Bible Notes

To Save Sinners

2010-04-11T15:39:00.000-07:00

April 11th, 2010
1 Timothy 1:5-16
Becoming a Christian is more than conforming to a set of beliefs or joining a church. To become a Christian, One must acknowledge that they are a sinner and accept Christ as their only means of Salvation. As wonderful as the teaching of Christ were, His main purpose for coming to earth was to pay the supreme sacrifice for your sins and mine and give His life on the Cross. There is no other Name under heaven, except through Jesus Christ that we can be saved from our sins and delivered from spiritual death.
Commandments for Sinners: The law of God was given to man to reveal to them that they were imperfect being, coming short of God's expectations. The commandments, or the law of God is a task master, revealing to man that all his righteousness is but filthy rags.
Condition of the Sinner: The condition of man is one of hopelessness and despair. Outside the grace of God, man is wretched and undone. All of his ways are enmity against God. He wants to run his life his own way and is unwilling to submit himself in full surrender to the will of God. He was born in sin and inherited the nature of sin from the day of birth. The natural desire of humanity is to make sure that self is served. Selfishness, greed, wickedness fills the heart of a sinner. The manifestation may be cultured and tamed, but none the less, the basic nature reside within the sinner's heart.
Conscious of being a Sinner: The 1st step in salvation is to recognized that man is a sinner and his condition of a sinner will lead him to eternal separation from God. Man must realized he is a person who is depraved and has no way in himself to remedy the problem. He must become conscious of his sinfullness and come to the knowledge that he is in need of a savior who will be able to deliver him from this wretched conditions. Many have thought that doing works of righteousness would remove the blackness of sin from their life. Others will seek to become one with nature in hope of being renewed by the creator. Acts of goodness or deeds of kindness are all efforts made by many to obtain the favor of God, but all is in vain and come short of the glory of God.
Came to Sinners: Christ came to earth as the supreme sacrifice for sin. He came to die for the sinner. God's only son left the splendor of heaven, taking on the form of man and made himself the scapegoat for the sin's of man. He came to me and He came to you to take away our sins. His death on the cross completed the plan of Salvation set in place when Adam and Eve transgressed the known will of God. God's love for man was so great that He gave his only Son to be the second Adam that would be the victor over sin and make provision for mankind to be reconciled back to God. Reedeemed by the blood of the Lamb of God, who will take away the sins of the world.
Call to Sinners: Not only did Jesus come to man, but He also calls out to man to turn from their sinful way and accept His gift of Salvation. Christ knocks at the door of our heart asking us to open our heart to let Him come in. He calls out to everyone to come to Him, all that are heavy laden, burden with sin, and He will make them whole again. The call goes out today for every open heart to let Christ wash away our sins and give us new life and a new beginning. We can be born again through Christ and the power of His forgiveness. It is time to asnwer the call and be made right before Him.
Confession of the Sinner: With the month confess is made. To answer the call, all we have to do is confess our sins and He will forgive us of our sins. If we confess, believing, He is faithful to give us a new heart. We can pass from death unto life. Where we were once dead in trespasses and sin, we can now be made alive in Christ. True confession is the turning away from the life of sin and the new life of abiding in Christ. It will be through this abiding that we can maintain favor with God and stay always pleasing to Him. Living our lives to glorify God because we believe that through His grace we can be victorious every day of our lives. Let the redeem say so!

Enriched in Christ

2010-04-03T08:28:00.000-07:00

1 Corinth 1: 5 For in him you have been enriched in every way—in all your speaking and in all your knowledge— 6 because our testimony about Christ was confirmed in you. NIV

Before life in Christ, the quality of life is based on survival and societal harmony. We live in a world where every man does that which is right in his own eyes. The values of man are based on human gratification. There are many who seek meaning in life by obtaining power, prestige, and riches. And there are those who find life’s meaning by doing good things to make the world a more peaceful coexistence. Improving or enhancing the quality of life is not achieved by any efforts that man is able to accomplish, enrichment of life is found only through life in Christ. The former state of our life before Christ is one of depravity and hopelessness. Paul wrote to the Romans and said, "but I am carnal, sold under sin. For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not". All our works are but filthy rags and come short compared to the value that is given to us through Christ.

How is life made better in Christ? The scripture indicates that every aspect of our life is enhanced when Christ becomes part of our life. It is because of His grace that we can now look at life through different eyes. Before the enrichment of Christ, we lived our life to please ourselves. That is not to say that we still did not do “good works”, but life to the most part is center around us. The transformation that Christ performs in our life in not done in one day, but daily He adds to our life enrichments that make us more into the image of Him. One of the things that Paul notices about the Corinthians was their speech was different. Words having meanings, and reflect what is in the heart of man. Jesus said, “From out of the heart a man speaks”. Before I became a Christian, I remember using words that were laced with foul language and cutting remarks. My brother and I would write letters to each other that were filled with hurting and slanderous words. It was not until the grace of Christ reached my brother that I received a letter that was respectable. Christ had enriched his life in the way he now communicated. It is always good to think before you speak. Are my words kind, helpful, true, and edifying? Are they words that you think Christ would use? By no means am I saying that we should be in bondage to this thought process, but the grace of God in our heart will often show us that the words we are about to speak do not conform to the image of Christ.

We all have a testimony, a witness that will reflect the kind of life we live. Let our testimony speak of the enrichments of the grace of God that was given to us when we accepted Christ into our hearts. He wants to make us a lighthouse and a witness of His grace to a world that also needs to be enriched.

Thanking God for You

2010-04-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

1 Corith 1:4 I always thank God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. NIV

When was the last time you told someone, “I thank God for you”? They say that we need to slow down and take time to smell the flowers. Maybe it is also time to get off the express train of life to let people know how much they are appreciated.
I think we realized that life is not perfect and neither are people, but a pleasant word of good will should not be reserved for Thanksgiving and the Christmas season. Spirits are often lifted when one is appreciated and told that they are important and needed. We are often told to “get our eyes off of people, and look to Jesus”. But through the eyes of Christ, we can look at people and not focus on their faults, but focus on the good things they are doing. Maybe today you can get on the phone, send a letter, facebook a friend, or send an email and let them know that you thank God for the life they live in Christ, and the good things they do.

God's Anointed

2010-02-07T20:19:00.000-08:00

1 Samuel16:1-13

Controlled By God

Kingships and governments are part of His Sovereignty
Saul no longer fit to rule God’s people

Chooses To Let Go

Provision for King found in Deut. 17:14-20
Samuel needed to let go of the past- look to the future
Samuel’s reluctance- Feared for his life- needed assurance.
Samuel followed his own advise- better to obey—Than
God sees the forest when we often only see the tree in front.

Coming To Bethlehem

To the house of Jesse- Grandson son of Boaz- Line of Christ
To make Sacrifice- The exact truth
Seems that God approved of holding back information.
False guilt and how do you deal with it.
The people had some “guilt” Why are they afraid of Samuel?

Countenance Of Men

Eliab “looked” like a man of strength. Much like Saul
He follows all the rule and “lines up”
A person’s true character does not lay in his appearance
But, how important is appearance. Does it matter to God?
God who knows the heart- Yes, the good and bad.
God did not reject the sons, they were just not chosen to serve

Called From The Pasture

Samuel was frustrated- He knew that God lead him there
David, too young to be considered was ignored
God often uses small things to accomplish His will
Samuel was determine to exhausts all possibilities
We often give up to quickly when things don’t go right.

Chosen of God

David had a beautiful countenance- Fair to look upon
He had the look of innocence and trust
Samuel had to doubt. This is He. The glow of God on David
David- A man after God’s own heart.
May God see in our heart a pure desire to serve Him
Be anointed for service in His Kingdom

The Ten Commandments

2009-03-15T20:01:00.000-07:00

Mark 12:30,31
And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.
The Ten Commandments were given to those who have been brought out of sin. It is a covenant relationship that we make with Him who saves us from spiritual death. A people who profess to worship (serve) God will keep His commandments. An individual who say they love Jesus, will keep the Ten Commandments. They are the principles of right living and dictate the voice of conscience.
Duty to God
We are to serve to other God. There is only one God. There is no other God.
What doe the word “God” mean? ________________________________________________________________________________

Name some gods that other people in this world serve _____________________________

We are not to make any image that represents God and bow to that image.
How is this commandment broken in our society today? Can this commandment be broken even if there is not physical image built? _____________________________________________
__________________
We are not to take God’s name in vain?
What does the word “vain” mean? _____________________________________________
What is vain repetition? ____________________________
We are to keep the Sabbath day holy.
Why do we keep Sunday as the Sabbath instead of Saturday? ________________________________________________
________________________________________________
________________________________________________
What can you do to honor the Lord on this special day? ________________________________________________
________________________________________________
Did God- Jesus keep the Sabbath day holy? How? ________________________________________________
________________________________________________

The Spirit of Giving

2009-02-21T20:07:00.000-08:00

2Corith 9:7
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

Can you be like Jesus and not give?

Why or why not?

As Christians, what can we give that would bring the smile of God?

1. ______________________

2. ______________________

3. ______________________

4. ______________________

5. ______________________

Questions to ask about your giving

Do you give grudging?

I give because I have to?

I will get something in return if I give?

I feel good when I give to someone in need?

I am willing to sacrifice to help someone else need?

I am willing to give of my time as well as my money?

I don’t like to give to people who I don’t like?

Do you enjoy giving to family as well as friend?

Are you willing to go out of your way to give to others?

What did the Israelites give at Mt. Sinai? What was there attitude?

What problem did God have with Israel In Malachi?

