Scripture Reading: Revelation 3:1-6
Preached on February 15, 2009 at Hebron Baptist Church by Joe Alain, Pastor
The sun is about 93 million miles from the earth. If the sun were to blow up right now, we would know it in about 8 minutes. The star nearest to the Sun is Proxima Centauri. Proxima Centauri is 4.3 light-years from the Sun. If it blew up right now, we would not know it for 4.3 years. The North Star is about 30 light years away. If the North Star blew up right now – we would not know it for 30 years. From our perspective, it would continue shining, continue pointing the way with all the appearances of life. The church in Sardis was like that. They were living on the glory of a fading past. They had a name, a heritage – a past glory, but they were now lifeless and spiritually lethargic.
ABOUT SARDIS
(1) Sardis was a place of great wealth. 700 years before this letter Sardis had been one of the greatest cities in the ancient world. The name of her king, Croesus (pronounced kre-ses), became synonymous with wealth and prosperity. Under his rule Sardis became known around the world for her gold and silver plucked out of a river flowing nearby. It was at Sardis that the first gold and silver coins were minted. The wealth of Sardis was the stuff of legends. Positioned at a junction containing five major roads, Sardis naturally was a center of trade.
(2) The city held an important geographical advantage overlooking the Hermus Valley. Because of this, Sardis was also a military center. Her position like a giant watch tower of the valley though, made its citizens overconfident. King Cyrus and the Persians conquered the city from the unprotected side, having his soldiers scale the walls of the mountain. Later in the third century the city again was captured the same way.
(3) Sardis was known for its famous Necropolis, or cemetery, of “a thousand hills,” so named because of the hundreds of burial mounds visible on the skyline some seven miles from Sardis.
When John wrote, Sardis was wealthy but degenerate. The great citadel was now only an ancient monument on the hill top. At the time of writing, all of Sardis’ glory, wealth, and power lay in the past – some 650 years in the past. The church too appeared to be alive, but in reality it was dead. The church in Sardis, like the city, was living on the fading glory of the past. If the church would wake up, they could once again thrive rather than merely survive.
I. THE RISEN CHRIST DESCRIBED (3:1a)
“Who has the seven Spirits of God.” This expression is also found at Revelation 1:4. The seven spirits signifies the completeness of the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the universality of His presence. There is only one Spirit (Eph. 4:4) but the number 7 denotes completeness. Why this expression to describe Christ? Why to the church in Sardis? Because . . .
1. He Empowers His Church through the Holy Spirit
It is the Holy Spirit that brings life to the church, and life is exactly what the people at Sardis needed. The HS gives life (Jn. 6:63; 2 Cor. 3:6). The message to the church in Sardis is a warning to all churches that are living on past glory. Dr. Vance Havner used to say that spiritual ministries often go through four stages: a man, a movement, a machine, and then a monument. Sardis was at the monument stage, but there was still hope. The message to Sardis is also a warning to all churches that all of the church’s man-made programs, no matter how good and godly, can never bring life by themselves.
“Who has . . . the seven stars.” This stands for the churches and their messengers. This reminds us that . . .
2. He Is Lord of His Church
The church is the possession of Jesus Christ. Christ has purchased us with His own blood. We are not our own, we belong to Him (1 Cor. 6:19-20). All of life is a stewardship for we and everything we are and possess belongs to God who gave it.
II. THE CONDITION OF THE CHURCH: ALIVE BUT DEAD (3:1b)
There were no words of approval given to the church in Sardis with the exception of verse 4. Nor did the Lord point out any glaring doctrinal problems that required correction. There was also no outward persecution, although maybe it would have been better if there were. The church in Sardis, like the city, was comfortable and content to live on their past reputation. Like the city itself, the church in Sardis gloried in past splendor, but ignored present decay.
The fact that nothing is said about outward persecution shows that this church was so lifeless that it posed no threat and did not need to be attacked from the outside. Jesus said, “Woe to you, when all men speak well of you” (Lk. 6:26). Jesus was not saying that we should intentionally try to offend people so that they will speak evil of us. But there should be something about our words and actions that say to people without Christ, ‘we are different.’ And if we are so comfortable living in this world that people only praise us, then we’re probably not living out the call of the Gospel.
III. THE CURE FOR THE CHURCH: WAKE UP! (3:2-3)
The counsel that Jesus gives is “Wake Up!” The spiritual watchmen in Sardis were spiritually asleep. This admonition had special significance to the people in Sardis as their history reveals. Twice in their history the Citadel at Sardis had been captured and each time it was because the sentries had failed to do their jobs faithfully.
God says to us, “Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die” (v.2). The church in Sardis was complacent, apathetic, indifferent, and dead. The church like the town felt too sheltered, too secure, too comfortable, to maintain a close guard or watch. The church always has to be on guard against the comfortable pew. If the church does not make its members and the world squirm uncomfortably at times something is definitely wrong.
IV. THE CHRISTIANS IN THE CHURCH: A FAITHFUL REMNANT (3:4-5)
There was a faithful remnant. What was different about them? They had “not defiled their garments” (v.4). James 1:27 speaks of believers who have kept themselves unstained from the world. In the pagan temples, worshipers were not permitted to approach their gods and goddesses wearing dirty clothes. The remnant at Saridis had not compromised with the pagan culture of the world.
There is a three-fold promise made to the faithful:
1. Will Share Christ’s Glory – “be clothed in white garments”
This points to . . .
The phrase “walk with Me” (v.4) is significant. As an honor, Persian kings would have ordinary citizens walk with them in their gardens. Believers walk with God now and will walk with Him in eternity in paradise!
2. Will Be Secure in God’s Book of Life – “from the book of life”
This concept of the book of life occurs repeatedly in the Bible.
(1) Moses is willing to have his name wiped from the book if it would have been possible to save his people from the consequences of their sin (Ex. 32:32-33).
(2) The hope of the Psalmist is that the wicked will be removed from the book of the living (Ps. 69:28).
(3) The book of life is most prominently seen in the final judgement. Daniel 12:1 says that in the time of judgement those whose names are written in the book of life will be saved. According to Revelation 20:15, he who is not written in the book of life is cast into the lake of fire. And in Revelation 21:27 we discover that only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life shall enter into heaven (Rev. 21:27).
In the ancient world a king would keep a register of his citizens. When a man committed a crime against the state, or when he died, his name was erased form the register. To have one’s name written in the book of life is to be numbered among the faithful citizens of the kingdom of God.
It would appear that God’s book of life contains the names of all the living, the wicked as well as the righteous (Ps. 69:28). As unbelievers die, their names are removed from the book so at the final judgement the book contains only the names of believers (Rev. 20:12-15). It then becomes the Lamb’s book of life (Rev. 21:27). The unsaved have been blotted out.
3. Will Be Confessed before God Matthew 10:32-33
V. THE CALL TO THE CHURCH (3:6)
Let’s not be satisfied with just surviving, God wants us to thrive! What in your life needs a resurrection? Jesus, the risen Christ specializes in raising the dead! “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches” (v.6).
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Monday, February 16, 2009
Sunday, February 8, 2009
AVOIDING THE CORRUPTION THAT BRINGS DESTRUCTION, Message February 8, 2009
Revelation 2:18-29
This letter to Thyatira is the longest of the seven letters. The challenges that this church faced were similar to the church in Pergamum. The believers struggled to live pure lives in the midst of a pagan culture. We too face similar struggles.
About Thyatira
1. Thyatira was a military town as well as a commercial center.
2. It was known for its many trade guilds. They provided economic security and were often a basis for social life. There were guilds for people who worked with wool, leather, linen, bronze, and as potters, bakers, etc. Lydia, “a dealer in purple cloth” (Acts 16:14).
3. The problems which threatened this church were the two great enemies of the early church: idolatry and immorality.
As we study this letter we learn that “Christians are to resist spiritual and moral corruption and remain faithful to Jesus Christ. By avoiding corruption, believers are able to experience God’s best.”
INTRODUCTION (2:18) (See Daniel 10:6)
“Son of God” as opposed to Apollo, the “Sun God.” “Eyes are like blazing fire”signifies His penetrating gaze which strips away the disguises and sees into the heart. Christ’s feet are described as “like burnished bronze” which speaks of Christ’s immovable power.
I. APPROVAL (2:19)
The love, loyalty, and endurance of the church are matters for congratulations. The church in Thyatira is a thriving church, it is growing. Its members are serving. In fact, Jesus says that “as for your works, the last are more than the first.” This is how the normal Christian life should unfold. Our love, loyalty, and service should grow over time rather than diminish. Here is an encouragement and challenge to us today. May our last works be greater than our first works. Instead of fizzling out, God wants us to be fired up! On the surface, everything looks great at Thyatira. If a stranger came in, he would be impressed with their love, energy, and steadfastness. Yet for all of that, there was something not so noticeable going on that would have a chilling effect on the future of the church. Here too is a warning for the contemporary church today. A church that is crowded with people and which is busy is not necessarily a church that is spiritually healthy.
II. ACCUSATION (2:20-23)
There was most likely a dilemma in Thyatira which may be a clue as to the spiritual problem. To not join a guild was similar to not joining a trade union today. It was economic suicide. You might be ostracized economically and socially. Because of conscience, some Christians chose not participate in the guilds. Why?
(1) Some of the guilds had patron gods and they would hold feasts/meals, often in temples and offer sacrifices to
their gods.
(2) These meals often were occasions of drunkenness and immorality. Because of the rampant idolatry and immorality associated with some of these guilds, some Christians chose not to participate.
But was it possible for a Christian to participate in these activities? At Thyatira there was apparently a movement inside the church, led by a woman addressed as Jezebel, which was a movement of compromise with the worlds standards. This group felt that there was no harm in these associations. Their sin was that of using their liberty, their freedom in Christ as an excuse to sin. Paul addressed this same problem in Romans 6:1-2, “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin, how can we live in it any longer?” God’s grace is not a license to sin, it is power to win!
It is not likely that this woman was actually called “Jezebel!” This would be similar to naming your son “Judas.” The name is symbolic of her character.
(1) Jezebel was the daughter of Ethbaal, King of the Sidonians.
(2) She was the wife of Ahab the wicked king of Israel
(1 Kings 16:31).
(3) She orchestrated the death of God’s true prophets and replaced them with her own 450 prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:13, 19). She was also responsible for the murder of Naboth in order that Ahab might gain possession of his vineyard (1 Kings 21).
(4) She was the idolatrous queen who enticed Israel to worship Baal (See 1 Kings 16-19). Her name became forever associated with “idolatry and witchcraft” (2 Kings 9:22).
Although we do not know the exact woman that is referred to her evil character is evident. “She misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols” (v.20). Most likely she was “misleading” believers by teaching them how to compromise with the Roman religions and practices of the guilds so that they would not loose their jobs or their lives. The compromise resulted in two things: (1) “Eating of food sacrificed to idols” (v.20) and (2) “Sexual immorality” (v.20). Idolatry and immorality run together like twins.
