Once again I was in Paulden Christian Fellowship. Pastor Paul had just finished the Book of Acts, so I was allowed to give a summary, not just of Acts and not even just of the gospel, but the whole biblical story was briefly recounted, comparing and contrasting the Kingdom of Darkness and the Kingdom of Light.
As usual, below are my rough notes (more of an outline) and the PowerPoint.
Advancing Hope
An Advent Teaching on the Acts of God, the Acts of Men, and the Acts of the Apostles
Last week was the Scripture reading from Romans 10 about confessing with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believing in your heart that God raised him from the dead saving you. Then Pastor Paul finished going through the book of Acts, discussing some people believing and some not, that some people found hope and some turned violent.
Genesis 1:1-3 – God made everything, including light Genesis 1:26-28 – God created humanity in His image, gave them dominion over His creation Genesis 3 – Humanity gives the power of dominion to the Serpent, pushing back God’s light. Genesis 4 – Sin increases with two lies: 1) “I am the most important” and 2) “I do what I want.” Darkness spreads. v. 26 – The birth of religion about 250 years after the Garden. Genesis 6-11 – Sin increases, to the point God destroys the world by a flood. Even after, the command to fill the Earth is ignored, adding the lie “We can make God come to us.” Darkness and confusion spread. Genesis 12-22 – Abraham is called and promised a land, descendants, and to be a blessing to the world (and the promise of “bless those who bless you …”) Genesis 26:1-5; 27:27-29; 28:10-22 – The promise passed on to Isaac and Jacob (and the promise of “bless those who bless you …” Genesis 48-49 – Jacob/Israel blesses his sons, including the promise seen in Genesis 3:15, 15:7-18; 22:11-18 – 49:10-45 – Through Israel, specifically Judah, will come one who blesses the world through garments washed in “blood of wine.”
Exodus shows God’s chosen people being redeemed from slavery and given the Law.
Exodus 19:5-6 – God’s treasured possession, “a kingdom of priests” They failed. Miserably. Yet, this is the people blessed by a pagan prophet in Numbers 23-24 (including 24:9 – “Blessed are those who bless you, and cursed are those who curse you.”) that God will give Israel the Promised Land, and one will come with Dominion. God uses a disobedient people to show how much we all fail as humans, and even with direct revelation from God can we all fall.
It was often non-Israelites that were used: Rahab the Jericho prostitute; Ruth the Moabite (great-great grandmother and great grandmother of David); Uriah the Hittite; foreign kings who obeyed God better than Israel; Nineveh, despite Jonah; three astrologers visiting a baby born the King of the Jews.
Still, an ancient call on Israel stood: Isaiah 42:5-9; 49:6-8 – Called to be light, but Ezekiel 5:5-6
John 1:1-18 – The light comes into this dark world. Yet, the secret of Jesus coming was hidden in plain sight in these Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 2:7-16.
What was Acts about?
Acts 1:8-11 – The Church is gifted the power of God by the Holy Spirit to spread His light into this dark world. In Acts 2 we see the reversal of the Tower of Babel and Israel’s rebellion in the wilderness when 3,000 are saved at the preaching of the gospel in language all can understand. The light begins to spread from Jerusalem to Judeah to Samaria and even out to the Gentiles, yet … Acts 28:24-28 – Whether Israelite or Gentile, many will not hear, but more Gentiles will listen. Acts is a reminder that the Holy Spirit-filled Church fights against the darkness of sin, ignorance, and rejection of God.
Acts shows the cosmic battle of darkness vs. light.
In Matthew 5-7 and John 15-16, Jesus warned that if we abide in Him and His Word, the world will hate us as it hated Him, yet His death and resurrection have shown that He is more powerful. Evil has spread, and it was easy for it to spread. People like Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5), Saul of Tarsus (pre-conversion) and Simon Magus (Acts 8), various religious adherents and Christianity-adjacent groups (like the sons of Sceva and Artemis worshipers in Acts 19), and many others show how Truth can be, is, and will be twisted for selfish, controlling, and deceptive purposes. Remember it was the most religious who caused the most problems in the time of Acts, but the irreligious can be just as unreceptive and violent. (Look at the past few months.)
What does it mean for us?
We know Christ can return at any time, and this is our hope! We know that death came because of Adam’s sin, and we await that time Jesus finally does away with death. Until then, we persevere and join with our Lord weeping about the pain of death and sin (John 11:35), and we offer the hope of Christ’s return and complete defeat over death.
We know sin has affected everything in this world, causing pain, sadness, and separation; hatred, distrust, and violence. Christ took all of that on Himself on the cross and overcame it all that wonderful Sunday morning, so we point people to the hope of the cross and Christ’s return, showing that the Holy Spirit changes us, one by one, to overcome the pain, sadness, hatred, distrust, and violent separation in our own lives. So, we do not despair when the world is crazy, wicked, and violent. We know God has a plan. He warned in Matthew 24, echoed by Paul in the letters to the Thessalonians and to Timothy, that as the Kingdom of God progresses, there will be a time before His return that will only get worse, with many falling away from the faith, with many false prophets, apostles, and anointed ones arising, and with lawlessness growing as the accepted norm.
What does this look like?
People denying the importance of Israel, even saying the promise of those who bless Israel being blessed was not about modern Israel. (Then why is national Israel back in the land?) People declaring evil as good and good as evil, even making laws to that effect, and even from those who call themselves Christian. People preferring violence and violent religions as peaceful religions, all the while denouncing Christianity as violent. People in churches separating over issues that do not affect salvation.
What do we do?
We believe the gospel.
We love God by loving others sacrificially.
We love God by loving the Church.
We love God by sharing and defending the truth with love and respect.
Doing these spreads the light against the darkness. This is the beginning. Christ has already redeemed us, but we await our final redemption when He returns. By His wounds we are healed, but we watch out for where the dark deceptions of the Evil One creep in trying to keep the wounds open.
I was once again at Paulden Christian Fellowship, planned for nearly two weeks, so before the events of the first full week of September 2025. Fortunately and unfortunately, the message was ready for this week. I also was dealing with a cold.
As usual, below are my rough notes (in fact, very rough notes this time), so there is a deviation from what is written and what was said. (P.S. I made the correction to the PowerPoint that I reference in the sermon.)
Hebrews 11:1-12:3 – Long list of those who suffered for their faith.
Abel (Genesis 4)
Joseph (Genesis 37-40)
David (1 Samuel 18-30)
Most of the Prophets
John the Baptist
Stephen (Acts 6-7)
The Apostles and other Christians (Acts 3-8 and beyond)
Thousands (or millions) of martyrs through today
[Jesus] – Hebrews 12:2-3
Recent events also show it continues.
Approximately 380 million Christians today (opendoors.org)
[Confirmed] 4,476 killed in 2024
[Confirmed] 4,744 imprisoned in 2024
[Confirmed] 7,679 churches/properties attacked in 2024
North Korea, Somalia, Yemen, Libya, Sudan, Eritrea, Nigeria, Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan are the top 10
8 under Islam, 2 other tyrannical rule
Nigeria alone has at least 7,000 confirmed killed Christians THIS YEAR (as of August)
In the US
Rise in Persecution: In the past 15 years, so many Christian businesses, ministries, and individuals have faced civil and criminal legal troubles for standing for their biblical faith, such as the Masterpiece Cakeshop and Jack Phillips in Colorado. (I think Kim Davis of Kentucky is a slippery story, and musician/activist Sean Feucht is creating problems.)
Charlie Kirk:
Shot on Wednesday, 9/10, at Utah Valley University
Shooter appears to have come from a conservative Republican and Mormon home, who went to Utah State University, where he was apparently led into agreeing with Antifa and other radicalized political groups.
Engravings on bullet casings stated things like “Hey fascist! CATCH!”, the Antifa logo, and other sayings in support of groups that on the left side of politics.
The shooter and his family disagreed with Charlie Kirk, but his family showed their disagreement over violence when they turned him in to authorities, knowing many were calling for the death penalty.
Step on toes: Remember that political violence happens on both sides. (Gabbi Giffords, JFK, MLK, abortion bombings of the 1980’s-90’s and later in 2020’s, shots fired/knives bared at the White house in the past four administrations). Both sides of the political aisle have ramped up violent rhetoric.
