decisions – whatever decision you make about eternity is made in this life only! There is no second chance.
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2
“Seek the LORD, while HE may be found, call upon HIM while HE is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the LORD, and HE will have mercy on him, for HE will abundantly pardon.” Isaiah 55:6-7
The rich man in this story heard the gospel but let time slip away.
Concl: Some of you worry about loved ones that seem to have died lost. The truth is you don’t know for sure. GOD is so merciful not wanting anyone to perish that HE does everything possible to get people saved before their appointment to death. There may have been a last-minute cry for salvation. We have to leave these matters into the hands of a just GOD.
Someone said there will be 3 surprises when you get to heaven:
1. First of all you will be surprised who is there that you did not expect to be there.
2. You will be surprised who is not there that you expected to be there.
3. Some people will be surprised that you are there!
Today we can’t do anything about those who have died. Today is for you and your eternity. Where do you stand right now with GOD?
GOD Speaking Through the Number 8 - “The beginning of new things”
GOD Speaking Through the Number 8 - “The beginning of new things”
Seven denotes perfection and one represents beginning. So number eight represents a new beginning, a new order of things.
When GOD destroyed the world by flood and started over with Noah and his family HE called Noah number 8.
“God did not spare the ancient world, but saved Noah, a preacher of righteousness, with seven others . . .” 2 Peter 2:5
“ . . . when GOD waited patiently in the days of Noah while the ark was being prepared, in which a few, that is, eight souls were being saved through water.” 1 Peter 3:20
“Abraham circumcised his son Isaac being eight days old, as GOD commanded him.” Gen. 21:4
- Babies were circumcised on 8th day – Vitamin K
- Spiritually significant was it means to put off the flesh and put on the new creation of Christ. Col. 2:11, Eph. 2:10
Under the OT priesthood it took 7 days of consecration then on the eighth day the priest could begin their work. High Priest Aaron and his sons began their ministry on the eight day. The same thing for the cleansing of a leper too. The eighth day meant a new beginning.
8 = new beginnings. 8 news things the LORD gives us in the New Covenant:
1. A new song (Ps. 96:1,Rev. 5:5-9).
2. A new name (Isa. 62:2, Rev. 2:17).
3. A new heart (Ez. 18:31).
4. A new passion (Ez.36:26).
5. A new spirit (John 3).
6. A new tongue (Mk 16:17,Acts 2:4).
7. A new commandment (Jn 13:34).
8. A new heaven/earth (Rev. 21:1).
Examples of eight in scripture
King David was the eighth son of Jesse.
Elijah performed 8 miracles.
Elisha performed 16 miracles.
JESUS as Redeemer shows up 8 times in scripture.
Eight women were prophets in the Bible:
1. Miriam-Ex. 15:20
2. Deborah- Judges 4:4
3. Huldah – 2 Kgs 22:14
4. Anna – Luke 2:36
5. Four daughters of Philip – Acts 21:9
Eight additional Apostles other than the original twelve.
Matthias, Barnabas, Paul, Andronicus, Junia, James, Silvanus and Timothy.
8 things to think on in Phil. 4:8
T, H, J, P, L, GR, V, P
There are 8 caves mentioned in the Bible. Caves are safe places for hiding for a season, until GOD begins a whole new beginning of life for the person who stays there. Some examples are:
Lot fled to a cave – life started over.
David hid in a cave from Saul – before starting over.
Elijah heard the still small voice of GOD in a cave.
Lazarus was buried in a cave not a grave.
Adam lived 800 years after Seth was born. Seth, Adam’s third son represented a new beginning. The name Seth shows up 8 times.
Sixteen (8x2) is a number GOD uses to describe HIS love in I Cor. 13
1. Love is patient,
2. Kind
3. Envies not
4. Flaunt not
5. Not puffed up
6. Not behave improperly
7. Not seek its own
8. Not easily provoked
9. Thinks no evil
10. Rejoices not in iniquity
11. Rejoices in truth
12. Bears all things
13. Believes all things
14. Hopes all things
15. Endures all things
16. Love never fails
There are 16 compound names for Jehovah
Jehovah Tsidkeenu , Jehovah Rapha . . .
If number 3 represents fullness of GOD the Trinity. And 16 represents the love of GOD then
3:16s in the Bible represents the fullness of the love of GOD.
John 3:16
I John 3:16
“Hereby perceive we the love of GOD, because HE laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” I Jn 3:16
A fun study is just read the 3:16s in the NT.
Psalm 91 has long been known as a psalm to read and speak out loud for GOD’S divine protection. It is to be voice activated.
He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I WILL SAY OF THE LORD,
HE is my refuge and my fortress, my GOD in whom I trust. Surely He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the noisome pestilence. . . 16 Verses = the fullness of GOD’S love.
The number of the Anti-Christ is 666.
The numerical value of the name JESUS in Greek is 888.
The most watched movie in history is The JESUS Film. It has been translated into 888 languages by Campus Crusade for Christ.
The USA was formed in 1776 which is 888 X 2.
Today’s toll-free number in America is 888.
Concl: This is a reminder that JESUS is a free call from anywhere.
GOD’S phone number is Jeremiah 33:3
“Call unto Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things that you do not know.”
Heaven is our home: Looking forward!
Heaven is our home: Looking forward!
About 45-minute drive from us is what Walt Disney called the happiest place on earth.
People save money all their life to come and spend a week here.
Ill. To me hell on earth is parents with young children at Disney for a week in hot July weather.
From Genesis to Revelation there are more than 600 references to the subject heaven. Heaven is the most encouraging subject in the Bible and truly is the happiest place in the universe.
Usually we don’t hear much about heaven unless there is a funeral. Even though the Bible tells us to “Set our minds on things above and not on earth.”
“If you read history you find that the Christians who did most for this present world were those who thought most of the next world.” C. S. Lewis
The older we get the more we should be thinking about heaven. People in Bible days thought more and more about heaven as they got older.
“These all died in faith . . . declaring plainly that they are looking for a homeland. If they had been thinking of the country from which they came, they could have returned. But they desired a better country, a heavenly one. . . for GOD has prepared a city for them.” Heb. 11:13-16
The longer JESUS lived here on earth HE looked forward for heaven. As He approached the end of HIS earth life He told HIS disciples, “If you loved ME, you would rejoice because I said, ‘I am going to the FATHER.’” John 14:28
3 times Peter tells us that we should be looking forward to heaven.
“You ought to live godly lives as you LOOK FORWARD to the day of GOD and speed its coming. . . we are LOOKING FORWARD to a new heaven and a new earth. . . since you are LOOKING FORWARD to this make every effort to be found blameless and at peace with HIM.” 2 Peter 3:11-14
Ill. Each year on the date of his father’s death, a little boy would send up a helium balloon with a note attached to his father. One year the balloon deflated and landed in a lady’s backyard. She read the little child’s note. “Dear Dad, I wish you were here with me. I miss you so much. I hope you are happy in heaven. If you are okay please tell me. I love you, Jimmy.”
The lady through social media found the mother of the little child who wrote the note on the balloon. She asked if she could write her child a note. She told the child. “I want you to know that heaven is a real and wonderful place. It is the happiest place anywhere. It is a place of no pain and no worries. I am certain your dad did not want to leave you or cause you to feel sad. He will always love you and I am sure you make him proud.”
Other people heard of this story on social media and the story went around the world. People are thinking more and more about heaven.