Apparently, those who have been captivated by this teaching believed that they have entered into a super spiritual state of being. They saw themselves as progressively moving on to a higher spiritual level. But Jesus says they are not moving up, they are descending into “the depths of Satan,” “Satan’s so-called deep secrets” (v.24). They may have been so deceived that they felt that it was their duty as Christians to experience every kind of sin. They were following Satan’s great lie which says “To know it, we must experience it.” This lie goes right back to the Garden of Eden. The Serpent made Eve believe that God was holding something back. Don’t believe the lie. The truth is, you can experience some things, but you may be scarred by the experience. But isn’t that just how sin works in our lives. Instead of enlightenment sin plunges us into darkness. Satan, or Lucifer as he is called in Isaiah 14:12 (KJV) means “light bringer.” But Satan brings a false light. The “depths of Satan” (NKJV) or “Satan’s so-called secrets” do not enlighten, they only lead to deeper darkness. Instead of freedom sin brings enslavement. Instead of joy sin brings shame.
Even in this rebuke by Christ there was an opportunity to repent, to make things right, “I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling” (v.21). However, judgement would come if no repentance was made (vv.22-23).
III. ADMONITION (2:24-25)
There was still a remnant of faithful believers. Upon these, God would not “impose any other burden” (v.24). You get the impression that what was going on in the church was a burden to those who knew the truth. The encouragement given to the faithful is to remain steadfast in their resistance of evil. “Only hold on to what you have until I come” (v.25).
IV. ASSURANCE (2:26-29)
A two-fold assurance is given to believers:
1. “I will give authority over the nations” (2:26-27)
What brings encouragement to the minority who are living for God, to people who feel as if evil is prevailing? The encouragement is that things will not continue on as they have. A new day is about to dawn, so hold on. One day, God’s people will live and reign with Christ (Rev. 20:4, 6; 22:5). God’s kingdom will be a perfect and righteous kingdom because the Lord Jesus Himself will be ruling. Verse 27 is a quotation from Psalm 2:8-9.
2. “I will also give him the morning star” (2:28)
This has two possibilities and probably means both. First, it is a statement that declares the complete conquest of Satan or Lucifer, the false morning star. Second, it is the promise of Christ Himself, the true Morning Star. This is what this church needed to hear – Evil will not prevail! Satan will not win! Jesus will reign victorious and we will reign with Him forever!
Two Final Words
1. Resist False Teaching
As believers we need to hear God’s Word to us in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Protect yourself, your family, your marriage, by walking in the truth, in the light, in Christ who is the true “light bringer,” “the bright and Morning Star” (Rev. 22:16).
2. Remain Faithful to Christ
Notice the emphasis on loyalty and service in this passage. Jesus says, “I know your works,” and “as for your works, the last are more than the first” (v.19). “I will give to each one of you according to your works” (v.23). “Keeps My works” (v.26). Our works are Christ’s works. This is what we are to continue in. This is what we are to hold on to. God wants you to continue faithfully in sound teaching, teaching which leads to doing Christ’s works.
The power to resist and remain is only found in Jesus Christ. “Christians are able to resist spiritual and moral corruption and remain faithful to Jesus Christ. And by avoiding corruption, believers are able to experience God’s best.”
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
This letter to Thyatira is the longest of the seven letters. The challenges that this church faced were similar to the church in Pergamum. The believers struggled to live pure lives in the midst of a pagan culture. We too face similar struggles.
About Thyatira
1. Thyatira was a military town as well as a commercial center.
2. It was known for its many trade guilds. They provided economic security and were often a basis for social life. There were guilds for people who worked with wool, leather, linen, bronze, and as potters, bakers, etc. Lydia, “a dealer in purple cloth” (Acts 16:14).
3. The problems which threatened this church were the two great enemies of the early church: idolatry and immorality.
As we study this letter we learn that “Christians are to resist spiritual and moral corruption and remain faithful to Jesus Christ. By avoiding corruption, believers are able to experience God’s best.”
INTRODUCTION (2:18) (See Daniel 10:6)
“Son of God” as opposed to Apollo, the “Sun God.” “Eyes are like blazing fire”signifies His penetrating gaze which strips away the disguises and sees into the heart. Christ’s feet are described as “like burnished bronze” which speaks of Christ’s immovable power.
I. APPROVAL (2:19)
The love, loyalty, and endurance of the church are matters for congratulations. The church in Thyatira is a thriving church, it is growing. Its members are serving. In fact, Jesus says that “as for your works, the last are more than the first.” This is how the normal Christian life should unfold. Our love, loyalty, and service should grow over time rather than diminish. Here is an encouragement and challenge to us today. May our last works be greater than our first works. Instead of fizzling out, God wants us to be fired up! On the surface, everything looks great at Thyatira. If a stranger came in, he would be impressed with their love, energy, and steadfastness. Yet for all of that, there was something not so noticeable going on that would have a chilling effect on the future of the church. Here too is a warning for the contemporary church today. A church that is crowded with people and which is busy is not necessarily a church that is spiritually healthy.
II. ACCUSATION (2:20-23)
There was most likely a dilemma in Thyatira which may be a clue as to the spiritual problem. To not join a guild was similar to not joining a trade union today. It was economic suicide. You might be ostracized economically and socially. Because of conscience, some Christians chose not participate in the guilds. Why?
(1) Some of the guilds had patron gods and they would hold feasts/meals, often in temples and offer sacrifices to
their gods.
(2) These meals often were occasions of drunkenness and immorality. Because of the rampant idolatry and immorality associated with some of these guilds, some Christians chose not to participate.
But was it possible for a Christian to participate in these activities? At Thyatira there was apparently a movement inside the church, led by a woman addressed as Jezebel, which was a movement of compromise with the worlds standards. This group felt that there was no harm in these associations. Their sin was that of using their liberty, their freedom in Christ as an excuse to sin. Paul addressed this same problem in Romans 6:1-2, “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We died to sin, how can we live in it any longer?” God’s grace is not a license to sin, it is power to win!
It is not likely that this woman was actually called “Jezebel!” This would be similar to naming your son “Judas.” The name is symbolic of her character.
(1) Jezebel was the daughter of Ethbaal, King of the Sidonians.
(2) She was the wife of Ahab the wicked king of Israel
(1 Kings 16:31).
(3) She orchestrated the death of God’s true prophets and replaced them with her own 450 prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:13, 19). She was also responsible for the murder of Naboth in order that Ahab might gain possession of his vineyard (1 Kings 21).
(4) She was the idolatrous queen who enticed Israel to worship Baal (See 1 Kings 16-19). Her name became forever associated with “idolatry and witchcraft” (2 Kings 9:22).
Although we do not know the exact woman that is referred to her evil character is evident. “She misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols” (v.20). Most likely she was “misleading” believers by teaching them how to compromise with the Roman religions and practices of the guilds so that they would not loose their jobs or their lives. The compromise resulted in two things: (1) “Eating of food sacrificed to idols” (v.20) and (2) “Sexual immorality” (v.20). Idolatry and immorality run together like twins.
Apparently, those who have been captivated by this teaching believed that they have entered into a super spiritual state of being. They saw themselves as progressively moving on to a higher spiritual level. But Jesus says they are not moving up, they are descending into “the depths of Satan,” “Satan’s so-called deep secrets” (v.24). They may have been so deceived that they felt that it was their duty as Christians to experience every kind of sin. They were following Satan’s great lie which says “To know it, we must experience it.” This lie goes right back to the Garden of Eden. The Serpent made Eve believe that God was holding something back. Don’t believe the lie. The truth is, you can experience some things, but you may be scarred by the experience. But isn’t that just how sin works in our lives. Instead of enlightenment sin plunges us into darkness. Satan, or Lucifer as he is called in Isaiah 14:12 (KJV) means “light bringer.” But Satan brings a false light. The “depths of Satan” (NKJV) or “Satan’s so-called secrets” do not enlighten, they only lead to deeper darkness. Instead of freedom sin brings enslavement. Instead of joy sin brings shame.
Even in this rebuke by Christ there was an opportunity to repent, to make things right, “I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling” (v.21). However, judgement would come if no repentance was made (vv.22-23).
III. ADMONITION (2:24-25)
There was still a remnant of faithful believers. Upon these, God would not “impose any other burden” (v.24). You get the impression that what was going on in the church was a burden to those who knew the truth. The encouragement given to the faithful is to remain steadfast in their resistance of evil. “Only hold on to what you have until I come” (v.25).
IV. ASSURANCE (2:26-29)
A two-fold assurance is given to believers:
1. “I will give authority over the nations” (2:26-27)
What brings encouragement to the minority who are living for God, to people who feel as if evil is prevailing? The encouragement is that things will not continue on as they have. A new day is about to dawn, so hold on. One day, God’s people will live and reign with Christ (Rev. 20:4, 6; 22:5). God’s kingdom will be a perfect and righteous kingdom because the Lord Jesus Himself will be ruling. Verse 27 is a quotation from Psalm 2:8-9.
2. “I will also give him the morning star” (2:28)
This has two possibilities and probably means both. First, it is a statement that declares the complete conquest of Satan or Lucifer, the false morning star. Second, it is the promise of Christ Himself, the true Morning Star. This is what this church needed to hear – Evil will not prevail! Satan will not win! Jesus will reign victorious and we will reign with Him forever!
Two Final Words
1. Resist False Teaching
As believers we need to hear God’s Word to us in Romans 12:2, “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.” Protect yourself, your family, your marriage, by walking in the truth, in the light, in Christ who is the true “light bringer,” “the bright and Morning Star” (Rev. 22:16).
2. Remain Faithful to Christ
Notice the emphasis on loyalty and service in this passage. Jesus says, “I know your works,” and “as for your works, the last are more than the first” (v.19). “I will give to each one of you according to your works” (v.23). “Keeps My works” (v.26). Our works are Christ’s works. This is what we are to continue in. This is what we are to hold on to. God wants you to continue faithfully in sound teaching, teaching which leads to doing Christ’s works.
The power to resist and remain is only found in Jesus Christ. “Christians are able to resist spiritual and moral corruption and remain faithful to Jesus Christ. And by avoiding corruption, believers are able to experience God’s best.”
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Monday, February 2, 2009
WHEN TOLERANCE BECOMES INTOLERABLE, Message, February 1, 2009
Preached at Hebron Baptist Church, February 1, 2009 by Pastor Joe Alain
Scripture Reading: Revelation 2:12-17 (Pew Bible, 824)
Tolerance does not have to be a bad word. Tolerance is the capacity to endure pain or hardship, to be understanding, receptive, open-minded. Jesus Himself was tolerant of others. He was patient and understanding of others, especially people who were caught up in sin. This doesn’t mean that Jesus was soft on sin. Jesus dealt with sin but He did so in a way that was never condemning or condescending. He understood people. He walked in their shoes. He respected all people, even fallen people, because they were created in the image of God. He saw beyond the sin and saw people for what they could be.
We too must be tolerant of others and we can do so without accepting or giving approval of sin just as Jesus did. But how do we know when tolerance has gone too far? When is tolerance too much? Jesus modeled the balance that needs to be maintained. Regardless of religious background, nationality, or economic status, He was sensitive and understanding of people; however, He could not help those who would not be honest with themselves or who did not want His help. This is why Jesus said, “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces” (Matt. 7:6). Tolerance may become intolerable!
