# Short Sermon Outlines 2026 # 1. Saved From Sin Matthew 1:18-25; 21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for **he shall save** his people from their sins. **INTRODUCTION**: - **HOW** he came: Came as a baby (Thank God He did! Baby, child, young adult, adult) - **Why** He came? It’s in his name. → The lord saves ... emmanuel God with us - He did not come for himself, but for us. Sin has passed from Adam - **REMOVED** (Forgave to Remove = distance) Saved from Penalty, Power and Presence of sin “I cant live that Christian life” 1. ## **Remove from the Penalty of Sin** Ezek 18:24 – But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, *and* doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked *man* doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die. - **SIN IS A PROBLEM/a cancer**: It is just there is a penalty. NO FEAR, NO SHAME, are symptoms of spiritual death – Stigma “ WW2 Museum: From GI Joe to GI Jane: Christine Jorgensen’s Story Denmark” 2. ## **Remove from the Power of Sin** **Rom 5:21** That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. - David Wilkerson received a letter with no return address ... stolen from church for many years …”I CANNOT HELP IT”. 3. ## **Removed from the Presence of Sin** **John 8:11** She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. — I John 3:6,9 “Cannot Sin” – hath this hope purifieth himself v.3\] **CONCLUSION (TESTIMONIES)**: - You cant beat sin out.: Flagellants in .. holy week self whipping .. atoning for sin ... joining in suffering of Jesus - Ignatius of Antioch (AD 110; ultimately martyred under Emperor Trajan) (The Ultimate healer not just of physical sickness but sin sickness.) For some are in the [habit](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07099b.htm) of carrying about the [name \[of Jesus Christ\]](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07421a.htm) in [wicked](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/05649a.htm) guile, while yet they practise things unworthy of [God](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/06608a.htm), whom you must flee as you would wild beasts. For they are ravening dogs, who bite secretly, against whom you must be on your guard, inasmuch as they are men who **can scarcely be cured**. There is one Physician who is possessed both of flesh and [spirit](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/14220b.htm); both [made](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/04470a.htm) and not made; [God](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/06608a.htm) existing [in flesh](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/07706b.htm); true life in death; both of [Mary](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/15464b.htm) and of [God](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/06608a.htm); first passible and then impassible (first capable of experiencing human emotion and then immune to change) — even [Jesus Christ our Lord](https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08374c.htm).# 2. Mission Minded > Matthew 4:4 — But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. ## Introduction - "If thou Be..." \[IF?\] - Matthew 1:18 a babe "of the Holy Ghost" 1:21 has come "to save his people from there sins" and 23 "God with Us" - Matthew 2:1 Wisemen came seeking one "born King of the Jews" (In Matthew 27 mocked him) - Matthe 3:17 "This is my beloved Son" waters of Baptism > Matthew 3:16 &mdashp And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. > Matthew 4:3 — And when the tempter came to him, he said, **If thou be** the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. - **IF** thou be? There was no question, Jesus is the Word with and was God made flex (John 1:1,14). The satisfaction of the desire of the ages. King of Kings, Son of God. <-- THERE IS NO IF - And Yet, the tempter came, "If thou be ..." - **Jesus was on a mission** ## 1. The Counterfiet - Temptation - Surviving on Crumbs - Side Quests - Can, but should? - Remember, whatever the tempter is offering God has more! - You are going to need for than that <-- Wisdom "Are you really going to go out in that?" - The tempation was to do a miracle at the tempters bidding, > 1. **NEGLECTING THE SPRITUAL FOOD \[LED OF THE SPIRIT\]** - Matthew 4:4 — But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. > 2. **TEMPTING GOD \[PUT GOD ON TRIAL\]** Matthew 4:7 — Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. > 3.