What is the difference between tithing and offering?

What does Paul say about the law of giving?

The Passover

2009-02-08T19:56:00.000-08:00

Exodus 12: 1-14

Special Day

Days to Celebrate- Spiritual celebrations
Abib-the corn appears- Fruit of God’s Deliverance

Selection of the Lamb

One lamb per household of at least 10 people
Without Blemish- Perfect- no defects or deformities
Male and Firstborn- firstborn of the begotten
Innocent and faultless

Slaughter of the Lamb

No bone are broken
The Blood is the life- Christ gave His life

Sprinkling of the Blood

The blood is applied to the door- Under the blood

Serving of the Lamb

Eating of the flesh- partaker of His flesh- symbolic
Food to strengthen for the travel ahead- Need his strength
Roasting the lamb- Symbolic of suffering- born not broken
Unleavened bread- separation from sin- particular people
Bitter herbs- remind them of the bitterness of sin
Eat with lions gridded about- Prepare for service and journey

Smiting of the Firstborn

God ordained
Stand still and see God work- Let God be God
God will have the last word-
Intolerance of other Gods- He alone is God, There is no other

Saved by the Blood of the Lamb

The blood of Christ is applied to the door post of our hearts
It was the blood that saved the Hebrew- It is the blood that will save us.
Man is lost in sin and the blood must be applied for redemption
Christ our Passover- making atonement for our sins
Calvary is the turning point for new life.
It was at Calvary where I found forgiveness and purpose in life

Eternal Bliss

2008-12-28T19:53:00.000-08:00

Rev. 22: 1-5, 12-17

O’ what a day that will be when my Savior I shall see. O’ what glory and wonder when we enter into the eternal bliss of God’s eternal abode. Christ the light of heaven is also the light of the world willing that all should be led out of darkness. The invitation is given to all who are willing to take of the water of life, keep His commandments, and adorn, themselves in the wedding garment of God’s purity. A bride prepared to receive her groom. Let us all heed the invitation, and come to the Savior entering in to His eternal bliss.

Source of Life - proceeding out of the throne of God
• Internal dwelling place of heaven
• Water- He that is thirsty…
• He will never thirst again- life’s eternal satisfaction
Side of the River – Side of the river…
• As it was in the Garden of Eden
• The tree of life-species of twelve manner of fruits
• Eternal substance
Servants of God – His servants shall serve Him
• The perfection of worship is service
• Perfect consecration- Imperfection removed
• Will it be possible to sin? No. There will no sin
Shadows and Darkness Gone – No night there
• The city of God will be void of darkness
• Christ will be the light of this city
• The earth will still have seasons
Start to Finish – I am Alpha and Omega
• He was there with God – Elohim- Let Us…
• He will be there when it is all finished- Plan of Salvation
Sin is Forbidden – For without …
• Anyone who lives a lie will not be able to enter in
• Only they that do His Commandment
• Those who have washed their robes
Star of the Morning – Jesus…The bright and morning star
• Jesus sent His angels- ambassadors for Christ
• Morning star to lead His people out of darkness
Spirit Says Come - Spirit and bride say, Come.
• The redeemed of the Lord say Come
• We are to be ambassadors for Christ
• He that wanting peace, relationship, forgiveness. Come
• God is not partial. Whosoever- surely means me, and you!

The Son of the Highest

2008-12-21T19:48:00.000-08:00

Luke 1:26-35

In due time God sent His son into the world to save the world from sin. The mission of Christ was to take on the flesh of Man and show His love by giving His life for all humanity. His name speaks of His mission. Jehovah salvation, Emmanuel, God is with us. Jesus, The reason we share and show love and good cheer to all mankind. May the birth of Christ be the focus of our celebration during every Christmas holiday.

Angel Sent From God - Gabriel was sent from God

God’s timing- God who at sundry times…
To the City of Nazareth

Appeared to Mary – And the angel came in unto her

Anticipation of all Jewish women-
Chosen of God- God has a plan for all.
Favored, not worshiped. Only God can answer prayer

Astounding Announcement – Shall conceived a son

You are special to God
Immaculate conception
A name above all other names- Jehovah is salvation

Afraid and Fearful – She was troubled

Such visitations did not occur in those day
Fear of the unknown
Confused by the angels words

Apprehension of Mary – How shall this thing be?

Inquiry more than doubting.
Reputation and Image- What will others think?

Answers From the Angels – And the angel answered

This Child is not born of Man
The Father is this child will be the Holy Ghost
Both God and Man – The Son of God made flesh.

New Heaven and New Earth

2008-12-06T19:42:00.000-08:00

Revelation 20:7-15

The world as we know it will someday changed. All things will pass away and behold all things will become new. It will be a transformation. The earth will undergo a new birth. It must be born again. It will be purged and made fit as a tabernacle for God and His people. There will be no sin there. For all sin has been eradicated and cast into the lake of fire.

Destruction of the old Earth - the first earth passed away
• Destroyed by fire
• Renovated to be something else
• No more sea- He is the water of life
• Will there be a sun- Will he be the light of the world
Descending of New Jerusalem – New Jerusalem coming down
• A new city coming down from heaven
• What is this city made of?
Dwelling Place of God – Behold the tabernacle of God
• He desires to tabernacle with us
• Abiding in Him- We are the property of God
Death and Sorrow Are Gone – there shall be no more death
• There will be no reason to be sad, sorrow, or pain
• Memory wiped out- former things pass away
• There is no illness, aging, accidents to cause death
Deity of Christ – Sat upon the throne
• The creator- All things were created by Him
• He is the Word- True and faithful
• He is alpha and Omega. Was, Is, and ever will be
Drinking from the Fountain – the fountain of the water of life
• It is done- complete salvation
• He has promise to them that desire drink- water
• This salvation is free to us. No money can buy it
Death of the Wicked- Which is the second death
• Fearful- They that fear the judgment
• Unbelieving- In the only begotten Son of God
• Abominable- Sins that go beyond understanding- perverted
• Murderers- Acts of hatred- bitterness
• Whoremongers- Immorality- fornicators-
• Sorcerers- Evil spirits, Powers from Satan
• Idolaters-Anything that you put before God
• Liars- Black lies, White lies, dishonesty
• All will be cast into the hot fires of Hell never to live again.

The Last Battle

2008-11-30T19:37:00.000-08:00

Revelation 20:7-15

The battle that will end all wars will someday be fought. There will be no human artillery in this battle. The Lord God will use fire from heaven to destroy all Christ rejecters and Satan will also be cast into the lake of fire. All sinners will give account for what they did with Christ. Those who are not found in the book of life will be given their reward. The justice of God demands payment. Payment for sin in only made when the blood of Christ is applied to the doorpost of our hearts. “When I see the blood, I will pass over you”

Restraining Satan - bound him a thousand year vs. 1-3

The devil is chain and bound
Cast into the bottomless pit
Shut up and sealed for a thousand years

Reign of Christ – They live and reigned with Christ vs. 4-5

Saints beheaded for Christ
Did not receive the mark of the beast
No sin, no Satan, but the flesh lives

Release of Satan – Satan shall be loose out of his prison

Just for a season
Satan’s last chance
Army is gathered- Gog and magog- sand of sea

Rebellion and Deception – shall go out to deceive

Those born in the Millennium are tested
The heart is deceitful and wicked- turn against Christ Lordship

Rain of Fire – fire came down from heaven

The army surrounded the city of Jerusalem
God send fire from heaven to destroy them
The battle is the Lords- He will fight for us

Released into Hell – the devil…cast in the lake of fire

Satan is thrown into the fire that quenches not
The beast and the false prophet are already there
Will be in torment for ever and ever

Resurrection of the Dead- And I saw the dead

The dead are brought before God to give an account
Name not found in the book of life

Revelation of Sinful Deeds- according to their works

The “books” were open- things recorded in God’s account book
Punishment given out in degrees- Hell will burn hotter

Reward of the Unbeliever- cast into the lake of fire

The 1^st death and hades was cast into Hell fire
This is the second death- will be no end- perpetual dying

Armageddon

2008-11-23T20:05:00.000-08:00

Revelation 19:11-21

As they stand there with defiant hearts, Christ with His eyes of flaming fire penetrates their darken soul. And in a moment of time from the mouth of Christ, a sword goes forth as He speaks the words that smite all that is wicked and evil. Who is able to stand against the wrath of God?

Faithful and True - He that sat was called faithful and true

What he says is true- It will come to pass
His word will not return void
He come to fulfill justice- Days of mercy are passed
We serve one that is faithful and true to his word.

Flame of Fire – His eyes were as a flame of fire

His eyes penetrated through the darkness
He was crowned with majesty- too many to count

Following Army – the armies which were in heaven followed Him

They were all on white horses- emulating their leader
They had on the robe of righteousness- made pure
They came along for the “ride” Christ was the victor

Fierce Wrath of God – the winepress of the fierceness of God

Sharp sword from the mouth of Christ
Rule with the rod of iron- there shall be none that will oppose.
Treadeth the winepress- “Crushing of grapes”
Fierceness and wrath of the Almighty God
He comes in all His glory- King of Kings, Lord of All

Fowls Called to Supper – Gather together to the supper

Supper of the great God- Follows supper of the lamb in heaven
Eat the flesh of those left dead after battle

Fires of Hell – cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone

The folly of making war with Christ
All that followed or were deceived by Satan were cast away
Cast alive into sulfurous fire

The Great Marriage Supper

2008-11-16T20:00:00.000-08:00

Revelation 19:1-10

The greatest celebration is yet to come. The table of God is spread and He invites all to come and sup. The call is given out to all who have made Christ king and Lord of their lives. The bride is made ready dressed in the robes of righteousness. The wicked have been judged and the feast is made ready. Let us come to worship at His feet and dine eternally.