But this serves as a reminder that we have a message that divides:
Luke 12:49-53
Matthew 10:16-25
Matthew 24:3-14
John 16:33
Remember First:
v. 11: Unlike Paul, most of us don’t get a message straight from Jesus confirming anything past today, but we have the message that He is with us (Matthew 28:20; John 16) and that we have hope of eternity when we die (Luke 23:43).
Remember Second:
vv. 12-15: Some conspiracies are true, and people will hate us for preaching righteousness.
Matthew 10 – 10:26-28
Remember Third:
vv. 16-22: We fight for life and light & reveal darkness, but we remember those made in God’s image.
Ignorance: Acts 7:60; Luke 23:34 (They think they’re right.) [examples of feeling they’re right compared with “our side”]
Deceived: Romans 1:22-25 (God let them go their own way.)
Reach out: Matthew 5:44; 2 Corinthians 5:11-16; Jude 22-23
I was invited back to Paulden Christian Fellowship, continuing their series through the book of Acts. I covered most of the chapter, giving a broad overview of imitating Paul’s love for the Church.
As usual, below are my rough notes. I deviated several times and added a few thoughts. Also, I had a PowerPoint presentation, also attached.
My first sermon in Paulden was a little over four years ago, and I have loved coming to this little (and no longer so little!) congregation whenever I am able. I pray every time that God would speak through me. I don’t how well I get out of the way and let Him speak, and there is always room for growth, but I have been enjoying every moment and seen how others have grown even from the words I share. But this is not about me or you. At least not directly. Not yet. For nearly two years we (especially under Pastor Paul) have been working through the book of Acts, and we are still in Acts 20 this week. We are supposed to study Jesus, but in Acts we’re studying the Church, and often Paul in particular. [1 Corinthians 11:1; Philippians 4:9 (What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me – practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.)] So, let’s continue looking at Paul’s example, remembering that he purposely avoided going to Ephesus on his journey from Troas on his way to Jerusalem. He was in a hurry, and I think he knew he would want to spend more time with the people he came to love in Ephesus.
vv. 17-27 – Paul loved the Church. He is a good example of loving the Church, desiring to give everything to the Church for the glory of Christ and the betterment of individuals and the community. And we see how much the church at Ephesus loved Paul – about 35 miles as the crow flies to Miletus, at least a day’s travel if not two or three days. From his arriving in Ephesus until this meeting in Miletus, it has been nearly 3.5 years, and this is now at least four months since he left the city. And they hurried to him, just as he was hurrying to Jerusalem for Pentecost. Paul demonstrated how church leaders should act:
v. 19 – humility and passion – see vv. 33-38: working so that he and his team wouldn’t take money from the Ephesians.
Passion for the Word and the people
vv. 20,27 – boldly declaring and defending God’s Word
vv. 21-27 – proclaiming the saving gospel with little regard for himself, knowing persecution often accompanies sharing the gospel.
He then gives advice on the Church should behave.
Being the Church: Humble Passion, Defending the Truth, and Bold Declaration
Humble Passion: vv. 26-28
Paul called the leadership of the Church to watch their own conduct and handling of the Word. [2 Timothy 2:2 – raise up others to teach. 1 Timothy 2-3, Titus 1-3 – protect your walk and witness and raise up the Church in the Word.] We are not all called pastors, but in case any thinks this may not apply to them, remember Peter’s words in [1 Peter 2:9-10] that we are a royal priesthood – all believers are priests before God, and thus all are called to grow in godliness, understanding His Word, and helping each other grow. Peter referred to Exodus 19:6 in doing this, and was reminding his readers of Paul’s words in Ephesians 2:10, that after being saved by grace through faith we find our calling in doing good works for God’s glory. The greatest work is sharing the gospel and growing in godliness as the Church. This is why were commanded to “walk out your faith with fear and trembling” in Philippians 2:12. We should be passionate about spreading God’s glory, realizing He has entrusted us with His glory. When the Commandments say to have no other god, to not take the Lord’s name in vain, and to not bear false testimony, for us it is the reminder that He has called us, and we are His ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:17-20). When people look at us, we represent the Creator of everything and Savior of humanity. This should humble us as it changes us and empowers us.
And we are empowered to defend truth.
Defend the Truth: vv. 28-31
How many times did Paul face others who either denied the Word of God or twisted it? The letter to the Galatians was against the “Judaizers” who said new believers had to be circumcised and obey the Law of Moses. (Acts 15’s Jerusalem Council largely refutes that.) Practically everywhere Paul went, including Ephesus, had both Jews and idolaters trying to silence him or change the truth. Consider Simon the Magician of Samaria in Acts 8. Some think he may have been one of the first Gnostic “Christians” to spread lies about Christ and God, someone who tried to buy the Holy Spirit. Now consider the people today who are either legalistic about how to live or legalistically “anti-legalist” about what to believe. The extreme fundamentalists who say you can never do anything wrong, or you prove you’re not saved. On the other hand, you have the hyper-charismatics (or NAR – New Apostolic Reformation) that say you should be prophesying, speaking in tongues, and performing miracles, signs, and wonders. Paul did not do as many miracles around people, even considering Troas and Eutychus being raised from the dead. He did many, yes, but remember what Acts 14:3 says, that the miracles, signs, and wonders came confirmed the witness of God’s grace taught by the Apostles. As he wrote in 2 Corinthians 11 and is backed up by 2 Peter 2 and Jude, many perform these miracles, signs and wonders to get money and deceive people to fulfill their own desires and lusts, especially those who call themselves apostles but had no direct connection to Jesus and the Twelve. Rather, as Jesus reminded in the parable of Lazarus and the rich man in Luke 16, if people won’t believe the Scriptures, neither will they believe someone rising from the dead. That is, miracles are not enough. Moses (in Deuteronomy 13 and 18) and Jesus (in Matthew 7 and 24) warned that prophets, apostles, and christs (anointed ones) would arise and even perform miracles and make true prophecies, but they are not to be trusted if they lead people away from the true gospel. So, as Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 5:19-22 and John said in 1 John 4:1, we are to test prophecies and miracles to confirm they are from God. We also defend the truth against lies, mistruths, and misunderstandings, being prepared to give gentle, respectful reasons for why we believe (1 Peter 3:15). 2 Corinthians 10:4-6 reminds us to fight spiritual and verbal attacks with the power of the Spirit, which is the Word (Ephesians 6:10-20). Meaning, we proclaim the Word of God to defend the Word, knowing it will anger others and possibly put is in harms way.
Bold Declaration: vv. 31-35
It is the Word of God – the Old and New Testaments, the gospel message of Jesus Christ – that saves and builds up. We do not seek riches like the hypocritical preachers and teachers (but we also do not necessarily shun wealth, but we seek to honor God in all things.) Rather, we help each other know the Word and know the Word better. We teach and admonish each other. Most importantly, we ensure that all people hear the gospel. Jesus was speaking to His closest disciples in Matthew 28, but the early Church grew exponentially knowing the Great Commission of 28:18-20 was for all disciples, all who believe in Him and obey His commands. Hebrews 13:6, quoting Psalm 118:6, reminds us that God is on our side, so what can men do to us?
Can they hurt us? Sure. Can they kill us? Sure.
But as Jesus said, “do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28)
He also said in Matthew 5 that we are blessed when people insult us, revile us, and persecute us, because we will be with God for eternity in His Kingdom. And how do we know we can face this persecution and grow in the Word faithfully?
We see this with Paul, too, in fact, through this whole passage: We are the family of Christ.
We lift each other up, care for each other, and correct and instruct each other. Look at Acts 2:42-47: The people devoted themselves to the Apostles’ teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer, sharing what they had as anyone had need. In other words, they studied the Bible (Apostles’ teaching), spent time together, ate together, prayed together, and took care of each other.
Family.
It is the messy lives bumping into each other and helping each other through by the power of the Holy Spirit and Scripture lived out. Even if you have to travel for two days just to cry, say goodbye, and encourage each other.
So, what do we do?
Love the Church.