**WORSHIP ANY OTHER** Mt 4:10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. - You cannot live these crumbs! - My meat is to do the will ... while he was led of the Spirit into the wilderness to fast and to be tempted. ## 2. The Key - Living on the Word (The Trade) - Can you live on that? Does that really work? Whats the TRADE in? Trusting God and stuff? - Not merely surviving; living = abundant life "I am come that ye might have life. - **EX:** Ruth was staring down widowhood with no social safety net during a famine. **YOUR GOD, MY GOD** - HE SUSTAINS US - Testimony Thread, December 28, 2025 - **EX: LUCY** -> "On 5th, September 2025, the glory of God took over my exams.In one of the departments, I wanted to get a distinction. The criteria was that you had to have up to 70 in all exams. In our mock, I scored a 69. I was so worried because I felt I didn’t meet up. Along the line, I had this peace and assurance in my heart that God would still make a way and He did. The last 3 weeks of my exam preparation, my own strength failed me. It was so obvious that God did it! He helped me. - **EDWIN** -> God Sustained Me This Year. The year 2025 has been tough for me, but I choose to give thanks to God for everything. For God has sustained me & my wife and provided for us. I had been shortlisted for 2 scholarships to study abroad, but they didn’t materialize because of being on both liests canceled me. In June, I quit my job because of stress and fear. Since then, I have been looking for jobs. In October, I attended an interview, got the job offer letter the same day and 2 days later, the offer was cancelled. In December, I went for professional registration assessment and was turned back. As we end the year, I choose to submit everything to God and thank Him for His perfect will and protection. My wife is also now jobless, please pray for me and my wife. - **Braxton** -> "How I Accepted Jesus into My Life. It all began when I witnessed my sister accept Jesus into her heart. I was scared because I hadn’t done it myself yet. For a whole year, I waited, feeling a longing for something more. Finally, after praying and reflecting, I accepted Him into my life. Shortly after, I was baptized by the Holy Spirit, and **I thought everything was going great**. But then, in 2024, my world was shaken when my cousin committed suicide. It felt like everything spiraled from there – my parents went through a tough separation, and my relationship with my sister became strained, and I ended up in a home for my mental health. **But while I was there**, something incredible happened. I started to grow closer to Jesus in ways I never expected. I attended church regularly and prayed every night. This brought me comfort and strength as I navigated my struggles. I realized just how much I needed Him in my life. ... I stand here and proclaim my faith with all of my heart. I’m now 15 years old and going to church every Sunday and Wednesday and loving it. So, I thank God for turning my life around and giving me the courage to do what was right. > Ps 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. ## Concluslion - Then Jesus Came **VERSE 1** - One sat alone beside the highway begging, - His eyes were blind, the light he could not see; - He clutched his rags and shivered in the shadows, - Then Jesus came and bade his darkness flee. **CHORUS** - When Jesus comes the tempter's pow'r is broken, - When Jesus comes the tears are wiped away. - He takes the gloom and fills the life with glory, - For all is changed when Jesus comes to stay. **VERSE 2** - From home and friends the evil spirits drove him, - Among the tombs he dwelt in misery; - He cut himself as demon pow'rs possess'd him, - Then Jesus came and set the captive free. \[Refrain\] **VERSE 3** - Their hearts were sad as in the tomb they laid him, - For death had come and taken him away; - Their night was dark and bitter tears were falling, - Then Jesus came and night was turn'd to day. \[Refrain\] **Verse 4** -So men today have found the Savior able, - They could not conquer passion, lust and sin; - Their broken hearts had left them sad and lonely, - Then Jesus came and dwelt Himself within.# 3. The Tragedy of Tasteless Salt and Hidden Light TEXT: Matthew 5:13-16 > Matthew 5:13-16 — Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. 14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. ## Introduction ## I. Tastless Salt, vs. 13 - salt with which food is seasoned and sacrifices are sprinkled — Matthew 5:13 - those kinds of saline matter used to fertilise arable land -- "Salt of the earth" — > In the biblical and ancient Near Eastern context, salt was far more than a kitchen condiment. An agricultural practice where salt was used to catalyze and preserve fertilizers. While we often think of salt as something that kills plants (like the "salting of the earth" in Judges 9:45), the ancient world used it strategically in small amounts to stimulate growth. - Some people act like they think the Christian is the "sugar" of the earth. > Judges 9:45 — And Abimelech fought against the city all that day; and he took the city, and slew the people that was therein, and beat down the