Great Voices in Heaven - I heard a great voice of much people

Chorus of the Redeemed. Those written in the book of life
A voice that gives glory to God- He is worthy

Great Whore is Judged – for he hath judged the great whore

Who is God? He is true to His word. Judgments are sure
Whore- Can be bought. Sold to Sin.
Has prostituted itself for wealth, popularity and power
Those who knew the truth and have rejected Christ
APOSTATE PROTESTANTS- PAGANISM- SPIRITALISM
Avenger of the Saint who were killed for Christ sake.

Great Praise and Worship – And again they said, Alleluia

The shout of praise- Rose like smoke- non stop
24 elders -The redeemed church- Church leaders-Patriarchs
4 beast- The kingdoms of the earth- He is Lord of Lords
They all fell in submission to Christ-On the Throne
Let all the people praise Him- small and great

Great Multitude – the voice of great multitude

Voices of many waters and thundering
For he is omnipotent and RULES by His command

Great Preparation – and his wife hath made herself ready

The bride has prepare for this event- Made pure
Requirements to be part of the bride- the church
The Righteousness of the saint- Through the blood of the lamb

Great Marriage Supper – Blessed are they which are called

The invitation was given to all- “Come unto me”
Whosoever will, Let him….
Bless are they that hunger and thirst after God

Great God Alone- worship God: for the testimony of Jesus

The folly of worshiping anything or anybody except Christ
He Alone is worthy to be worships-
Give honor and respect, but true obedience’s belongs to God

An Army Gathered- Armageddon

2008-11-09T19:54:00.000-08:00

Revelation 16:12-20

The day of reckoning has finally arrived. The foolish and wicked are finally put to silence. The day of repentance has passed and now man must meet his maker. The wrath of God and final judgment is poured out on all those who made their choice to worship the beast and the false prophet. Even in the face of imminent doom, man refuses to acknowledge Christ as Lord. Their heart has rebelled and hardened itself against the warning of destruction. They foolishly go forward into battle being deceived by Satan that they can overcome the God of heaven and earth. It will not be until the great judgment day that they will realize that Christ is Lord of Lords, and King of Kings. Today is the day of salvation. May we fall on our knees now and make Him Lord of our lives.

Reapers of the Vineyard - Chapter 14

144,000 with Christ
Warning of judgment is given- Last chance- Fear God
Judgment to come to those with the mark of the beast
Reapers gather the wicked into the wine press of God’s Wrath

Rejoicing in Heaven – Chapter 15

The song of the redeemed- those who died for the lamb

They who refused to worship to the Beast
He is Holy, Almighty, Lord of All, and Righteous in judgment

Revelation of the Bowls – Chapter 16: 1-12

Sores on the body
Sea of Blood- life in the sea dies
Spring water turned to blood
Sun becomes hotter
Sunshine turns to Darkness
Source of Life is dried up- Euphrates river

Ready for Battle – …to gather them to battle

Dragon, beast, false prophet – spirit of divination
Battle of all battles
Armageddon- historical battleground

Reckoning Day – it is done, the mountains were not found

God speaks the word and it is finished- DONE
Earthquake at every fault line- earth plates collide and sink
All the great cities crumbles to the earth

The earthly kingdom of Satan falls under the wrath of God
The earth swallowed itself- Open and disappeared.

The Beast

2008-11-02T19:50:00.000-08:00

Revelation 13:1-10

The vision that John sees is seen by many to be the embodiment of Satan during the tribulation. The Beast represents all the wicked powers of the earth brought into one embodiment. The Beast will lure the people by claiming to bring peace and unity to the world. His religious rhetoric will fool many into thinking he is right and there is no other who can unity the people as one. He is the great deceiver, only those whose name have been written to the book of life will be able to discern his deception, but they pay a great price when they refuse to worship him. The beast will rule and overcome all true righteousness for the duration of 3 and half years.

Sea Monster - and saw a beast rise out of the sea

Seven horns-the complete embodiment of Satan
Ten horns, ten crowns- Represent the kings of the earth
The name of blasphemy- He will seem as being sacred

Symbols of Empires – the dragon gave him his power

Leopard- Greek- swift to conquer- Alexander the Great

Bear- Medo-Persian- Tenacity, unyielding, no compromise
Lion- Babylon Empire- veracity, devouring, destroying
Fourth beast seen by Daniel- summary of all- The Romans

Similarities to Christ –who is like unto the beast- dead, yet he lives

Head wounded to death- Appears to have been slain (wounded)
His wound was healed- Made alive, slain yet liveth
Appears as an angel of light, wolf in sheep skin- AntiChrist

Speaks with Blasphemy – he opened his mouth in blaspheme

He spoke as he was God- Used sacred things for his purpose
He took on the name of God
He used the once sacred places of God’s dwelling to rule

Saints are Overpowered – make war with the saint and overcome

Who are these Saints- Are they the remnant that hid
144,000 have already fled to the desert for protection
These remnant gave their lives for refusing to worship

Serving the Beast –all that dwell on the earth shall worship him

The whole world viewed the beast (Ruler) as King

Thet Worshiped- Served this world leader
These were those who refused to yield their hearts to Christ

Sword or Faith– must be killed with the sword

To what degree should one defend themselves with force
The true saint will yield to God in Faith- God’s Providence

Tormenting Locust

2008-10-19T19:33:00.000-07:00

Revelation 9:1-12

These are days foretold by John that should cause all men to fall to their knees and acknowledge Christ as Lord of all. But, even with this warning, many will still deny the power of Christ to rule in their lives. For those who refuse to come under His Lordship, great torment will be afflicted. The pit of hell will open up and bring forth creatures that will cause the ungodly to seek death, but in vain, they will not find it. Woe unto those who call good evil and evil good, judgment is coming and all sinners shall see the wrath of God to come.

Four trumpets- events proceeding the fifth trumpet

First trumpet- hail, fire, blood
Second trumpet- a burning mountain-meteor
Third trumpet- fallen star- meteor- bitter waters
Fourth trumpet- stars, moon, sun- little light

Fallen Star – I saw a star fall from heaven

Angel of God

Satan cast to earth
Christ- holds the keys- From Savior to Judgment

Furnace and Smoke- the smoke of a great furnace

Bottomless pit- the Abyss- hell fire
Smoke caused darkness- evil proceeds from darkness

Fierce Locust – and there came out a smoke of locust

Body of a horse- with armor of protection- ready for battle
Tail like a scorpion- The sting of pain and suffering
Head of a man with long hair and a gold crown, teeth like a lion
Intelligent, ferocious, victorious, and conquer

Fear and Torment – tormented for 5 months

Fear will grip the heart of me- just looking at them
Their focus was to inflict pain- not death
Men and women will seek a place to hide

Faithful Spared –except for those who have the seal of God

144,000 Jews- The protection of Israel- Passover

No indication that Gentiles will be included
God will protect His own- In His providence

Futility of Men– shall me seek death and not find it

Death is alluded
A glimpse of hell- pain and suffering

Future Woes

The wrath of God is poured out against the ungodly

The Seals Opened

2008-10-11T19:27:00.000-07:00

Revelation 6: 1-6, 12-17

As the seals are open, the vision of the different horses that John saw all represented events to come. The actual events are all speculation. Some teach that these events have already occurred, other think that these are events still to be fulfilled. In conclusion, no doubt the wicked will suffer for rejecting Christ, and the righteous will be with Christ forever.

White Horse- Behold a white horse

The first beast called- The lion- courage’s in battle-Victor
The horse- animal of war and battle
Victorious Trajan went forth toward the east
The birth of the church going forth to all nations
The Tribulation- Anti-Christ- victory through peace-diplomacy
Christ on a white horse- He comes for the victor in all situations

Red Horse – horse that was red

The second beast called- OX- Endurance and patience
Decebalus, king of Dacia wars against Trajan- lots of blood
The war against the church- persecution
The Tribulation- War between each other- shedding of blood
Judgment of those who reject the reign of Christ

Black Horse – and lo, a black horse

The third beast called- The man- compassion for the suffering
The famine in Egypt- land of plenty after the war
A famine of Spiritual food- Church goes underground
The Tribulation- famine- the poor suffer, the rich prosper
Famine of spiritual food- become reprobates- mockers

Ashen Horse – and behold a pale horse

The forth beast called- The eagle- intelligence- bird of prey
The desolation left a weaken nation, brought death
The church goes into the dark ages- the dead church
The Tribulation- death come to a fourth of the earth
Death and Hell is the final destination of those who reject

Altar of the Slain –souls of them that were slain

The invisible world- no connection to the previous metaphor

The martyrs, those left on earth, the angels on heaven

Black Sun & Red Moon – sun became black, moon as blood

The destruction of Jerusalem
Calamity to come when Christ returns
The wrath of the lamb- Redeemer becomes judge

Worthy The Lamb

2008-10-05T19:16:00.000-07:00

Revelation 5:6-14

On an island, apart from the world, John finds himself a prisoner for Christ. It is on this isolated island that the Revelation of Jesus is made known to this man of God. It is here that John is given to know the mysteries of things to come. Christ is the theme that runs through the whole book. He is the one that in found worthy to reveal all things. All the host of heaven and all who have been redeemed fall to worship Him is King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Sealed Books- book…sealed up with seven seals

The use of metaphors- Is there actually a book-scroll in heaven?
The Revelation- Things to come
Unfolding of events- scroll within a scroll each is sealed

Strong Angels – I saw a strong angel

Not even a magnificent and powerful angel could open the book
Proclamation- Qualification for breaking the seals

Sorrow and Weeping – I began to weep

Why does John weep?
Trapped on a Island- What will become of him and others
Prevented from seeing more of the mind of God
Humanity of John- This is the end? Unfilled desires

Slain Lamb – Stood a lamb as been slain

Jesus is referred to as a lamb through out the Bible
He was the perfect lamb- sacrificed for all of Adam’s race
Standing- Alive! Yet his appearance identified Him as the one.