Always on the best sellers list of books there is a story of someone’s near death experience in which they share glimpses of heaven. While they may be interesting reads we must stick to scripture for truth.
Ill. When Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds died within days of each other – someone posted this picture drawn by a fan. Mother and daughter arriving in heaven together with Carrie in her Princess Leia and Debbie in her raincoat and hat replicating Singing in the rain movie.
Pew Research Center Poll in 2015 about heaven:
72% Americans believe in heaven.
Fewer than half Buddhist, Hindus, and Jews believe.
37% agnostics and atheist believe in heaven.
3 people die every second, 180 every minute,
11k every hour = 250k every day either heaven or hell.
1. The Priority of heaven
Paul said going to be with the LORD is “far better” than remaining on earth (Phil 1:23). The Bible warns us
“Do not love this world or the things in it. If anyone loves the world the love of the FATHER is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life – is not of the FATHER but is of the world. The world and its desires are passing away . . . Little children, it is the last hour.” I John 2:15-18
The wisest man who ever lived was also the richest man admitted the failure of this world to satisfy and fulfill us. He tried everything under the sun and said all of it is “vanity” because
“GOD has put eternity in our hearts.” Eccl. 3:11
This world is passing away and we are made for eternity, for heaven! That is our destination. We need to feed this hunger with the WORD, so we don’t try to vainly satisfy our heart with the world’s vain things.
2. The Plurality of heaven
The Apostle Paul was “caught up to the third heaven” 2 Cor. 12:2
There are 3 heavens:
Atmospheric heaven – 300 miles - Isaiah 55:10-11
Universe heaven – Psa 19:1, “HE made the stars also” Gen. 1:16
Third heaven – 2 Cor. 12:2-4 “highest heavens” Deut. 10:14
3. The Place called heaven
“Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in GOD believe also in ME. In My FATHERS house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a PLACE for you.” John 14:1-3
Place = “topos” = a real tangible place.
“A country” – vastness of territory
“A celestial city” – buildings, streets, residents, activity
“A kingdom” – government, organization
“House of the LORD” – a home, love.
“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which GOD has prepared for those who love HIM.
But GOD has revealed them to us by HIS SPIRIT . . . not by words which man’s wisdom teaches, but by the HOLY SPIRIT teaches. . .” I Cor. 2:9-13
We need to see the view and value of heaven:
1. Our REDEEMER is there.
“Not with the blood of goats and bulls but by HIS own blood HE entered the Most Holy place once for all, having obtained ETERNAL REDEMPTION.” Hebrews 9:12
Redemption = the act of recovering something that was lost. Freedom from guilt or blame for doing something wrong. To buy out a slave’s freedom. The costly act of purchasing back something that was sold.
“Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer, I AM the LORD your GOD, WHO teaches you how to profit, who leads you in the way you should go. Oh that you had listened to MY commandments. Then your peace would have been like a river and your righteousness as the waves of the sea.” Isaiah 48:17-18
2. Our relationships are there.
Do you realize you have more friends in heaven than you do on earth?
Ill. The older I get I begin to realize this.
“We are encompassed with such a great cloud of witnesses. . .” Heb. 12:1
Seems to imply people in heaven may get a glimpse from time to time of our victories and their answers in prayer for us? ??
The Sadducees tried to trick JESUS with a woman who had been married 7 times asking whose husband will she be in heaven? They did not believe in the resurrection, so this was a trick question. JESUS answered, “You do greatly err not knowing the scriptures or the power of GOD. For in the resurrection people do not marry or are given in marriage but are like the angels of GOD in heaven.” Mtt 22:29-30
- It is always an error not to know the WORD of GOD otherwise you default to human reasoning that leads to death.
3. Our Resources are in heaven.
When you became a Xn then GOD became your FATHER and then HE made you an heir of an inheritance.
“In HIM (CHRIST) we have obtained an inheritance.” Eph 1:11
“In Christ we are to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints of light.” Heb. 9:15
“Everything we could ever need for life and godliness has already been deposited in us by HIS divine power. . . as a result of this, HE has given you magnificent promises that are beyond all price, so that through the power of these tremendous promises you can experience partnership with the divine nature, by which you have escaped the corrupt desires that are of the world.” 2 Pt. 1:3-4 Passion transl.
4. Our Riches are to be laid up in heaven.
Last week I preached on taking it with you. If you believed that message then you have changed how you view money here on earth. “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth. . . lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”
5. Our reservations are to be made in heaven.
There is a book, a registry in heaven called the LAMB’s book of life. There are many books in heaven.
Ill. Book of Judgment – Front is the date you born. Back is the date you die. In between every sin you ever committed at white throne judgment.
But the day you receive JESUS as your only Savior GOD takes that book and lays it all on JESUS at the cross.
“All of us like sheep have all gone astray; each of us has turned his own way . . .” Isaiah 53:6
But the moment you by faith receive JESUS as the only way you can be forgiven, here is what happens. The continuation of this verse.
“. . . but the LORD has laid on HIM (JESUS) the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6
“Thus HE bore the sin of many and made intercession for the transgressors.” Vs 12
PIC of JESUS bridging gap – one way.
Concl: Is your name already in heaven? Do you have a reservation?
Why should GOD allow you into heaven?
JESUS said Jn 14:6 – no other way.
Ill. Lady was invited to sing at a fancy wedding. She did and went to the fancy wedding reception at a very prestigious place. At the entrance a man asked, “May I have your name please?” The maître d’ looked and said I am sorry your name is not here. O there must be a mistake I and so and so and I just sang at the wedding.
It does not matter who you are or what you did. Without your name in the book you cannot enter in!
What happened was when the invitation arrived she was so busy she never bothered to return the rsvp. Since I was the singer I thought I could get in with it.
You must respond when GOD gives you HIS invitation!
GOD’S Math - Number 7 = Perfection of the SPIRIT
GOD’S Math - Number 7 = Perfection of the SPIRIT
#7 is the most frequent number found in scripture – over 860 references in the Bible and 54 times in the book of Revelation.
Our week is made up of 7 days. The Sabbath was the 7th day after 6 days of work. It represents the completion of something.
Without a telescope you can visually see 7 objects such as the moon, sun, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn.
Enoch was the seventh from Adam and “was not because GOD took him”.
GOD gave a 7-fold blessing upon Abraham in Gen. 12:2
1. I will make of you a great nation.
2. I will bless you.
3. I will make your name great.
4. You will be a blessing.
5. I will bless those that bless you.
6. I will curse those that curse you.
7. All earth will be blessed because of you.
7 Feasts of the LORD
4 in Spring: Passover, Unleavened bread, First fruits, Pentecost
3 in Fall: Trumpets, Atonement, Tabernacles
Ill. Fall of Jericho = 7 priests with 7 rams horns walked around Jericho for 7 days. On the 7th day at GOD’s command they encompassed it 7 times to display the complete destruction of the city of the curse in Joshua 6.
King David was the seventh son of Jesse.
Mary Magdalene had seven demons cast out of her.
Matthew 12:45 speaks of 7 more demon spirits – ultimate evil.
The first deacons in Acts 6:3 were 7 men.
The book of Revelation has 7 letters written to the 7 churches of Asia. It mentions 7 stars, 7 candlesticks, 7 angels, 7 Spirits of GOD. 7 seals, 7 trumpets, 7 last plagues, 7 bowls of wrath.