city, and sowed it with salt. > Because the salt used was an impure mixture, the actual sodium chloride (the "salty" part) **could be leached out by rain** or moisture. What remained was a tasteless, chemically inert mineral residue. - wisdom and grace exhibited in speech — **Colossians 4:6** > Proverbs 28:23 — He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favour than he that flattereth with the tongue. - Obedience to God is itelf salt. ## II. Hidden Light, vs.14-16 - Ye are the light of the world. - A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid - and put it under a bushel - Made Light that we might give light! - “No one installs lights under their carpet or floorboards." > 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. - No Longer Giving Light? - If we live no different: Lifestyle, Words, Conduct? - Has he brought us out of darkness? We have light for those still in there! ## Conclusion > JAMES DOBSON -- Consider the experience of a friend of mine, who was a recreational pilot when he was younger. On one occasion, he flew his single-engine plane toward his home base at a small country airport. > Unfortunately, he waited too long to start back and arrived in the vicinity of the field as the sun dropped behind a mountain. By the time he manoeuvred his plane into position to land, he could not see the hazy runway below. > There were no lights to guide him and no one on duty at the airport. He circled the field for another attempt to land, but by then the darkness had become even more impenetrable. For 2 desperate hours, he flew his plane around and around in the blackness of the night, knowing that probably death awaited him when he ran out of fuel. > Then as greater panic gripped him, a miracle occurred. Someone on the ground heard the continuing drone of his engine and realized his predicament. That merciful man drove his car back and forth on the runway to show my friend the location of the airstrip. Then he let his lights cast their beam from the far end while the plane landed. > ...James Dobson shared this about his friend in The New Strong-Willed Child, p. xi.# Unused - Now Faith Hebrews 11:1 - Hebrews 2:1-4 Tend To Your Soul - Hebrews 1:1-3 God has Spoken by His Son# 4. The Greatness that Follows - Text: Matthew 5:17-48 ## Introduction, vs. 17-20 > ITS JUST A LITTLE THING: **World Ware I was started by a wrong turn.** On June 28, 1914, the Archduke Franz Ferdinand were visiting Sarajevo to inspect military maneuvers. Waiting for them along the Appel Quay were six assassins of the "Black Hand". - The first two assassins lost their nerve as the motorcade passed. - The third threw a bomb that bounced off the Archduke’s folded convertible top and exploded under the next car, wounding about 20 people. - The Archduke insisted on continuing to City Hall for a scheduled reception. - After the reception, Franz Ferdinand insisted on visiting the hospital to check on the officers wounded by the bomb. For security, the officials decided to take a different route back, -- The fatal mistake: No one told the drivers. - When the lead car turned right, the Archduke’s driver followed. General Potiorek, the governor of Bosnia, shouted from the car: "What is this? This is the wrong way! - The driver slammed on the brakes to reverse. The heavy car stalled right in front of a Deli where one of the failed assassins, was standing right there on the sidewalk. <-- **The "Wrong Turn"** ### A. Christ Brings a Constrast in the Purpose of his Coming > Mt 5:17 ¶ Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. - **Think not** ... I am come to loose, violate, or dissolve, make of none effect the law - **Think this** ... I am come to fulfill - "shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled" perfect its connection to us ("this IS the law" Matthew 22:40); fulfill also to "teach" - Jot, tittle, yod= smallest letter and tittle = little marks on the alphabet > Colossians 1:25 — Col 1:25 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, **to fulfil** the word of God; <-- teach; preach fully the doctrine of God > 2 Corinthians 4:18 — \[The Word of God is Ever Enduring\] While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. ### B. Christ Makes a General Contrast Between His Teaching and that of the Pharisees (Jesus to fulfill perfectly, fully) - "these **least** commandments" ... this is interesting (Pharisees emphasized distinctiion between weightier and lighter matters of the law.) Pharisees: "At least get the big things right" (Well, because that's the best we can do.) - Jesus proceeds: **these least commandments** (dont explain it away) - Doesn't continue to talk about: Deuteronomy 22:6-7 "If you see a mother bird with her young leave the mother. -- animalcruelty condemned -- " - Those are the LEAST who teach any laws of God might be violated with impunity - expemption from punishment - **5 Times** Christ contrasts "What you have heard" with "what I say", 6 Times if we includes this **think not - think this** - He addresses murder, adultery, divorce, oaths, retaliation, and love for enemies. \*\*these do not seem minor or unimportant" - Jesus is not categorizing these as "unimportant" or "less important", but proceeds to outline the greatness to follows them -- the perfect form the shadow takes. - **What is greater is the perfect fulfillment over the shadow and the imperfect keeping ot that.