Seven Horns and Eyes –till he establish-arms of His strength

Horns- Represent the might and power of the lamb

Eyes- Represent the all knowing, all seeing knowledge

Song of the Elders – And They sung a new song

Who are these elders? - The Redeemed of the earth
The swelling of joy- took them to their knees
Harp & Vail = Praise and Prayer in worship
The Song- sacrificial death, redemption man, and authority given by Christ to the redeemed.

Shouts and Praise- I heard a voice of many angels

The heavens join in the praise of the redemption of man
Power, Riches, Wisdom, Strength, Honor, Glory, Blessing.

Sitting on the Throne Be unto Him that sits on the throne

Deity of Christ
Attributes of God are given to Christ
He is the eternal God- Always was, is, and forever will be.

Israel Restored

2008-09-28T19:09:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 62:1-12

As we look ahead to things that are yet to come, we find hope in knowing that Christ will someday rule over all earthly kingdoms. He shall reign forever and forever! And those who have been redeemed by his precious blood, washed and made clean will come to Zion singing, the song of the redeemed. Until then, let us remain diligent and watchful lest we find ourselves without a song to sing.

Righteousness Rules- righteousness goes forth

God’s Objective- His People (Jews) will lead
The People of God are a light shining in darkness

Renewed in Christ – a new name

Exalted with Christ- as father Abraham is the bossom..
We are given a new start- know by others as –a new man
Things are different now- a changed life

Royal Diadem – royal diadem in the hand of the Lord

We our the precious jewel in his hand
God’s handiwork- God said, “it is good”

Rejoicing of God – God rejoice over thee

Parallel- Christ and the bride
The joy of the bridegroom over his bride
·Marriage supper of the lamb

Reign of Christ –till he establish-arms of His strength

God will set his watchman to guard against the evil

There will be no rest or ceasing to watch until all is safe
His kingdom will be established- His promises is true

Return to Zion – go through the gates

The gathering of God people back to Jerusalem
The people of God from all times will return
Spiritual return to Christ- Leave your sin- clear the way

Reward of God- his reward is with him

A reward to them that diligently seek him

Redeemed of the Lord- They shall be called the redeemed

Once forsaken and desolate- Mercy of God to remember
Sought out by the Holy Spirit
Called unto holiness

Delight in the Lord

2008-09-21T18:59:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 58:6-14

“It is not until we are willing to put away our own desires and self-satisfaction, that we truly begin to know the joys of service God. Delighting in the Lord begins by putting God first in everything we do. Reaching out to help others, letting our joy be spilled out and overflowing, touching lives for God. God promises us many reward if we follow his commands and live a life that will honor Him."

Welfare of Others- undo the heavy burden

What is true religion?
Jesus was a servant, not a an oppressor
Sensitive to the needs of others- If thy brother be naked
Let us do good unto all men- Especially unto…

Works are Essential – dealing bread to the hungry

Show me your faith by your works
Faith without works is dead faith

Wealth of Rewards – glory of the Lord shall be thy reward

God’s light shines on those who give of themselves
God will see your good works as righteousness
The approbation of God- His approval- Well done..

Watered Garden – thou shall be like a watered garden

Your soul will be satisfied when life get tough
Your life will show forth contentment- delight
Jesus said, “Well of water springing forth”

Wasted Places Rebuilt –the repairer of the breach

God desires to use us to restore others back to God
Built the altars once again- Revival of Prayer

Dig the wells that have been filled- Remove the clutter

Worship on the Sabbath – Shall honor Him

Negative- Turn away from your own pleasures
Positive- Honor Him- focus on Christ
Is your Sabbath a delight or duty?

Word of the Lord has Spoken-the Lord hath spoken it.

The Lord will lift you up and make you victorious
He will provide and sustain you- Establish you goings
God will honor and bless you for honoring His Day
There is no question about it. God said t!

Gracious Invitation

2008-09-14T18:53:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 55:1-11

“The windows of heaven are open, The blessings are falling tonight; There's joy, joy, joy in my heart, Since Jesus made everything right; I gave Him my old tattered garment, He gave me a robe of pure white; I'm feasting on manna from heaven And that's why I'm happy tonight”. What better chorus illustrates what God desires for you and me. The Invitation is given to all who desire the water and bread of life. Let us stop and turn our hearts toward Him for He will satisfy the desires of our heart.

Thirst for God- every on that thirsteth

Desire more of God
Panting after God- Fulfilled, but still desire
Water that springs from within- Living water

Taste of the Lord - eat ye that which is good

He is the bread of Life- Will satisfy the hunger
The world will not bring any satisfaction
Feasting on manna from heaven

Tune Your Ears - incline your ears

Stop and listen to what God has to say
Get in tune – harmony with God
Listen- He is wanting to give you a promise

Testimony of God – for a witness for the people

He gave of his son to be a witness
God is willing and wanting to pardon
Jesus our leader- He will show the way to truth
Jesus our commander- He will direct our path

Turn Back to God –let him return unto the Lord

Seeking God- The Spirit draws- will not always strive
Turn from the sinful life-

Your thoughts- a man thinks so he is.
Out of the Heart of Men- evil thoughts of…
The mercy of God to pardon

Thoughts of God – my thought are not your thoughts

What does God think of you?
Thought of peace, not of evil
Let this mind (Thoughts), be also in you

Times of Blessings-the rain cometh down

There shall be showers of blessings
God will deliver, no power on earth can stop Him
More than just physical suffering

The Suffering Savior

2008-09-07T18:48:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 53: 1-12

God, who loved this world, was willing to let His son come to earth and take on the form of man. Knowing that His son would suffer a cruel death on a rugged cross, God the Father released His son into the hands of cruel and hateful men. In spite of their hatred, Christ laid His life down to suffer and die for sinful man. The Suffering Christ made it possible for you and me to be reconciled and redeemed. It was through his suffering that we our made whole, whereby we cry “Abba Father”

Report of a Savior- Who hath believed our report

By Faith they looked for the day to come
That God would send His son to take away our sins

Reaching Arms of God- arm of the Lord revealed

He will make Himself know to those who believe
God’s arm will reach around the world- Salvation for all

Root in the desert- root out of dry land

Royal line of David was buried
His physical appearance was common
His beauty was within- tender plant

Rejected & Despised of Men – He was despised and rejected

He was hated of men and dismissed as a mere carpenter
A man who identified with suffering
Who is will to take up his cross and follow?

Redeemed Through His Blood with His strips we our healed

Wounded for our committed sins
Bruised for our sin nature- we were born in iniquity

God laid on Him all of our sin(s)

Repudiated by His Own – He was afflicted, lamb to slaughter

They led Him to the cross, as lamb is led for sacrifice
He laid down His life willing
Forsaken by all- cut off from the living

Righteous Servant-righteous servant justify many

Fulfilled the will of Jehovah
He who knew no sin, became sin for us
More than just physical suffering

Risk All for the World- he bares the sin of many

Poured out his soul unto death

Numbered with the transgressors
Interceded for sinful man

The Promise Gospel

2008-08-31T18:42:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 37:14-21, 33-38

The people of Israel suffered for their disobedience toward God. They suffered the consequences of their sin. Isaiah is given a promise from God of hope. A Blessed promise that a redeemer will come to take their sorrows away and give them new life and hope. What a comfort to know that all is not lost, that Jesus desires to take of life of sin and give us something worth living for in this world.

Cleanse from Sin- double for all her sins

Parallels to New Testement-
Captivity is over- Sin’s consequences
A people who knew better are forgiven

Consolation of God- comfort ye

The God of All Comfort
“My People” His desire to bring back

Comfort in Pardon- her iniquity is pardon

Proclaim His Promise
God still loves the sinner
Atonement is made-

Cry in the Wilderness- voice crieth in the wilderness

John the Baptist
Highway to be prepare

Crooked Made Straight- crooked shall be made straight

The World we be turned upside-down
All things pass away, all thing new
From darkness to light

Coming of Christ – the glory of the Lord shall return

Seeing Christ for who He is –Lord of Lords
The Salvation of the Lord

Controlled by God-Spirit of the Lord bloweth

Life is but a vapor- God controlled our days
He only needs to speak the word

Changeless Gospel- the Word of our God shall stand forever

The unchanging God- His word is still the same

Conquering Savior- God will come with a strong hand

More than conqueror are we- Through the blood
He will bring his people through- He will bring us through

Prayer Works

2008-08-24T20:48:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 37: 14-21, 33-38

The situation for Hezekiah looked mighty bleak. He was faced with an enemy who was proven to be formidable in battle. He realized that his small army would not be able to stand against such a force of destruction. But, Hezekiah had a connection to the God of all kingdoms and his faith drove him to his knees. Satan will do all he can to cause us to despair and doubt God’s care for us. It is times like these that we can claim the promises of God and take it to God, and trust Him to bring us out.