How do we know when tolerance has gone too far? Maybe the larger question is, How do we live in the world and reach the world but not become a part of the world? This message to the church in Pergamum is helpful for us. The risen Christ had some good things to say to the church in the city of Pergamum, but He also charged some in the church for going too far in their acceptance of pagan religious practices. Tolerance goes too far when pagan practices are accepted that deny the Lordship of Christ in our lives.
About Pergamum
Pergamos (KJV) or Pergamum (NIV).
1. A Great Cultural Center
Here was a famous library containing no fewer than 200,000 parchment rolls. It was second only to the great library of Alexandria. Writing on parchment or vellum (animal skins) originated at Pergamum and was a considerable business. Pergamum was a city that reflected the Greek way of life. It contained many public buildings which were built on terraces on a steep mountain overlooking the valley of the River Caicus, from the top of which the Mediterraneans could be seen, fifteen miles away. Pergamum also contained a famous school of sculpture.
2. A Great Religious Center, “where Satan’s throne is” (v.13).
(1) The Altar of Zeus stood on a hill about 800 feet above the city.
Zeus was the chief Greek god, the Roman name was Jupiter.
(2) The temple of Asklepios, the god of healing, was the headquarters of an order of medical priests whose emblem was the serpent. People came from afar to this place of healing.
(3) Pergamum was the most important center of emperor worship in the East because of the great temple to “Roma” and “Augustus” which had been erected in 29 B.C. “Satan’s throne” is probably a reference to the imperial cult (emperor worship) which had its center in the city. Nothing could be more Satanic than to take the name of Lord and give it to Caesar instead of Christ.
What message did the risen Christ have for the church in Pergamum?
1. APPROVAL (2:12-13)
Like the believers in Smyrna, the believers in Pergamos suffered persecution. Even one of their faithful men, “Antipas” had been martyred because of Christ. But the Christians refused to burn incense on the altar and say “Caesar Is Lord.” They stood strong, Jesus said, even at Satan’s throne. The believers in Pergamum held fast to the Name of Christ. When faced with the decision to deny Him or not, they stood firm, they did not deny Jesus. The Christian community was surviving and thriving even in a place so difficult it was designated “where Satan’s throne is.” The Christians were not escaping, but witnessing, even to death. In the early church to be a martyr and to be a witness were one and the same thing. God had these believers where he needed them. What better place to be salt and light but at Satan’s throne? God has you where you are for a purpose, to witness of Christ. See Matthew 10:27-33.
Christ gave His approval to these Christians, but He also
brought an. . .
2. ACCUSATION (2:14-15)
Even though they faced persecution, the church in Pergamum was not being destroyed from without, it was in danger of being compromised from within. In verses 14-15 these infiltrators are identified as the “Nicolatians.” What they taught is called “the doctrine [or teaching] of Balaam.”
Understanding the story of Balaam helps us interpret this dangerous group more accurately (See Numbers 22-25). Balaam was a prophet of God who prostituted his gifts in order to earn money from King Balak, who hired him to curse the people of Israel. God prevented Balaam from actually cursing the nation – in fact, God turned the curses into blessings! But because of Balaam’s counsel, Balak learned how to ensnare Israel. The end result was that Israel committed idolatry with Baal (the pagan false god) and fornication (immorality) with Moabite women (Num. 25:1-5). For Israel, tolerance had led to total compromise of all convictions and morality. God said that they had “joined” themselves with Baal (25:3).
Why did this bit of ancient history apply to the believers at Pergamos? Because a group in the church said, “There is nothing wrong with being friendly to Rome. What harm is there in putting a pinch of incense on the altar and affirming your loyalty to Caesar? What harm is there in participating in the pagan festivals,” even though this where the feasting, immorality, and idolatry was taking place. It was an all out idolatrous eat, drink, and be merry kind of lifestyle that Jesus was reprimanding. By their actions they were denying the very Lord who had saved them.
(1) The Nicolatians were essentially trying to persuade Christians that there was nothing wrong with a prudent conformity to the world’s standards. But the Bible is clear that Christians are different than the world without Christ. We are a “holy people.” We are “born again,” literally “born from above.” God’s Spirit lives within us and we are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19-20). And even though we are not of this world, yet Christ calls us to be (to serve) in the world. We are different on purpose to make a difference.
(2) The fault of the Nicolatians was that they were following the policy of compromise solely to save themselves from trouble. This brings up the question, “Why do we want to live pure lives?” “What’s our motivation?” It seems that our motivation is two-fold: (1) Because Christ does live in us, and we are not our own, we do not want to grieve the Holy Spirit. (2) So that we can be a credible witness of the life that God intends for us to live. The Nicolatians were living as if it didn’t matter. They were grieving God and not making much of a positive impact at Pergamum. The reality is, you can’t win the world by fully joining the world.
After the accusation we find there is an . . .
3. ADMONITION (2:16-17a)
Jesus’ chastisement is not against the whole church but only against those who were seducing her and leading her astray. The sword is a reference to the word of God which is able to pierce like a sword (Eph. 6:17; Heb. 4:12). The hope is that the word of God will convict hearts so that people will “repent” (v.16). God’s judgement is always redemptive. Conviction is the work of God in your life to bring you closer to Him. His HS is always convicting and calling us to a deeper life with Him.
The risen Christ has given His approval, accusation, admonition, and now He closes His message to the church in Pergamum by giving the faithful Christians an assurance.
4. ASSURANCE (2:17b)
Two assurances are given to the faithful believer.
(1) A share of the hidden manna to eat
i. God fed the Israelites with manna during their wilderness travels (Ex. 16:11-15).
ii. A pot of manna was placed in the ark of the covenant (Ex. 16:32-36; Heb. 9:4).
God may be saying, “Instead of eating things sacrificed to idols which do not satisfy (2:14), the believers in Pergamos needed to feast on God’s holy food, the bread of life found in Jesus Christ through the Word of God (Matt. 4:4; Jn. 6:31-ff.).
See John 6:48-51: Manna points to Christ and the fact that only He satisfies and sustains us. The world will never be able to do what He alone can.
(2) The white stone and the new name
i. White and black stones were used for registering verdicts in ancient courts. Black meant condemnation. White was acquittal. The Christian is acquitted on the basis of Christ.
ii. Stones were given out as tickets to victorious athletes.
iii. The ancients would carry charms with a sacred name. To know a god’s name was to have a certain power over him, to be able to summon him to one’s aid in time of difficulty.
John is saying you are safe because you know the name of God – the true God. You have “received” Him. In Christ you have a new status. What an encouragement to believers standing strong!
Conclusion and Invitation
1. Is there an area of your life that needs to be surrendered
to God? Are you desiring to live a holy life? Are you letting Christ live out His life in you? He will if you will let Him.
2. Do you have the assurance of salvation? You have assurance when you “receive” Christ as your Lord and Savior, and you maintain that assurance when you have clean hands before Him.
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Scripture Reading: Revelation 2:12-17 (Pew Bible, 824)
Tolerance does not have to be a bad word. Tolerance is the capacity to endure pain or hardship, to be understanding, receptive, open-minded. Jesus Himself was tolerant of others. He was patient and understanding of others, especially people who were caught up in sin. This doesn’t mean that Jesus was soft on sin. Jesus dealt with sin but He did so in a way that was never condemning or condescending. He understood people. He walked in their shoes. He respected all people, even fallen people, because they were created in the image of God. He saw beyond the sin and saw people for what they could be.
We too must be tolerant of others and we can do so without accepting or giving approval of sin just as Jesus did. But how do we know when tolerance has gone too far? When is tolerance too much? Jesus modeled the balance that needs to be maintained. Regardless of religious background, nationality, or economic status, He was sensitive and understanding of people; however, He could not help those who would not be honest with themselves or who did not want His help. This is why Jesus said, “Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces” (Matt. 7:6). Tolerance may become intolerable!
How do we know when tolerance has gone too far? Maybe the larger question is, How do we live in the world and reach the world but not become a part of the world? This message to the church in Pergamum is helpful for us. The risen Christ had some good things to say to the church in the city of Pergamum, but He also charged some in the church for going too far in their acceptance of pagan religious practices. Tolerance goes too far when pagan practices are accepted that deny the Lordship of Christ in our lives.
About Pergamum
Pergamos (KJV) or Pergamum (NIV).
1. A Great Cultural Center
Here was a famous library containing no fewer than 200,000 parchment rolls. It was second only to the great library of Alexandria. Writing on parchment or vellum (animal skins) originated at Pergamum and was a considerable business. Pergamum was a city that reflected the Greek way of life. It contained many public buildings which were built on terraces on a steep mountain overlooking the valley of the River Caicus, from the top of which the Mediterraneans could be seen, fifteen miles away. Pergamum also contained a famous school of sculpture.
2. A Great Religious Center, “where Satan’s throne is” (v.13).
(1) The Altar of Zeus stood on a hill about 800 feet above the city.
Zeus was the chief Greek god, the Roman name was Jupiter.
(2) The temple of Asklepios, the god of healing, was the headquarters of an order of medical priests whose emblem was the serpent. People came from afar to this place of healing.
(3) Pergamum was the most important center of emperor worship in the East because of the great temple to “Roma” and “Augustus” which had been erected in 29 B.C. “Satan’s throne” is probably a reference to the imperial cult (emperor worship) which had its center in the city. Nothing could be more Satanic than to take the name of Lord and give it to Caesar instead of Christ.
What message did the risen Christ have for the church in Pergamum?
1. APPROVAL (2:12-13)
Like the believers in Smyrna, the believers in Pergamos suffered persecution. Even one of their faithful men, “Antipas” had been martyred because of Christ. But the Christians refused to burn incense on the altar and say “Caesar Is Lord.” They stood strong, Jesus said, even at Satan’s throne. The believers in Pergamum held fast to the Name of Christ. When faced with the decision to deny Him or not, they stood firm, they did not deny Jesus. The Christian community was surviving and thriving even in a place so difficult it was designated “where Satan’s throne is.” The Christians were not escaping, but witnessing, even to death. In the early church to be a martyr and to be a witness were one and the same thing. God had these believers where he needed them. What better place to be salt and light but at Satan’s throne? God has you where you are for a purpose, to witness of Christ. See Matthew 10:27-33.
Christ gave His approval to these Christians, but He also
brought an. . .
2. ACCUSATION (2:14-15)
Even though they faced persecution, the church in Pergamum was not being destroyed from without, it was in danger of being compromised from within. In verses 14-15 these infiltrators are identified as the “Nicolatians.” What they taught is called “the doctrine [or teaching] of Balaam.”
Understanding the story of Balaam helps us interpret this dangerous group more accurately (See Numbers 22-25). Balaam was a prophet of God who prostituted his gifts in order to earn money from King Balak, who hired him to curse the people of Israel. God prevented Balaam from actually cursing the nation – in fact, God turned the curses into blessings! But because of Balaam’s counsel, Balak learned how to ensnare Israel. The end result was that Israel committed idolatry with Baal (the pagan false god) and fornication (immorality) with Moabite women (Num. 25:1-5). For Israel, tolerance had led to total compromise of all convictions and morality. God said that they had “joined” themselves with Baal (25:3).
