Knowing God through His Word

Posted by Pastor Paul at April 2nd, 2007

Introduction:

How important is God’s Word in your life?

Listen to these testimonies of men in scripture

… Job said…

I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food. (Job 23:12 NKJ)

… The Psalmist said…

And I will delight myself in Your commandments, which I love. (Ps 119:47 NKJ)

The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of coins of gold and silver. (Ps 119:72 NKJ)

How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! (Ps 119:103 NKJ)

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (Ps 119:105 NKJ)

… Jeremiah said

Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart; for I am called by Your name, O LORD God of hosts. (Jer 15:16 NKJ)

Do you have a hunger for the Bible?

Do you have a desire for God’s Word?

If you really want to know God we get to know Him through His word.

Turn in your Bibles to 2 Timothy 3 (Page 628 in your pew Bible)

As you are turning there we just want to remind you that our theme this year is “Knowing God and making Him Known”

First we looked at people who encountered God

- How did they encounter God?

- What was the result of the encounter?

- We looked at the encounters of Moses, Isaiah, Ezekiel and John

We then looked at People who knew God… Looking at the book of Daniel

- What are some characteristics they possess?

- What do people who know God look like?

- How do they act?

- How is their life characterized?

Today we would like to begin a series on How to Know God.

- What are some things that are important?

- What are some disciplines that are needed

We would like to look at 4 reasons why we need to be in the word of God… the Bible

I. The Bible is from God and about God (16)

A. It is from God.

1. “inspired”… God breathed… breathed out by God

Jeremiah 1:9 (NKJV)
9 Then the Lord put forth His hand and touched my mouth, and the Lord said to me: “Behold, I have put My words in your mouth.

- God divinely superintended the accurate recording of his divinely breathed truth by His divinely chosen men

2 Peter 1:20-21 (NKJV)
20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation,
21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit. - His truth flowed through the minds, souls, hearts, and emotions of divinely chosen men

- The Scripture is inspired by God … not the men

- REVELATION – communication of truth to man by God

- INSPIRATION – recording this communication in a way that is dependable

- Over and over again the Bible is referred to as the words of God…

¼ that is how we get to know Him by hearing his voice …

¼ we hear his voice by reading the scriptures

20 knowing this first, that no prophecy of Scripture is of any private interpretation, 21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but2. It is His written word… it is authoritative

Psalms 119:89 (NKJV)
89 Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven.

89 Forever, O Lord, Your word is settled in heaven.B. It is about God… it is His self revelation to a fallen mankind

1. It is God’s truth

John 17:17 (NKJV)
17 Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.

17 Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.2. It reveals God’s character through his names

3. It reveals God’s attributes

4. It reveals His divine plan for man’s redemption

II. The Bible leads us to salvation (15)

- The source of truth regarding eternal life is Scripture and only Scripture

- The wisdom the Scriptures impart lead to salvation through faith in Jesus Chirs

A. The Bible shows us our need of salvation.

1. It shows us what God’s righteous moral standard is

2. It shows us that no one can keep this standard

Romans 3:10, 11 (NKJV)
10 As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one;
11 There is none who understands; There is none who seeks after God.
Romans 3:23 (NKJV)
23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,

10 As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one; 11 There is none who understands; There is none who seeks after God. 23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,3. It makes us aware of our sin

Romans 3:20 (NKJV)
20 Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.

20 Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin.4. It confirms that every person is guilty under God’s judgment

Romans 3:19 (NKJV)
19 Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. No one is able to save themselves because of sin

John 3:16-18 (NKJV)
16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.
18 He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. 18 He who believes in Him is not condemned; but , because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. John 3:36 (NKJV)
36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”

36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and 19 Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, . No one is able to save themselves because of sin16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. 18 He who believes in Him is not condemned; but , because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and5. It show us that the wages of our sin is death

- Just look at the OT Sacrificial System

¼ The OT Sacrificial system was a recognition that sin demands death

¼ The OT sacrifices depicted the ultimate… perfect… complete sacrifice of the coming Savior

6. Everyone need a Savior now

B. The Bible shows us the plan of salvation.

1. The Bible tells us that God loves the mankind and provided a way of salvation

John 3:16-18 (NKJV)
16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Romans 5:8
8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 1 John 4:9 (NKJV)
9 In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.

9 In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. 16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.2. The Bible tells us Jesus took our sins on Himself

2 Corinthians 5:21 (NKJV)
21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.

1 Peter 2:24 (NKJV)
24 who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness–by whose stripes you were healed.

24 who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness–by whose stripes you were healed. 21 For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. 24 who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness–by whose stripes you were healed.3. We must receive Christ as savior by trusting in him

John 1:12 (NKJV)
12 But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name:

Romans 10:9-11 (NKJV)
9 that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

9 that if you and that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

- Knowledge

- Acceptance

- Trust

12 But as many as , to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who : 9 that if you and that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. C. The Bible gives us the assurance of salvation.