7 “I AM” statements of JESUS in the book of John:
1. I AM the bread of LIFE. John 6:35
2. I AM the light of the world. John 8:12
3. I AM door of the Sheep. John 10:7-9
4. I AM the good Shepherd. John 10:11
5. I AM the Resurrection and the LIFE. John 11:25
6. I AM the Way, the Truth, the Life. John 14:6
7. I Am the true Vine. John 15:1-5
When GOD forgives perfectly, you see the number seven.
Peter asked, “LORD, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Till seven times?” JESUS answered, “I say unto thee not seven times, but until seventy times seven.” Mtt 18:21-22
7 Spirits of GOD mentioned 4 times in Revelation but also Isaiah 11
1. The Spirit of the LORD
2. The Spirit of wisdom
3. The Spirit of understanding
4. The Spirit of counsel
5. The Spirit of knowledge
6. The Spirit of might
7. The Spirit of the fear of the LORD.
Ill. The beginning of psychology class on counseling the first statement from the professor I will never forget. “Counseling is not giving advice!” I was puzzled because I thought it was giving advice. Counseling is helping you to see a problem and come up with Godly solutions without telling you what to do.
One of my go to verses lates has been:
“Who is the man who fears the LORD? HE (GOD) will teach him in the way he should choose. . . the counsel of the LORD is with those who fear HIM, HE will make known HIS covenant to them.” Psalm 25:12-14
Ill. David had wise counselors around him to advise him in matters of going to war or not. HE would listen to them but at the beginning of his reign he would always get alone with the LORD and ask HIM, “Do we go up to war against them or not.” He would wait upon the LORD to answer. God would tell him yes or no and he would go with that by faith. Faith hears GOD, faith believes GOD and faith obeys GOD.
Sometimes I have gotten ahead of GOD and made decisions without giving HIM an opportunity to lead.
Ill. We had a part time youth minister here. He began to believe he was to be the next pastor and I was to step down. For one year I tried to reconcile with him and salvage the relationship. Finally all the leaders and me came up with a solution to release him by the end of the year which was about 7 weeks away. It seemed like a good idea. The next morning in my quiet time, God asked me, “What did you do?” Instantly I knew what HE meant. You got advice from everybody, but you did not ask ME about it!”
I gave GOD every excuse because it was a gracious idea and that all the elders and me had unity about it! But HE proceeded to tell me He wanted the youth minister released immediately, this has gone on long enough and I was to fire him immediately and tell him to leave the church and not come back. This was immediately confirmed by my mom coming into the backyard and telling me that GOD told her last night that I had better stop this youth minister immediately. This is not like my mom to do this. So this was very clear.
I heard GOD – I believed GOD – I obeyed GOD and asked one elder to be with me as I fired him and told him to leave.
I had to explain to the elders and they graciously trusted that I had heard from GOD.
Ill. Paul and Barnabas had a fall out and never worked together again. Was there forgiveness and love – yes but boundaries and each went their separate ways in ministry. Some people you may have to have a boundary.
When GOD sanctifies something, you see the number 7 again.
“Moses took the anointing oil and anointed the tabernacle and sprinkled the altar seven times and all the vessels to sanctify them” Lev. 8:10-11
When GOD protects something, you see the number 7.
“The LORD shall cause your enemies that come out against thee one way, shall flee before thee seven ways.” Deut. 28:7
Number 77 represents a witness by GOD’S Spirit:
JESUS is the seventy-seventh name in Luke’s genealogy.
The word “church” and phrase “house of GOD” appear 77 times in Bible.
Number 10 represents perfect order. Multiplied by 7 means
Number 70 represents perfect order by GOD’S SPIRIT:
“Kingdom of GOD” occurs 70 times in scripture.
JESUS sent out 70 disciples- Luke 10:1
Moses appointed 70 elders – ex. 24:1
Daniels’ prophecy of 70 weeks.
Israel in Babylon for 70 years.
Jerusalem destroyed in 70 A.D.
777 in history
Golgotha is 777 feet above sea level.
Noah’s father (Lamech) lived 777 years.
7 is perfection by the SPIRIT of GOD.
GOD sometimes speaks through numbers. When HE speaks of seven HE is speaking of perfection by HIS SPIRIT.
Heaven is my home series: You CAN take it with you!
Heaven is my home series: You CAN take it with you!
An old saying is, “You can’t beat the system.” But today I hope to change your opinion.
Ill. There was an employer who fired his branch manager for squandering money. The manager was humiliated and suddenly was at a loss at how he might earn a living. Physically he was not strong enough to do hard labor and he had too much pride and did not want to beg for food.
He had an idea that if he got busy and made some friends they might give him a job or at least a place to stay for a few weeks. While cleaning out his desk he called some of his boss’s clients and made a proposal. HE would renegotiate their contracts so they would not have to pay the boss all they owed.
For example, one owed eight hundred gallons of olive oil and he told him to take the bill and write he owed four hundred. The man was grateful. HE did this to another that owed a thousand bushels of wheat and told him to change the bill to 800 bushels owed.
When the boss discovered this wheeling and dealing he was angry, but he did commend the employee for his shrewdness. If the employee had stolen the money he would have been sent to prison. Instead he gave money away that was not his to give. He was smart to use money to make friends, so that after he was fired he would know some people who would return the favor. Sounds like a politician!
You may recognize this as a story that JESUS talked about the wise use of money in Luke 16.
- JESUS did not commend his morals. HE called him “dishonest steward.” Vs 8 Then HE added,
“For the sons of this world are wiser in their own generation than the sons of light. I say to you, make friends for yourselves by means of the wealth of the unrighteous, so that when it fails, they will receive you into eternal dwellings.” Luke 16:8-9
This is not a message about giving but investing. If we use money wisely while we are here there will be a reward waiting for us in heaven. How many of you are investors. You especially listen carefully. When I am finished you will never look at money, wealth the same way again.
Principle One: Money is loaned, not owned.
Thousands of Christians are missing out of GOD’S best blessings because they think money they give to the church is GOD’S, but the rest is theirs to do as they please. Because of this one simple misunderstanding GOD is not free to bless them.
The steward in CHRIST’S story owned nothing, but was put in charge of everything. He knew not a penny of what he managed belonged to him. JESUS tells us that money is not ours!
“And if you have not been faithful in the use of that which is another’s, who will give you that which is your own?” Luke 16:12
Our money belongs to “another”.
Ill. If you are like me some of our wages are already taken out for federal taxes before we bring our check home. Bills come in the mail reminding us of some of our money belongs to another. Even if you have money invested and the stock market crashes then money quickly becomes another’s. IF you have grandchildren . . .
Money was never ours to keep. GOD loans it to us.
Ill. Like monopoly game you may have lots of money and lands and houses and at some time the game will end, and all the money and houses and lands will go back into the box, and then someone else will have them on loan for a while.
Principle One: Money is loaned, not owned.
Principle Two: Money should be changed into lasting investments.
Ill. Middle Ages scientist experimented to try and find a chemical that would turn lead into gold. The intention was to transform something common into something more valuable. We do this all the time.
- I get a paycheck. I change it into money that allows me to buy food, pay for my house, car, lights, clothing.
Ill. Investors are always thinking of ways to change their money into better investments. When stocks are down they look for money market funds, or during inflation people buy precious metals. - William Devane
We can actually change our money into something that will become a reward for us in heaven. “. . . make friends for yourself by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when you fall short, they may receive you unto ETERNAL DWELLINGS.” Luke 16:9
The Christians at Philippi supported Apostle Paul in his missionary assignments. When he was in prison at Rome they sent him a gift of money to help. HE wrote them a letter and it is in our Bible. Here is what he said,
“Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.” Phil. 4:17
He is talking about their account in heaven.