Why did this bit of ancient history apply to the believers at Pergamos? Because a group in the church said, “There is nothing wrong with being friendly to Rome. What harm is there in putting a pinch of incense on the altar and affirming your loyalty to Caesar? What harm is there in participating in the pagan festivals,” even though this where the feasting, immorality, and idolatry was taking place. It was an all out idolatrous eat, drink, and be merry kind of lifestyle that Jesus was reprimanding. By their actions they were denying the very Lord who had saved them.
(1) The Nicolatians were essentially trying to persuade Christians that there was nothing wrong with a prudent conformity to the world’s standards. But the Bible is clear that Christians are different than the world without Christ. We are a “holy people.” We are “born again,” literally “born from above.” God’s Spirit lives within us and we are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19-20). And even though we are not of this world, yet Christ calls us to be (to serve) in the world. We are different on purpose to make a difference.
(2) The fault of the Nicolatians was that they were following the policy of compromise solely to save themselves from trouble. This brings up the question, “Why do we want to live pure lives?” “What’s our motivation?” It seems that our motivation is two-fold: (1) Because Christ does live in us, and we are not our own, we do not want to grieve the Holy Spirit. (2) So that we can be a credible witness of the life that God intends for us to live. The Nicolatians were living as if it didn’t matter. They were grieving God and not making much of a positive impact at Pergamum. The reality is, you can’t win the world by fully joining the world.
After the accusation we find there is an . . .
3. ADMONITION (2:16-17a)
Jesus’ chastisement is not against the whole church but only against those who were seducing her and leading her astray. The sword is a reference to the word of God which is able to pierce like a sword (Eph. 6:17; Heb. 4:12). The hope is that the word of God will convict hearts so that people will “repent” (v.16). God’s judgement is always redemptive. Conviction is the work of God in your life to bring you closer to Him. His HS is always convicting and calling us to a deeper life with Him.
The risen Christ has given His approval, accusation, admonition, and now He closes His message to the church in Pergamum by giving the faithful Christians an assurance.
4. ASSURANCE (2:17b)
Two assurances are given to the faithful believer.
(1) A share of the hidden manna to eat
i. God fed the Israelites with manna during their wilderness travels (Ex. 16:11-15).
ii. A pot of manna was placed in the ark of the covenant (Ex. 16:32-36; Heb. 9:4).
God may be saying, “Instead of eating things sacrificed to idols which do not satisfy (2:14), the believers in Pergamos needed to feast on God’s holy food, the bread of life found in Jesus Christ through the Word of God (Matt. 4:4; Jn. 6:31-ff.).
See John 6:48-51: Manna points to Christ and the fact that only He satisfies and sustains us. The world will never be able to do what He alone can.
(2) The white stone and the new name
i. White and black stones were used for registering verdicts in ancient courts. Black meant condemnation. White was acquittal. The Christian is acquitted on the basis of Christ.
ii. Stones were given out as tickets to victorious athletes.
iii. The ancients would carry charms with a sacred name. To know a god’s name was to have a certain power over him, to be able to summon him to one’s aid in time of difficulty.
John is saying you are safe because you know the name of God – the true God. You have “received” Him. In Christ you have a new status. What an encouragement to believers standing strong!
Conclusion and Invitation
1. Is there an area of your life that needs to be surrendered
to God? Are you desiring to live a holy life? Are you letting Christ live out His life in you? He will if you will let Him.
2. Do you have the assurance of salvation? You have assurance when you “receive” Christ as your Lord and Savior, and you maintain that assurance when you have clean hands before Him.
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Sunday, January 25, 2009
FAITHFUL IN THE FIRE Message, January 25, 2009
Preached at Hebron Baptist Church, January 25, 2009 by Pastor Joe Alain
Scripture Reading: Revelation 2:8-11
I find it difficult to see myself in this passage. I don’t know what it’s like to really suffer as the Christians in Smyrna. We may never have to face what Smryna’s most famous citizen faced. Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna was martyred on Saturday, February 23, A. D. 155. Before his death he had a dream in which he saw a pillow under his head burning with fire. He told his flock “I must be burned alive.” After he was arrested, some encouraged him to moderate his position and confess that Caesar too was Lord, but Polycarp stood firm. His confession has become famous for as he faced death by fire, he spoke these words: “Eighty and six years have I served Him and He has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King who saved me?” Polycarp remained faithful until death. He was Faithful in the Fire!
Polycarp followed in the great tradition of the believers in Smyrna, for they too were known to remain faithful in the fire. The risen Christ encouraged and empowered the church in Smyrna to remain faithful as they underwent times of great trials. The trials would not last forever and Christ Himself would reward their faithfulness. Life Application (E.S.S.): Because Christ is alive, believers are empowered to remain faithful in suffering.
How do we remain faithful in suffering?
We are able to remain faithful when we realize that . . .
I. God Uses Suffering in Our Lives (vv.9-10)
In verse 10, Jesus says that this suffering that they are enduring has a purpose, “that you may be tested.” The word “tested” (peirazo) means to try, to prove in a good sense. Aorist, passive, subjunctive.
Testing or proving can be useful. I’m sure that the 155 passengers of Us Airways Flight 1549 are grateful that their pilot, Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger was a tested pilot. His years of flight experience and testing as an Air Force and commercial pilot allowed him to remain calm in the time of testing.
The cars we buy and drive go through testing. A cruise ship undergoes sea trials prior to being released. Testing, proving is very useful. God is able to use suffering in our lives to build spiritual character. Romans 5: 3-4 says it best, “We also rejoice in our sufferings [has Paul lost his mind? Or does he know something we don’t?], because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance character; and character, hope.”
What was the specific nature of the suffering that the church in Smyrna was undergoing? Their trial is described as “Affliction” (v.9). “Thlipsis” originally meant crushing beneath a weight. Trials seem to crush us, overwhelm us. If we will allow God to bring good from it, affliction can be used by God to bring out from us the character of Jesus. Symrna comes from the word “myrrh,” which was a perfume, an anointing oil. Perfume or anointing oil only works (i.e., it only gives up its scent) when it is acted upon. Testing has a pressing effect but in that pressing, we are not crushed. Instead, the character of Jesus is released through us.
Paul says in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.” And for what purpose does Paul and others suffer? What good could possible come from this? He tells us in verse 11, “For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.”
The Christians in Smyrna also suffered extreme poverty. The word for poverty here is not simply lacking, but it carries the idea of complete destitution, having nothing at all. They had nothing, John says, but Jesus says they have everything! Christians were poor for several reasons: (1) The early Christians came largely from the lower classes of society. (2) The early Christians faced persecution and even raids from their neighbors (Heb. 10:34) . The Christians at Smyrna were suffering trials and hardships but not because of anything that they were doing, but because of who they were serving – Jesus Christ! They were suffering for righteousness.
Some of the Christians in Smyrna were even imprisoned for their faith. “Ten days” is not a literal ten days but does signify that it will be a short duration.
Where did the persecution come from? Apparently, there was a sizeable an influential number of Jews in Smyrna (v.9). John calls them “a synagogue of Satan.” John was using a favorite expression of the Jews and reversing its meaning. The Jews loved to refer to themselves as “the assembly of the Lord.” Synagogue means a coming together, an assembly, a congregation. John says, “You call yourselves the assembly of God when, in fact, you are the assembly of the Devil.”
What was the “blasphemy” (v.9) or the “slander” of the Jews that caused the authorities to persecute the believers in Smyrna? Although we cannot be sure what specific accusations the Jews made against the believers in Smyrna, we know that the following accusations were commonly made against Christians in New Testament times.
(1) Accusation: Christians were cannibals – A misunderstanding about the Lord’s Supper.
(2) Accusation: Christians were immoral – A misunderstanding about the Love Feast.
(3) Accusation: Christians split families.
(4) Accusation: Christians were atheists – They did not have idols or believe in the Roman gods.
(5) Accusation: Christians were politically disloyal – They would not confess that Caesar is Lord.
(6) Accusation: Christians were agitators and arsonists – They foretold of the end of the world by fire.
In spite of suffering caused by these false accusations, the Christians could have the assurance that God would use this suffering for His glory.
We are also able to remain faithful when we realize that . . .
II. Christ Enters into Our Suffering
It may look as if God had deserted them but He has not. How does He encourage the believers in Smyrna?
He reminds them that . . .
(1) He Is the “First and Last” (v.8)
See Revelation 1:8, 11, 17
(2) He “was dead, and came to life” (v.8)
See Revelation 1:18
The city of Smyrna itself had ceased its existence for 400 years. A man named Lysimachus rebuilt it. Jesus knew their history – they were once dead but now they were alive. Jesus identifies with them when He says “I am He who died and came back to life” (v.8). Jesus knew what it was like to experience the worst that life could dish out, suffering and crucifixion, yet Jesus came through as our victorious redeemer! He conquered death! And so, by reminding them that He was dead and came back to life, He lets them know that He too has walked this path of suffering.
We are able to remain faithful when we realize that . . .
III. There Is Glory Beyond Suffering
1. You Will Receive “the Crown of Life” (10b)
There are two words for crown in the NT, “diadema” which refers to a royal crown, and “stephanos” which refers a crown of joy or a victor’s crown. This was the crown, the laurel wreath, that was awarded to the victor in the games. In this life, loyalty to God may bring a crown of thorns, but in the life to come the crown of glory and of life.
Paul spoke of this crown when he said, that contestants in the games strive “to receive a perishable wreath [the same Greek word is used], but we an imperishable” (1 Cor. 9:25). John used this expression to encourage the believers in Smyrna. Although many of them were suffering physical death, they had the assurance of the prize of eternal life. The crown itself is eternal life. This crown is not just for martyrs, believers who give their lives for Christ. This crown is promised to all who love Him (Jas. 1:12). Don’t give up! The finish line is in sight.
2. You Will “not be hurt by the second death”
The second death is referred to in Revelation 20:6. The first death is physical death. All will experience this, but those who are not saved will experience what the Bible calls the second death which is the judgement of God.
“Born once, die twice; born twice, die once.”
There is glory beyond suffering. Even if one dies for Christ, he or she will only dies once. John seems to be saying, to the Christian, “what’s the worst thing that can happen?” “Death? No! Eternal Death, yes!” Jesus said, “And do not fear those who kill the body bu cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matt. 10:28).
Two commands and words of encouragement are given to suffering Christians.
1. “Do not fear”(v.10) Trust in Me!
2. “Be faithful until death” (v.10) Don’t quit the race!
Are you suffering? Because Christ is alive, believers are empowered to remain faithful in suffering. But without Christ we have no hope to endure the times of suffering that we experience in this life. And without Christ we have no future. Thank God the “First and the Last,” the One who “was dead, and came to life” has made provision for us!