1 John 5:9-13 (NKJV)
9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater; for this is the witness of God which He has testified of His Son.
10 He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself; he who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that God has given of His Son.
11 And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.
13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God.

9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater; for this is the witness of God which He has testified of His Son. 10 He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself; he who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that God has given of His Son. 11 And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God. John 10:27-29 (NKJV)
27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 28 And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand.

27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 28 And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand.

9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater; for this is the witness of God which He has testified of His Son. 10 He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself; he who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that God has given of His Son. 11 And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God. 27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 28 And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. III. The Bible is Useful (16)

“…profitable…” = beneficial… productive… sufficient

… This focuses on the sufficiency of God’s Word

A. … for doctrine

AMP… “instruction”

NIV… “teaching”

The Bible shows us what is right

1. This refers to the content

2. Wisdom and guidance for fulfilling everything He commands us to believe, think, say and do is found in the Scriptures

3. Spiritual truth is found in the Bible

4. It is futile and foolish to expect to live a spiritual life without knowing spiritual truth

5. Without feeding on spiritual truth we become

Ephesians 4:14 (NKJV)
14 … children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting,

14 … children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting,6. Reading and memorizing scripture is putting deposits of divine teaching into our spiritual bank account that we can draw out when needed

14 … children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting,B. … for reproof

AMP … “reproof and conviction of sin”

NIV… “rebuking’

GW…”pointing out errors”

Idea confronting someone with a view toward convicting them of misbehavior

The Bible shows us what is not right

1. The Bible exposes sin

- The purpose of conviction is to bring about correction, confession renunciation and obedience

- To be useful obedient and effective… the Lord has to trim away the things in our life that are sinful

- For the Christian … exposure to the Word of God can be very convicting

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

 

- NOTE: This is a good indicator in your life. If you find yourself

¼ With a decreased desire to study God’s Word

¼ Wanting to stay away from the services of the church

¼ Wanting to stay away from the teaching of the word

¼ It may be because you don’t want to get cut open

¼ It is pretty reliable evidence that you are harboring unconfessed and unforsaken sin in your heart

2. The Bible exposes false doctrine

- If you know the Bible then you can recognize error

- The Bible is the test …the standard… the measure by which all teaching must be measured

C. … for correction

AMP… “for correction of error”

Lit…to straighten up

The idea here is to restore something to its proper condition

The Bible shows us how to get right

1. The Bible

- Picks you up

- Straightens you up

- Sets you back on your feet

2. The Scripture gives us hope

3. The Scripture gives us help

4. The Scripture builds up

5. The Scripture restores you to an upright position

6. The bible always gives instruction how to get back again

D. … for instruction in righteousness

AMP… “training in obedience, [and] for training inn righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God’s will in thought, purpose, and action).

GW … “training them for a life that has God’s approval”

NIV… “training in righteousness”

NASB …”for instruction which is in righteousness

The Bible shows us how to stay right

1. The Bible can

- Nurture you

- Raise you

- Grow you

- Bring you into maturity

2. The Bible shows us

- Right things

- Right behavior

- Right conduct

- Right attitudes

- Right actions

- Right words

14 … children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, IV. The Bible enables us (17)

A. To be complete…

AMP… “complete and proficient”

NASB… “adequate”

1. fit for use

B. To be thoroughly equipped..

AMP… “fitted and thoroughly equipped.”

1. equipped for service

Conclusion: What is our response

A. Hear it (Romans 10:17) – Sunday mornings

B. Read it (Revelation 1:3) – Daily Devotions

C. Study it (Acts 17:11) – Sunday School… Bible Studies

D. Memorize it (Psalm 119:11)

E. Meditate on it (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 19:14)

MEDITATION. “A private devotional act, consisting in deliberate reflection upon some spiritual truth or mystery, accompanied by mental prayer and by acts of the affection and of the will, especially formation of resolutions as to future conduct” (Cent. Dict., s.v.). Meditation is a duty that ought to be attended to by all who wish well to their spiritual interests.

(Cent. Dict., s.v.). Meditation is a duty that ought to be attended to by all who wish well to their spiritual interests.It should be deliberate, close, and continuous (Psalm 1:2; Psalm 119:97).

The subjects that ought more especially to engage the Christian mind are:

The works of creation (Psalm 19:1-6); the perfections of God (Deut. 32:4); the character, office, and work of Christ (Hebrews 12:2-3); the office and operations of the Holy Spirit (John 15-16); the dispensations of Providence (Psalm 97:1-2); the precepts and promises of God’s words (Psalm 119); the value, powers, and immortality of the soul (Mark 8:36); the depravity of our nature, and the grace of God in our salvation, etc.

-New Unger’s Bible Dictionary

MEDITATION The act of calling to mind some supposition, pondering upon it, and correlating it to one’s own life. A wicked individual meditates upon violence (Prov. 24: 2). The meditation of a righteous person contemplates God or His great spiritual truths (Pss. 63:6; 77:12; 119:15, 23,27,48,78,97,148; 143:5). He hopes to please God by meditation (Ps. 19:14). Thus meditation by God’s people is a reverent act of worship.