Even when some of the people are rude, careless, and messed up. Even when it’s scary. Even when you need more help than you feel like you can give. Love the Church. It’s what Paul did. It’s what Jesus called us to.
What are the two greatest commandments? (Matthew 22:36-39)
And Jesus added a new commandment in [John 13:34-35] – Love the Church.
It is not about you or me. It is about all of us in Christ. Study God’s Word, by yourself and with others, so that you can know it and live it. As the Church. Defend God’s Word by listening to good teachers and pastors and learning how to make good arguments against lies, mistruths, and misunderstandings. And you are never doing this by yourself, as you have the Church behind you and the Holy Spirit within you, especially as you love the Church and study the Bible. Be prepared for difficulties and pushback, even persecution. Jesus warned us (John 14:27 as well as the Beatitudes of Matthew 5), but we have the Church to surround us and the Holy Spirit granting us peace, grace, courage, and strength to endure anything.
But we must live with each other, support each other, and encourage each other. [Hebrews 10:23-25, 12:1-4, 13:1-9,15-18,20-21]
I preached again! I was honored to once again be with the brethren in Paulden Christian Fellowship. As usual, these are my rough notes, so not necessarily everything I said while preaching.
A World Upside Down: Reception, Resistance, Recompense – Acts 17:1-9
Ever been told news that changed everything? (Birth, Death, Dying, New Job, Lost Job, Prison, Debt [Forgiveness])
[Read passage]
v. 6c – “These men who have turned the whole world upside down” – More true than they realized. The gospel is a world- and life-changing message.
The true Roman Road was the Egnatian Way that went from Byzantium (Constantinople/Istanbul) to the west coast of Greece, about 1000 miles, to head toward Rome. Each of the cities listed are about a day’s journey by foot from each other, so that from Philippi to Thessalonica it’s about 100 miles.
Paul’s custom was to go to the synagogues in a city, and he spent three weeks showing/proving the truth of Jesus’ death and resurrection from the Hebrew Scriptures (OT: ex: Psalm 22, Isaiah 53, Zechariah 12-13).
The death and resurrection of Jesus is actually one of the most provable events in ancient history.
Three R’s: Reception, Resistance, and Recompense
Reception: v. 4: Some Jews, many devout Greeks, and a few leading women all believed.
Some Jews: We see that Jason is one who believed àRomans 16:21 calls Lucius (Acts 13:1), Jason (here), and Sosipater from Berea his “kinsmen” as an indicator that these are Jews. Jason may also have been one of the wealthier people as he housed them and had money to pay bail from prison.
Resistance: v. 5: Non-believing Jews get some wicked men of the rabble àthe lay-abouts and lazy men, prone to violence and crime, from the marketplace.
Continuing the trend begun in ancient times: the Israelites choosing the follow their idolatrous neighbors rather than what God has said. Choosing to try to kill the messengers rather than deal with their sin, like they did with the prophets.
Continuing the trend at Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion: “We have no king but Caesar!” “It is better to injure and kill these people!”
Continuing the trend seen in Acts: They’re messing up what we have, so let’s riot and get violent!
Recompense: (Payment) vv. 6-9: The people wanted retribution, but the authorities were paid the usual bail by Jason and the others. The people did not get the blood they hoped for, but it was still costly for the disciples.
Application:
Reception: What have you done with the gospel message? Do you believe, or are you resistant?
Resistance: We must realize that this fallen world will be resistant to the message, often getting violent.
Jewish Leadership (w/Jesus, Acts 4-9 … and the rest of Acts)
Roman government
Celsus (writing about 175)
Persecution around the world today. (2024: About 7,700 churches attacked; >200k displaced; >380M living under persecution)
Recompense: No, this is not where I call for giving to the church, though that is good for believers to do.
The world will want our blood, for violence to happen to us, to lie about us or misuse the truth (like with Jesus and the early Christians.)
Ironically, Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians deal with Christians who act more like the rabble seen in Acts 17, and he reminds those fearful for those who have died that we have hope in the Second Coming of Christ. God’s remuneration will come for all, with all of the verses that remind us of His vengeance and justice.
[2 Thessalonians 1:5-12]
Revelation 20-22 further reminds us that only those whose names are in the Lamb’s Book of Life will enter eternal life, while the rest receive their just punishment in the Lake of Fire.
We have hope, which helps face the troubles of this world, even with news that changes everything. (Birth, Death, Dying, New Job, Lost Job, Prison, Debt [Forgiveness])
The Good News of Jesus Christ should change everything about our lives. (Family, Friends, Work/Job/Business, seeing politics/government, community/global issues)
Change how we see truth.
Change how we see religion. Change how we think about God.
Pastor Scott is out of town on a much deserved family vacation. It also happens to be Father’s Day, and, being the only elder without kids and barely mentioning Father’s Day, it was fitting I was the one preaching.
Be forewarned: I step on all the toes.
As usual, below are my rough notes and not necessarily everything I said.
Proverbs 6:1-19 – Practical Warnings, or The Heart of the Matter
Intro
25 years ago, I was a fairly typical teenager. Like many, I dreamed of being a spy. A major difference, possibly, is that I enjoyed rooting for the Bond villains and other bad guys. I would point out where they went wrong and how I would do things differently. I was quite adept at coming up with very plausible stories to help me get away with all sorts of bad decisions, and I almost enjoyed interfering with others’ relationships, starting fights and arguments with “innocent words.”
What made me truly want to become a criminal mastermind was learning the story of Leopold & Loeb. 100 years ago (and three weeks and five days, as of this message) these two young men, at the ages of 19 and 18, committed a crime. They were very intelligent. They were graduate students at the University of Chicago, their hometown, and in 1921 they began an intimate relationship with each other. (Yes, that kind.)
They believed in the teachings of Nietzche’s Übermenschen (supermen), humans that were more evolutionary along than other mere humans. To prove it, they planned on kidnapping and killing someone to show how much smarter than everyone they were. They settled on Leopold’s distant cousin who happened to live down the street, and this way they could be close enough the investigation to watch it unfold. So, on May 21, 1924, they lured 14-year-old Bobby Franks into a rented car, killed him with a chisel and rope, and dumped his hydrochloric-acid-drenched face and nethers (to slow down identification) in a drainage pipe near Hammond, Indiana. Then they watched what happened, enjoying the lies and intrigue.
And I wanted to be better than them … at crime.
Thankfully, God got a hold of me not long after hearing this story for the first time. Today, I like using my mind to see how God’s Word changes lives. If you’ve been around long enough, you probably know one of my favorite things about biblical literature: chiasms – the hinged parallelisms of writing.
We elders were discussing the interesting ordering of Proverbs, that there seemed to be several passages about adultery, then today’s section, Proverbs 6:1-19, and then more passages about adultery. We saw it was a giant chiasm, hinging on what is found in this passage. Ultimately, we are all faithless adulterers toward God, but Proverbs 6:1-19 gives more details about this. Let’s look at it, starting with the last four verses, 16-19.
Message
We start with the chiasm of what God hates in vv. 16-19 vv. 16-19 [Read]
The first and last: Haughty eyes and sowing discord
the prideful, know-it-alls, and never-wrongs. I think of my own dad who is very smart, often the leader wherever he works, but with a rebellious pride issue. His know-it-all attitude and pride had gotten him into many fights in his life, and, while we were growing up, he often reminded us that he knew things better than we did. I think we can learn from him, though, in that after I became a Christian he reminded me he was raised Catholic. However, he was willing to put his pride aside to hear what changed his son.
This prideful, know-it-all mentality can also be the preachers/teachers that give false gospels and teachings.
Compare this with vv. 1-5 [Read]
This can be used to say avoid loans. Why does it line up with haughty eyes and sowing discord.
The latter 4 verses show this is pledging yourself to help someone. I can be financial, but it can be offering to help accomplish a task or even defend someone – taking sides in an argument.
Jesus explained this more clearly in Matthew 5:21-26 [Read]
Add in Jesus’ pronouncement of woes against the Scribes and Pharisees in Matthew 23:1-12, that they set standards and rules that are impossible to live by while not helping the people they demand perfection from, tithing money and food (which was required for the Temple Tax) but not helping those in need.