Ill. Story of a European princess who was burdened to start an orphanage for street children. She did not have any money of her own. But her husband had given her jewels that she wanted to sell in order to help the orphans. When she told him he was shocked and asked, “Don’t you like the jewelry I got for you?” “Of course, but there are homeless children we could help..” Eventually he gave in, and she sold the jewels for lots of money to build an orphanage. The children were fed and loved and taught about JESUS. One day the princess returned to her husband and said with tears of joy, “I’ve found my jewels today! I’ve found my jewels in the bright happy eyes of the children who were rescued from the street.” She beat the system.
All our life we are told you can’t take it with you. This princess found a way to get her jewels into heaven.
“I have held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all. But whatever I have placed in GOD’S hands, that I still possess.” Martin Luther
Ill. When you give to a church it is like investing in a mutual fund. You are contributing to a variety of ministries. Food pantry, benevolence, small groups, hosting Charis classes, pastor and staff to do what we do.
“Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.” Matt. 6:20
Ill. I was going to have a lawyer here to help you make an appointment to make or update your will or trust. I am going to ask you; would you consider putting GT in your will. Some have already done this and given a tithe in their will to the church= for the ministry to continue on after you.
ill. A recent news article reports that people now more than ever take financial security into account when considering a potential marriage partner. “Romance is no longer enough. People want to marry someone with money.” Quote from Newspaper article
Principle One: Money is loaned, not owned.
Principle Two: Money should be changed into lasting investments.
Principle Three: Money is a test for greater privileges.
“He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much.” Luke 16:10
JESUS calls money a very little thing. The world calls it a very big thing!
People have killed for it. People have given their bodies as prostitutes for it. People have stolen for it, scheme for it, cheated for it. Families have feuded over settling an estate for it.
Principle One: Money is loaned, not owned.
Principle Two: Money should be changed into lasting investments.
Principle Three: Money is a test for greater privileges.
Principle Four: Money must be our servant, or it will be our master.
JESUS ended this story with, “No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve GOD and money.” Luke 16:13
Principle One: Money is loaned, not owned.
Principle Two: Money should be changed into lasting investments.
Principle Three: Money is a test for greater privileges.
Principle Four: Money must be our servant, or it will be our master.
Principle Five: Money must be used for GOD’S purposes or be lost forever.
True story that happened in Germany after Hitler lost the war. Millions of refugees wandered the streets amid bombed out buildings and destruction. It would take years to rebuild. A little German mother wanted to build help build a Bible school on the outskirts of her destroyed town of Frankfurt. She worked hard and saved her money all her life even during the war. She was so thrilled that she had the money to see it make a difference for the Kingdom of GOD. The day came where she gave a man the money to build this Bible school – a dream come true.
The man, who was her friend, heart was broken to tell her bad news. That day, Sunday in June 1948 the new government in Germany had cancelled this currency. It was worthless. That Sunday thousands of Germans committed suicide and millions lost their savings because the German dollar called the mark had been cancelled by the government.
The point is if this dear lady had brought her money sooner then she could have seen her dream come true. It was too late.
Concl: Someday, every dollar and gold, silver and jewelry will be deemed worthless. Peter wrote,
“But the day of the LORD will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and it’s works will be burned up.” 2 Peter 3:10
So much for the economy, stock markets, investments, gold, houses, condo’s, cars. We can’t take these things with us – unless we change them into something we can lay up in heaven now!
You CAN take it with you!
GOD’S Math Number 6 Man’s flesh
GOD’S Math Number 6 Man’s flesh
Number 6 is the number of man.
GOD created man on the sixth day (Gen. 6:27).
The average body has 6 quarts of blood.
Blood travels 12k in one day (2000 x6).
60k miles of blood vessels.
600 muscles
6 primary systems: skeletal, circulatory, muscular, nervous, digestive, reproductive.
Earth travels 1,600,000 miles in one day around the sun and that equals 66,666 miles per hour.
GOD’S glory number is 7.
Man’s number is 6.
“All (men) have sinned and fallen short (6) of the glory (7) of GOD.” Romans 3:23
Pharaoh pursued the Israelites with 600 chariots (Ex. 14:7).
600 represents the full expression of Satanic power.
Who is man’s greatest opponent?
Flesh = the unrenewed mind and undisciplined body.
“For the flesh lusts against the Spirit,
And the Spirit against the flesh: these
are contrary the one to the other:
so that you cannot do the things that you would.
But if you are led by the Spirit . . .” Gal. 5:16-18
The biggest problem anyone has to deal with is the flesh they live in.
The flesh is like your own giant Goliath you have to conquer!
3 men stand out as enemies of GOD and HIS people in scripture:
1. Goliath the giant
Goliath was 6 cubits tall = 9’6”
His spear head weighed 600 shekels = nearly 11 pounds
He had 6 pieces of armor. (I Sam. 17)
His child had 6 fingers in each hand. (2 Sam. 21:20)
How many pieces of armor does GOD give us?
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the SPIRIT and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” Eph. 6:18
3 men stand out as enemies of GOD and HIS people in scripture:
1. Goliath the giant
2. Nebuchadnezzar – king of Babylon
An image of himself – sixty cubits high, six cubits wide.
Ill. King Solomon the son of King David started out good but ended bad because the flesh ruled and dominated his life. He was instructed in the word not to multiply wives to himself, yet he did – which led to other costly compromises for the wisest man in the world!
His throne was made of ivory overlaid with gold and yet it had six steps ( I Kgs 10:19).
Ill. Our steps on our platform were changed from pulpit being on the 6th step to the 3rd step the number of the trinity. It had nothing to do with number 6 just I did not want to walk up and down that much!
3. Antichrist – Revelation 13 – 666
6 speaks of pride of fleshly might
66 the pride of absolute dominion
666 pride of satanic guidance
When the same number appears three times it implies perfect completion of what that number represents.
The mark of the beast actually means “man, man, man” or “flesh, flesh, flesh” or flesh led people.
In John 2:6 the first miracle of JESUS in Cana at the wedding had to do with 6 waterpots of stone changed into wine. A prophetic picture of what HE came to do.
Man at his best is only a 6. Manmade religion is only a 6.
Islam has the dome of the rock in Jerusalem – one of the most sacred places to Muslims. IT is called the mosque of Omar.
PIC:
Inside dome of the rock has an octagon structure around it and it measures exactly 66 feet 6 inches in diameter.
The great pyramid PIC:
There are different Euro coins and not all look alike. But notice this one with six stars, six rods and six more stars.
PIC of Euro:
Is this the mark for the beast – no.
The sum of the Roman Numeral System
D = 500
C = 100
L = 50
X = 10
V = 5
I = 1 The sum is 666.
Concl: When folks die they are put in a grave and it is usually
How many feet deep?
Sometimes GOD preaches through number 6 and when HE does He is pointing out the flesh of mankind.
Heaven is my home series: What does GOD want from my life?
Heaven is my home series: What does GOD want from my life?
Ill. Hollywood throws a big party for itself every year to hand out statues and congratulate themselves for best actor, best director.