A wicked individual meditates upon violence (Prov. 24: 2). The meditation of a righteous person contemplates God or His great spiritual truths (Pss. 63:6; 77:12; 119:15, 23,27,48,78,97,148; 143:5). He hopes to please God by meditation (Ps. 19:14). Thus meditation by God’s people is a reverent act of worship.Through it they commune with God and are thereby renewed spiritually.

Most references to meditation occur in the Old Testament, especially in the Psalms. The Hebrew words for meditation primarily were derived from two separate roots. The first (hagah) literally means “to utter in a low sound.”

The word is used to denote the growling of a lion (Isa. 31:4) or the cooing of a dove (Isa. 38:14). Therefore it has been suggested that, in ancient Hebrew meditation, Scripture frequently was recited in a low murmur.

The second root word (siach) has the basic meaning of “to be occupied with,” or “concerned about.” Thus meditation is the repetitious going over of a matter in one’s mind because it is the chief concern of life. The constant recollection of God’s past deeds by the hearing of Scripture and repetition of thought produce confidence in God (Pss. 104:34; 119:15,23,48,78,97,99,148; Ps. 63:6-8; 143:5).

Meditation is only mentioned twice in the New Testament. Jesus instructed Christians to meditate beforehand on their attitude toward persecution (Luke 21:14). Paul advised Timothy to meditate on the matters about which Paul had written Him (1 Tim. 4:15). Meditation is an important part of the Christian’s relationship with Christ.

-Holman Bible Dictionary

 (Cent. Dict., s.v.). Meditation is a duty that ought to be attended to by all who wish well to their spiritual interests. A wicked individual meditates upon violence (Prov. 24: 2). The meditation of a righteous person contemplates God or His great spiritual truths (Pss. 63:6; 77:12; 119:15, 23,27,48,78,97,148; 143:5). He hopes to please God by meditation (Ps. 19:14). Thus meditation by God’s people is a reverent act of worship.Living Life Out…

1. Has the word of God lead you to salvation? Has there been a point and time in your life where you have asked Jesus to forgive you from your sins and placed your faith… your trust in Him alone for your salvation? If not, why not place your faith and trust in Christ today? You can by saying this heart-felt prayer:

Lord, I confess that I am a sinner and that I need Your forgiveness.

I believe that Jesus died for my sins.

I now trust only in Christ to get me to heaven.

Lord Jesus, come into my life and be my personal Savior.

Thank you for saving me and giving me eternal life.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

If you called on the name of the Lord and invited Christ to come into your life, He promised that he will answer your prayer. (Romans 10:13; 1 John 5:12-13)

2. Growing in Prayer: Ask God to give you great energy for Him. Ask him to help you stand firm… take action… disciple others… and embrace persecution.

Ask God to give you great energy for Him. Ask him to help you stand firm… take action… disciple others… and embrace persecution.3. Growing in The Word:

- Read: Read Psalm 19 mark all the ways God’s Word is described in this chapter

- Memorize: 2 Timothy 3:16-17

4. Growing through Reading.

- “How to Get the Most From God’s Word” – John MacArthur, Jr.

- “Experiencing God” – Henry Blackaby

- “12 Dynamic Bible Study Methods” – Richard Warren

- “Making it ‘til Thursday” –Jay Adams

- Valley of Vision

5. Growing through Obedience

- If you do not have a regular time of Bible reading… carve out 15 minutes a day for Bible reading and prayer

o Have a place where you meet with God

o Have a plan for reading. (use “Our Daily Bread, or some Bible reading guide)

- If you are not attending Sunday School or a Bible study… make plans to attend this week

9 If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater; for this is the witness of God which He has testified of His Son. 10 He who believes in the Son of God has the witness in himself; he who does not believe God has made Him a liar, because he has not believed the testimony that God has given of His Son. 11 And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God. 27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 28 And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. 14 … children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, (Cent. Dict., s.v.). Meditation is a duty that ought to be attended to by all who wish well to their spiritual interests. A wicked individual meditates upon violence (Prov. 24: 2). The meditation of a righteous person contemplates God or His great spiritual truths (Pss. 63:6; 77:12; 119:15, 23,27,48,78,97,148; 143:5). He hopes to please God by meditation (Ps. 19:14). Thus meditation by God’s people is a reverent act of worship.

Posted in Uncategorized| 229 Comments | 

“People who Know God Have Great Thoughts of God” (Daniel 9) March 4, 2007

Posted by Pastor Paul at March 7th, 2007

Introduction:

What kind of God do you serve

¼ Is he the King of kings and Lord of lords?

¼ Has He been relegated to a mascot?

¼ a good luck charm?

¼ is He there to make sure we get what we want.?

¼ Do you have great thoughts of God?

¼ What we think of God is often seen in our prayer life

How would you describe your prayer life

¼ Powerful?

¼ Pathetic?