Think, then, of this passage as saying “If you helped someone to make yourself look good, or you realized you couldn’t actually help them, you have sinned and need to confess!”
The next match-up in: A lying tongue and false witness
doesn’t need much explanation. This definitely includes false preachers/teachers, but it is the people who just lie. It can come from fear (FOMO, losing/not getting friends, not being capable, possible consequences.) Like the previous part, it can come from pride: “I don’t have to lower myself to do that!”
Compare this with vv. 6-11 [Read]
It doesn’t seem to line up at first. Obviously, this is about laziness, which is true.
Lazy people also don’t want to put in the hard work required of … LIFE! So they come up with excuses, like in Proverbs 26:13, the sluggard that says there is a lion in the streets! [Or a bear at Safeway!] Laziness and lying often go hand in hand. “It’s not my fault!” “Why should I have to do this?” Remember that we are to love our neighbor to love God. Not working hurts our coworkers, bosses, employees, and ultimately ourselves. It also goes against the first command of God given to Man: “WORK (… the land and care for it.”)
Again, going back to the first match-up of haughty eyes and sowing discord, it can also look like Proverbs 26:17-19, meddling in someone else’s argument/fight or throwing firebrands and arrows into a crowd is like the person who gets situations heated up or flat out lies and then says “Just kidding!”
When we act like a know-it-all or insert ourselves into situations we have nothing to do with, we claim knowledge and help we can’t really offer, so we make matters worse and then act like we didn’t mean it or even get offended. (Sounds like much of our culture today, eh?)
The most dangerous are the people who claim to speak for God – teachers, preachers, pastors, prophets, and apostles – [2 Peter 2:1b-3,18-22] who twist God’s Word, “secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their sensuality, and because of them the way of truth will be blasphemed. And in their greed they will exploit you with false words. Their condemnation from long ago is not idle, and their destruction is not asleep. . . . For, speaking loud boasts of folly, they entice by sensual passions of the flesh those who are barely escaping from those who live in error. They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves[h] of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved. For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first. For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them. What the true proverb says has happened to them: “The dog returns to its own vomit, and the sow, after washing herself, returns to wallow in the mire.”” (Proverbs 26:11)
Which leads to the last pair in our chiasm …
The innermost pair: Hands that shed innocent blood and feet that run to evil
We see that false teachers mock the blood of Christ as they lead people into death.
Compare this with vv. 12-15 [Read]
False teachers are described as “worthless people, wicked men.”
How much do we see this in our world today, though, both inside and outside the church?
It all continues as a thread throughout, people who ask the same question as the serpent in Genesis 3, “Did God really say,” so that any lifestyle and sin can be justified. It is lazy interpretation of God’s Word, wicked deception from the pits of hell, and it literally costs lives.
It is like the fanaticism of Left-versus-Right politics, never listening to the other side, “because they’re all evil.”
“For ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God!” (Romans 3:23)
It is attacking another country, raping, torturing, and killing, and acting like the victim. (Yes, like Hamas against Israel or Russia against Ukraine.) It is also like acting like the ones defending themselves are innocent victims. (Ukraine still has many socialistic practices, and Israel is “the most woke nation” in the Middle East.)
Which all leads to the heart of the matter
A heart that devises wicked plans.
All these other things listed come from our own hearts!
We are not much different from “the days of Noah” nor Israel in the time of Judges, when we live as independently as we can (“No authority over me!” Which really means we live like we don’t need God, even as we claim to be worshiping Him.) while “all the thoughts of our hearts are wicked continually.”
Jeremiah got it right calling our hearts deceitful and desperately wicked (17:9). Yet, many people love repeating today, “Just follow your heart!”
When people ask why everything is wrong in the world, we can point to sin – and it’s in everyone’s heart. Only the grace of God through the blood of Christ can redeem us, but we must trust in Christ and follow His example with the help of the Holy Spirit to be able to live a life pleasing to God.
Otherwise, we find ourselves to be living worthless, wicked lives. As Isaiah reminds us in 64:6, even our good works apart from Christ are like filthy, used bathroom tissues, but in Christ our works are sanctified and meaningful.
When we try to do things on our own, God can use them for good, but we are lying to ourselves if we think we can earn any grace or goodness or the favor of God.
Here is the thing: on our own, we will sin. We need God to be able to do truly good things.
James 2:9 reminds us that if we stumble slightly in one area, we are guilty of breaking the whole Law of God.
Back to Leopold and Loeb, they were caught. How? There were only three people with the specific prescription glasses Loeb had. When they were dumping the body of Bobby Franks, his glasses fell out of his shirt pocket into the mud, and he didn’t realize it until they were back home in Chicago. He was also killed in prison by fellow inmates.
The connection here is that it only takes a little mistake to mess everything up. These two definitely highly intelligent men followed their hearts, and it led to murder, prison, and death.
However, like my own story, God can redeem lazy liars and rage-filled people. He does this as He described in Ezekiel 36(:26), when by the Spirit He replaces our heart of stone with a heart of flesh. He doesn’t just melt it. He replaces it.
The only work it takes on our part is the faith He gives us to trust in Christ and be transformed into His likeness.
We can learn from this.
Conclusion
To close, we see that Leopold and Loeb were the example of being haughty, prideful, deceptive, violent fools, and in many ways we are just like them. It feels icky to think that we are little better than Hitler, but compared to Jesus, that is what we are.
We commit crimes of pride and laziness, twisting God’s Word and serving our own hearts. We want to be helpful and faithful, but we serve out of self-interest or fear more often than not.
We thus learn from this that we should seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33), and the love of God will guide us in all things, redeeming our selfish, fear-filled actions to become truly good, Spirit-led works for the glory of God the Father in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.
The only “supermen” we tend to see in human history are liars, tyrants, and murderers. The only truly Super Man was the God-Man, Jesus Christ, the one who didn’t go out to kill but was killed for us. When we seek Him, He not only saves us from ourselves and God’s wrath, He makes us like Him.
Jesus is the wisdom of God.
Should we be wise with our money, our words, and our actions? Absolutely. And God helps us with that. Most importantly, we are wise with our hearts and souls, seeking the Wisdom sent from above to redeem us, letting Him work in and through us to redeem this world.
If He can take a violent, lying, adulterous, horrible sinner like me (and like Paul, who persecuted the Church) and turn my life around, He can do that for anyone.
You. Your family. Your friends.
Your enemies.
As Proverbs has already said multiple times, seek God. Fear and love Him, and His wisdom will come to you.
Our Pastor Scott Mitchell delivered our Sunrise message this year.
Remember that these are rough notes and not necessarily everything said!
Sunrise Sermon
One thing we have in common with Jesus: early riser… mountain…up – fight against it or work with it… the mountain is real…and will not be ignored… our only choice is how we respond to it… the tomb was empty our only choice is how we respond to it… did the enemies in the Bible ever deny that the tomb was empty? 28:11 – behold, some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests all that had taken place. 12 And when they had assembled with the elders and taken counsel, they gave a sufficient sum of money to the soldiers 13 and said, “Tell people, ‘His disciples came by night and stole him away while we were asleep.’ 14 And if this comes to the governor’s ears, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” 15 So they took the money and did as they were directed. And this story has been spread among the Jews to this day. they never denied it…because they could not. no they only attempted to offer another explanation because they opposed him back to the beginning… Guard
27:62 The next day, that is, after the day of Preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate 63 and said, “Sir, we remember how that impostor said, while he was still alive, ‘After three days I will rise.’ 64 Therefore order the tomb to be made secure until the third day, lest his disciples go and steal him away and tell the people, ‘He has risen from the dead,’ and the last fraud will be worse than the first.” 65 Pilate said to them, “You have a guard[j] of soldiers. Go, make it as secure as you can.” 66 So they went and made the tomb secure by sealing the stone and setting a guard. they opposed Christ – they created a situation where the only way he was getting out of that tomb was a miracle – thus solidifying the evidence that there was a miracle that day – the miracle of our Lord’s resurrection… God will receive glory through our lives – Pharoah – in abject defeat Moses – working with Him today we’re going to look at 2 different responses… that of the enemy – and that of the women who loved Jesus… at the cross.watching when he was buried…there sunday morn… the enemy 28 Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. 2 And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like
lightning, and his clothing white as snow. 4 And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. fear – abject paralyzing – cause an accident fear -fear that made them faint… why – because they had set themselves in opposition to this mighty one and his angelic messengers… the followers 5 But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. 6 He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he[k] lay. 7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” 8 So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” why fear –
you hear the Lord you love and came to anoint his body but now he’s gone…its overwhelming… fear – yes – you see a majestic angel and you freak out – thats the Biblical thing to do… why great joy – why do not be afraid … because the victorious one who has risen is the one you love and He is on your side… the choice is still real today – the tomb is empty – our only choice is how we respond… we see this in acts 17:30 Acts 17: 30 The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, 31 because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.” 3 responses: 32 Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked. But others said, “We will hear you again about this.” 33 So Paul went out from their midst.