To win an Oscar may boost your acting career for a while. But did you know the actual statue award is valued only at ten dollars. Since 1951 every Oscar recipient has to sign an agreement giving the academy the 1st right of refusal on purchasing the award. You can’t sell it and heirs can’t sell it. Lawyers have locked that award up so the academy is the only one who may purchase it – and they can buy it for 10 dollars!
We don’t serve GOD for awards but HE is a rewarder.
“Behold I come quickly, and MY reward is with ME to give to every man according to his work.” Rev. 22:12
“David, after he had served the purpose of GOD in his own generation, fell asleep, and was laid among his fathers and underwent decay.” Act 13:16
Death is a necessary transition from this world to heaven.
Death – Greek Thanatos = separation
Ill. Known some Christians facing certain death and some even expressed regret about having to leave this earth and friends too soon. Even though they had great faith that heaven was their home they were sad over what they would be missing on earth.
I assure you any sadness a Christian has will vanish the moment they leave earth.
Suppose a friend picks you up and take you to a party. You know some people but not everyone. Food is adequate but nothing great. Suddenly your friend announces it is time to leave, but you just got comfortable and started enjoying yourself. Since he is your ride you have to leave earlier than you wanted.
He drops you off at your house. As you enter suddenly the lights come one and you hear “Surprise!” Your family, and closest friends are all there. They brought you gifts. Your favorite foods are there. You realize the first party was just a plan to get you to the second party. Had you continued to stay at the first party you would have missed the real party! This is what it will feel like entering heaven.
Ill. The ladies dream – Is it as great as people say it is?
Truthfully we all have some hesitation about heaven because we have not been there yet. We are not sure about facing GOD and judgment day and the passing out of rewards – how is that going to work?
GOD speaks a lot about rewards given out in heaven. What is GOD looking for from my life?
Rewards are given according to the motivation of the heart and the opportunities given us.
“For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have.” 2 Cor. 8:12
Ill. If you gave a 100 dollars in an offering but you would have given more if you had it – you will be rewarded for more than the amount you gave.
Ill. If you intended to only give a dollar but accidentally gave a 20-dollar bill, you will be rewarded for the one dollar not the twenty.
Ill. A widow gave two mites = worthless financially. Yet JESUS said
“This poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. They contributed out of their abundance. But she put in all her livelihood.” Mark 12:43-44
Service for GOD will be rewarded.
WE don’t work for GOD as servants! This is a Father and sons’ business.
JESUS said, “I must be about MY FATHERS business.” Family business.
“You are no longer servants, but sons . . .” Gal. 4:7
Christ works in us and through us if we let HIM.
“Your 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 us.” I Peter 2:5
Good works before salvation merit you nothing.
Good works after salvation are the fruit from the HOLY SPIRIT.
Characteristics of the good works CHRIST is looking for from us:
1. Willingness to sacrifice with a good attitude for HIS sake.
2. A joyous faith that endures hardship.
3. A commitment to persevere no matter what happens.
4. The root of what we do is love for GOD.
Financial generosity for GOD will be rewarded
Money is a test of our loyalty
“If you have not been faithful with the temporal money of this world, why should you be trusted with the eternal treasures of the spiritual world.” Luke 16:11
Ill. In church we are very careful with giving records kept confidential. I don’t know what anyone gives unless they tell me. This way no one get treated any different.
Hospitality for GOD will be rewarded
If JESUS personally physically coming to visit our church and I ask who can let HIM stay at your house? People would line up.
But if I tell you that may have already happened, and you did not know it was HIM – you may think back of a time a stranger asked your help and you felt in your heart you should but you didn’t or maybe you did.
Ill. Time in Astor – a poor family stayed with us.
“Do not forget to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unknowingly.” Heb. 13:2
This is NT not OT! What do you get in return? It depends upon your attitude.
“When you prepare a dinner, do not call your friends or your brothers or your rich neighbors , lest they also invite you in return, and you be repaid. But call the poor, the maimed, the lame the blind, and you will be blessed because they cannot repay you. You shall be rewarded at the resurrection of the just.” Luke 14:12-14
Spiritual disciplines for GOD will be rewarded.
The JEWS had 3 main disciplines – prayer – alms giving – fasting.
The motivation was to be seen and look good in front of their friends.
Peer pressure is tough. We all want our friends to like us or admire us.
JESUS warned if you do any of these to be seen of men that
“They have their reward.” Matthew 6:5
JESUS taught that it is possible to succeed in the eyes of men and yet fail in the eyes of GOD.
“If you don’t live for the praise of men then you won’t die from their criticism.” Bill Johnson
ill. The real main reason John Wilkes Booth killed President Lincoln was not because he hated his politics. Booth was a stage actor, and his brother was more famous than he was. HE wrote in a journal
“Fame, fame, fame, I have to have it.” He thought by killing Lincoln he would achieve world-wide fame forever. He did it in a theater. Instead of trying to sneak away unnoticed, he leapt from balcony to the stage crying very dramatically “sic semper Tyrannus” – Latin for “thus always to tyrants”.
Faithfulness to your assignments will be rewarded
Ill. Suppose we could get into a time machine and travel back to the days of the Roman Empire. You are born a slave. You will never be anything but a slave all your life. No chance of promotion, no rights, this is your lot in life. You hear gospel and get saved. Now what?
“Servants obey your masters in all things according to the flesh, serving not only when they are watching, as servants of men, but in singleness of heart, fearing GOD. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as for the LORD and not for men, knowing that from the LORD you will receive the reward.” Col. 3:22-24
Imagine you get your paycheck directly from GOD.
How we treat our enemies will be rewarded
“I say to you love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, and pray for those who despitefully use you. Love your enemies and do good and lend hoping for nothing in return. THEN YOUR REWARD WILL BE GREAT . . .” Luke 6:27, 35
Ill. So we pray to GOD sincerely to make us more like JESUS. Then GOD sends a difficult person in your life. Then we pray “Lord, please remove this thorn in my side”. But these people are trials sent from GOD in answer to your prayer!
We will be rewarded for ministering to people.
“I planted, Apollos watered, but GOD gave the increase. . . now he who plants, and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor.” I Cor. 3:6-8
Ill. When we have visiting ministers or missionaries I like to bring them in front of you and say, “Thank you for saying yes to the LORD for staying faithful when it was hard and not one said thank you.” Many of them begin to break down and tear up at that moment because they have deep wounds from sheep they trying to serve.
“For GOD is not unjust to overlook your work and the love you have shown for HIS name in serving the saints as you still do.” Heb. 6:10
Conclusion: IF we could just get a one-minute glimpse of heaven we would be encouraged to strive to make the best of every opportunity here. James said our life here is just a mist or vapor.
Live with a destination mindset of heaven.
GOD’S Math about Number 5 - The Grace of GOD
GOD’S Math about Number 5
The Grace of GOD
Grace has to do with the unmerited favor of GOD, but it also grace that gives us the ability to overcome something.
David picked up 5 smooth stones for his bully Goliath. I Sam. 17:45
Ill. When I was a kid I had a bully. He would pin me against the wall and threaten me. This went on from Junior high till I was a teen. One day I saw the movie “Walking Tall”, true story about Buford Pusser. After watching that movie I made up my mind I would never back down from this bully again. In fact I went looking for him. When I found him I did not run as usual. I stood right in his face with a determination to fight to the finish. It was like all of a sudden I had supernatural courage rising up in me. The grace of GOD is like that! It is GOD giving you the ability to overcome something that otherwise you cannot.
Grace is for underdogs!