** - Briefly, Why these 5? \*\*Had been Systematically hollowed out by religous leaders." Here be games played. Trivialized by men. ## 1. "Thou Shalt Not Kill", vs. 21-26 (The Jot of Killing "Intent, Hate") > 21 ¶ Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: 22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is **angry with his brother without a cause** shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, **Raca**, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. ... - Don't be angry ## 2. "Thou Should Not Commit Adultery", vs. 27-32 - Don't Lust > "You never said" --- Dennis Prayer, "In Judaism, Looking with lust is not a sin," and "There's no ban in the 613 laws of the Torah on lusting". He clarifies that the Hebrew word for "covet" refers to an active desire to acquire something, not merely a thought or feeling. ## 3. "Thou Not Forswear and Not Follow Through" (Keep Your Vows), vs. 33-37 - Keep Your Oaths - Don't Make Promises you Can't Keep! (Swear by heaven?!?!) ## 4. "An Eye for an Eye", vs. 38-42 > 38 ¶ Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: 39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also. 40 And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away thy coat, let him have thy cloke also. 41 And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. 42 Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away. - "An Eye for an Eye" - Where is mercy? - "Turn the Other Cheek" and "Always say yes?" (Ask, Why not?) ## 5. "Love Thy Neighbor, Hate Thine Enemy", vs. 43-48 > 43 ¶ Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; 45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. 46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? 47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? 48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. - Treat people as they treat you, Maintain a balance in this life - Store up treasure in the world to come! ## Conclusion - There are weighty matters hinged on little things -- seemingly small on their own, but great because of what follows, entails them. - Don't hollow out God's expections: murder, act of adultery, keep your promises, just retribution, and be good to your people. - There are "jot's": - KILL: intent, hate - Adultery: lust - Keep Your Word: lieing, presumption, over promising - Justice: mercy? - Love Neighboar, Hate Enemy: What if through God's grace and mercy, your enemy could become your neighbor? > Lu 10:36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? - Who waas neighbor? **HE THAT SHOULD MERCY UNTO HIM**# 5. An Anchor for Our Soul > Hebrews 2:1-4 — Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. 2 For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; 3 **How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord**, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; 4 God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? > Hebrews 6:17, 18,19 — 17 Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise **the immutability of his counsel**, confirmed it by an oath: 18 That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: 19 Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; ## Introduction - In Hebrews 6 we are given an anchor for our hope: **THE IMMUTABILITY OF GOD's COUNSEL**. - In Hebrews 2, We are given a warning is remind us of the risk of truths that have transformed us of having them slip away from us -- being out of mind, out of active effect. - What are some things spoken **at the first by the Lord**, and by God's own witness with signs, wonders, divers miracles and gifts of the Holy Ghost? ## I. **SURE ANCHOR**: Testimonies of Stedfastness - **stedfast:** STABLE; FIRM; FORCE, SURE - **immutability** unchanging; unalterable. - It is a neglecting of our salvation to not give earnest head to the word so overwhelming attested as STEDFAST -- UNCHANGING. - **a.** vs. 2,3 this is not just angels, but this is our LORD --- God. --- He sealed his testimony with a cross and a resurrection. - **b.** vs.3 confirmed by them that heard him ("Paul said", "I agree more with James", "men's writings..." .. the testimony of those that were there! Peter, Paul, etc got it from Jesus.) - **c.