¼ How do we know if we reach the ears of God?

¼ Do you have great thoughts of God when you pray?

With that in mind let us turn to Daniel 9

As you are turning there I want to remind you that our theme this year is “Knowing God and making Him known”

This month we are looking at people who know their God

¼ What are some characteristics they possess?

¼ What do people who know God look like?

¼ How do they act?

¼ How is their life characterized?

And we are doing that by looking at some of the incidents that happened in the book of Daniel

Today we are looking at the heart of Daniel by listening in on one of his prayers

In order to understand this prayer we need to understand the history of God’s relationship with the people of Israel.

Ø To the descendants of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob … Jehovah God was not just one tribal deity among many.

Ø He is the creator of all

Ø He is the God of all

Ø In the book of Deuteronomy he makes a covenant with his chosen people who he rescued out of Egypt

He promises blessing for obedience

Ø Deut 28:1-6

1 “Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the LORD your God will set you high above all nations of the earth.

2 “And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the LORD your God:

3 “Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the country.

4 “Blessed shall be the fruit of your body, the produce of your ground and the increase of your herds, the increase of your cattle and the offspring of your flocks.

5 “Blessed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl.

6 “Blessed shall you be when you come in, and blessed shall you be when you go out.

He promises curses for disobedience

Ø Deut 28:15-19

15 “But it shall come to pass, if you do not obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments and His statutes which I command you today, that all these curses will come upon you and overtake you:

16 “Cursed shall you be in the city, and cursed shall you be in the country.

17 “Cursed shall be your basket and your kneading bowl.

18 “Cursed shall be the fruit of your body and the produce of your land, the increase of your cattle and the offspring of your flocks.

19 “Cursed shall you be when you come in, and cursed shall you be when you go out.

Ø Deut 28:64

64 “Then the LORD will scatter you among all peoples, from one end of the earth to the other, and there you shall serve other gods, which neither you nor your fathers have known– wood and stone. (NKJ)

Ø The base of this obedience was found in Deuteronomy 6

Deut 6:5

5 “You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. (NKJ)

Jesus said that this was the greatest commandment (Matthew 22:37-40)

Ø They kept God in their life but he was not Lord

Ø Because of that the lord judged them

o He scattered Israel (10 northern tribes)

o He exiled Judah (2 southern tribes)

Ø Folks lest we get to judgmental here 21 century Christianity is very much like Israel during this time

o God is not Lord of their life

o In fact, when we call Jesus Lord… many do not have the foggiest idea of what that means

o God has been relegated to a mascot… a good luck charm… He is there to make sure we get what we want.

Ø That is where Israel is in exile why

o They had sinned

o They did not follow God’s word

o They refused to listen to God’s preachers

They have been in exile now for 70 years and that brings us to Daniel chapter 9

Where Daniel turns to God… he has Great thoughts of God

I. To have Great thoughts of God you must have a Proper understanding of God’s Word (1-2)

A. The Bible is the Word of God

1. Inspired… God breathed… it is God’s very words

2. Plenary Verbal Inspiration… that is we believe that every Word is the inspired Word of God

3. The principle of inspiration is found in

2 Tim 3:16 All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,)

4. The Process of inspiration is found in

2 Pet 1:21 for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.

B. The Bible is a living Book

1. His reading of the “books” drove him closer to God

2. Real … living … Christianity is a relationship with God found through the scriptures.

3. Daniel was driven to God as a result of his understanding of the Bible

a) He was reading in Jeremiah about the rebuilding of the temple

Jer 25:11 `And this whole land shall be a desolation and an astonishment, and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years. (NKJ)

Jer 29:10 For thus says the LORD: After seventy years are completed at Babylon, I will visit you and perform My good word toward you, and cause you to return to this place. (NKJ)

b) He realized it was the time

c) He turned to God in prayer

d) What drove him to prayer was the promise of God

4. Our prayer life grows out of our knowledge of God

5. If you are not in the Bible … you will not know how to pray

II. To have Great thoughts of God you must have a Proper understanding of Prayer (3)

A. There was a focus to Daniels prayer

“I set my face toward the Lord God to make request by prayer… with fasting”

1. He fasted

a) The purpose of Biblical fasting

1. Fasting is not

¼ a works of religion…”If I do this I will get a special blessing

¼ It is not Asceticism … abusing your body to get some spiritual benefit

¼ We are in the season of lent… this is sort of a fasting time for some… But what is the meaning… the purpose of lent?

According to the Catholic Encyclopedia, “the real aim of Lent is, above all else, to prepare men for the celebration of the death and Resurrection of Christ…the better the preparation the more effective the celebration will be. One can effectively relive the mystery only with purified mind and heart. The purpose of Lent is to provide that purification by weaning men from sin and selfishness through self-denial and prayer, by creating in them the desire to do God’s will and to make His kingdom come by making it come first of all in their hearts.”

However,

¼ the Bible says that we are purified—cleansed, set apart and made pure in God’s sight—by the shed blood of Jesus Christ (Heb. 9:11-14, 22; 13:12).