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Scripture Reading: Revelation 2:8-11
I find it difficult to see myself in this passage. I don’t know what it’s like to really suffer as the Christians in Smyrna. We may never have to face what Smryna’s most famous citizen faced. Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna was martyred on Saturday, February 23, A. D. 155. Before his death he had a dream in which he saw a pillow under his head burning with fire. He told his flock “I must be burned alive.” After he was arrested, some encouraged him to moderate his position and confess that Caesar too was Lord, but Polycarp stood firm. His confession has become famous for as he faced death by fire, he spoke these words: “Eighty and six years have I served Him and He has done me no wrong. How can I blaspheme my King who saved me?” Polycarp remained faithful until death. He was Faithful in the Fire!
Polycarp followed in the great tradition of the believers in Smyrna, for they too were known to remain faithful in the fire. The risen Christ encouraged and empowered the church in Smyrna to remain faithful as they underwent times of great trials. The trials would not last forever and Christ Himself would reward their faithfulness. Life Application (E.S.S.): Because Christ is alive, believers are empowered to remain faithful in suffering.
How do we remain faithful in suffering?
We are able to remain faithful when we realize that . . .
I. God Uses Suffering in Our Lives (vv.9-10)
In verse 10, Jesus says that this suffering that they are enduring has a purpose, “that you may be tested.” The word “tested” (peirazo) means to try, to prove in a good sense. Aorist, passive, subjunctive.
Testing or proving can be useful. I’m sure that the 155 passengers of Us Airways Flight 1549 are grateful that their pilot, Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger was a tested pilot. His years of flight experience and testing as an Air Force and commercial pilot allowed him to remain calm in the time of testing.
The cars we buy and drive go through testing. A cruise ship undergoes sea trials prior to being released. Testing, proving is very useful. God is able to use suffering in our lives to build spiritual character. Romans 5: 3-4 says it best, “We also rejoice in our sufferings [has Paul lost his mind? Or does he know something we don’t?], because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance character; and character, hope.”
What was the specific nature of the suffering that the church in Smyrna was undergoing? Their trial is described as “Affliction” (v.9). “Thlipsis” originally meant crushing beneath a weight. Trials seem to crush us, overwhelm us. If we will allow God to bring good from it, affliction can be used by God to bring out from us the character of Jesus. Symrna comes from the word “myrrh,” which was a perfume, an anointing oil. Perfume or anointing oil only works (i.e., it only gives up its scent) when it is acted upon. Testing has a pressing effect but in that pressing, we are not crushed. Instead, the character of Jesus is released through us.
Paul says in 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.” And for what purpose does Paul and others suffer? What good could possible come from this? He tells us in verse 11, “For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.”
The Christians in Smyrna also suffered extreme poverty. The word for poverty here is not simply lacking, but it carries the idea of complete destitution, having nothing at all. They had nothing, John says, but Jesus says they have everything! Christians were poor for several reasons: (1) The early Christians came largely from the lower classes of society. (2) The early Christians faced persecution and even raids from their neighbors (Heb. 10:34) . The Christians at Smyrna were suffering trials and hardships but not because of anything that they were doing, but because of who they were serving – Jesus Christ! They were suffering for righteousness.
Some of the Christians in Smyrna were even imprisoned for their faith. “Ten days” is not a literal ten days but does signify that it will be a short duration.
Where did the persecution come from? Apparently, there was a sizeable an influential number of Jews in Smyrna (v.9). John calls them “a synagogue of Satan.” John was using a favorite expression of the Jews and reversing its meaning. The Jews loved to refer to themselves as “the assembly of the Lord.” Synagogue means a coming together, an assembly, a congregation. John says, “You call yourselves the assembly of God when, in fact, you are the assembly of the Devil.”
What was the “blasphemy” (v.9) or the “slander” of the Jews that caused the authorities to persecute the believers in Smyrna? Although we cannot be sure what specific accusations the Jews made against the believers in Smyrna, we know that the following accusations were commonly made against Christians in New Testament times.
(1) Accusation: Christians were cannibals – A misunderstanding about the Lord’s Supper.
(2) Accusation: Christians were immoral – A misunderstanding about the Love Feast.
(3) Accusation: Christians split families.
(4) Accusation: Christians were atheists – They did not have idols or believe in the Roman gods.
(5) Accusation: Christians were politically disloyal – They would not confess that Caesar is Lord.
(6) Accusation: Christians were agitators and arsonists – They foretold of the end of the world by fire.
In spite of suffering caused by these false accusations, the Christians could have the assurance that God would use this suffering for His glory.
We are also able to remain faithful when we realize that . . .
II. Christ Enters into Our Suffering
It may look as if God had deserted them but He has not. How does He encourage the believers in Smyrna?
He reminds them that . . .
(1) He Is the “First and Last” (v.8)
See Revelation 1:8, 11, 17
(2) He “was dead, and came to life” (v.8)
See Revelation 1:18
The city of Smyrna itself had ceased its existence for 400 years. A man named Lysimachus rebuilt it. Jesus knew their history – they were once dead but now they were alive. Jesus identifies with them when He says “I am He who died and came back to life” (v.8). Jesus knew what it was like to experience the worst that life could dish out, suffering and crucifixion, yet Jesus came through as our victorious redeemer! He conquered death! And so, by reminding them that He was dead and came back to life, He lets them know that He too has walked this path of suffering.
We are able to remain faithful when we realize that . . .
III. There Is Glory Beyond Suffering
1. You Will Receive “the Crown of Life” (10b)
There are two words for crown in the NT, “diadema” which refers to a royal crown, and “stephanos” which refers a crown of joy or a victor’s crown. This was the crown, the laurel wreath, that was awarded to the victor in the games. In this life, loyalty to God may bring a crown of thorns, but in the life to come the crown of glory and of life.
Paul spoke of this crown when he said, that contestants in the games strive “to receive a perishable wreath [the same Greek word is used], but we an imperishable” (1 Cor. 9:25). John used this expression to encourage the believers in Smyrna. Although many of them were suffering physical death, they had the assurance of the prize of eternal life. The crown itself is eternal life. This crown is not just for martyrs, believers who give their lives for Christ. This crown is promised to all who love Him (Jas. 1:12). Don’t give up! The finish line is in sight.
2. You Will “not be hurt by the second death”
The second death is referred to in Revelation 20:6. The first death is physical death. All will experience this, but those who are not saved will experience what the Bible calls the second death which is the judgement of God.
“Born once, die twice; born twice, die once.”
There is glory beyond suffering. Even if one dies for Christ, he or she will only dies once. John seems to be saying, to the Christian, “what’s the worst thing that can happen?” “Death? No! Eternal Death, yes!” Jesus said, “And do not fear those who kill the body bu cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell” (Matt. 10:28).
Two commands and words of encouragement are given to suffering Christians.
1. “Do not fear”(v.10) Trust in Me!
2. “Be faithful until death” (v.10) Don’t quit the race!
Are you suffering? Because Christ is alive, believers are empowered to remain faithful in suffering. But without Christ we have no hope to endure the times of suffering that we experience in this life. And without Christ we have no future. Thank God the “First and the Last,” the One who “was dead, and came to life” has made provision for us!
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Sunday, January 18, 2009
PRAYING FOR OUR PRESIDENT, Message for January 18, 2009
Scripture: 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (Pew Bible, 798)
Date Preached: January 18, 2009 by Joe Alain at Hebron Baptist Church, Denham Springs, LA
Facing a nation divided, teetering toward civil war, President Abraham Lincoln used his first inaugural address to call for unity, arguing that our Constitution was created “to form a more perfect union.” Now, 147 years later, President-elect Barack Obama is echoing President Lincoln’s call in words and symbolism. Tuesday at approximately, 11:30, Barack Obama will be placing his hand upon the same burgundy velvet-bound Bible that was used by President Lincoln at his first inauguration as he is sworn in as the 44th President of the United States.
Presidents have differed greatly on the question of which passage the Bible should be opened to during the swearing-in ceremony. It brings up the question of what – if any – biblical passage Obama will emphasize. Today, we open our Bibles to a passage of Scripture found at 1 Timothy 2:1-4. Here, the Bible encourages us as Christians to pray and to pray especially for “all who are in authority.” We are to pray for our leaders. We might find it easier to criticize our leaders, that’s probably why God gives us several words of instruction on praying for them. But how do we pray for our soon-to-be new president? How do we pray for others who have been elected to lead us? What should we pray about? This Scripture in 1 Timothy describes the why, the who, and the what of our praying for our president and other leaders.
I. Reasons We Need to Pray (2:1)
Pray Because of . . .
1. Our Inability to Deal with Life on Our Own
The fundamental idea of the word “Supplications” (“deesis” in the biblical language) is a sense of need. It is also translated as “request.” No one will make a “request” unless a sense of need has already awakened a desire. Prayer begins with a sense of need. It begins with the conviction that we cannot deal with all that life throws us. We are not capable of handling all of life’s problems. We need to pray because some things are beyond are ability to handle.
Pray Because of . . .
2. God’s Ability to Meet Our Deepest Needs
This word “Prayers” (“proseuche” in the biblical language) can also be translated as “request,” but there is one major difference. This word is only used of requesting something from God, never of requesting certain things from others. Why is that important? Because it tells us that prayer is our voicing requests to God that only He can meet. There are some needs that only God can satisfy. This is why we pray!
Pray Because of . . .
3. The Nature of Our Relationship with God
The word “intercessions” (“enteuxis” in the biblical language) translates the word “petition.” The word originally meant to “fall in” with a person, or “to hold intimate conversation with a person.” Later it came to have a special meaning, “to enter into a king’s presence and to submit a petition to him.” In the ancient world, you did not barge into the king’s presence unless you were invited, and only then, you came with fear and trembling. But notice how different coming into the presence of our Lord is. We come into His presence, but we do not come cowering in fear. We come because we have been invited, we have an open invitation, and we come to have an intimate conversation with our Lord who delights in our coming.
Pray Because of . . .
4. Our Natural Tendency to Be Prideful
The phrase, “Giving of thanks” (“eucharista” in the biblical language) translates “thanksgiving.” Prayer is not only asking, it is thanking God for His blessings. We need to pray because of our propensity to be prideful. Prayer, especially the “giving of thanks” keeps us humble before God. Being thankful reminds us that God is the one who blesses us. We are not self-made people, God is the source of our blessings. Gratitude keeps our heart in check.
We need to pray ourselves and we especially need to pray for others. This passage gives direction to the people that need
our prayers.
II. Praying for Our Leaders (2:2-4)
1. The Prayer Practices of the Early Church
William Barclay writes about the prayer practices of the early church. “It is extraordinary to trace how all through its early days, those days of bitter persecution, the Church regarded it as an absolute duty to pray for the Emperor and his subordinate kings and governors. ‘Fear God,’ said Peter. ‘Honour the Emperor’ (1 Peter 2:17), and we must remember that that Emperor was none other than Nero, that monster of cruelty. Tertullian insists that for the Emperor the Christian pray for ‘long life, secure dominion, a safe home, a faithful senate, a righteous people, and a world at peace.’ . . . The greatest of all prayers for the Emperor is in Clement of Rome’s first letter to the Church at Corinth which was written about A.D. 90 when the savagery of Domitian was still fresh in men’s minds.”