People say things like;
“By the grace of GOD I quit smoking.” “By the grace of GOD I’ve overcome the death of a loved one.” “By the grace of GOD I graduated.”
No one could ever be saved without the grace of GOD!
“For by grace are you saved through faith, it is the gift of GOD, not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9
Everything we receive from GOD must be received by faith!
“If you confess with your mouth JESUS as LORD, and believe in your heart that GOD raised HIM from the dead, you shall be saved; for with the heart man believes, resulting in RIGHTEOUSNESS . . .” Rom. 10:9-10
The word “righteous” is found 555 times in the Bible.
Righteous people do righteous deed, but righteous deeds do not make people righteous!
Questions:
Can a righteous person do unrighteous deeds?
Does the unrighteous deed of a righteous person make him unrighteous?
“GOD made HIM who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might be made the righteousness of GOD in HIM.” 2 Cor. 5:21
We must understand “righteousness” is who I am – not what I do.
Ill. Think OT for a moment. It’s Passover season and you need to bring a lamb for sacrifice. Finally you find a lamb without blemish. You travel carefully with the Lamb to the see the priest in Jerusalem. He reaches Jerusalem and has an appointment to bring the lamb to the priest. He notices how dirty his clothes are from the trip. The thought crosses his mind I hope no one notices how filthy I am.
His worry is misplaced. Why? Because the priest is only concerned with the lamb not the man. No one will be looking at him.
Pontius Pilate said, “I find no fault in HIM.”
Grace sounds too good to be true, but it is true!
“When you preach grace, unless your conscience accuses you of license you haven’t preached grace.” Martin Lloyd Jones
The ultimate of all overcoming power of GOD is raising JESUS from the dead. JESUS’ body was invaded with 5 wounds on the cross.
The holy anointing oil was made of 5 ingredients (Ex. 30:23-25).
The pool of Bethesda had 5 porches where JESUS healed the lame man. The lame man proclaimed “I have no man to help me!”
The word “CHRIST” is found 555 times in the BIBLE. 555 is grace complete! The word “Satan” is found 55 times in the Bible.
The outer court of the wilderness Tabernacle had 60 pillars holding the curtain. 20 pillars on each side and 10 pillars on front and back.
60 = 12 (number of government) X 5 (grace).
(GRACE IN GOVERNMENT)
There are many multiples of 5 in the measurements of the Tabernacle. The Brazen altar was 5x5. The outer curtain was 5 foot high.
You are to be growing in grace:
“But grow in the grace and in the knowledge of our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST.” 2 Peter 3:18
- Grace like HIM. The way HE treats people. Grace in governing HIS church.
“Therefore as you abound in everything, in faith, in utterance, and in knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that you abound in this grace also.” 2 Cor. 8:7
I am learning to grow in this grace (ability of GOD).
Ill. One of the ways you do this is pay attention to the details HS is showing you every day. You must have a record or keep notes and be able to look back at what may have appeared insignificant at the moment but later on it lines up with other things and makes sense.
For example, last week taught on number 4. I shared about that week while preparing to teach on 4 that when I was at the hospital making a visit I just happened to look down at my phone for the time, It was 4:44. Next day while praying in here I went back to my office and noticed the time 4:44. I asked GOD if it meant anything to tell me. That night after teaching on 4 and telling you all about 4:44 Bruce nieger tells me after to look through scriptures at chapter 4 verse 44 of books or chapter 44 verse 4. I did and Ezk 44:4 seemed to resonate with me. I wrote it down.
“. . . the glory of the LORD filled the house and I fell upon my face.” Ezk. 44:4
This past Monday morning intercession a person comes to me and shares these words “The glory of HIS Presence is going to come and swallow up all the darkness and overwhelm you with HIS glory.”
Coincidence??? You be the judge.
But if I had not kept a record I would not be able to string this together. Keep a record! Write it down, whatever impressions or thoughts you believe GOD is showing you.
I believe America has been marked by the grace of GOD!
Song America the beautiful “GOD shed HIS grace on thee!”
The Washington monument is exactly 555 feet and five inches high. At the very top are Latin words that mean “Praise be to GOD”.
American has continued to survive and be successful bec of the grace of GOD.
It was on 5-5-45 the Nazis ended their occupation of European countries.
Human Anatomy and the mark of grace
You have five fingers on each hand by GOD’S grace you work and accomplish things! You have five toes on each foot to walk and make progress in your walk with HIM. You have 5 senses to be able to perceive your surroundings.
Are You Really Taking Heaven Seriously?
Are You Really Taking Heaven Seriously?
JESUS had crowds of people following and listening to HIM. You would think these are the people who take heaven, eternity seriously. But He had some sobering words for them as well as to us.
Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21
GOD is concerned about what we are centering our life on while we are on earth. People tend to center their lives on making money as a means of feeling secure. Nothing on earth is secure.
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth” = temporary things, things that will perish, rust eats it – it’s gone. Moths eat it – it’s gone. Thieves steal it – it’s gone.
Ill. You can become a junk collector like Fred Sanford.
PIC: Fred Sanford and Son we buy and sell junk:
“Treasures in heaven” = What does GOD treasure?
You. People. People are the most important things in the world to GOD!
“You only get one walk through the garden. Will you collect junk on earth or treasures for heaven?”
The danger of deception:
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Vs 21
What makes you think you are going to heaven if your heart is not already there?
JESUS added, “The light of the body is the eye. If your eye is single, your whole body is full of light, if your eye is evil (unfocused) your whole body will be full of darkness.” Vs 22
Evil = darkened, not focused on the things of GOD.
Note: HE is not speaking to lost people but to followers who have been caught up in material worldly values.
Ill. Example Peter walking on water. MT 14:22-33 It was a storm that JESUS came walking on water. Storms are distractions.
Note: “He (Peter) began to sink.” Ill. You get saved filled and SPIRIT and you are like Peter walking on water to JESUS. Nothing can stop you. Then something distracts you and you lose focus of JESUS.
Life is empty without with-out JESUS!
You can live in a mansion filled with everything you desire but it is empty with-out JESUS. Like trying to live on eating cotton candy. No nourishment.
A serious choice must be made!
“No one can serve two masters . . .” vs 24
Back to the original question: Are you really taking heaven seriously?
Three of Life’s most important questions:
1. Are you certain you are going to heaven?
We get busy here and forget that this world is not our home. The Bible is very clear that you can know this for certain. It isn’t about trying hard or being faithful at church.
“This is the testimony: GOD has given us eternal life, and this life is in HIS SON. Whoever has the SON has life; whoever does not have the SON does not have life. I write these things unto you who believe in the name of the SON of GOD so that YOU MAY KNOW THAT YOU HAVE ETERNAL LIFE.” I John 5:11-13
“Yet to all who did RECEIVE HIM, to those who believe in HIS name, He gave the right to become children of GOD.” John 1:12
It is not about you being a nice person or doing things for GOD. It boils down to you either believe what GOD said or you don’t. And here is what HE said:
Who will be in heaven?
“I am the way, the truth, the life. No one comes to the FATHER except through ME.” John 14:6
Many people have been raised in some kind of belief system of religion. But so many have never heard that you must be born of the SPIRIT – born again.