¼ No amount of fasting, abstaining from physical pleasures or any other form of self-denial can purify us.However, over the centuries it has developed a much more “sacramental” value. Many Catholics understand giving something up for Lent as a way to gain blessing from God. (Got Questions.org.)

b) Fasting is

¼ A time when we give our undivided attention to God in prayer

¼ An extended time devoted to God

¼ A time to give meaningful attention to God

¼ There would be nothing to distract him from his prayer

¼ Setting aside your agenda and submitting to God’s agenda

c) NOTE: In our attention deficit society we find it hard to spend 5 minutes in concentrated prayer

¼ Should we spend time in prayer and fasting?…

¼ In the Bible we see fasting for

Ø Private problems

Ø Personal grief

Ø Penance over sin

Ø Seeking God’s will

¼ I don’t think it would be a bad idea

¼ If you did that I would encourage you to read Isaiah 58 before you did

¼ BUT… maybe it would be better if we concentrated on spending 15-30 minute giving our undivided attention to God in prayer

2. He gave God his undivided attention

a) The Bible helps us to understand God’s will

b) Daniel read God’s Word and he understood what God’s will was for the nation of Israel.

c) Now he was praying that it would come to pass

d) We understand God’s will as we understand God’s Word

e) God knows his plan, when he reveals his plan to us … He expects us to pray over that plan

f) Someone said prayer is adjusting our lives to the revealed will of God

3. That means we must see what the will of the Lord is

Colossians 1:9 (NKJV)
9 For this reason we also, … pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; Ephesians 5:17 (NKJV)
17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.

James 4:15 (NKJV)
15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.”

4. What are some things we know are God’s will.

a) Salvation

1 Timothy 2:2-4(NKJV)
2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior,

4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

1. Have you come to the point where you have come to know Jesus Christ as your personal savior from sin?

2. Are you regularly praying for people to be saved… come to Christ?

b) Sanctification

1 Thessalonians 4:3 (NKJV)
3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality;

1. Are you praying that the Lord would help you put off those things that are desire dominated and felling oriented

2. Are you praying that the Lord would help you change your thinking by the washing of the water of the Word of God

3. Are you praying that you will begin to be Christ controlled and commandment oriented

c) Self-Sacrifice

Romans 12:1-2 (NKJV)
1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.
2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

1. Have you sacrificed yourself to the Lord?

2. do you die daily?

3. have you taken up your cross and followed him?

d) Spirit-filling Ephesians 5:18 (NKJV)
18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit,

1. Are you controlled by the spirit of God…

e) Submission

1 Peter 2:13-15 (NKJV)
13 Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake… For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men—

1. Have you placed yourself under the leadership of the Lord?

f) Suffering

1 Peter 3:17 (NKJV)
17 For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.

g) Settled-ness ( 1 Thess 5:18)

Hebrews 10:36 (NKJV)
36 For you have need of endurance, so that after you have done the will of God, you may receive the promise:

1. Do you have a settled-ness are you in this for the marathon?

h) Satisfaction

1 Thessalonians 5:18 (NKJV)
18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1. Is there a joy in serving Jesus?

2. Is there a satisfaction

 

 

B. There was a fervency in Daniel’s prayer

…sackcloth, and ashes…”

1. Sackcloth

a) Was made of goats hare … it irritated the skin much like burlap

b) It was very uncomfortable

c) It illustrated the rough, course, irritating actions our sin had toward God

d) They were garments of morning

2. Ashes

a) Was worthless rubble of destroyed objects

b) They signified how unworthy and worthless he and his nation were because of sin

3. This showed that he was serious about prayer

4. His prayer was fervent

James 5:16… The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. (NKJ)

a) There was an intensity in his prayer

III. To have great thoughts of God we must have a proper view of self

A. He took responsibility

“WE have sinned

1. he included himself (remember he was in his teens when he was taken captive)

2. He did not point the finger

3. He identified himself with the sins of his people

4. This brings us to an important principle

We … the church … is the body of Christ

a) When one hurts we all hurt

b) When one of us rejoices we all rejoice

c) When we sin it affects the whole church

5. This also shows us that the deeper a person’s love and commitment to Christ… the more aware he will be of his sinfulness

B. He confessed His sin

1. The word confess means we agree with what God says about our sin

2. He confessed sins of commission (doing what they should not) (5)

a) Sin … missing the mark

b) Committed iniquity… bent… twisted… distored

c) Done wickedly… caused confusion

d) Rebelled…defied authority

e) Departed… turned away… turning aside

f) Transgressed (11)… to pass over … cross the line

3. He confessed sins of omission (not doing what you should) (6)

a) They did not listen to the prophets

b) They did not obey the voice of God (10)

c) They did not pray (13)

4. He acknowledged sin had consequences

a) Guilt… open shame (7—8)

b) Natural and supernatural consequences (13-14)