34 But some men joined him and believed, among whom also were Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and others with them. which group are you in this morning – mocking – choosing the things of this world over the risen Lord? fear – terrible gut wrenching fear is in order…. this world is going down – and if you’re clinging to it instead of trusting Christ – you’ll go down with it… 1 john 2:15-17 15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. 17 And the world is passing away along with its desires… wanting to hear more about this? maybe you have questions…that’s ok… Lee strobel – the case for Christ Who Moved the Stone? Frank Morison, whose real name was Albert Henry Ross, was a skeptical British journalist when he began his research, but it convinced him of the historicity of the resurrection… but whoever does the will of God abides forever. what is the will of God? what does he want us to do?
John 6:28-29 28 Then they said to him, “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?” 29 Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” for those who believe… fear – yes – because this is an awesome God! but also joy – and victory – 1 John 5:5 Who is it that overcomes the world except the one who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? this world is going down – but if you believe in the risen Lord – you will rise with Him…its as though you have on a spiritual jetpack….when the ground gives way – you will remain afloat… what’s your response to the empty tomb? I pray you believe and find hope in the death and resurrection of our Lord… 1 Peter 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead
I preached again! I was honored to once again be with the brethren in Paulden Christian Fellowship. As usual, these are my rough notes, so not necessarily everything I said while preaching.
The Message for All – Acts 8:25-40
Intro
Thank you who live in the wilderness of Paulden, AZ, for welcoming me.
I was challenged by some friends to continue in the book of Acts but also to include Palm Sunday and birthdays.
Easy.
Jesus began His ministry by being sent into the wilderness to be tempted by Satan. He went to a place of wandering and seclusion to show He was ready to best Satan and evil and also fulfill the promises to Israel and others.
Jesus ended His ministry making His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, being praised by people who would later call for His death. Yet, He came to overcome death.
Likewise, today happens to be my wife’s birthday, and I can promise you, she is excited that she can spend her birthday hearing the Word of God with the gathered saints of God.
And I promise, that as we get into Acts 8, these will be relevant. (Not so much that it’s her birthday.
In fact, ask her and many who have known me for a long time (or relatively short time), I prefer to celebrate a day other than my own birthday, October 26.
I celebrate January 9 over October 26, because that is the day I finally said “Yes” to Jesus coming into my life. I call it my Re-Birthday, the day I was born again.
Maybe you don’t remember the day you became a believer in Jesus Christ as your Savior, and that’s okay. You can celebrate your birthday, then, as the day God brought you into this world. You can celebrate the day you were baptized.
Maybe you don’t know Jesus this way, yet. It’s my prayer that after this message you may know that the message of Jesus, the gospel, is for you, and that you can believe this truth.
And for you who believe – now or later – may you be encouraged to share the truth of this message that’s for all people.
Now, join me in Acts 8, starting in verse 25.
Body
[Read Acts 8:25-40]
There are three important things to know from this passage:
We must be ready with the gospel at all times.
The gospel goes out to all people.
The gospel is for all kinds of people.
Let’s take these one at a time:
We must be ready with the gospel at all times.
Philip went to the Samaritans and then found himself in a desolate place and later in more Gentile cities.
For a Jewish believer, he kept finding himself surrounded by people who are unclean and unwelcome, and the wilderness was understood as the place of wandering and judgment.
We’ll get to the unclean and unwelcome in a few moments.
Remember, Adam and Eve were pushed into the wilderness after the Fall, and Israel spent 40 years wandering the wilderness after their unfaithfulness.
This would be uncomfortable for him on many levels.
Philip encounters a man reading from our Old Testament.
Do you know the Old Testament at all? At least a little?
Do you know the gospel well enough to connect it with Old Testament truths?
Do you know the gospel well enough to connect it with situations people are in?
Philip is able to share the gospel because he spent the last 4-6 years learning from Jesus
He was an Apostle, following Jesus in ministry, and it’s believed Stephen was killed 1-3 years after Christ’s resurrection.
If you believe in Christ, you should have a desire to learn about him and from Him.
Daily study should be important. (Yes, it’s okay to miss a day reading. It’s about desire and focus.)
Knowledge comes from exposure and experience. We must be studying the Word so that the Spirit can remind us of it.
John 14:26 says the Holy Spirit will teach us all things and remind us of Jesus words, which is to say that He teaches us through the inspired Word, the Bible, and reminds us of what it says.
As to the gospel, explaining that will cover the last two points simultaneously
The gospel goes to all people.
The gospel is for all kinds of people.
God promised redemption, restoration, and salvation.
In Genesis 3:15, God promises that a male descendent of Eve will destroy the tyranny of deception and separation.
In Genesis 12:1-3, God promises Abraham that through his descendants will come one who will bless all the nations.
In the Law (Genesis-Deuteronomy), specifically in Deuteronomy 18, God promises a great Prophet will arise who will teach people and show them God.
In 1 Chronicles 17, God promises David that he will have a descendant who will be King forever.
In the Prophets, especially Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel, God promises a savior who will be God and a Man, who will take away sins and welcome all people into God’s family.
The excluded will be included.
Especially in Leviticus (21-23), God explains that Gentiles (non-Israelites), murderers, anyone with deformities, and people who practice abominable practices are at best not allowed in the Temple to approach God or at worst should be killed.
It specifically mentions those whose genitals are crushed or removed … as in a eunuch. They were excluded from entering the Temple at all, while there was even a place Gentiles could gather.
Now consider Jesus’ words and what we see specifically through Philip.
Jesus said in Matthew 11:5 and Mark 2:17 that He came to heal the sick and call sinners to repentance and righteousness.
In John 4:23-24, Jesus says the time had arrived when people could worship God anywhere in Spirit and Truth.
In Acts 1:8, Jesus tells the Apostles that they will be His witnesses “in Jerusalem and all of Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Remember that the Northern tribes were removed from prominence, their descendants having become the nation of Samaria. (They’re called Jews due to Judah being the main faithful tribe, and Judea is the area they live.)
The Samaritans were “mixed-bloods,” having Gentile relations, so they were considered unclean and abominable.
Where did Philip and the other Apostles go first? (8:4,25) Samaria!
The understanding of the Jews is that the Queen of Sheba came from “the ends of the earth”: that was Ethiopia.
Philip encounters an Ethiopian!
The gospel is shown as already reaching the ends of the earth!
Philip then “found himself” suddenly in mostly Gentile cities!
In Jerusalem, we see Greek Jews hearing the message, then Samaritans, even a magician (sorcerer) is able to receive the message (though Simon denied it through his greed), and now we see a eunuch, someone with a deformity that keeps him from the Temple, can worship God and be included in the assembly of believers!
What is the gospel?
As Romans reminds us again and again, as stated in 3:9-23, all of us are sinners. Since the Fall of Adam and Eve through today, all people rebel against God and live contrary to His ways. We all think we can do something to earn salvation, earn God’s favor, that we’re good enough or because we do more good than bad that we’re okay. We can never do enough good, and in fact none of what we do is truly good (apart from Christ.)
Sin is disobedience, separation, and denial of God in every area of our lives. It is not loving God as we should, people as we should, and things of this world (including people and our own ideas about God) too much.
Yet, God promised a way, a Prophet King who would reveal God, restore relationship, and remove sin from our lives.