2. The Belief that God Uses Rulers to Accomplish His Purposes (see Dan. 4:30, 34-35)
We pray for our leaders because God uses rulers to accomplish His purposes whether they believe in Him or not. In the OT we find many instances where God used pagan kings to accomplish His will. Proverbs 19:21, NIV states, “Many are the plans in a man’s [a president’s] heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails”
Proverbs 21:1 says, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes” The truth is, God is able to fulfill His purposes even through non-Christian rulers. God is able to work through leaders to bring about good whether they even acknowledge His working or not. Paul seems to have this thought in mind when he writes 1 Timothy 2: “If you want your prayers to do the most good for the greatest number of people, be sure to include in your prayers those persons whose decisions create the conditions in which the purposes of the Gospel prosper.” It is important to pray for our leaders because the conditions they create either advance or impede the gospel.”
And what do we pray for when we pray for our leaders? Some specifics are mentioned in verses 2-4.
3. A Prayer for Peace and Godliness to Prevail (v.2)
4. A Prayer for the Advancement of the Gospel (vv.3-4)
We are not just praying for peace, we are praying for the advancement of the kingdom. God approves of our prayers for peace and tranquility because he approves of the advance of the Gospel. Peace is not the main thing; salvation is the main thing. Tranquility is not the goal; the knowledge of the truth, that’s the goal. We do not pray simply for the prosperity of the land. We pray for the magnificent advancement of the saving purposes of God in every land.
And so, as today we pray – we pray for all people but especially for “all who are in authority.” We pray for President-Elect, Barack Obama, we pray for our Governor, Bobby Jindal, we pray for our Parish President, Mike Grimmer. We pray for peace and godliness to prevail, and we pray for the advancement of the Gospel.
Date Preached: January 18, 2009 by Joe Alain at Hebron Baptist Church, Denham Springs, LA
Facing a nation divided, teetering toward civil war, President Abraham Lincoln used his first inaugural address to call for unity, arguing that our Constitution was created “to form a more perfect union.” Now, 147 years later, President-elect Barack Obama is echoing President Lincoln’s call in words and symbolism. Tuesday at approximately, 11:30, Barack Obama will be placing his hand upon the same burgundy velvet-bound Bible that was used by President Lincoln at his first inauguration as he is sworn in as the 44th President of the United States.
Presidents have differed greatly on the question of which passage the Bible should be opened to during the swearing-in ceremony. It brings up the question of what – if any – biblical passage Obama will emphasize. Today, we open our Bibles to a passage of Scripture found at 1 Timothy 2:1-4. Here, the Bible encourages us as Christians to pray and to pray especially for “all who are in authority.” We are to pray for our leaders. We might find it easier to criticize our leaders, that’s probably why God gives us several words of instruction on praying for them. But how do we pray for our soon-to-be new president? How do we pray for others who have been elected to lead us? What should we pray about? This Scripture in 1 Timothy describes the why, the who, and the what of our praying for our president and other leaders.
I. Reasons We Need to Pray (2:1)
Pray Because of . . .
1. Our Inability to Deal with Life on Our Own
The fundamental idea of the word “Supplications” (“deesis” in the biblical language) is a sense of need. It is also translated as “request.” No one will make a “request” unless a sense of need has already awakened a desire. Prayer begins with a sense of need. It begins with the conviction that we cannot deal with all that life throws us. We are not capable of handling all of life’s problems. We need to pray because some things are beyond are ability to handle.
Pray Because of . . .
2. God’s Ability to Meet Our Deepest Needs
This word “Prayers” (“proseuche” in the biblical language) can also be translated as “request,” but there is one major difference. This word is only used of requesting something from God, never of requesting certain things from others. Why is that important? Because it tells us that prayer is our voicing requests to God that only He can meet. There are some needs that only God can satisfy. This is why we pray!
Pray Because of . . .
3. The Nature of Our Relationship with God
The word “intercessions” (“enteuxis” in the biblical language) translates the word “petition.” The word originally meant to “fall in” with a person, or “to hold intimate conversation with a person.” Later it came to have a special meaning, “to enter into a king’s presence and to submit a petition to him.” In the ancient world, you did not barge into the king’s presence unless you were invited, and only then, you came with fear and trembling. But notice how different coming into the presence of our Lord is. We come into His presence, but we do not come cowering in fear. We come because we have been invited, we have an open invitation, and we come to have an intimate conversation with our Lord who delights in our coming.
Pray Because of . . .
4. Our Natural Tendency to Be Prideful
The phrase, “Giving of thanks” (“eucharista” in the biblical language) translates “thanksgiving.” Prayer is not only asking, it is thanking God for His blessings. We need to pray because of our propensity to be prideful. Prayer, especially the “giving of thanks” keeps us humble before God. Being thankful reminds us that God is the one who blesses us. We are not self-made people, God is the source of our blessings. Gratitude keeps our heart in check.
We need to pray ourselves and we especially need to pray for others. This passage gives direction to the people that need
our prayers.
II. Praying for Our Leaders (2:2-4)
1. The Prayer Practices of the Early Church
William Barclay writes about the prayer practices of the early church. “It is extraordinary to trace how all through its early days, those days of bitter persecution, the Church regarded it as an absolute duty to pray for the Emperor and his subordinate kings and governors. ‘Fear God,’ said Peter. ‘Honour the Emperor’ (1 Peter 2:17), and we must remember that that Emperor was none other than Nero, that monster of cruelty. Tertullian insists that for the Emperor the Christian pray for ‘long life, secure dominion, a safe home, a faithful senate, a righteous people, and a world at peace.’ . . . The greatest of all prayers for the Emperor is in Clement of Rome’s first letter to the Church at Corinth which was written about A.D. 90 when the savagery of Domitian was still fresh in men’s minds.”
2. The Belief that God Uses Rulers to Accomplish His Purposes (see Dan. 4:30, 34-35)
We pray for our leaders because God uses rulers to accomplish His purposes whether they believe in Him or not. In the OT we find many instances where God used pagan kings to accomplish His will. Proverbs 19:21, NIV states, “Many are the plans in a man’s [a president’s] heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails”
Proverbs 21:1 says, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes” The truth is, God is able to fulfill His purposes even through non-Christian rulers. God is able to work through leaders to bring about good whether they even acknowledge His working or not. Paul seems to have this thought in mind when he writes 1 Timothy 2: “If you want your prayers to do the most good for the greatest number of people, be sure to include in your prayers those persons whose decisions create the conditions in which the purposes of the Gospel prosper.” It is important to pray for our leaders because the conditions they create either advance or impede the gospel.”
And what do we pray for when we pray for our leaders? Some specifics are mentioned in verses 2-4.
3. A Prayer for Peace and Godliness to Prevail (v.2)
4. A Prayer for the Advancement of the Gospel (vv.3-4)
We are not just praying for peace, we are praying for the advancement of the kingdom. God approves of our prayers for peace and tranquility because he approves of the advance of the Gospel. Peace is not the main thing; salvation is the main thing. Tranquility is not the goal; the knowledge of the truth, that’s the goal. We do not pray simply for the prosperity of the land. We pray for the magnificent advancement of the saving purposes of God in every land.
And so, as today we pray – we pray for all people but especially for “all who are in authority.” We pray for President-Elect, Barack Obama, we pray for our Governor, Bobby Jindal, we pray for our Parish President, Mike Grimmer. We pray for peace and godliness to prevail, and we pray for the advancement of the Gospel.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Baptism -- What Does It Mean?
Pastor, Joe Alain
Date Preached: January 11, 2009 a.m. at Hebron Baptist Church, Denham Springs, LA
Scripture Reading: Mark 1:4-11 (Pew Bible, 673)
Baptism services are very important in the life of the church and to me personally. I vividly remember my baptism service, it was a significant moment in my life. Baptisms are awesome moments and each one should be treated as special.
Admittedly, not everyone looks at baptism in the proper way. For some, baptism is unimportant. Others look at baptism as some kind of salvation fire insurance. Still others are baptized because it’s the thing to do, or their friends have done it, or people expect them to do it. It’s important that we understand what baptism means and that’s what I want to talk about this morning.
Characteristic of Mark’s Gospel, Mark describes in the briefest of terms the ministry of John the Baptist and the account of Jesus’ baptism. The baptism of Jesus stands as the beginning point of His earthly ministry. What did John’s baptism mean and why was Jesus baptized by him? What does baptism mean for followers of Jesus today? Today, we will look at three baptisms in the Bible: John’s, Jesus’, and Ours.
I. John’s Baptism – Sign (1:4-8)
John the Baptist is somewhat a mysterious figure. He appears on the scene seemingly out of nowhere, although God has been preparing him for his work in the desert for many years. Mark simply says, “John came baptizing in the wilderness . . .” What can we say about this baptism that he was performing?
John’s baptism was . . .
1. A Baptism of Repentance for the Forgiveness
of Sins (v.4).
John’s message was singular, it was consistent, and it was clear – repent! That is, turn away from your sins. John called his people to repent, to turn away from their sins so that they could be ready for the kingdom when it came. Repentance was essential if they were to be forgiven and prepared. John took this repentance business seriously. In Matthew’s Gospel, John rebuked some of the people who were coming to be baptized who showed no evidence of repentance or a desire for change.
John’s baptism was . . .
2. A Public Act of Dedication (v.5)
We can also say that John’s baptism was a public act of dedication. This public act of dedication took place at the Jordan River. Why did John call people to publicly dedicate themselves? There is something about publicly taking a stand with Christ. If you will not take a stand for Him here, you will not stand for Him out there.
John’s baptism was . . .
3. A Sign of the Coming Spirit’s Baptism (vv.6-8)
John was careful to let people know that he himself was not the Messiah. He simply was the one who prepared the way. He got people ready. Here’s one major difference in John’s baptism and ours. John’s looked toward the cross, our baptism looks back to the cross. John’s baptism was a sign of the coming Spirit’s baptism, a reality that we know today on this side of the cross of Jesus.
II. Jesus’ Baptism – Son (1:9-11)
Again, we are given just a brief outline of what happened, but we can say that Jesus’ baptism points to a couple of powerful truths.
1. Identification (v.9)
Jesus did not need to be baptized. In fact, Matthew’s account tells us that John protested, “I need to be baptized by you!” So why did Jesus submit himself to baptism? For one, Jesus authenticated John’s ministry. By being baptized, He was saying, “John is telling you the truth. Listen to Him. Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand.” Jesus was endorsing John’s baptism and identifying with those people who responded to his call.
Second, Jesus fully identified with the people He came to save. God became flesh and lived among us. He completely identified with us yet He did so as God in the flesh. Baptism signifies death and resurrection. Jesus’ baptism prophetically looked forward to His death on the cross and His resurrection.
2. Inauguration (vv.10-11)
There are several OT passages that are reflected in the baptism of Jesus (Ps. 2:7; Is. 42:1-3). The “Spirit descending upon Him like a dove” is a picture of God’s anointing upon Jesus as king. The dove was the sign of peace. Jesus was anointed with peace to bring peace. The baptism of Jesus is His inauguration, the beginning of His public ministry.