1. Remember we can choose our sin but we cannot choose our consequences

2. He confessed their guilt

5. He confessed the justness of their punishementHe experienced Guilt (

 

IV. To have great thoughts of God we must have a proper View of God

A. He is a great God (4)

B. He is a covenant keeping God

C. He is a righteous God (7)

D. He is a merciful and forgiving God (8)

E. He desired that God be glorified (

… Your city (16)

… Your holy mountain (16)

… Your people (16)

… Your sanctuary (17)

… Your name (18)

… Your great mercies (18)

… Your own sake (19)

… Your city (19)

… Your people (19)

… Your name (19)

1. His prayer was not

a) Get me out of here

b) change my circumstances

c) I want to get to a better place

2. His prayer was that God would be glorified

3. He was willing to adjust to God’s plan

Conclusion:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Living Life Out…

1. Have you started the journey of faithfulness by committing your life to Christ? Have you ever asked Jesus to forgive you from your sins and placed your faith… your trust in Him alone for your salvation? If not, why not place your faith and trust in Christ today? You can by saying this heart-felt prayer:

Lord, I confess that I am a sinner and that I need Your forgiveness.

I believe that Jesus died for my sins.

I now trust only in Christ to get me to heaven.

Lord Jesus, come into my life and be my personal Savior.

Thank you for saving me and giving me eternal life.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

If you called on the name of the Lord and invited Christ to come into your life, He promised that he will answer your prayer. (Romans 10:13; 1 John 5:12-13)

1. Growing in Prayer: How is your prayer life? Why not try to have some extended time in prayer 15-30 minutes?

How is your prayer life? Why not try to have some extended time in prayer 15-30 minutes?2. Growing in The Word:

Read Daniel 9 and Isaiah 58

Memorize: Daniel 9:18-19

3. Growing through Reading.

“Handwriting on the Wall” – David Jeremiah

“Seeking God” - McDermit

“Experiencing God’ – Henry Blackaby

“Knowing God” – J. I. Packer

“Dinner with a Perfect Stranger” – David Gregory

4. Growing through Obedience

¼ Why not make prayer a priority this week?

¼ What are areas of confession that need to be brought before the Lord?

¼ What are some attributes of God you can dwell on this week in your prayer time?

Posted in Uncategorized| 99 Comments | 

People Who know God have a great faithfulness to God

Posted by Pastor Paul at February 19th, 2007

Introduction:
What lions did you face this wee?
How did you do?
They show up in forms of difficulties…
¼    It may be a situation at work or school
-        It may be your boss or teacher has unreasonable demands?
-        It may be the co- worker you are put with
¼    Maybe your lion is a sinful habit
-        Maybe like Cain … sin is crouching at the door
-        The power of sin and the lust in your heart is strong
¼    Maybe it is scheduling your priorities
-        You are finding it hard to handle the load at work or school
-        You feel like if there is one more thing you will come apart
¼    Maybe it is a health situation
-        Your health is getting worse and there is nothing you can do about it
¼    Maybe it is a family situation
-        Your spouse is cold or indifferent
-        Your children are rebellious
The world is the den
Satan and his demons are the lions
Peter tells us…
“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” (1 Pet 5:8NKJ)
What Lions are you facing?
Why do I ask?
¼    There is someone in the business of providing hope in the lion’s den
¼    There is someone who can provide strength in the lion’s den
With that in mind let us turn to Daniel 6
 

 

 

 

As you are turning there I want to remind you that our theme this year is “Knowing God and making Him known”
This month we are looking at  people who know their God
¼    What are some characteristics they possess?
¼    What do people who know God look like?
¼    How do they act?
¼    How is their life characterized?
And we are doing that by looking at some of the incidents that happened in the book of Daniel
 