Jesus is that promised Prophet King, the One who is truly God and truly Man, the only one who could perfectly obey God and make the payment only a man could make.
He told us in John 3 that one must be born again, born of the Holy Spirit in faith in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. With faith comes a New Birth, a Re-Birthday.
And we know that He reigns now in heaven, at the right hand of God as ruler and Judge.
Now, not all will be believe and be saved, but He has shown us that no one is excluded from this offer of salvation and relationship: the one who hates, the one who kills, the one who is addicted to substances and money, the one who loves sex, the one who commits adultery, the prisoner, the slave, the rich, the poor, black and white and everything in between, “from every tribe and language and people and nation” (Revelation 5:9). There are examples throughout Scripture.
Just as Jesus came into Jerusalem being praised and asked to save us (“Hosannah!”), when we believe He can save us He comes into our lives by the Holy Spirit living in us.
And when we believe this about Christ saving us, we know Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 6:11: “And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.”
We find we have a new birth, for we are a new Creation in Christ Jesus our Lord (2 Corinthians 5:17) … and His ambassadors of the faith calling all to be reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:20).
But, as James 2:17 reminds us, “faith without works is dead.”
If we say we believe, but we never share it with others, do we really believe?
Do we believe we are truly saved?
Do we believe this message is for all people?
Or do we think some are not worthy of salvation?
If God can save a murdering adulterer (David), prostitutes (Rahab and Mary), vulgar fishermen (most of the Apostles), and even someone who killed Christians (Paul), people who came from God’s chosen people as well as different colors and nations, then He can save anyone.
May we show we have faith by sharing that faith with others.
Romans 10:8-17
Jesus Himself has sent us: Matthew 28:18-20
Conclusion & Application
If you have decided today that you believe this message, awesome! Happy Re-Birthday! Welcome to the family of God! Please, let me or someone else know! You are now born again into new, everlasting life with Jesus.
If you still have questions, awesome! Please, talk with me or someone else!
For all of us who believe, may we know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is the message of our salvation, and not only for us but for the whole world.
May we grow in this faith and the understanding of who Christ is, seeking God and His growing, righteous Kingdom through the reading of the Bible, listening to sermons and teachings, and encouraging each other to grow in Christ.
May we desire to share the truth of Christ with everyone we know and everyone we meet. Yes, it’s scary at times, but it’s also so important.
And, like the Ethiopian, if you have yet to be baptized, what is stopping you? This man saw water available and asked to be baptized immediately, to show that he accepts his new Family, the Church, and that Christ is Lord. If you desire to be baptized, tell us!
For all of us, may we see that Jesus is ALREADY marching across this world with His gospel through us, the Church. His next Triumphal Entry will be His return, when He comes to dwell with His people on earth for eternity. When He returns (or we die), it is too late to choose His Life, but we will be there celebrating our God who has saved us.
Let this encourage us to share the message for all urgently, but lovingly and compassionately.
He has sent us into the world before He comes back to the world. May we share this message with all.
Prayer
Our Lord, we thank You that you have saved us. We thank You that, even though we denied You, Your ways, and Your love, You have cleansed us, redeemed us, and called us Your own.
By Your Holy Spirit whom You sent to us, we ask that You now send us out boldly into our world to proclaim Your message. Empower us to learn this message. Embolden us to share this message. Fill us with hope, wonder, and anticipation that You are working in and through us to change this world, to prepare people for Your next Triumphal Entry, to show them that You have called us all to Yourself.
Our great God, we thank You for your Word, for Your love and grace, for Your strength and faithfulness, and for Your promise to always be with us and to go before us.
Guide us in all truth. Grow us in grace. Help us to love you by loving all with the message You have sent to us all.
Thank You for calling us friends, sons and daughters through Your Son, Your redeemed and loved ones. Thank You for new birth and new love for all, especially for You, our Creator, our Redeemer, our Father.
I preached again! I was honored to once again be with the brethren in Paulden Christian Fellowship. As usual, these are my rough notes, so not necessarily everything I said while preaching.
For or Against: Counted Worthy – Acts 5:28-42
Intro
Growing up: Shy kid, but antagonized religious people due to family’s history (hurt), until it clicked. Challenged teachings. Challenging things to hear got to me.
As a Christian: Frequently challenged with tough questions. Had to learn some grace and to develop a squishy-tough skin. (Huggable and patient while shrugging off attacks.)
In Acts 5, we see the early church in a similar situation: Apostles trying to deal with new people with a need to show grace. They also keep getting arrested, as seen here. Sometimes freed, as Pastor Paul talked about last week and will be seen again.
Last time, they were freed to go back and preach, which brings us back to being arrested again, picking up in verse 28.
Body – The Painful Truth
[Read vv. 28-32]
Point #1: The truth hurts, but we are faithful to God’s truth.
We know we should obey God rather than man, but it can be hard. “… you intend to bring this man’s blood upon us!” Yes! We are all guilty of Jesus’ death!
[Read Romans 3:22-25, 6:23; Colossians 2:13-14]
It is our sins that put Jesus on the cross, but it’s also the cross that forgives us, if we have faith in this truth.
Other truths hurt, too, especially when God’s Word intersects with our lives. This is why we need the “squishy-tough skin.”
Our society today says: “Live your truth.” (John 14:6) “Love is love.” Or “Just let people do what they want! They’re not hurting anyone.” (1 John 4:16) “Don’t judge!” (Matthew 7:1-6) “That’s just your interpretation.” (2 Peter 1:20-21)
When we disagree with people, basing it on God’s Word, they will feel attacked and hurt. We see it with the priests here, who are angry enough to kill.
[Read vv. 33]
When we share God’s truth, it offends our natural senses. “Why can’t I do whatever I want?!” We’ve each felt it. We may disagree with the Bible, but I guarantee all of our disagreements come from misunderstanding or selfish pride.
The alternative is our next point:
[#1: Truth hurts, but we are faithful to God’s truth.]
Point #2: Don’t try to hurt, but be honest and reasonable.
[Read vv. 33-39a – “found opposing God!”]
The Apostles said hurtful things, and many will feel hurt by the truth, but we can learn from Gamaliel. “Hey, if this isn’t of God, it will blow over.” Yes, we still defend biblical truth, but who would claim to know as much as Jesus’ Apostles?
Remember, too, that the Apostle Paul had been a student of Gamaliel, but how well did he listen? [Acts 87:58-8:3] Even as a Pharisee, he followed the leadership of the Sadducees in this area.
But look at Paul’s letters later: he defended truth, called out false teachers, and treated straying believers with grace.
Even in grace, people will react strongly and (sometimes trying to be reasonable) negatively. (Remember, the religious leaders think they’re defending good beliefs!)
[#1: Truth hurts, but we are faithful to God’s truth.]
[#2: Don’t try to hurt, but be honest and reasonable.]
Point #3: Expect to hurt, but stay faithful and joyful.
[Read vv. 39-42]
The leadership felt like they were letting the Apostles off easy with “merely” a beating.
Think of what’s happening in our society today: If you’ve ever said anything bad (by current standards), you should be cancelled. If you disagree with the current standards, you’re a [insert religious/sexual identity]-phobe. If you think there really is an absolute truth, you’re stupid and wrong.
And they think they’re being kind to everyone else, and even to Christians by trying to help them get over their stuffy old ways.
Yet, our society will vilify and mock us, and we’re even seeing increased reports of attacks on churches, Christians, and ministries and Christian-owned businesses. (Nov. 15, 2023, a pastor was shot in the head while street preaching just 100 miles south of here in Glendale.)
But how can we stay joyful in our faithfulness?
Jesus told us in the Beatitudes that we who are merciful and peacemakers are blessed, and in Matthew 5:10-12 that when we are persecuted, reviled, and mocked that we should rejoice!
Why?
Look at their words: they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the Name. They were considered worthy of the same treatment as our God.
Not for being a jerk. Not for putting people in their place. Not for strict adherence to a set of rules (though many will claim that’s all it is.)
They rejoiced knowing they are counted faithful like our Lord.
And we do that when we join them in going house to house teaching and preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Remember they met in houses and at the Temple.) Stay faithful, with grace, patience, and squishy-tough skin.