** v.4 God also bore witness both with signs and wonders, divers miracls and gifts of the Holy Ghost ## II. **SURE WORDS**: 1. John 1:43 Follow Me 2. John 2:7 Fill the waterpots 3. 2:16 make not my fathers house a house of merchandise 4. John 3:6 must be born again 5. 4 13 14 ... thirst agaun unless ## III. **SURING UP** - Remind ourselves daily: > 2 Peter 1:12 — Wherefore **I will not be negligent** to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. - make light of; **regard not** - Read the Scriptures, Memorize teh Scriptures, Meditate Scriptures, Seek daily to LIVE the Scriptures. ## Conclusion: Words of Life > ILLUSTRATION: WONDERFUL WORDS OF LIFE written in 1874 by Philip bliss. **The Story** As a child raised in a log cabin in rural Pennsylvania, Philip Bliss loved music. The only musical instrument he owned was a flute his father had whittled for him from his cane. Philip hoped to buy a cheap violin, so he picked baskets of berries from the swamps and sold them door-to-door. Hearing the music from a piano coming from one house, Philip went to the door and listened ... until the pianist told the barefoot 10-year-old to go away. **2 decades later**, Philip was directing the music in an evangelistic crusade led by Dwight L. Moody. Philip had become well-known for his singing voic and for the gospel songs he wrote. **When Moody’s brother-in-law, Fleming H. Revell**, was launching a new religious magazine, The Words of Life, he asked Philip to write a song for the first issue. Revell suggested both the title for the song, and the text – John 6:67,68. In these verses, Jesus sees many of His followers walking away, and He asks His core of 12: “You do not want to also go away, do you?” Peter answers on behalf of the group: “Lord, to whom should we go? **Only You have the words of life**.” > As Revell requested, Philip wrote this gospel song: “Wonderful Words of Life”. A few years later, he wrote these words: “I carried that song through two seasons of evangelis­tic work, ne­ver think­ing it pos­sessed much mer­it, or that it had the ele­ment of spe­cial use­ful­ness, par­ti­cu­lar­ly for so­lo pur­pos­es. It oc­curred to me to try it one day dur­ing the cam­paign in New Ha­ven, \[Con­nec­ti­cut, 1878,\] and, with the help of Mrs. Steb­bins, we sang it as a du­et. To our sur­prise the song was re­ceived with the great­est en­thu­si­asm and from that time on to the close of the meet­ings was the fa­vo­rite of all the hymns used. As an il­lus­tra­tion of the hold it got up­on the peo­ple all about that sect­ion of the count­ry, I re­ceived a let­ter from the Sec­re­ta­ry of the Con­nec­ti­cut State Sun­day School As­so­ci­a­tion of­fer­ing me what seemed an ab­surd­ly large sum of mon­ey, if I would, with Mrs. Steb­bins, come to the State Con­ven­tion and sing that one song.” > Sing them over again to me, wonderful words of life, let me more of their beauty see, wonderful words of life; words of life and beauty teach me faith and duty. ...# 6. What Did Ruth See? - TEXT: Ruth 1:6-18 - v.18 She was **steadfastly minded** ## Introduction: **BOTH** - **BOTH**: v. 8 "Said unto her daughters in law" (Naomi saw both Orpah and Ruth as peers) - **BOTH** Orpah and Ruth were Moabite women. - **BOTH** had been kind to to their mother in law and to the recently deceased. (8) - **BOTH** left Moab with Noami to journey to Bethlehem. v.7 "went on the way to return..." - **BOTH** Orpah and Ruth cried out and wept as Noami kissed them goodbye. - **BOTH** refused to leave Naomi. v.10 "**They** said" - **BOTH** cried out and wept at Noami's insistance they turn back. (They felt at least some of the same feelings) - **ORPAH** KISSED Naomi goodbye. v.14a - **RUTH** CLAVE unto Naomi. v.14b - What did Ruth see that Orpah missed? (Orpah looked, but only so far) > Ruth 1:15 — ... behold thy sister in law is gone back ... - Ruth's personal loyalty to Noami is not the whole story. Noami gave Ruth every "out" and released her fully, but Ruth would not have it. ## 1. RUTH SAW THE PROMISE OF BETHLEHEM (v.15-16a) - Orpah knew Moab. (it was what she knew) - RUTH KNEW WHAT DIRECTION NAOMI WAS HEADED - Bethlehem was the "house of bread" - the potential of the destination - a glimpse of ... > Micah 5:2 — But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of these shall he come forth unto me that is to be rule rin Israel; whose goings forth have been from old, from everlasting. ## 2. RUTH SAW THE "PROMISE PEOPLE" (v. 16b) - Orpah saw **GOOD PEOPLE** - RUTH KNEW HER NEW IDENTITY - Resolved to "LIVE THE GIFT" - a glimpse of ... > Genesis 12:1-3 — ## 3. RUTH SAW THE "PROMISER" (v.17) - Orpah saw a faith, practice and **GOOD RELIGION** - Ruth saw God's Hand at work: God knows best! > 1 Kings 18:21 — How long halt ye between two opinions ## Conclusion: A Made Up Mind > Ruth 1:18 — When she saw that she was **steadfastly minded** to go wiht her, then she left speaking unto her. - was determined to go with her - to be strong, alert, courageous, brave, stout, solid - If you see what Ruth saw, there is nothing to go back to and no reason good enough to quit! - She was converted, changed!