One of the most frightening verses in the Bible is Matthew 7:21
“Not everyone who says to ME, “LORD, LORD,” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of MY FATHER who is in heaven will enter. Many will say to me on that day, ‘LORD, LORD, have we not prophesied in YOUR name, cast out demons in YOUR name, and done many wonderful works in YOUR name?’ But then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you. Depart from ME, you who practice evil.” Matthew 7:21-23
Religious but lost. Ill. Ill. Phone call from Moriah for patient named Dino this week in hospital.
Three of Life’s most important questions:
1. Are you certain you are going to heaven?
2. Do your current priorities reveal an eternal or temporal focus?
One of Paul’s favorite churches was Philippi. Listen to his challenging words to about having an eternal perspective.
“Follow my example and keep your eyes on those who live as we do. For I tell you with tears, that many lives as enemies of the cross of CHRIST. Their destiny is their destruction, THEIR god IS THEIR STOMACH, and their glory is their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven.” Phil. 3:17-21
If we looked over your calendar and your spending, would we have enough evidence that you are focused on eternal things? Why do you do what you do?
3. Are there people you care about who don’t know the way to heaven? How could GOD use you to help them?
If everything I’ve talked about is true and real, then there is a lot at stake. This is too important to be stifled by fear of us being rejected. Why are we so fearful about sharing our faith?
Ill. There are people who trust you and you have credibility with. Your kids, grandkids, friends. You and I are GOD’s plan to get this gospel to them. HE is not going to write it in the sky or send them an angel. HE has told you and I to share this truth.
You can be sure if GOD places this burden to share HIS gospel to someone then HE has already been working on their heart before you get to them. You may be the only CHRISTIAN they know.
Our part is just to share the truth – the gospel.
Their part is to either believe or not believe.
“I know what I say I believe, but do I believe what I say that I know?”
How can you tell if someone really believes or not?
Faith hears – Romans 10:17
Faith believes – Hebrews 11:6
Faith obeys – James 2:17
Ill. Police explore age 15 working hotel in Daytona as security. Police uniforms with badges just no gun. Across street nightclub. Around midnight hear lady screaming outside club. Man just snatched her purse. WE jump in car go after him like one Adam 12 tv show. He runs through tunnel onto beach. My friend’s car (Gremlin) gets stuck in sand due to high tide. I get out of car and run after man in sand. I yell stop police! He is getting away. I yell stop our I will shoot! He stops and puts up his hands. “Don’t turn around and keep hands up. I put my finger in his back and threaten to shoot him while I catch my breath. A police car instantly pulls up beside me and handcuffs guy.
Stop police – but stop or I’ll shoot – Faith hears, believes and obeys.
Life is like a dollar. You can spend it anyway you want. Once you spend it – it’s gone.
“Be careful how you walk, not as unwise men but as wise, making the most of your time, because the days are evil.” Eph. 5:15-16
Walk is metaphor for living.
Top five regrets of the dying:
1. I wish I had lived true to the calling GOD had for me.
2. I wish I had not spent so much time working.
3. I wish I had stayed in touch with my family.
4. I wish I had let myself be happier.
5. I wish I had enjoyed people more.
Homework:
Divide a sheet of paper into 6 columns.
God – Family – Friends- Career- Finances – Physical
Write down 3 goals you would like to accomplish in each of these areas before you die.
If you are serious about heaven you will heed this word:
Thus says the LORD, “Set your house in order, for you shall die.” 2 Kings 20:1
Take care of practical matters before you die.
1. Will. 2. Funeral arrangements 3. Details to surviving spouse.
ill. A man attended a seminar about making financial arrangements for the family in the event of your death. Came home and had an honest talk with his wife in case he should die before her. “I think you should plan to stay in our house for at least a year before you make any major decisions to sell. If you decide to remarry, that is fine with me. If your new husband plays golf like me you could even give him my golf clubs. “O no that would never work” she replied. “Why not?” her husband wondered. “Because your right-handed and he is left-handed!”
GOD’S Math and Meaning Behind Number 4
GOD’S Math and Meaning behind number 4
Review:
One = priority and unity. Number ONE is found 1,898 times in the Bible and most of the time it has to do with priority and unity.
Firstborn male, first fruits, tithe is the first tenth, LORD’S Day is the first day of the week. “In the beginning GOD . . .” Genesis 1:1
First commandment – Exodus 20:3
JESUS said, “If you remain in ME and MY words remain in you, you will ask whatever you desire, and it shall be done for you.” John 15:7
- We are to come into agreement and oneness with HIM.
Ill. How many of you have ever had an instantaneous answer to prayer that shocked you? It happened because you were in agreement/oneness with GOD’S thoughts.
GOD’S math
One plus one equals One
“Man will cleave to his wife and the two shall become one flesh.” Gen. 2:25
GOD wants us to become ONE with HIM.
GOD wants oneness in marriage.
GOD wants oneness in HIS church.
Number 2 = a faithful witness or testimony
The Bible is a testimony of 2 witnesses: Old and New Testaments
Jesus sent out witnesses “two by two” Mark 6:7
Two stone ten commandments, Two Testaments.
Two thieves witness JESUS’ crucifixion
Two angels at resurrection and ascension
Number 3 = fullness or complete, number of Trinity.
3 attributes of GOD – Omni –
Man created in likeness with 3 parts.
Tabernacle had 3 parts
3 last words of JESUS = completion
Number 4 = the creation reveals the Creator
4 corners of the earth.
4 elements – earth, wind, fire, water.
4 soils in parable of Sower.
4 seasons – spring, summer, fall, winter.
4 lunar cycles – new moon, quarter, half, ¾.
4 divisions of the day – morn, noon, even, night.
JESUS was the 4th man in the fiery furnace.
4 gospels to be preached in all the world.
4 angels in Ezekiel 1 and Rev. 4 had 4 faces.
Lion gospel, ox, man, eagle
“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world
For a witness unto all nations, and then shall the end come.” Matthew 24:14
“Gospel (good news) of the kingdom”
The KOG is the invisible reality of GOD’S dominion.
“The LORD planted a garden in the east, in Eden (a delightful place), and there HE placed the man whom HE had formed. Out of the ground the LORD GOD made to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight and good for food. . . A river flowed out of Eden to water the garden, and from there it parted and became four rivers.” Gen. 2:8-1
The garden of Eden was like an embassy of the KOG.
Man had everything he could ever want or need. (2 Peter 1:3-4).
A river (singular) becomes 4 rivers.
Ill. 4 Rivers Barbeque chain – John Rivers family 4 and Gen. 2:10
“The name of the of the first river is Pishon; it encompasses the whole land of Havilah, where there is gold. The gold of that land is good; bdellium and the onyx stone are there. The name of the second stone is Gihon; it encompasses the whole land of Cush. The name of the third river is Tigris, it goes toward the east of Assyria. The fourth river is the Euphrates.” Gen. 2:10-14
Pishon = full, flowing, fullness, ABUNDANT.
“For out of HIS fullness (abundance) we have all received and were supplied one grace after another and spiritual blessing upon blessing and favor upon favor and gift (heaped) upon gift.” John 1:16 AMP
Gihon = bursting forth, OVERFLOWING
JESUS said, “Everyone who drinks this water will get thirsty again. Anyone who drinks the water that I give will never thirst again. The water that I give will be an artesian spring within, gushing fountains of endless life.” John 4:14 Message
Tigris = swift like an arrow hitting the target. PURPOSE
“For we are HIS workmanship, created in CHRIST JESUS for good works, which GOD prepared beforehand, so that we should walk in them.” Eph. 2:10
Euphrates = fruitfulness
“I am the Vine; you are the branches. He who remains in ME, and I in him, bears much fruit.” John 15:5
GOD intends for our lives here to be:
1. Abundant
2. Overflowing
3. Purposeful – assignments
4. Fruitful
It is interesting that JESUS said, “He who believes in ME, as the scripture has said, out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water.”