Application/Conclusion
What does it look like for us?
We keep calm when situations aren’t going the way we would like, remembering everyone is trying to get through this life. [And God is in control!]
We teach others God’s truth, even when it hurts, but with gentleness and respect. [Read 1 Peter 3:13-17]
We’re in an election year: Stick to biblical truth, but don’t get angry with those who disagree!
We expect that people will disagree with us, but we show grace.
And if someone reviles, mocks, or attacks us: -We develop that squishy-tough skin. Yes, being vulnerable, but we let their attacks slide off of us. -We remember that this is how they treated our Lord. -We rejoice that Christ’s faithfulness has moved through us.
[#1: Truth hurts, but we are faithful to God’s truth.]
[#2: Don’t try to hurt, but be honest and reasonable.]
[#3: Expect to hurt, but stay faithful and joyful.]
Our worthiness is found in Christ alone, and His faithfulness. We are counted worthy when we are found in Him and His truth.
It’s easy to feel like we’re right and deserve better, but the only things Christ promised us are that we will have troubles in this world (John 16:33) and that He is always with us (Matthew 28:20), especially in our troubles.
As usual, these are my rough notes, so not necessarily everything I said while preaching.
Matthew 23:1-12 – Do as I say …
Intro
“Do as I say.”
What do we think of when we hear these words?
Do you hear your angry mom or dad or boss? Do you hear your own voice talking to your kids or employees or co-workers?
Do you hear reprimand?
Do you hear rebuke?
Or do you hear a command? “DO AS I SAY!” Or maybe a gentle reminder? “Please, just do as I say.”
The words that go through my head tend to be, “Do as I say, not as I do.” That hypocritical reminder that we fail, but we hope others do better. That our children will live a better life than we did growing up.
I also think about those times my parents would ask me to do something that I didn’t understand, and – sometimes with a hint of annoyance, sometimes with that gentleness of patience – they would simply say, “Do as I say,” with that implication it will make sense soon.
Message
Jesus spent the past chapter and a half talking to the religious leaders. This is the week of His Passion, the week He is crucified, and it is generally believed that it is now Tuesday. He had His triumphal entry on Sunday, He cursed a fig tree and cleansed the Temple on Monday, and He is now in the Temple having discussed His authority, the unfaithfulness of sons and tenants who even killed servants and the Son of the Master, the apparent worthiness of those invited to a wedding feast who likewise killed servants, paying taxes, and the final resurrection. The last two things discussed were the Greatest Commandment with Jesus explaining the source of His authority.
After all of this set up with the back and forth with the Pharisees, scribes (Greek: grammateis), Sadducees, and lawyers, Jesus addresses the leadership, specifically the scribes and Pharisees. A lawyer was simply one who knew the Law of Moses forward and backward. He doesn’t bother with the Sadducees. They deny the power of the Law while teaching it. Jesus focuses His attention on Pharisees, the conservative leaders, and scribes – literally the grammarians, the theologian priests who copy the Law and write the commentaries.
vv. 1-3a [Read]
In verse one we notice that Jesus directs this introduction to the crowd and His disciples. I imagine He starts out looking at them, but as He finishes verse three He shifts His gaze towards the religious leaders. He says that they sit on Moses’ seat. They are the stewards of God’s Word, delivering the message first given to Moses (and the Prophets) to the people of Israel, and they sit as judge over the people, as seen in Deuteronomy 17:9-11. This means that they are still spreading God’s truth. I can even imagine them beginning to look a little [more] smug, hearing Jesus say to listen to them. I can hear them repeating, “Yes. Do as I say.”
Then Jesus shifts, and I imagine He is fully looking at the Pharisees now.
vv. 3-7
Read v. 3: Jesus puts words in their mouths at this point: “Do as I say, not as I do.” In the next couple of weeks, we will see how He gives examples, such as keeping others from heaven while promising good things, making people worse, justifying wicked actions while hypocritically condemning others for those actions. He summarizes them here …
Read vv. 4-7: Remember the message from two weeks ago, when Jesus dealt with His authority and the Greatest Commandment.
He stressed loving God by loving others. What is Jesus saying immediately after that? The religious elite try to love God, but they do it by not loving others. It looks like they love God, because they explain His Law so well and add so many protections to keep God holy. It is loving to help people obey God’s commands, but it is not loving to give rules but not help obey them. It is loving to point people toward God, however, Jesus shows us that it is not out of love for others that the Pharisees do things.
“They do these to be seen by others.”
It is selfishness, pride, and prestige. The make themselves look good so that people think they are good and righteous. It’s not about honoring God, it’s about looking like they’re honoring God.
It is helping out in every ministry in church, but not taking time to actually help others or actively study God’s Word and thus grow in relationship with Him. It is posting to Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok posts of your daily Bible readings, not so much because you remember what you read but to show people that you’re doing what you’re supposed to.
“They make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long.”
It has been pointed out by many that there different words that could have been used by Jesus other than “phylacteries” that would have been more accurate to describe what was commanded by Moses in Exodus 13:9,16 and Deuteronomy 6:8 and 11:19. The Hebrew words “totapot” (to-faw-faw or to-ta-fof) and “tefillin”, which mean “bindings of reminder/remembrance,” or the Greek “asaleutos”, which means “immovable/unshakable” are meant to serve as reminders of God’s saving Israel from Egypt and to love the Lord their God with all of their heart, soul, and mind.
A phylactery denotes a charm or protective ward, a superstitious or magical protection. Jesus is saying the Pharisees are using God’s Word as some sort of protective spell to keep away demons or curses rather than to actually keep God’s Word at the forefront of their minds, hearts, and actions as an act of worship and love.
Their fringes were a reminder of God’s holiness laws, as found in Numbers 15 and Deuteronomy 22. The Pharisees are showing they know all of God’s laws and keep them well. Between the two articles of jewelry/clothing, they are showing how many passages of Scripture they have memorized, how smart and biblical they are. “See how holy I am! Look! LOOK! I’m better than you!” Just like the proud pharisee in Jesus’ parable with the humble and contrite tax collector who both pray in Luke 18:9-14.
It is looking down on other Christians who don’t believe quite the same way or do things differently. It is letting everyone know what they have done wrong without showing grace (“tie up heavy burdens, not willing to lift a finger to help.”) It is reminding everyone of God’s standard while disobeying somewhere yourself.
“They love the place of honor at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues.”
They thought of themselves as better than others, so they expected good seats at events. They wanted to be the closest to whoever was teaching so that they could be seen as intense and passionate learners, lovers of the Law and good debaters.
It is having your seat at church and getting upset when someone else sits there. It is wondering why the church isn’t doing more to serve you and meet your needs, rather than serving the brethren before your own needs. It is arguing and debating the meaning of biblical passages and words without a willingness to learn or be proven wrong. It is the discernment teachers who call out every sin of other teachers while neglecting to notice their own failings (maybe even saying they never sin.)
“They love greetings in the marketplaces and being called rabbi.”
The Pharisees loved being recognized and seen as smart. Some rabbis even demanded people give them public honor, such as bowing or kissing their hands.
It is the YouTuber who expects recognition for their great teachings. It is the so-called “apostles” and “prophets” today who brag about their spiritual giftings and drag others into their lies and false teachings. It is expecting non-Christians to behave like Christians, or all Christians to act exactly the same way.
Yet, these are the people Jesus says to listen to!
vv. 8-12
Read vv. 8-10: Is Jesus saying never be a teacher or pastor? Is he saying we can’t call our male parent our father?
No.
Jesus is saying stop seeking titles. Stop seeking to be better than others. Stop seeking to always correct everyone.
Seek first God and His Kingdom (Matthew 6:33), and He might make you one of the teachers and pastors. Remember James’ warning in chapter 3 of his letter: “Not many of you should become teachers, because teachers are judged more strictly. Look at the reaction the Pharisees and grammar nazis … I mean scribes are getting. Next week we get into the woes against them from Jesus Himself! But we also know teachers are held to a higher standard. Seek the standard first. What standard?
We are to love God and love others first.
How?