# 7. Promises to the Persecuted > 18 But there shall not an hair of your head perish. - - - - - - > Luke 21:5 ¶ And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones and gifts, he said, 6 As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. 7 And they asked him, saying, Master, but 1. (1)when shall these things be? 2. and (2)what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass? 3. \[false christs\] > 8 And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them. 4. Be Not Terrified, end is not yet > 9 But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by. > 10 Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: 11 And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven. 5. PERSECUTION, vs. 12-19 > 12 But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake. 13 And it shall turn to you for a testimony. 14 Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer: 15 For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist. 16 And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. 17 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. 18 But there shall not an hair of your head perish. 19 In your patience possess ye your souls. ## Introduction: Persecution "Persecution isn't something I have to worry about." > DEFINITION: PERSECUTION: any hostility, ill-treatment, or systematic oppression directed toward an individual or group specifically because of their identification with Jesus Christ. Unlike general suffering (which is a common human experience), biblical persecution is distinguished by its source and its purpose. ## I. Persecution Will Come **1 Kings 18:4, 13 (Jezebel Slew)** - The first great religious persecution we have of any record was that which broke out when Ahab was king of Israel who at the instigation of his wife Jezebel, sought to exerminate the worship of Jehovah and substitute in its place the worship of Ashtoreth and Baal. Ahab and Jezebel's example was followed by Manasseh, who "shed innocent blood very much, till he had filled Jerusalem from one end to another" > 2 Kings 21:16 — Moreover Manasseh shed innocent blood very much, till he had filled Jerusalem from one end to another; beside his sin wherewith he made Judah to sin, in doing that which was evil in the sight of the LORD. \[The sins of Manasseh; 2 Kings 24:4 "would not pardon"\] David chose rather to trust God's justice than to seek revenge and writes about this is Psalm 7. \["persue hotly"\] > Psalms 7:13 — He hath also prepared for him the instruments of death; **he ordaineth his arrows against the persecutors**. - but know this ... > 12 But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you ... ## II. Persecution is Not Foreign > 1 Peter 4:12 — Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: \[don't think this as something foreign to you\] ### A. Exmaple of Jesus (Jesus has Come, Jesus Will Come) > John 14:6 — Jesus saith unto him, **I am the way**, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
\#Detail from Luke 21Cross RefJesus’ Fulfillment (Parallel Reference)
1Laying hands on youMatthew 26:50"Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him."
2PersecutionJohn 15:20"If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you."
3Delivering to synagoguesMark 14:53Jesus was brought before the High Priest and the Sanhedrin
4Into prisons (custody)Matthew 27:2"And when they had bound him, they led him away..." Lu 22:63 ...men that held Jesus mocked him, and smote him. ..., blindfolded him, struck him on the face, and asked him, saying, Prophesy, who is it that smote thee? 65 And **many other things** blasphemously spake they against him.
5Before kings and rulersLuke 23:1, 7He was brought before Pilate (Governor/Ruler) and Herod (King/Tetrarch).
6Mouth and wisdomMatthew 22:46"And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions." --- Isa 53:7 He was oppressed ... yet he opened not his mouth:
7Adversaries unable to resistLuke 20:26"And they could not take hold of his words before the people: and they marvelled at his answer, and held their peace."
8Betrayed by kinsfolks/friendsMatthew 26:48-50Judas, one of the Twelve, betrayed Him with a kiss. --- John 7:5 also notes His own brethren did not believe Him initially.
9Put to deathLuke 23:33"And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him."
10Hated of all menJohn 15:18"If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you."
11Not a hair shall perishJohn 19:36; Acts 2:31"For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken." — "...his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see **corruption**.