In not too many days, we will inaugurate a new president. A presidential inauguration doesn’t make someone a president (that was official when the electoral votes were certified last Thursday, January 8th), it is simply the public ceremony and declaration that he is the president. In a similar way, Jesus’ baptism didn’t make Him the king, He’s already the King! This was simply a public ceremony of His Kingship (see Luke 4:18-19).
III. Our Baptism – Spirit & Symbol
When you view our baptism and what it means, you cannot separate the Spirit and the Symbol. Whenever you witness a baptism, you are witnessing a spiritual reality that is taking place. The physical act of baptism is a powerful witness of the spiritual reality that has taken place in the life of the person who is being baptized. What does baptism symbolize? What realities does baptism point to? There are three powerful realities that baptism points to. Each of these realities is possible because of God’s Spirit at work in a believer’s life.
Our baptism portrays a . . .
1. Washing Away of Sin
This is not hard for us to grasp because we use water to clean things on a daily basis. We wash our dishes with water. We wash ourselves with water. Water is a cleansing agent. In the Bible, the work of God’s Spirit is compared to the work of water. See Acts 22:16; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Titus 3:5; Revelation 1:5
Forgiveness is having your sins washed away! There is something very important to keep in mind. Water portrays the work of the Holy Spirit but it is not a substitute for the Holy Spirit. The water does not save, it’s not magical, it’s just good old clean Ward 2 water. But on the other hand, the Holy Spirit does save us, He washes us clean from the inside out!
Our baptism portrays our . . .
2. Adoption into God’s Family
When Jesus was baptized, He was declared by the Father to be the Son of God. In Christ, we too are declared sons and daughter of God. God adopts us into His family. See John 1:12; Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:5; 1 John 3:2. Baptism is our public profession of faith that we belong to Christ, we have been adopted by Him. God looks at us in Christ and says, “You are my beloved son. You are my beloved daughter. In you I am well pleased.”
Our baptism portrays . . .
3. Death and Resurrection
In baptism we are identifying fully with Christ who died and rose again. Our baptism pictures our death to sin and resurrection to newness of life. See Romans 6:3-4; 2 Corinthians 5:17
Summary: Baptism signifies the fact that we’ve been washed clean by God’s Spirit. We are forgiven! Baptism signifies our adoption into God’s family. We are now His children. We belong to Him. And baptism signifies our death to our sins and the old life and resurrection to the new life that God has provided.
I want to close this message with two very important questions.
Two Important Questions
1. Have I Received Jesus Christ As My Lord and Savior?
This is the most important question that I could ask you today.
2. Have I Expressed My Commitment through Baptism?
Although water baptism does not save, it is important for it is your profession of faith. It is the first act of obedience to Christ your Lord. And if you have yet to follow Christ in baptism, we invite you to make that decision today.
Come “Just As I Am”
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Date Preached: January 11, 2009 a.m. at Hebron Baptist Church, Denham Springs, LA
Scripture Reading: Mark 1:4-11 (Pew Bible, 673)
Baptism services are very important in the life of the church and to me personally. I vividly remember my baptism service, it was a significant moment in my life. Baptisms are awesome moments and each one should be treated as special.
Admittedly, not everyone looks at baptism in the proper way. For some, baptism is unimportant. Others look at baptism as some kind of salvation fire insurance. Still others are baptized because it’s the thing to do, or their friends have done it, or people expect them to do it. It’s important that we understand what baptism means and that’s what I want to talk about this morning.
Characteristic of Mark’s Gospel, Mark describes in the briefest of terms the ministry of John the Baptist and the account of Jesus’ baptism. The baptism of Jesus stands as the beginning point of His earthly ministry. What did John’s baptism mean and why was Jesus baptized by him? What does baptism mean for followers of Jesus today? Today, we will look at three baptisms in the Bible: John’s, Jesus’, and Ours.
I. John’s Baptism – Sign (1:4-8)
John the Baptist is somewhat a mysterious figure. He appears on the scene seemingly out of nowhere, although God has been preparing him for his work in the desert for many years. Mark simply says, “John came baptizing in the wilderness . . .” What can we say about this baptism that he was performing?
John’s baptism was . . .
1. A Baptism of Repentance for the Forgiveness
of Sins (v.4).
John’s message was singular, it was consistent, and it was clear – repent! That is, turn away from your sins. John called his people to repent, to turn away from their sins so that they could be ready for the kingdom when it came. Repentance was essential if they were to be forgiven and prepared. John took this repentance business seriously. In Matthew’s Gospel, John rebuked some of the people who were coming to be baptized who showed no evidence of repentance or a desire for change.
John’s baptism was . . .
2. A Public Act of Dedication (v.5)
We can also say that John’s baptism was a public act of dedication. This public act of dedication took place at the Jordan River. Why did John call people to publicly dedicate themselves? There is something about publicly taking a stand with Christ. If you will not take a stand for Him here, you will not stand for Him out there.
John’s baptism was . . .
3. A Sign of the Coming Spirit’s Baptism (vv.6-8)
John was careful to let people know that he himself was not the Messiah. He simply was the one who prepared the way. He got people ready. Here’s one major difference in John’s baptism and ours. John’s looked toward the cross, our baptism looks back to the cross. John’s baptism was a sign of the coming Spirit’s baptism, a reality that we know today on this side of the cross of Jesus.
II. Jesus’ Baptism – Son (1:9-11)
Again, we are given just a brief outline of what happened, but we can say that Jesus’ baptism points to a couple of powerful truths.
1. Identification (v.9)
Jesus did not need to be baptized. In fact, Matthew’s account tells us that John protested, “I need to be baptized by you!” So why did Jesus submit himself to baptism? For one, Jesus authenticated John’s ministry. By being baptized, He was saying, “John is telling you the truth. Listen to Him. Repent, for the kingdom of God is at hand.” Jesus was endorsing John’s baptism and identifying with those people who responded to his call.
Second, Jesus fully identified with the people He came to save. God became flesh and lived among us. He completely identified with us yet He did so as God in the flesh. Baptism signifies death and resurrection. Jesus’ baptism prophetically looked forward to His death on the cross and His resurrection.
2. Inauguration (vv.10-11)
There are several OT passages that are reflected in the baptism of Jesus (Ps. 2:7; Is. 42:1-3). The “Spirit descending upon Him like a dove” is a picture of God’s anointing upon Jesus as king. The dove was the sign of peace. Jesus was anointed with peace to bring peace. The baptism of Jesus is His inauguration, the beginning of His public ministry.
In not too many days, we will inaugurate a new president. A presidential inauguration doesn’t make someone a president (that was official when the electoral votes were certified last Thursday, January 8th), it is simply the public ceremony and declaration that he is the president. In a similar way, Jesus’ baptism didn’t make Him the king, He’s already the King! This was simply a public ceremony of His Kingship (see Luke 4:18-19).
III. Our Baptism – Spirit & Symbol
When you view our baptism and what it means, you cannot separate the Spirit and the Symbol. Whenever you witness a baptism, you are witnessing a spiritual reality that is taking place. The physical act of baptism is a powerful witness of the spiritual reality that has taken place in the life of the person who is being baptized. What does baptism symbolize? What realities does baptism point to? There are three powerful realities that baptism points to. Each of these realities is possible because of God’s Spirit at work in a believer’s life.
Our baptism portrays a . . .
1. Washing Away of Sin
This is not hard for us to grasp because we use water to clean things on a daily basis. We wash our dishes with water. We wash ourselves with water. Water is a cleansing agent. In the Bible, the work of God’s Spirit is compared to the work of water. See Acts 22:16; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Titus 3:5; Revelation 1:5
Forgiveness is having your sins washed away! There is something very important to keep in mind. Water portrays the work of the Holy Spirit but it is not a substitute for the Holy Spirit. The water does not save, it’s not magical, it’s just good old clean Ward 2 water. But on the other hand, the Holy Spirit does save us, He washes us clean from the inside out!
Our baptism portrays our . . .
2. Adoption into God’s Family
When Jesus was baptized, He was declared by the Father to be the Son of God. In Christ, we too are declared sons and daughter of God. God adopts us into His family. See John 1:12; Romans 8:15; Galatians 4:5; 1 John 3:2. Baptism is our public profession of faith that we belong to Christ, we have been adopted by Him. God looks at us in Christ and says, “You are my beloved son. You are my beloved daughter. In you I am well pleased.”
Our baptism portrays . . .
3. Death and Resurrection
In baptism we are identifying fully with Christ who died and rose again. Our baptism pictures our death to sin and resurrection to newness of life. See Romans 6:3-4; 2 Corinthians 5:17
Summary: Baptism signifies the fact that we’ve been washed clean by God’s Spirit. We are forgiven! Baptism signifies our adoption into God’s family. We are now His children. We belong to Him. And baptism signifies our death to our sins and the old life and resurrection to the new life that God has provided.
I want to close this message with two very important questions.
Two Important Questions
1. Have I Received Jesus Christ As My Lord and Savior?
This is the most important question that I could ask you today.
2. Have I Expressed My Commitment through Baptism?
Although water baptism does not save, it is important for it is your profession of faith. It is the first act of obedience to Christ your Lord. And if you have yet to follow Christ in baptism, we invite you to make that decision today.
Come “Just As I Am”
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Sunday, January 4, 2009
2009, A TIME TO REALIGN, Revelation 2:1-7
Date Preached: January 4, 2009 a.m. at Hebron Baptist Church, Denham Springs, LA
Scripture Passage: Revelation 2:1-7
The beginning of a new year offers us a time to reflect on our lives and make needed life-course adjustments. In Revelation 2:1-7, Jesus spoke both a word of encouragement and challenge to the church at Ephesus, a church that was strong in service but lacking in love. They were in need of a spiritual alignment. Do we too need a similar spiritual alignment? If so, God graciously offers us the way back. “He who has an ear, let him hear” (v.7).
Introduction
1. This message to the church at Ephesus is the first in a series of seven messages by Christ sent to seven churches in Asia Minor. The risen Christ is speaking to His church on earth. He addresses the seven churches specifically, but He also addresses all churches in all times and in every place. The plural is used at 2:17, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22.
2. Jesus is also speaking to individuals. “He who has an ear, let him hear . . .” (v.7). So in this message directed first to Ephesus is a message to us as a church and us as individuals who make up the church.
About Ephesus
1. Because of an important harbor, Ephesus was called “The Gateway of Asia.” It was a wealthy trade center.
2. Ephesus was also a center of pagan religion and superstition. Here “Artemis” or “Diana” of the Ephesians was worshiped (see Acts 19:23-ff.). People would come from around the world to purchase amulets and charms (Acts 19:27).
3. Ephesus was a remarkable center of early Christianity. Paul stayed here longer than anywhere else and developed some deep and long lasting relationships (Acts 20:17-38). Timothy was appointed by Paul as the first Bishop (1 Tim. 1:3). John too was a leader in the early church at Ephesus. Aquilla and Priscilla and Apollos preached and taught in Ephesus (Acts 18:19, 24, 26). So Ephesus has the tremendous distinction as a great center of early Christianity.