Jesus basically said in John 14, “Do as I say (v. 23 – “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word”) and as I do (v. 12 – “whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do, and greater”).” Or, here in Matthew … Read vv. 11-12: Love God by loving others by serving them. [Read Philippians 2:1-4] Yes, we still have interests and needs that can be taken care of, but we are to think of others first. The next several verses in Philippians remind us that Jesus did this for us, the Creator and Sustainer of everything became a servant for us, dying on a cross.
Likewise, we serve God when try to make it easier on each other to follow Him. We don’t compromise truth, but neither do we bash people over the head with it. If anyone ever had reason to be judgmental and ruthless, it was Jesus. Instead of demanding a title or going out of His way to get recognition or correcting every little issue or killing people who didn’t follow God perfectly, He showed love, grace, and mercy.
Yes, He told people to go and sin no more, but first He saw them, He heard them, and He loved them.
Application
Maybe you have fallen short of perfection. (Romans 3:23 – We all have!) It’s not rules we follow that get us into heaven and away from God’s wrath, as the Pharisees clearly believed. It is trusting in the name of Jesus, the work He accomplished when He died on a cross to wash away our sins and restore us to relationship with God. It is believing that He raised again from the dead, overcoming death and sin, giving us hope for eternity with Him, not merely sitting on clouds and playing harps but on a restored Earth with glorified bodies free of pain, suffering, and fear.
Maybe you’re the one who doesn’t show grace to others. I have been. Then it was others showing grace to me and realizing more fully God’s grace for all of us that I began to grow in grace. I have been the legalist who had to correct every little error in someone’s theology, or told others how wrong their actions were, even while making the same (or very similar) errors. Such as when I fell into a crowd of hyper-charismatics, and I knew I understood God better than others. Or when, after that, I actually read and studied my Bible, and seeing all of the connections and God’s teachings, I had to call out everything my pastors and professors said or did wrong.
It was pastors, teachers, and, yes, even people under my care and teaching that corrected me. Yes, defend the truth of God’s Word, of who Jesus is, but also remember that we are all sinners in need of grace, constantly learning and growing. Even you. Even me.
Maybe you spent this past year so focused on what everyone is doing wrong. Two chapters after reminding us to think of others first, Paul told the Philippians in 4:8-9 “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me – practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you all.”
It is easy to focus on the negative, to focus on everyone else doing everything right. It’s even easy to focus on what you might be doing wrong, but again, focus more on the positive, seeking God. As Paul said in the four preceding verses (4:4-7), “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Christ died for your failures and your sins. Give them to Him! Don’t just tell people everything their doing wrong, but rejoice with them in the good, encouraging each other to grow in godliness as the Holy Spirit transforms us more and more into the likeness of Christ.
Yes, call out false teachings, but – more importantly – teach God’s truth to each other with grace, mercy, gentleness, and respect, that people may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16). Others will hear what you say and see what you do, and they just might see Jesus (1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1).
Conclusion
We are called to obey God’s commands. It is so easy to see our own failures. It is easier to see the failures in others. We are at that time when many set resolutions: goals for the coming year. I think we see how we condemn ourselves with many of these resolutions, with the average person (64%!) giving up by the end of January!
Sometimes, we forget that the other people in church or at work or at the grocery store or on the road are going through things in their lives, just like we are. We want to be quick to complain about how stupid they’re being, or we want to put them in their place and correct them, or we think that they are uncaring or need to grow in grace. It’s easy to look at Adam and Eve, Israel in most of their history, our own families, co-workers, and friends and see the blatant mistakes and sins they made. Maybe it’s even seeing our own failures and getting upset or losing hope.
So, rather than merely setting annual resolutions or simply getting upset with others, let’s start where God told us to. God has commanded us to love. Like Paul reminded us in Philippians 2, we look after our own needs as well as others, but like Jesus said in Matthew 6, we work diligently while seeking and trusting God to meet our needs. Loving is not always so easy to do, and it can feel impossible to love others, especially when they are in the wrong, and maybe even more when we are in the wrong.
But Jesus says, “Do as I say,” in the gentle, patient voice of a parent who really does know better. There is sometimes rebuke, when we knowingly disobey, but mostly Jesus is our compassionate teacher and friend, guiding us toward a godly, fulfilling life. When we focus on loving God by loving and serving others, it is no burden. As Jesus says in Matthew 11, His yoke is easy, and His burden is light, because we can rest in the light of knowing He is in control. It’s based on His faithfulness flowing through us by the power of the Holy Spirit. It’s not always easy, but Jesus has shown us the way. So, let us draw near to God by drawing together in the unity of His love, doing what our Lord has said and done.
Specifically, I was honored to preach our special Easter Sunrise Service.
(I also happened to have a fresh cold! Sorry about the coughing.)
As usual, these are my rough notes below.
CND Sunrise Service – April 9, 2023
Let’s test this: “He is risen!” [“He is risen, indeed!”] [Prayer]
But what about that first Easter? How did the first followers of Jesus react?
First, let’s look back at a few days earlier. Where was Peter? Here is the man who said he would never abandon Jesus, even if he had to die. Yet, we know that he ran away with the others when Jesus was arrested. Sure, in John 19 for example, he came back during the “trial” of Jesus, but he tried to stay at a distance, and then he called down curses on himself as he claimed to not know who Jesus is. This was one of the most faithful followers of Jesus, right?
Where was John? We know he ran away at the arrest, but John 19 also tells us that John may have stayed for the trial with the high priest. It is not clear if this was John, but the way he usually talks about himself as “another disciple” and “the disciple whom Jesus loved” implies it could have been him. We also see he came to the crucifixion.
John 19:25-27, ESV but standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.
John saw Jesus on the cross, but where was he Sunday morning? Hiding with the other disciples. All of the disciples hid in a locked room (John 20:19) But who is not staying put, during the crucifixion and on that first Easter morning?
John 20:1, 11-18 [v. 1] Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb.
We know Mary Magdalene was accompanied by Mary (James and Jesus’ mom) and Salome (James and John’s mom). Arguably, these three women were truly faithful, but why would these Mary’s be there? Jesus’ mom makes sense. She’s His mom and definitely had her life changed by His birth and life. Back to reading, in verse 11:
[vv. 11-15] But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb. And she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “They have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” Having said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.”
Here is a woman weeping at the tomb of Jesus, and even doesn’t notice the hint of angels being present. She didn’t even notice Jesus as Jesus, thinking He was just the gardener near the tomb.
Here is a woman that Luke 8:2 and a few other places remind us had seven demons cast out of her. She may or may not have been a prostitute (Scripture is not clear on this), but at the very least she had seven demons cast out of her.
Here is a woman who had her life drastically changed by Jesus, making it possible for her to live a normal life after only-God-knows how long under demonic oppression and societal rejection.
Why was Mary Magdalene at the crucifixion and the first to the resurrection while the men all hid?
Because Jesus had touched her with His healing power, making her whole and clean again. The men did not. She was shunned, while they could move about freely (though some like Matthew/Levi did have minor obstacles).
Mary was changed from the inside out.
And in all of their grief, they all still missed Jesus.
Our grief can blind us to God. Our own self-righteousness can blind us to God. Our successes and failures can blind us to God.
It is only when God is with us and touches us with His healing and grace and we hear Him calling us by name can we see Him working.
[vv. 16-18] Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brothers and say to them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’ ” Mary Magdalene went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”—and that he had said these things to her.
Have you let Jesus change your life? It is His death and resurrection that has brought us change. It is nearly impossible to see it until we are open to hearing His voice. And when we do, it is tempting to sit and cling to that initial feeling, but He has given us the charge to tell others that He is has saved us.
And He is risen.
Let go of your pain, your grief, your self-righteousness, your works by hearing the voice of our risen Lord.
He is risen!
And He has changed us with His power and healed us of our emotional and spiritual wounds by taking them on Himself.
And He has removed our fear and given us hope through His resurrection.
Do we truly love the Lord our God with all our hearts, souls, minds, and strengths? Maybe I can help with the mind part, at least! This is Daniel M. Klem, apparent poet, reluctant yet passionate Disciple (Peter?), and foolish man attempting to understand theology!
a simple man of God 