12Patience (Endurance)1 Peter 2:23"Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously:"
> Luke 21:27 — And then shall they see **the Son of man coming** in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. ### B. Example of Apostles - SEE EXTRA #1 ### C. Eusebius 10 Plagues / 10 Roman Persecutions - SEE EXTRA #2 ### III. Persecution will Come to an End - Protection and Preserveration in Perseuction - GOD WINS! 1 Kings 21;23 <= "Jezebel will be eaten by dogs -- IT WILL END - BUT ... Its gonna hurt right? (contradiction?) --- THERE IS PURPOSE > Luke 21:17b-18 — … and some of you shall they cause to be **put to death**. 17 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. 18 But there shall **not an hair of your head perish**. - While Christ died physically, this points to Divine preservation and ultimate Resurrection. Even when **ALL IS LOST** , **ALL IS NOT LOST!** -- a better resurrection > Hebrews 11:35 — Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: > Joh 11:25 — Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: > Ac 24:15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust. - in the likenss of Christ's resurrection > Ro 6:5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: > 1 Corinthians 15:42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: - ENDURE TO THE END! > Luke 21:19 — In your patience possess ye your souls. > Mt 10:22 — And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that **endureth to the end shall be saved**. ## Extra ## 1. The Apostolic Fulfillment in the Book of Acts
\#Detail from Luke 21Cross RefThe Apostolic Fulfillment in the Book of Acts
1Laying hands on youActs 4:3"And they laid hands on them \[Peter and John\], and put them in hold unto the next day."
2Persecute youActs 8:1"And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem."
3Delivering to synagoguesActs 22:19Paul recounts his former life: "I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee."
4Into prisonsActs 12:4Herod "apprehended \[Peter\], and put him in prison." Also Paul and Silas in Acts 16:23.
5Before kings and rulersActs 24–26Paul stands before Governor Felix, Governor Festus, and King Agrippa.
6Mouth and wisdomActs 4:13; Acts 7"When they saw the boldness of Peter and John... they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus." Stephen's sermon in Acts 7
7Adversaries unable to resistActs 6:10Of Stephen, it says: "They were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake."
8Betrayed by kinsfolksActs 13:50While specific family names aren't always given, the "chief men" and "devout women" (often family of Jewish converts) stirred up the city against them.
9Put to deathActs 7:59Stephen is stoned. Acts 12:2: James (the brother of John) is killed with the sword.
10Hated of all menActs 28:22"For as concerning this sect, we know that everywhere it is spoken against."
11Not a hair shall perishActs 27:34During a shipwreck, Paul tells everyone, "There shall not an hair fall from the head of any of you." (See also Peter’s rescue in Acts 12).
12Patience (Possess souls)Acts 5:41They departed "rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name."
## 2. The Ten Great Roman Persecutions Framework - during this period TERTULIAN wrote "the blood of the martyers is the seed of the church"
\#EmperorDates (approx.)Primary Characteristics & Events
1Nero64–68 ADTriggered by the Great Fire of Rome. Nero used Christians as scapegoats. Includes the martyrdoms of Peter and Paul.
2Domitian81–96 ADFocused on the refusal of Christians to participate in Emperor Worship. During this time, the Apostle John was exiled to Patmos.
3Trajan98–117 ADEstablished the policy of "don't ask, don't tell" (documented in letters with Pliny the Younger). Notable martyr: Ignatius of Antioch.
4Marcus Aurelius161–180 ADChristians were blamed for natural disasters (famine/plague). This era saw the martyrdom of Polycarp and Justin Martyr.
5Septimius Severus202–211 ADProhibited conversion to Christianity or Judaism under pain of death. Notable martyrs: Perpetua and Felicitas.
6Maximinus Thrax235–238 ADTargeted church leaders specifically, believing that if the "shepherds" were removed, the "flock" would scatter.
7Decius249–251 ADThe first empire-wide systematic persecution. Required citizens to carry a libellus (certificate) proving they sacrificed to Roman gods.
8Valerian257–260 ADConfiscated church property and prohibited assemblies. Notable martyrs: Cyprian and Lawrence (the deacon).
9Aurelian270–275 ADOften described as a brief but intense wave. He was assassinated shortly after issuing a decree against Christians, which limited its reach.
10Diocletian303–311 ADKnown as the "Great Persecution." The most severe attempt to eradicate Christianity. Churches were razed, and all Bibles were ordered to be burned.