I. A CONFIRMATION (2:1)
The first thing that we notice is that there is a confirmation from Christ. “Angel” translates as “messenger.” Christ is addressing the leaders of the church, His messengers, His angels. What confirmation does Jesus give?
1. The Church Is Kept Secure in Heaven
“He holds . . .” The biblical word “kratein” means Christ has complete control of the church, He holds the whole and not the part. If the church will submit to Christ’s control, it will never go astray.
2. The Church Experiences Christ’s Presence on Earth
“Walks” speaks of Christ’s unwearied activity in the midst of His churches. He’s not confined to one church in one location. Here is a promise of His presence.
II. A COMMENDATION (2:2-3, 6)
1. A Serving Church – “works”
The Ephesians had serving hearts. The put feet to their faith.
2. A Sacrificing Church – “labor”
This means to labor to the point of exhaustion. The Ephesians went beyond what was expected.
3. A Steadfast Church – “patience”
The word “hupomone” means to endure or to bear up under difficult circumstance.
4. A Separated Church – “cannot bear . . . tested”
Naturally, because of their status as a center of paganism, there were many false teachers in Ephesus. Paul encountered them and warned the church to watch out for these sheep in wolves clothing (Acts 20:28-31). Jesus also warned against false prophets (Matt. 7:15-2). The Ephesians took Christ’s and Paul’s warnings to heart.
An example of their ability to discern the false from the truth was their refusal to fall victim to the teachings of the Nicolatians (v.6). The Nicolatians tried to conform Christianity to the world. They tended to be wealthier and they had more to give up in following Jesus. They tried to have it both ways (see Jas. 4:4). But the Ephesians knew that the call to follow Jesus was a call to total commitment to Christ.
5. A Suffering Church – “persevered”
The Ephesians desired to live pure lives and as a result they suffered for their convictions.
III. A CONDEMNATION (2:4)
The church at Ephesus had much to be commended for. They were a model church in their purity and in their service, but Jesus has a word of condemnation to the church at Ephesus. Apparently, they had left their first love. Their devotion to Christ had cooled. They were once fervent and on fire for Christ. They were devoted to Him, but now they have grown cold and their works are now serving as a substitute for their relationship.
There is always the subtle temptation in the Christian life to allow "doing" to become a substitute for "being." God is more interested in us "becoming" the person He has created us to be, rather than in us "doing" for Him. God is interested in the relationship first. Have we left our first love? Have you left your first love? Have you allowed "doing" to become a substitute for "being"? Do we have purity without passion? There was no gross immorality in the church at Ephesus, just a deadening familiarity with God.
IV. A COMMAND (2:5)
Here is God’s gracious way back. Here’s how we rekindle our “first love” relationship with God.
1. Remember
Remembrance is the first step back to God (Lk, 15:17). We need a coming to our senses, a wake up call, we need to remember what it was like. Remember when you came to church excited to sing and to hear God speak to you. Remember when you gave and you served with joy not because you had to but because you wanted to. Remember when it bothered you to sin and when holiness was something that you pursued and prayed for. Remember when the things of God were not so familiar to you. Remember when you read your Bible and your heart was stirred. If you’re not where you once were, it’s time to do some remembering.
2. Repent
Repentance goes beyond remembering and saying “I used to do . . .” Repentance is not just feeling bad about where we are, it is taking a step back towards your relationship with God. “Choice not chance determines your future.” Repentance is a conscious decision to reverse course. It means to change direction. It’s more than going down memory lane, it’s a choice to reclaim the wonder of the relationship that you once had with Christ. The prodigal son remembered, but then he repented, he said “I will arise . . .” (Lk. 15:18). Remembrance without repentance only produces remorse and regret. But remembrance coupled with repentance produces rejoicing.
3. Return
“Do the first works.” Here is the key to repentance. Here is the essence of realigning your life. Go back and do what you used to do. What were you doing when you were closer to God? You probably were attending worship regularly, attending a Bible study with other believers, giving generously, spending time with God each day, dealing with sin in your life instead of justifying it. In reality, you were placing God first. You were living in Christ and you had victory in Jesus.
I propose that in 2009, it’s time to realign our lives to the purpose for which we were created for – to glorify God and enjoy Him forever!!! But if that is going to happen, I (you) have to be willing to repent and return to the first works.
Do we really have an option? Not really, if we take God's Word seriously. Notice the second part of verse 5. “Or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place – unless you repent.” In other words, if I refuse to align my life under God’s purpose, I am going to lose the blessings of God. I'm not going to lose my salvation, but I am going to lose my power, my victory, my light, my testimony. I don’t want that to happen and neither do you. That’s why I am taking 2009 as a time to realign to God’s purpose, the purpose He created me for – to glorify Him and enjoy Him forever! Will you join me?
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
Scripture Passage: Revelation 2:1-7
The beginning of a new year offers us a time to reflect on our lives and make needed life-course adjustments. In Revelation 2:1-7, Jesus spoke both a word of encouragement and challenge to the church at Ephesus, a church that was strong in service but lacking in love. They were in need of a spiritual alignment. Do we too need a similar spiritual alignment? If so, God graciously offers us the way back. “He who has an ear, let him hear” (v.7).
Introduction
1. This message to the church at Ephesus is the first in a series of seven messages by Christ sent to seven churches in Asia Minor. The risen Christ is speaking to His church on earth. He addresses the seven churches specifically, but He also addresses all churches in all times and in every place. The plural is used at 2:17, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 13, 22.
2. Jesus is also speaking to individuals. “He who has an ear, let him hear . . .” (v.7). So in this message directed first to Ephesus is a message to us as a church and us as individuals who make up the church.
About Ephesus
1. Because of an important harbor, Ephesus was called “The Gateway of Asia.” It was a wealthy trade center.
2. Ephesus was also a center of pagan religion and superstition. Here “Artemis” or “Diana” of the Ephesians was worshiped (see Acts 19:23-ff.). People would come from around the world to purchase amulets and charms (Acts 19:27).
3. Ephesus was a remarkable center of early Christianity. Paul stayed here longer than anywhere else and developed some deep and long lasting relationships (Acts 20:17-38). Timothy was appointed by Paul as the first Bishop (1 Tim. 1:3). John too was a leader in the early church at Ephesus. Aquilla and Priscilla and Apollos preached and taught in Ephesus (Acts 18:19, 24, 26). So Ephesus has the tremendous distinction as a great center of early Christianity.
I. A CONFIRMATION (2:1)
The first thing that we notice is that there is a confirmation from Christ. “Angel” translates as “messenger.” Christ is addressing the leaders of the church, His messengers, His angels. What confirmation does Jesus give?
1. The Church Is Kept Secure in Heaven
“He holds . . .” The biblical word “kratein” means Christ has complete control of the church, He holds the whole and not the part. If the church will submit to Christ’s control, it will never go astray.
2. The Church Experiences Christ’s Presence on Earth
“Walks” speaks of Christ’s unwearied activity in the midst of His churches. He’s not confined to one church in one location. Here is a promise of His presence.
II. A COMMENDATION (2:2-3, 6)
1. A Serving Church – “works”
The Ephesians had serving hearts. The put feet to their faith.
2. A Sacrificing Church – “labor”
This means to labor to the point of exhaustion. The Ephesians went beyond what was expected.
3. A Steadfast Church – “patience”
The word “hupomone” means to endure or to bear up under difficult circumstance.
4. A Separated Church – “cannot bear . . . tested”
Naturally, because of their status as a center of paganism, there were many false teachers in Ephesus. Paul encountered them and warned the church to watch out for these sheep in wolves clothing (Acts 20:28-31). Jesus also warned against false prophets (Matt. 7:15-2). The Ephesians took Christ’s and Paul’s warnings to heart.
An example of their ability to discern the false from the truth was their refusal to fall victim to the teachings of the Nicolatians (v.6). The Nicolatians tried to conform Christianity to the world. They tended to be wealthier and they had more to give up in following Jesus. They tried to have it both ways (see Jas. 4:4). But the Ephesians knew that the call to follow Jesus was a call to total commitment to Christ.
5. A Suffering Church – “persevered”
The Ephesians desired to live pure lives and as a result they suffered for their convictions.
III. A CONDEMNATION (2:4)
The church at Ephesus had much to be commended for. They were a model church in their purity and in their service, but Jesus has a word of condemnation to the church at Ephesus. Apparently, they had left their first love. Their devotion to Christ had cooled. They were once fervent and on fire for Christ. They were devoted to Him, but now they have grown cold and their works are now serving as a substitute for their relationship.
There is always the subtle temptation in the Christian life to allow "doing" to become a substitute for "being." God is more interested in us "becoming" the person He has created us to be, rather than in us "doing" for Him. God is interested in the relationship first. Have we left our first love? Have you left your first love? Have you allowed "doing" to become a substitute for "being"? Do we have purity without passion? There was no gross immorality in the church at Ephesus, just a deadening familiarity with God.
IV. A COMMAND (2:5)
Here is God’s gracious way back. Here’s how we rekindle our “first love” relationship with God.
1. Remember
Remembrance is the first step back to God (Lk, 15:17). We need a coming to our senses, a wake up call, we need to remember what it was like. Remember when you came to church excited to sing and to hear God speak to you. Remember when you gave and you served with joy not because you had to but because you wanted to. Remember when it bothered you to sin and when holiness was something that you pursued and prayed for. Remember when the things of God were not so familiar to you. Remember when you read your Bible and your heart was stirred. If you’re not where you once were, it’s time to do some remembering.
2. Repent
Repentance goes beyond remembering and saying “I used to do . . .” Repentance is not just feeling bad about where we are, it is taking a step back towards your relationship with God. “Choice not chance determines your future.” Repentance is a conscious decision to reverse course. It means to change direction. It’s more than going down memory lane, it’s a choice to reclaim the wonder of the relationship that you once had with Christ. The prodigal son remembered, but then he repented, he said “I will arise . . .” (Lk. 15:18). Remembrance without repentance only produces remorse and regret. But remembrance coupled with repentance produces rejoicing.
3. Return
“Do the first works.” Here is the key to repentance. Here is the essence of realigning your life. Go back and do what you used to do. What were you doing when you were closer to God? You probably were attending worship regularly, attending a Bible study with other believers, giving generously, spending time with God each day, dealing with sin in your life instead of justifying it. In reality, you were placing God first. You were living in Christ and you had victory in Jesus.
I propose that in 2009, it’s time to realign our lives to the purpose for which we were created for – to glorify God and enjoy Him forever!!! But if that is going to happen, I (you) have to be willing to repent and return to the first works.
Do we really have an option? Not really, if we take God's Word seriously. Notice the second part of verse 5. “Or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place – unless you repent.” In other words, if I refuse to align my life under God’s purpose, I am going to lose the blessings of God. I'm not going to lose my salvation, but I am going to lose my power, my victory, my light, my testimony. I don’t want that to happen and neither do you. That’s why I am taking 2009 as a time to realign to God’s purpose, the purpose He created me for – to glorify Him and enjoy Him forever! Will you join me?
For His Glory!
Pastor Joe
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