Difficult Situations- received the letter

· Crisis often drives us to our needs

· The storms will cause us to cry out

· Communicate with God, in the valley and mountain top

Dependence on God- he went to the house of God

· Take it to God in Prayer- He is not our last resort

· Lean not to your own understanding, lean on Him

· Not by our means or the works of men, but…

Deity Rules- even thou alone

· Acknowledge Him as God and God alone

· Not by chance, but by providence

· He rules in the affairs of man

Defender of God- reproach the living God

· Glory and honor given to God

· Not by the power of man, but God is lifted up

Deliver Us- save us from his hands

· The righteous cry- God Hears

· God delights and desires to hear us call out

· In His time- God will deliver

Declared by God- thus saith the Lord

· Hearing an answer from God- Assurance

· Through His Word, His servants- preached word.

Defending His Own-I will defend this city

· God has a leash on Satan

· The Promise of God to Keep us from danger

· Staying true and believing He is able

Defeat of the Enemy- the angel smote the camp of Assyrians

· God sends His angels to do battle

· God also allows circumstances to stop the enemy

· Christ, our shield of defend, and sword of victory

The Way of Holiness

2008-08-17T20:43:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 35: 1-10
The future of the Israelites was foretold by Isaiah the prophet that the enemies that destroyed the land of Israel would be punished and put away. The promise of a new life was given to the remnant of God’s people. The day, in which we live, may be dark and hopeless, but God has promised that all will be set right and vengeance was His. With faith we look for the sweet day of release, when Christ will return with all His glory to reclaim the whole earth.

Solitary Places Revived- made to blossom

· The prediction of enemy destruction- Anti-Christ defeated

· What the enemy destroyed, God will revive

· The work of Christ and the pouring of the Holy Spirit

Singing the Excellency of God- with joy and singing

· A reason to sing

· We rejoice when He becomes our Lord

· Where is your song?

Strength to the Feeble- strengthen ye the weak hands

· Difficulty times still come- We need encouragement

· Those young in the faith need help

· Pray one for another- that we not fall away

· Lift up your eye, redemption draws nigh

Salvation Will Come- He will save you

· He is our deliverer

· He will do might works in our behalf

· Spiritual eyes and hears are open

Streams in the Desert- water shall break out

· Christ- the living water

· Ye who are thirsty come unto Him

Sanctification of God’s People- the way of Holiness

· Only the pure in heart will see God

· Life of Godliness of willful transgression

· A highway for pilgrims, only passing through

Safety on the Highway-no lion shall be there

· Stay on the highway and you will not be harmed

· Detouring off the highway is certain danger

· The shepherd protects His sheep

Sighing Will Flee Away- sorrow and sighing shall flee

· The return to the new Jerusalem with Christ

· All sorrow is gone- He will wipe away all tears

Drunk With Wine

2008-08-10T20:37:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 28:1-13

The admonition given to us in scripture is that we avoid the use of strong drink. Israel found out the results of indulging in drink that caused the mind to error and judgment to stumble. The debate on weather a Christian should indulge in drinking alcohol is one argued by many contemporary Bible scholars of our day. Is moderation possible? What part does our influence matter? What is our responsibility to society and to the life of godliness? “Be not drunk with wine, but be filled with the Spirit”

Debauchery of Wine- drunkards of Ephraim

· The sin of strong drink

· The influence of strong drink

· Christians and drinking in moderation?

Delusion of Strong Drink- beauty fade away

· The “pleasure” of drink

· Hang over of drink

· Satan always paints a beautiful picture

Destroyed by Indulgence- destroying storm

· Destroyer of homes

· Destroyer of self respect

· Debase and wasted

Day of Judgment- spirit of judgment

· God will judge the evil and wickedness of man

Deception of Wine- erred through strong drink

· The mind is impaired to think right

· Judgment is faulty – drinking and driving

Degradation of Man- full of vomit

· Lower the character of man

· Life is degraded and pitied

Deride God’s Instructions-line upon line

· God gives simple instructions

· He provide instruction is several ways

· The method of repetition

· They rejected God’s overtures with contempt

Drug Abuse and Godliness- “be not drunk with wine…”

· The safe way- Total abstinence

· Be drunk with the Spirit

Song of Salvation

2008-08-03T20:32:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 26:1-10

When salvation comes to the heart, a song is born. Christ who is our salvation from sin and eternal damnation causes the heart to sing out in praise, rejoicing in Him for His love and mercy. In the New Jerusalem, a song will be lifted up from all the redeemed. A chorus of voices will ring out the praises of God for He is mighty and worthy to be praise. The righteous shall sing out His name and give Him glory and honor. The unrighteous will face the judgment of God. God gave them opportunity, but they refused to acknowledge Him as Lord and King.

City of Jerusalem
• The Millennial Reign
• Surrounded and Protected by His Salvation
Celebration of Truth
• Song of Praise
• Only the Holy will truly praise God
Constant Trust in God
• Mind stayed on Him
• Peace that constantly abides
• We Serve a Mighty God
• Faith unwavering
Cast down to the ground
• Power of this mighty God will bring them down
• Blessed are the poor, theirs is the kingdom
Cry Of A Righteous Man
• His desire is to do the will of God
• Character of righteousness
• Bringing our life into harmony with God
• His name be glorified and He be lifted up
Condition of Sinful Man
• God has no choice- His justice requires judgment
• They rejected His mercy
• He refused to give God 1st place in his life
• They glorified not God, but became vain

The Kingdom of Christ

2008-07-27T20:22:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 11:1-9

Stem of David- A Rod Come Forth
• Destruction of Judah
• Ray of hope
• A branch that will cover the whole world
Spirit of The Lord- Rest of Him
• The Holy Spirit part of the Trinity
• The wisdom and understanding of Christ
• The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge
Sight and Hearing of The Lord- Not As Man Sees
• Man looks on the outward to judge, God sees the heart
• He will right the wrongs- He is not fooled by sin
Smite the Earth- With His Words
• He will overthrow all evil
• The Anti Christ will be defeated
Source of Strength- From His Lions
• His Righteousness- evil will be overcome
• Faithfulness- He will do as he says-
Safe and Peaceful Kingdom- They Shall Lie Down
• Millennial Reign of Christ
• No fear of harm- Predator – Prey is broken
• Utopia- what a day that will be.
Sovereign Ruler- The Earth Shall Be Full
• He will rule the whole earth
• His presence will be known through out
• Every knee shall bow to his will
• He will rule with perfection
• Holiness will reign forever and ever

Call To Service

2008-07-20T20:18:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 6:1-13

Before Isaiah saw the Lord, he was a man who proclaimed the Word of the Lord without any love or mercy. His true calling was given to him when he realized his own sinfulness and lack of personal holiness. Our effectiveness to be used of God is not realized until we totally abandoned ourselves to God and serve with pure motives and compassion.
Clear Vision
• The death of the king- hindrances
• God, and God alone
Cry of the Seraphims
• Angels fire and charity
• Focus on Divinity- Holy, Holy
Conviction of Isaiah
• Isaiah’s sin is revealed
• His cry of confession
• There is none righteous, no not one.
Coal of Fire
• Fire- Symbolic of purification
• He will baptize you with fire
• Cloven tongues of fire
Cleansing of Heart
• Iniquity is taken away
• Isaiah’s SIN is purged
Call To Service
• Listening for the call
• The need for laborers- fields ready for harvest
• What is your calling- Are you a worker?
• Willingness to be used- available to God
Condition of the People
• Like Pharaoh-There heart will be harden
• It is our duty to obey regardless of response
Captivity of Israel
• Occupy- fulfill the call until His judgment
• Don’t be discourage- There will be a remnant.
• Noah & family, Abraham’s less than ten
• Narrow is the way, few be there that find it

Intemperate Life

2008-07-13T20:15:00.000-07:00

Isaiah 5:8-30

Material Gain
• Gain at any cost
• The Love of the World
• There profit will be to nothing
Man’s Pleasures
• Sinful pleasure of the world
• Human pleasure in moderation
Mocking of the Word
• Refuse to take His Word by faith
• Skeptical and critical
• Challenge God, “Did God Say…”
Morally Deranged
• Corruptness of our day
• Our attitude toward sin
• Maintaining love for the sinner
Manifest Pride
• Pride in one’s opinion
• See it my way, or no way
• I can do it without God or anyone else’s help
Mingling of Strong Drink
• Strength of a man to resist
• Impairing of judgment
Moved to Indignation
• Refusal to live as God’s commands
• The judgment of God released
Mighty Filling of the Holy Spirit
• Be not drunk with wine, but be filled
• Let the Holy Spirit be your controller

Christian Diligence

2008-06-29T20:08:00.000-07:00

2 Thessalonians 3: 1-16

Praying for Each Other
• Praying for the household of faith
• Prayer investment- people
Partitioning Our Need
• Priority in Prayer- God’s Kingdom
• Deliverance from all that is evil
• Whatsoever things you have need of…
Preserved By God
• He is faithful to help you become mature in the faith
• Faithful to keep you from sinning
Parting Company
• Pulling away – Disassociating
• Disorderly conduct- not diligent
• They don’t yield the teachings of the doctrine
Pilfering From Others
• Hospitality days are over
• Work for a living
• The church is not a welfare system
Power Over People
• Position of power must be use to serve
• Using our power to be an ensample
Putting One To Shame
• Amish practice this to the letter of the law
• What is the purpose of making one ashamed
• Admonish- advise- alert, caution, reprove, counsel, urge to duty
• They are not enemies Wicked men), but brothers in the Lord
Peace Always Through Christ
• Peace- absences of disturbance, harmonious, calm, orderly
• Can’t we all just get along-conciliatory, amiable
• Follow peace- Strive to live peaceable with all men
• God of Peace is faithful to help us be orderly with strife

Son of Perdition

2008-06-22T19:56:00.000-07:00

2 Thessalonians 2: 1-12
Paul never doubts the Christ will come back again. He is made aware that there are many in the church of Thessalonica who misunderstood the timing of Christ return. He warns them that Satan will first come in the form man and persuade many to lose their faith. But, Christ will return to destroy the work of Satan and restore His kingdom.