Since we are not covering the whole book there are some key facts you need to know as we get to chapter 6 in Daniel.
Chapter 1 could be entitled DEPORTATION…Daniel and Shadrach Meshach, and Abednego… were taken captive to Babylon as teenagers
¼    They were chosen to study in the in the
¼    They were given food sacrificed to idols
¼    They refused and God blessed them for taking a stand
The word to remember in chapter 2 is DREAM
¼    Nebuchadnezzar had a vision
¼    No one could tell him what that vision was but Daniel
Chapter 3 could be entitled DELIVERANCE… Shadrach Meshach, and Abednego were committed to God and sentenced to the fiery furnace and God delivered them
Chapter 4
Chapter 5 DARIUS
¼    The Belshazzar had a feast
¼    There was writing on the wall
¼    Daniel interpreted it and said that Babylon would be destroyed
¼    It was that night and the Medes and the Persians took over with Darius as king
Chapter 6 could be entitled DEN
¼    70 years had transpired since chapter 1 – Daniel was now in his 80’s
¼    Babylon was gone
¼    The Medes and the Persians now ruled
¼    The King had 120 satraps (princes) government officials who had the job to collect taxes and keep order.
¼    Over these satraps were 3 presidents (governors or overseers)  evidently they could not be trusted
¼    Daniel was the first of these presidents… in doing his job
¼    Evidently he was disliked because of his integrity
He was faithful… You see people who know God have a great faithfulness to God
This morning we would like to look at 4 truths that will encourage us to be faithful in our walk with God
I.       Faithfulness is a life-long journey (6:1-11)
¼    The Christian life is a marathon … not a sprint
¼    We cannot rest on what we did in the past but what is happening now
¼    Daniel was faithful in chapter 1,2,5 and now again in Chapter 6
¼    Lets look and see how this faithfulness played out
A.    He was distinguished (3)
1.      NLT “proved himself more capable”
2.      He stood out from the rest
3.      It doesn’t take much to stand out from the crowd
a)      A little bit of honesty goes a long way
b)      A little bit of kindness goes a long way
c)      A little bit of dependability goes a long way
4.      Daniel was distinguished
B.     He had an excellent spirit
1.      He had exceptional qualities
2.      There was a consistency in character
3.      He served from the heart
Eph 6:6 tells us when we wore were are
6    not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, (NKJ)
a)      We are idol worshippers from the womb
b)      We all have the propensity to worship false Gods
4.      He did not have a grin-n-bear-it type attitude where God put him
a)      He served willingly
b)      He served from the heart
c)      He was not a whiner
d)     He was not a complainer
e)      He was a positive person to be around
f)       He had a good attitude
What about you ? Do you have a good attitude about…
¼    Your job?
¼    Your marriage?
¼    Your children?
¼    Your service to God?
¼    Or are you constantly complaining about something… but doing nothing to remedy the fact.
5.      Daniel had an excellent spirit
C.     He was faultless in his lifestyle
1.      NOTE: anyone in  a position of leadership will be watched by those who have a jealous spirit
2.      We are judged by our conduct as well as our creed
3.      They could find no evidence against him
4.      People are going to be watching you
a)      Christ said
Matt 5:14-16
14        “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.
15        “Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.
16        “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
b)      Paul said
Phil 2:15
15        that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, (NKJ)
c)      Peter said
1 Pet 3:16
16        having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. (NKJ)
D.    Daniel was faith filled
1.      He was a man of prayer
2.      He did so even when he was told not to… knowing the punishment
3.      That brings us to an important question…
¼    What does it take to untrack you from your daily time alone with God
¼    Now I am pretty certain that you did not receive a decree of death if you prayed this week
¼    But how about your busy schedule?
¼    Energetic family?
¼    Tendency to oversleep?
¼    What does it take to stop you from being faithful?
E.     Daniel was a faithful man… are you a faithful man or woman
1.      This is more than being faithful to church on Sunday morning
2.      This is not a Christian sprint
3.      I am talking about someone who is in it for the long hall
4.      I am talking about someone who oozes faithfulness
¼    In business
¼    In the way we believe and practice God’s word
¼    In the way we pray
5.      How do we  become a man or woman like that
a)      Commit your life to Christ
1.      Admitting that you are a sinner and you cannot save your self… sin has separated you from God
2.      Believing that Jesus died on the cross in your place for your sin
3.      Committing your life to Christ as your savior
b)      Cultivate your relationship with Christ
1.      Daniel prayed
2.      God’s word – read it… hear it… study it… memorize it… meditate on it
3.      Tell others about what God is doing in your life
4.      Giving to him talent… time… treasure
c)      But you may say “PP I’ve blown it… my reputation and past are really messed up…”
Jonah 3:1
Now the word of the LORD came to Jonah the second time, saying, (NKJ)
1.      God is the God of the second chance
2.      He is a God of grace and mercy
3.      There is nothing that you could lay on the table that would cause God to shake his head and say there is no place for you in my kingdom
4.      You just need to come to Him His way
 

Daniel knew God
Because Daniel knew God he was faithful
Daniel’s faithfulness was a life-long journey
 

 

II.    Faithfulness does not exempt us from trials (6:12-17)
Often people come to me and say something like this
¼    “I have been trying to do everything right, and now this bad thing happens to me.”
Folks faithfulness does not exempt us from trials
Last Thursday we read Hebrew 11… the great faith chapter … listen to these word about the faithful
Heb 11:36-37
36  Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment.
37  They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword. They wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented—
Paul says
2 Tim 3:12
12  Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution. (NKJ)
Peter says
1 Pet 4:12
12  Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; (NKJ)
James says
James 1:2-3
2    My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,
3    knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.
A.    We have to realize that God is more concerned with our holiness than our happiness
1.      His primary purpose is not to make our lives trial free
2.      His primary purpose is to make us mor like Christ
Rom 8:28-29
28  And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
29  For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the firstborn among many brethren.
3.      The sooner we understand that the better
B.     What kind of trials do we faith
1.      Health  trials
a)      Some are here facing cancer
b)      Some are here today facing MS
c)      As you know I have had heart trouble this last year and they cannot seem to “cure” it
d)     Do I think about death
1.      Well… let me put it to you this way
2.      My dad died at 52… so the closer I get to that age death becomes more real to me
3.      The truth is I would rather meet the upper taker than the undertaker
4.      But I also realize we will not go to heaven in this Body
5.      It Jesus desire for us to be with him (John 17)
6.      We must remember “for me to live is Christ… and to die is gain”
2.      Family trials
a)      Satan loves to tear up marriages
b)      Satan love to disintegrate families
c)      Satan loves to destroy young people
d)     Even though you have been trying to live faithfully for God… family trials may come
3.      Financial trials
a)      Maybe there is a reversal in a job situation
4.      Temptation trials
a)      There is a sinful habit that keeps rearing it’s ugly head
Ø      Anger
Ø      Lust
Ø      Foul mouth
5.      Truth be told we could develop this list all day and still miss your trial
C.     The principle is … FAITFULNESS DOES NOT EXEMPT US FROM TRIALS
why?
1.      Satan is still active… read the book of job