Here in John 7:38 JESUS refers to Isaiah 58:11
“There is a river whose streams make glad the city of GOD.” Psalm 46:4
Ill. Board – great commandment Mk 12:30 heart, soul, mind, strength. This is first before you can ever love your neighbor as yourself!
Your neighbor is whoever is in front of you at the moment.
Concl:
Number 4 is often used for GOD’S creation to reveal the Creator.
Setting Your Heart/Mind On Things Above
Setting Your Heart/Mind On Things Above
No doubt you heard the old saying, “Some are so heavenly minded that they are no earthly good.” That is not true. GOD says the more we think about the next world, the bolder and more effective we will become in this world. People who are heavenly minded make the greatest impact now on earth for eternity as salt and light.
“We are HIS workmanship, created in CHRIST JESUS for good works, which GOD prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” Eph. 2:10
“I know the plans I have for you.” Jeremiah 29:11
4 essentials you must have to fulfill your purpose:
1. Feed on the WORD - “As newborn babies, desire the sincere milk of the WORD that you may grow thereby.” I Peter 2:2
Ill. New-borns laid on mothers’ chest will crawl to get milk.
Hunger is a sign of health, life.
“But his delight is in the Law (WORD) of the LORD; and in HIS law (WORD) doth he meditates day and night.” Psalm 1:2
Ill. From what you read keep one verse, one word in your mind all day and think on it often. This is the idea of meditating.
2. Pray out loud in secret to GOD. “When you pray, enter your closet, and when you have shut the door, pray to your FATHER in secret. And your FATHER WHO sees in secret will reward you openly.” Matt. 6:6
“Herein lies a fool. Talking to the ONE who knows everything instead of listening to the ONE who knows everything.” Rufus Mosely
3. Fellowship with other Christians. Hebrews 10:25
4. Witnessing and sharing your faith.
Matthew 4:19 – start with your testimony then to giving out tracts, then to pray with others, then sharing scripture.
“If (Since) you were raised with CHRIST, desire (seek after) those (eternal treasures) things that are above, where CHRIST sits at the right hand of GOD. Set your affection (mind) on things above (the heavenly realm), not on things on the earth.” Col. 3:1-2 MEV/Amp
“Set” – fix your focus mind on things above – Heaven.
People you know need to meet people like you. They need to know people who know GOD and the future and who confidently reflect and live like it. This makes you unique, different; salt/light.
When people gather together they either talk about the news or sports. Watching hours of the news or sports will not make you heavenly minded.
Peter somehow knew he was near the end of his earth life, and he was concerned about the church losing its focus and starting to live compromisingly in the world.
Beloved, don’t be ignorant of this one thing, that with the LORD one day is as a thousand years . . . the LORD is not slack concerning HIS promise . . . HE is patient because HE does not want anyone to perish. But the day of the LORD will come like a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away . . . You therefore since you know these things, beware lest you fall away from your steadfastness, being led away by the deception of the wicked. But grow in grace and knowledge of our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST. To HIM be glory both now and forever. Amen. 2 Peter 3:8-17
I. Setting your mind on heaven keeps you steadfast on the GOD’S eternal purposes and priorities for you.
The dot and line are connected. You live in the dot but don’t live for the dot.
“LORD, make me to know my end and what is the extent of my days; let me know how transient I am. . . my lifetime is as nothing in YOUR sight; surely every man at his best is as a mere breath.” Psalm 90:12
GOD has given you the gift of life, an opportunity, a lifespan. What will you do with it today?
Ask GOD, “Is this really what YOU want me to do?
Is this where YOU want me to go?
Is this how YOU want me to spend my time?”
You have many options for how you will spend 168 hours this week. You will have to say no to some things, in order to be able to say yes to GOD’S things.
II. Setting your mind on heaven will make you bold to share your faith now.
Do you long to be able to share your faith with your family?
Ill. We all have either lost relatives or lost friends. If you really believe what you say you believe about heaven/hell then you will not only pray but speak to them about their future. You don’t want to attend their funeral and regret you did not speak up.
Boldness is just courage to do the right thing in the sight of GOD.
Ill. A sergeant was using GOD’s name in vain at my first duty station. I knew GOD wanted me to say something to him.
Courage or cowardice?
If you think on your own future, do you want to tell GOD why you were afraid to speak up about HIM?
“. . . the LORD is not slack concerning HIS promise . . . HE is patient because HE does not want anyone to perish. But the day of the LORD will come like a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away . . . You therefore since you know these things . . .” 2 Peter 3:8-9
III. Setting your mind on heaven places our sufferings and troubles in perspective.
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Cor. 4:16-18
“therefore” - refers to wrongly imprisoned, persecuted, beaten and left for dead, five times received 39 lashes, three times shipwrecked, one day and night in the open sea, dangers from bandits, false believers, tired without sleep, without food and water, cold and without necessities. 2 Cor. 4 and 11
I cannot afford to allow my questions or lack of understanding to get in the way of my faith and trust in GOD’S character.
PIC of shield of faith with arrows in it:
REST is the by-product of the shield of faith working:
Matthew 11:28-30 – Come – take – learn ME
Phil. 4:6-7 – Prayer – petition - thanksgiving
I Peter 5:6-7 – Humble self - Casting cares – HE cares
R – resisting
E - everything
S - satan
T - throws at you - Paul did and you can too.
Resist the devil is not reacting like you have in the past. But intentionally believing the WORD that JESUS offers you.
(Matthew 11:28-30, Phil. 4:6-7, I Peter 5:7).
IV. Setting your mind on heaven provides a proper view of possessions.
Ill. My first sermon was Luke 12:18-21 Farmer with bumper crop and stored up grain to eat, drink and be merry. God called him a fool. I titled the message the man who forgot.
1. He forgot GOD – one day judgment.
2. He forgot about time limit/death.
3. He forgot that security/life does not consist in abundance of things. JESUS called this man a fool!
Paul writing to young Pastor Timothy to him to
“Command those who are rich in this world not to be arrogant, nor put their hope in wealth, but in GOD and be generous and willing to share . . .” 1 Tim. 6:17-19
Rich people in NT times were anyone who had more than one set of clothes and food for more than one day.
This is why GOD teaches us tithing and giving. It recalibrates our heart from becoming materialistic like this world.
V. Setting your mind on heaven helps you focus on making progress spiritually.
The last words of Peter were,
“But grow in grace and knowledge of our LORD and Savior JESUS CHRIST. To HIM be the glory both now and forever, amen.” 2 Peter 3:17-18
As long as we are here we should be growing in our faith and knowledge and love.
Are you a growing Christian, or have you stagnated?
Ill. Little boy fell out of bed several nights in a row. Mom asked boy why? Well momma, I fell asleep too close to where I got in.”
- Perfect targets for the enemy.
Concl: How do people grow up spiritually? It is not automatic.
Those 4 disciplines are like 4 tires on a car. Word, prayer, fellowship, witness. A car will not move forward if it has a flat tire. Keep yourself filled up in these 4 areas and you will see progress.
You must start where GOD says we all must start. You must be born again. I am concerned over meeting people who are religious but lost.
Where are you?