Reassurance of His Coming
• Clarify and confirm
• Don’t be led astray to believe just anything
• Was Christ’s coming imminent?
Ruse of Satan
• Take a lie and make it look like truth
• Don’t be fooled, Satan is clever
• Taking truth and twisting it for self
Refusing to Stand- Falling Away
• Sign of His coming- focus no longer on Christ
• Stand for the truth of God- By grace are ye saved
Revealing of Son of Perdition
• Son of ruin souls, damnation, the eternally lost
• Will exalt himself to be God
• Will perform many miracles- Deceiving the elect
• Clothe in righteousness, but full of dead men’s bones
Restraining of the Man of Sin
• God is in control of the affairs of Man
• God holds the reigns, His timing is perfect
• Evil will engulf the world when He is released
Removal of the Wicked One
• Speak the Word and it shall be done
• The Sword which is the Word of God will consume
Rejecters of Truth
• Those who follow the deceiver will also be consumed
• They made a choice not to follow Christ
Reprobate and Lost Souls
• Refusal to let Christ into your heart
• Allowing sin to reign in your life
• Refuse to live by God’s Word- I’ll do it my way
• God will give them over to Satan

The Day of the Lord

2008-06-01T19:30:00.000-07:00

June 1^st2008

1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:8

The day that all Christian hope for is to see Jesus split the eastern skies and return to rapture His bride (the church). The time and date is unknown to all except the Father, but His return is imminent and we must be ready at all times. We must live our lives in expectation that He could come at this very moment. Are you ready?

Sleep in Christ

Let us not be ignorant
Do you believe Jesus died and rose
Likewise, the dead in Christ shall rise

Saint Still Alive

Mourning and grieving
The Christian hope
Word of the Lord has spoken

Second Coming (rapture)

Descending from Heaven (He said he will return)
The angels will shout
The trumpet of God will sound
We will meet him in the air (rapturous)
Forever with Christ our Lord

Surprise Return

His return is imminent- could happen any moment
Twinkling of an eye- quick and fast
As a thief in the night- Surprise element- be ready

Signs of His Coming

The illusion of Peace
As in the days of Noah
Destruction of all sort

Sons of Light

Those who live in darkness- not expecting
The Children of light live in expectation

Sober and Watching

No time to sleep and grow weary
Let us not drift from our focus
Keep the Faith
Love God and others
Don’t give up hope- Jesus is coming back!

Comforted and Established

2008-05-25T21:24:00.000-07:00

May 25^th, 2008

1 Thessalonians 3:1-13

There are many who start out the race who do not finish. They are hindered from finishing for many reasons. Paul is concern that these new born in Christ become established in Christ. He knows that there will be obstacles that they will face that may cause them to turn back to their former ways. It is important that a new Christian be disciple and instructed in the Truth of God’s way. For those who are establish in God, must continue to increase in love toward the love of Christ and others.

News from Abroad

Sends Timothy
The comfort in knowing
Staying informed

New Converts

Babes in Christ need nourishment
Guided in doctrine
Instructed in proper conduct
Grow increase in God- draw nigh to God

Never Turn Back

Admonition to press on
Don’t quit when the roads gets tough
Suffering and afflictions will come
Satan will attempt to discourage

Need for Fellowship

Desire to be with God’s people
Forsake not the Assembly
Sharing each others burdens

Night and Day Praying

The importance of daily devotion
Prayer time- mediation- study
Thanksgiving and praise

Nature of the Heart

To increase in Love toward God and other
Establish our heart to live blameless and Holy
Only the pure in heart will be ready for His coming

Follower of the Lord

2008-05-18T21:18:00.000-07:00

May 18^th, 2008

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10

There are many people out in the world who inspire others to follow them. They see themselves as leaders for a particular cause. Paul was such a person, but his cause was for others to follow Christ. He always was aware of the awesome responsibility to be an ensample how one should be a follower of Christ. Many looked to him for guidance and direction. As believers, we have a responsibility also to lead others to Christ and live so that others see our good works and desire also to follow Christ.

Greetings from Paul

Different than Galatians
God’s Blessing and favor

Giving Thanks Always

Words of appreciation
In all things give thanks
Praying for others brings unity

Great Work of Faith and Love

Work of faith- Believing God in spite of all
Labor of love- Love of God compels-love demonstrated
Patience of hope- Never give up

Gospel Power

Words are empty without anointing
Power comes through believing and prayer

Guide to Christ

Ensample unto others
Looking to the saint for spiritual direction
Pointing others to Christ

God-Ward Faith

On the move for God
Spreading the Word
Always drawing closer to God

Going with God

No longer in sin
New creature in Christ Jesus

Grace of Deliverance

Christ died for our sins
Christ rose that we might have life
Christ is coming for those who believe

Mary, The Mother of Jesus

2008-05-10T21:13:00.000-07:00

May 11^th, 2008

Mother’s Day, a special day set aside to give tribute to mothers who have bared the God given responsibility to bring new life into this world. This day is to honor mothers for their life and dedication to bring up their children in the fear of the Lord. Mothers are not perfect, but they strive to do their best to bring glory to God by instructing their children to live for God. Like Mary, all mothers can have favor with God.

Mother Highly Favored (Luke 1:28-30)

News from an angel

The desire of every Jewish women

Confounded by the angels words

Having favor with God- Do we live to please Him?

Mother’s Heart Kept (Luke 2:46-52)

A concern mother for her young

A mother’s heart looks after the well being of her young

Mother’s Hurt (John 2:1-5)

Time to cut the strings

A time to let go and leave them in God’s care

We always give honor to parents

Obeying and loving God is most important

Mother Honored ((John 19:25-27)

God provides comfort in time of suffering

Jesus made provision for his mother

Children honor your parents

Mother’s Harmony (Acts 1:14)

She was with one accord with other

In tuned with God through prayer

Do Good Unto All Me

2008-05-03T21:08:00.000-07:00

May 3rd, 2008

Galatians 6:1-14
The Christian life is more than an experience. It is a life that is lived out one day at a time. Satan will do his best to defeat anyone who starts out to follow Christ. The admonition of Paul is to lift up those who have fallen and succumbed to temptation. The fruit of a spiritual person is manifested and demonstrated by doing good unto all men, sowing seeds of kindness and love to the household of faith and to the world. May we do it all to the glory of God.

Brethren Overtaken

Fall to Temptation- Devil seek to destroy
Restoration of the believer
Spiritual people

Bearing Burdens

Ministry of burden bearing
Fulfilling the Law of Christ

Bragging and Exalting Self

Pride come before fall
“Thinking” you are important
They will even believe a lie- deceiving self

Burden to Carry

We our responsible for our own soul
We will stand alone before God to give an account

Bringing Good Words and Works

What kind of tiding do you bring?
Especially to the household of faith

Benefits of Sowing To The Spirit

God will not be mocked
The law of sow and reaping
Reaping everlasting life- Don’t give up doing good

Boasting of Self

“Do as I say, and not as I do”
Followers of men and not of God
Glory in self- “these are my converts”

Building His Kingdom

Glory in the cross
Building the Kingdom of God to His Glory

Walking in the Spirit

2008-04-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

Galatians 5:13-26
April 27th, 2008
There are many scriptures in God’s word that speak of a definite second work of God’s grace. The experience of the in-filling of the Holy Spirit, or “thee sanctification” is clearly taught in the scriptures. Paul does not mention in this book of any second filling of God’s Spirit, but Paul was concern that the Galatians were not allowing the Spirit to led them to a life of complete surrender to God. He sets the standard for Christian living, and insisted that the Holy Spirit is the only one that can bring them to the place of full deliverance and complete consecration to God. The Spirit leads Christian to the realization that Christ not only died for the sins that have been committed, but to knowledge that the nature of sin must be crucified. This is done as we walk in Spirit and come to the truth of full surrender to the complete will of God.

Liberty in Christ
• Set free from the law
• Freedom from bondage of sin
• Freedom with responsibility
Love and Serve
• Love trumps liberty
• Greatest commandment
• What does it mean to love self?
• Serving- doing for others
Lust of the Flesh
• The line between the carnal & human
• The war between the Flesh & Spirit
• Manifestation of the Flesh
• Sinning religion- “shall not inherit the kingdom”
Led by the Spirit
• Walk in the Light (Christ)
• Let us go on unto perfection
• Follow peace and holiness
• Failure to walk in the Spirit results in backsliding
Living in the Spirit
• Demonstrated by the fruit we bare
• They that belong to Christ will not fulfill the flesh
• How do we live in the Spirit?
Letting go of Self
• The flesh has to be put to death- “death route”
• Entire Sanctification is completed when Self is surrender to God
• It is not about me (vain glory), but about Christ

As Sons of God

2008-04-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

April 20th, 2008
Galatians 4:1-16
Paul is totally amazed that the Galatians could be so easily removed from the message that he first preached. Paul begins his apologetic letter by setting forth truth in a way that is logical. He speaks to the intellect and the free spirit of the Galatians. Answer the simple question, “Do you want to be free to serve God as a son, or do you want remind in bondage to the law as a servant?” Any logical thinking person would not have think twice.