2.      People are still active

a)      God made us with a will… he did not make us robots with no freedom to make choices

b)      If sinful people are going to make choices then be ready for tragedy and trial

So what have we learned about being faithful

¼    It is a life-long journey

¼    It does not exempt us from trials

¼    But then we come to the third truth we find in this passage

 

III. God helps us in our trials (6:18-23)
Jer 17:7-8
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, and whose hope is the LORD.
For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit.
Ps 23:4
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
2 Tim 4:16-17
At my first defense no one stood with me, but all forsook me. May it not be charged against them.
But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. And I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
A.    Picture the scene
1.      The king knew that Daniel’s deliverance was in God’s hands(16)
2.      Daniel slides into the den
3.      The lions come roaring out
4.      they see Daniel and the roaring stops
5.      They sniff him and turn away
6.      Later they lie down and Daniel uses one of them for a pillow
7.      Daniel slept better than the king(18)
8.      Why did this happen… was it because the lions were not hungry (24)
9.      Daniel was not rally in the Lion’s Den… the Lions were in God’s den… they could not do anything without God’s permission
B.     What if Daniel had died?… Would that mean God was powerless?
1.      NO!
2.      What is death to the believer? (Philippians 1:21) Gain
3.      It is important to realize that any Christian who has passed away this past week is better off than they were last Sunday
4.      Daniel was not kept alive for his sake… but for God’s glory and testimony
C.     The truth is…GOD CAN HELP US THROUGH ANY TRIAL WHETHER BY LIFE OR BY DEATH
The question comes again… What lions are you facing

¼    Line them up in the den of your mind
¼    Be encouraged by this verse
1 Cor 10:13
13  No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it. (NKJ)
Ø      Enemy’s Lie:  Your problem is unique… bigger… and tougher than other people
o       God’s Truth: No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man
Ø      Enemy’s Lie: God has forgotten you
o       God’s Truth: God is faithful
Ø      Enemy’s Lie: Your problems are more than you can bear
o       God’s Truth: will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able
Ø      Enemy’s Lie: You are trapped … there is no way out
o       God’s Truth: with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it
IV. God never wastes an experience (6:25-28)
Remember Rom 8:28
… we know that all things work together for good …
Remember, Paul was probably in prison when he wrote that…
A.    Daniel’s experience influenced the whole kingdom
1.      How you handle your trial is going to affect those who you touch
a)      There may be unsaved friend… family… who are watching how you handle this trial
2.      How you handle your trial may enable you to help others later on
B.     God blessed Daniel for his faithfulness
Living Life Out…
1.      Have you started the journey of faithfulness by committing your life to Christ? Have you ever asked Jesus to forgive you from your sins and  placed your faith… your trust in Him alone for your salvation? If not, why not place your faith and trust in Christ today?  You can by saying this heart-felt prayer:
Lord, I confess that I am a sinner and that I need Your forgiveness.
I believe that Jesus died for my sins.
I now trust only in Christ to get me to heaven.
Lord Jesus, come into my life and be my personal Savior.
Thank you for saving me and giving me eternal life.
                                                                  In Jesus’ name, amen.
If you called on the name of the Lord and invited Christ to come into your life, He promised that he will answer your prayer. (Romans 10:13; 1 John 5:12-13)
1.      Growing in Prayer: As you look at the ministry of Christ today… ministering … interceding… purifying … commanding …controlling… protecting … reflecting. Where do you need Christ to work in your life? Why not pray about that this week?
2.      Growing in The Word:
Read Daniel 6
Memorize: Romans 8:28-29
                              1 Corinthians 10:13
3.      Growing through Reading.
“Handwriting on the Wall” – David Jeremiah
“Seeking God” - McDermit
“Experiencing God’ – Henry Blackaby
“Knowing God” – J. I. Packer
“Dinner with a Perfect Stranger” – David Gregory
4.      Growing through Obedience
¼    What lion are you facing?
¼    What Biblical truth addresses this issue?
¼    What action can you take to be a testimony to the Lord through this trial?

Posted in Uncategorized| 29 Comments | 

| Next Postings »