Child in Tutorage
• Analogy used by Paul
• Until the fullness of time, or come of age
Constraints of the Law
• The Jews were heirs, but under constraints
• The law taught that they were sinners in need of a Savior
Coming of the Son
• The appointed time- Conditions ripe
• Born to fulfill the law by coming under the law
Captive Set Free
• Set free and redeem man from the penalty of the law
• We our now true sons of God, not by the law, but by Christ
Crying, Abba, Father
• Personal relationship-
• With respect, we call Him “Daddy”
• We now live free to do His will- We desire nothing more
Changed to a Son
• From a servant to heir
• The Spirit of Christ now rule the heart
Conditions of Bondage
• Returning back to bondage
• Weak and beggarly elements
• Legalism- law without love
Christ Received
• Paul’s fear of vain labors
• Paul’s sacrifice to share Christ
• Convince of Paul’s authenticity
Conviction of Heart
• Turn against those who tell you the truth
• A friend speaks the truth in love
• What is our reaction when God reveals truth?

Justified By Faith

2008-04-20T07:40:00.000-07:00

April, 13th, 2008
Galatians 3:1-14
Paul writing to the Galatians was totally bewildered how quickly they had been fooled. They were being taught that staying saved and being made perfect was done by keeping the law. He eloquently revealed to them through scripture, that faith in God’s promise (Christ) was the only way. It was the Spirit that begun the work and it is the Spirit that will bring it to perfection. We our not made perfect or more spiritual by keeping rules, it is our faith in God’s Spirit through Christ to bring us unto perfection and perfect obedience.

Bewitched and Fooled
• Galatians- Intellectual minds being fooled
• Obedience to the truth neglected
• Crucified with Christ- dead to the law
Brought to Question
• Persuaded by logic
• Where did this experience come from?
• Reflect back to day you got saved?
Begun in the Spirit
• The Work of the Spirit
• Receiving the Spirit in Salvation
Being Made Perfect
• Made perfect by faith or works (outward rules)
• Perfection is obtain through faith
Building in Vain
• All of their efforts of the past are for not
• Casting away that which they suffered for.
Believing God as Abraham
• The promise was give to Abraham before the law
• Abraham’s trust was in God, not a set of rules
Blessed with Abraham
• The Blessing (the promise) of Abraham to the Gentiles
• Heir of Abraham because of our faith in God promises
• The father of the faithful to all who believe.
• The promise of the Spirit only through faith
• Argument: The SEED is Christ, all nations are blessed
Book of Laws
• Was establish to show how sinful we are
• The is a schoolmaster to bring us to Christ
• The Law requires payment and justice
• All have sinned (our cursed) and come short
Bought with a Price
• Christ took on the curse (the judgment-payment) for us
• We our redeemed through his death on the cross
• Atonement was made- Christ fulfill the law’s requirements

The Gospel Truth

2008-04-20T07:32:00.000-07:00

April 6th, 2008
Galatians 1: 1-12
In a world where there are many religions and persuasions, people are faced with decisions that will affect them for eternity. The teaching that there are many ways to God is unequivocally false base on God’s Word. There are many who follow false teachers who seem to be sincere and caring, but the Word is clear on truth, Christ came to die and deliver man from sin. Any teaching that strays from this focus is missing the mark. He is the way, the truth, and life. No man comes to Father, except through Christ. Bid no other, God’s Blessings. Christians are to be intolerant of false teaching. God’s Word allows for no other alternative.

Appointed by God
• The replacement of Judas
• Do you have to be ordained by the church to preach?
• The Calling of God is personal
• Establishing his authority
Association with the Brethren
• Not alone in the battle for truth
• Recognized Galatians as brethren
Absolute Gospel
• Christ died for our sins- He is the way- Took our place
• Truth to deliver from evil- overcome Satan
• Live a life of Holiness in this present world
• Sovereignty of God- He is in control
Another Gospel
• Infiltration of false teacher
• Perverting the gospel of Christ
Angelic Persuasion
• Angel of light- new revelation contrary to truth
• Not to be persuaded by sincerity or charismatic persona
Accursed to God’s Judgment
• Damned to an ill fate- prophetic consequence
Agreeable to Men or God
• Desire to please others
• Priority to please God no matter the fallout
Acclamation of the Revelation
• The certainty of knowing
• Not taught of men
• Receive by Christ Himself

Boaz Marries Ruth

2008-04-20T07:28:00.000-07:00

March 30th, 2008
Ruth 4:1-17
The union of Boaz and Ruth is not only the consummation of true devotion and love, but also, that of biblical prophecy. The blessing of Jacob to Judah “The scepter shall not depart form Judah” is in part, fulfilled in this love story found in the book of Ruth. The story of Boaz, Ruth, and Naomi is a perfect type of the love of Christ to sinners and to those who are called by His Name. Christ takes those who are outside the fold of God’s family and adopts them as His own through love and redemption of the cross. He restores all who return back to the fold and embraces them with His love and blessings. It is His desire that we surrender all to Him to be a partaker of His inheritance.

Agreement Reached
• Boaz follows through on his Promise
• God always keeps his promise
• Willingness to put aside his own inheritance
Attesting to the Transaction
• In the presences of witnesses
• Following the laws of the Land
Affirmation of Others
• The Blessing of others
• Ruth named among the linage of David
• Boaz to be rewarded- Christ is exalted
Affection for Ruth
• Ruth Became the wife of Boaz
• God Blessed their union- A son is given
Attribute Praise
• Praise and thanksgiving to God
• The Goodness of God
Absolve of the Past
• The restoration of Naomi Life of Bitterness has become sweet
• Her past is behind, she now can look foward
Athrill and Overjoyed
• The child became hers to nurse
• Joy comes in the morning- It will come
A Name is given
• Obed, father of Jesse, the father King David
• The scepter shall not depart from Judah

Jesus is Risen

2008-03-22T19:47:00.000-07:00

Luke 24; 1-12
March, 23rd, 2008
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the climax of Christendom. There is no other religion or faith that proclaim unequivocally that their earthly leader died and rose again to live forever. The strongest proof of His resurrection is that He lives in hearts of believer and he abides forever more. We who were dead in sin are made alive through Christ by the power of His resurrection.
Preparing the Body
• Joseph of Arimathea
• Wrapped in linen cloths
• Nicodemus brought spices
• Laid in a borrow tomb
Proof of Death
• Centurion affirmed
• Body pierced- water and blood
• Tomb was sealed and guarded
• Disciples assumed He was dead
Problems to Encounter
• Hope seem to be lost
• Who will roll away to stone?
Perplex and Afraid
• The stone was rolled way- where were the guards?
• The body was gone- the body was stolen.
• Startled by two glowing images-Angels
• Encountering the supernatural- bow down
Pronouncement of the Angels
• Jesus is Alive- “This place is for dead people”
• Remembering what Jesus said.
Power Over Death and the Grave
• He conquered death- the last enemy
• Up from the grave He arose- Triumphed
• The power of the resurrection in our lives
Persuaded of the Resurrection
• The apostles were very persuaded- preached with conviction
• Their Faith, before and after
• The enemies of Christ believed it.
• The Christian Church grows with miracles
• He lives within my HEART.

Kinsmen Redeemer

2008-03-22T19:33:00.000-07:00

Ruth 3:8-18
March 16th, 2008

Under the direction of Naomi, Ruth is told to sleep at the feet of Boaz. The culture of the people, in that day, made allowances for such overt behavior. Such forward actions of a woman, was for the sole purpose of provide refuge to a woman who found herself without protection. Boaz was a kinsman of Ruth and was willing to fulfill the requirements of the Kinsman and redeem Ruth to be part of the family. Like Boaz, Christ is our kinsman redeemer who came to earth and gave his life that we could be redeemed and be part of God’s family.

Startled Experience- “the man was afraid”
• Awaken by movement
• Surprise to see a women at his feet
Spreading of the Skirt- “spread therefore thy skirt”
• The custom of proposal
• Protect me with your “wings”
Showing of Character- “for thou has shown kindness”
• Her life was above reproach
• Her desire was to perpetuate the family name
Selecting the Kinsman- “howbeit there is a kinsman”
• Boaz desire to follow the law
• The kinsman’s Responsibility
• Christ- Our kinsman
Secrecy Required- “let it not be known”
• There are some things that need not be spoken
Safeguarding Reputation- “bring the veil…”
• Keeping a good name
• Avoid doing things that others would misinterpret
Social Acceptance- “go not empty”
• Conforming to social behaviors
• God’s word is always 1st coarse
Sitting Still- “sit still…”
• Waiting is a practice trait
• We must let God work out His plan

Boaz Meets Ruth

2008-03-22T19:28:00.000-07:00

Ruth 2:4-12
March 9, 2008

Boaz who is master of the barely field sees a young girl who has a desire to care for her mother in law and to serve the God that her mother in law serves. He is touched by her willingness to leave the land of her people and her sincerity to do what is right. How like Christ who looks at a sinner who gives up the world to go all out for the kingdom. How like Him to take such a person and place them under His wings.

Man of God (The Lord be with you)
• Man of Wealth and Nobility
• Man of congeniality
• Son of Rahab- Like Ruth a proselyte
Makes Inquiry (Whose damsel is this?)
• He saw something different in Ruth
• Noticed her diligence
• Represents the Church
Moabitish Damsel (It is the Moabitish damsel)
• Foreigner and stranger to the land
Migrate Worker (Out of the country of Moab)
• Known for her work ethic
• Her character was her beauty- Holiness & Simplicity
Meeting Ruth (Then said Boaz unto Ruth)
• Charmed by her loyalty to her mother in law
• Boaz’s first impression- The impression of the Church
Maidens Privileges (Abide here fast by my maiden)
• We are under His protection
• He will provide are every need
Moved to Worship (She fell down)
• Attitude and gratitude of the heart
• Demonstration of love
Ministry of Kindness (Unto thy mother in law)
• Works of righteousness are seen of God
• Selfless and preferring
Mother Bird (Under whose wings)
• The desire of Christ for His own
• Refuge and shelter from the storm
• Protection from the enemy

Ruth's Choices

2008-03-01T07:02:00.000-08:00

Ruth 1:12-22
March 2nd, 2008

The choice to serve God and to be identified with the people of God is the most important decision in a person’s life. In the Providence of God, Ruth was stripped of all she had hoped and dreamed. Her husband was dead and she was without child. Naomi, desiring to return to her people entreated her two daughter-in-laws to return to their people. Ruth had committed herself to go with Naomi and serve her God. Her decision required her to leave her old life behind and take up “the cross” and follow after the true and only God.

Turning to the World (vs12. Turn again…go your way)
• Naomi had nothing to offer- Do we have anything to offer?
• Satan paints a dreary picture of the Christian way
• It is impossible to live holy- Why even attempt?
Tarry with God’s People (vs.13. Would ye tarry)
• What are you willing to give up to go with God?
• Take up thy cross and follow Christ-
Torn Apart (vs14. Lifted up their voices and wept)
• Orpah decision to return to her own people
• Like the rich man- He left sorrowful
• Tears- Not evidence of righteousness
Total Commitment (vs15. Whither thou goest, I will go)
• Embracing truth
• Willing to go where God leads
• Work wherever God places you
• Willing to identify with the people of God
• Follow Christ- Whatever the cost- even death
Tenacity of Ruth (vs.18, She was steadfastly minded)
• Does not easily give up- see it through
• Determination to stay by and be counted
Traveling to Bethlehem (vs.19 Went until they came to Bethlehem)
• Followed through on her commitment- more than words
• Naomi needed to face her failure of the past
• The timing of God- The beginning of barley season
Testified By God (vs.20. The Lord hath testified against me)
• Mara- Bitter- Naomi became bitter toward life and God
• She blamed God for her misfortunes
• She saw God as a God of vengeance and not mercy
• We must see God as sovereign and in control

Micah's idols

2008-02-23T08:53:00.000-08:00

Judges 17:1-10
February 24, 2008

The story of Micah and his idols occurred shortly after the death of Joshua and the conquest of the Canaan land. The Israelites had already started drifting away from the laws of God. Everyone was a law unto himself, doing that which was convenient and self-serving. Micah and his mother no doubt had been brought up under the spiritual enlightenment of the OT law, but rationalize the acceptance of idols in their worship to God. May we be careful that the worldly culture of our day not be a substitute for the true worship of God.

Missing Money- (vs.2 “silver that was taken from thee”)
• She cursed the person who took it
• Stealing from your own family
• Greed and selfish desires is the root- love of money
Micah confession- (vs.2 “I took it”)
• Fear of the curse brought concern
• Confession was contrived for his benefit.
• The importance of true confession
Mother’s Spiritual Confusion- (dedicated unto the Lord and idols)
• Religious syncretism- mixing of different beliefs
• There is only one way to heaven, only one God
• James- from the mouth- cursing and blessings?
• The folly of the New Age movement, yoga, ect…
Molten Images- (made graven and molten images)
• Thou shall not have any image before me
• The Lord forbad the use of images as object of worship
• Fashion after the “House of God” – mimic- look-alike
• There is more to the book than the cover.
Man’s Own Eyes- (vs.6 “every man did that which was right”)
• Relativism ruled the day- Truth is relative
• Absolute truth is too restrictive to a heart not submitted to God
Matter of Character (vs.10 a sojourner to be a father and priest)
• The priest had no moral scruples
• Micah disregarded any background check of this Levite
• The importance of integrity and moral character in leadership
Moving in as Priest –(vs.12 lived in the house of Micah)
• Micah’s main concern was that he looked good
• Man looks on the outside, but God looks on the inside (motive)

The Fall of Samson

2008-02-09T07:25:00.000-08:00

Judges 16:13-21
February 10th, 2008
God had a divine purpose for the life of Samson. He was brought up in a godly home with parents that desired to serve God. But sin draws out the carnal sinful nature of man to seek pleasure and selfish satisfaction. Man is drawn away from his own lust and is enticed to fulfill lustful desires. When yielding, he falls from God’s grace and is left empty. Dealing with the nature of sin is the first step in overcoming temptation to sin. Trusting God and calling upon the blood of Christ for deliverances will bring the ultimate victory over sin.
Fraternizing with the Enemy (He wanted a Philistine women)
• Disregard of parent’s advise
• Intermarry/relationships with heathen-Yoking with the world
Forbidden Passions (No regard for others, only what he wanted)
• His un-holy desires
• The lust of the world
• Control of passion- Sanctified our desires
Flirting with Sin (He kept going back to Dililah)
• Lingering around temptation
• Living on the edge of sin
• The danger of playing around with sin. FLEE!
Forsook His Vows (He gave his secret away)
• Some things are just between you and God
• Samson caved under the pressure
Foolish Love (Dililah tested Samson’s Love)
• Money was Dililah’s true love
• Satan paints a pretty picture
• Enslaved by our own passion
False Assumptions (“I will go out as other times”)
• The straw that broke the camels back
• Samson’s Hair – Symbolism of God’s strength
• In weakness (hair=shame, humility), we our made strong
• State of deception- Salvation is only of the Lord
• How do we know that we our not deceiving ourselves?
Forsaken of God (God had departed from him)
• Greatest tragedy in life is to wake up and find that God is gone
• He will not forsake His own- We forsake Him first
Fetters of bondage (They bound him with fetters of brass)
• Sin’s Chains cannot be broken without God
• Blindness- Light turned to darkness
• The hopelessness of Samson’s life without God

A Nazarite From Birth

2008-02-02T10:29:00.000-08:00

Judges 13:2-6, 11-14, 24,25
February 3rd, 2008

Samson was born in a day when the sons of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord. The pleading of the remnant that still desired to worship the true God was heard from the portal of heaven’s door. God sent His angel to comfort and reassure these remaining few that God was still in control and a deliverer was forthcoming. From the womb of the barren, God brought forth Samson to Manoah and his wife. It was their charge to train this child in the way he should go. Even though Samson fell, he never was able to get away from the seeds that were planted in his heart as a child.

Barren and Childless (vs. 2. His wife was barren)
• The approach of being childless-Bible times
• God hears the plight of Manoah wife
• God sends comfort and reassurance
Beware of Strong Drink (vs. 4. Beware…drink not)
• Wine or strong drinks were prohibited- Biblical principle
• Eating thinks that are unclean- Law of Moses
Born a Nazarite (vs. 5. Shall be a Nazarite unto God.)
• Sacred vow of separation- vine tree, no razor, no dead body
• The cost of discipleship of the believer
o Sacrifice- not just sinful pleasures, but legit pleasures
o Shame- Willing to bare the reproach- pride gone
o Separation- Being dead to the world-avoid it (sin)
Bring Up A Child (vs. 12. How shall we order the child)
• The importance of training- It will not depart
• Love God, love mercy (man), walk humbly (righteous living)
Blessed of the Lord (vs. 24. The Lord blessed him)
• The Lord had a purpose for Samson
• Stayed true to his vow
Being Moved by His Spirit (vs. 25. The Spirit…began to move him)
• What does it mean to be moved by the Spirit?
• His moves will be consistent with God’s Word
• His moving is not always demonstrative
• When was the last time His Spirit moved in your heart?
• Are you sensitive to His Spirit- His prompting and checks?

Faith in God

2008-01-26T09:56:00.000-08:00

Judges 7:13-18
January 27, 2008

Gideon, a might man of courage and fortitude realized his inability to overcome the enemy. God stripped Gideon of any plausibility that the battle would be won through his own strength. The Lord takes the weak and empowers them with His Spirit to overcome the difficulties of life. We must have faith in God that He will enable us to see victory.

Willing Soldiers (Gideon prepares his army)
• Releasing the fearful
• Releasing the careless
• Retaining watchful
Weak Made Strong (vs13. Cake of barley)
• God takes the weak elements of our lives and uses them
• His power is made manifest in our weakness
• As a church, we are weak, but God is in control
Worried Enemies (vs14. God had delivered his enemy)
• The Lord was working and preparing the situation
• The enemy trembles when the saints start to believe God
Worship the Lord (vs.15. Gideon…worshiped)
• We draw our strength by worshiping God
• Through worship we begin to realize our weakness
• God is exalted and lifted up in the place of worship
Weapons of the Lord (vs16. Trumpet, lamps, pitcher)
• God’s weapons are not carnal- (man depended)
• God will often use the insignificant to His glory
Watch and Wait (vs17.19. Look on me…set the watch)
• Gideon’ men needed to obey to see the victory
• Don’t get ahead of God when doing battle-Wait for His orders
War Cry of the Saints (vs20. Sword of the Lord)
• Praising God for the victory that will be won
• Shout your faith- dare to go out on a limb
• With God ALL things are possible-Claim God’s promise
Warfare with the Enemy (vs22. The Lord set everyman against…)
• The battle is not ours, but God's
• We must rely of God to give us the victory
Winning to the Glory of God (vs23. Pursued after the Midianites)
• There is no god, compared to Thee O God!
• To God be all the glory