# 6. How You Got Here and Why It Matters ## Introduction **PREMISE:** Disconnected islands. A part of a story, plan. - How God Starts it all, where do I fit? - God **->** angels **->** world **->** Adam's Family **->** Abraham **->** Israel/12 Tribes **->** Judah **->** David **->** Jesus **->** the church **->** me > Genesis 1:1 — In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. > If you asked 2nd Century Christians 1. Before the Beginning 2. Sometime around the Beginning: Angels 3. In the beginning, Genesis 1:1 4. Adam's Family 5. Abraham - Isaac - Jacob 6. Israel/12 Tribes 7. Judah 8. David 9. Jesus 10. Apostles & The Church 11. **YOU** - Children of God - Children of Men - Children of Abraham - You came from some where# 7. The Soul to the Body, The Christian to the World > John 16:28-33 — I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father. 29 His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb. 30 Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee: by this we believe that thou camest forth from God. 31 Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe? 32 Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me. 33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. **In the world** ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. \[kosmos\] > Acts 1:8 — But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and **ye shall be witnesses unto me** both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. ## Introduction to The Epistle of Mathetes to Diognetus > Christ’s resurrection is about a hundred years past and since that the church he founded has gained members throughout the world. In spite of their innocent lives, Christians are misunderstood, maligned, persecuted, and martyred. The main accusation against them is that they are atheists because they do not worship the idols of the empire. **--Nonetheless--**, their stark faith still holds an appeal, the Christians' generous character, their willingness to suffer for what they believe, and the joy they demonstrate even in the midst of that suffering. Such qualities draw more than a few noble-minded individuals **to weigh the evidence for Christianity**. - Rev. John B. Lightfoot (1602–1675), in his work on the Apostolic Fathers, includes the Epistle to Diognetus as a significant early *case for Christianity*, likely dating around 130–150 AD. Author introduces himself as "Mathetus" a d "disciple of the apostles" and writes at a time where he can describe Christianity as "being a **new thing** in the world". - The Epistle is an answer to three questions: (1) What is the nature of the faith and worship which lead to fearless martyrdom, abstinence from pagan and Jewish observances? (2) What is the character of Christian love? (3) Why is Christianity just now appearing? > \[CH 1\] Since I see thee, most excellent Diognetus, **exceedingly desirous to learn the mode of worshipping God** prevalent among the Christians, and inquiring very carefully and earnestly concerning them, **what God they trust in**, and what **form of religion they observe**, so as all to look down upon the world itself, and despise death, while they neither esteem those to be gods that are reckoned such by the Greeks, nor hold to the superstition of the Jews; and what is the affection which they cherish among themselves; and why, in fine, **this new kind or practice \[of piety\] has only now entered into the world, and not long ago**; ... - Rediscovered in a single manuscript in 1543, The Epistle to Diognetus's themes of **justification by faith** and the **distinction between the church and the world**. - 12 Chapters that climax in Chapter 9 in which The author doesn't just describe a teacher or a moral example; he describes **a Savior**. Lightfoot saw this as the **"noblest"** expression of the Gospel because it captures the wonder of God's love without getting bogged down in complex philosophical hair-splitting. \[articulate, courageous, gospel-centered\] > 2 Timothy 2:24 — And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, - "Christians are to the world what the soul is to the body." ## What is intended by the anology of the Soul? - The Spiritual life at the heart of the Christian constitution - 1. DISPERSED 2. DUAL CITIZENS 3. INVISIBLITY 4. WARRING FACTIONS 5. LOVE+HATE 6. HEALTH 7. INCORRUPTIBLE 8. FLOURISHING 9. GOD MADE\* ## The Epistle's Analogy of Christians in the World > \[The Epistle of Mathetes to Diognetus\] To sum up all in one word — **what the soul is in the body, Christians are in the world**. > \[CH 6\] The soul is dispersed through all the members of the body, and Christians are scattered through all the cities of the world. The soul dwells in the body, yet is not of the body; and Christians dwell in the world, yet are not of the world. The invisible soul is guarded by the visible body, and Christians are known indeed to be in the world, but their godliness remains invisible. The flesh hates the soul, and wars against it, 1 Peter 2:11 though itself suffering no injury, because it is prevented from enjoying pleasures; the world also hates the Christians, though in nowise injured, because they abjure pleasures. The soul loves the flesh that hates it, and \[loves also\] the members; Christians likewise love those that hate them. The soul is imprisoned in the body, yet keeps together that very body; and Christians are confined in the world as in a prison, and yet they keep together the world. The immortal soul dwells in a mortal tabernacle; and Christians dwell as sojourners in corruptible \[bodies\], looking for an incorruptible dwelling in the heavens. The soul, when but ill-provided with food and drink, becomes better; in like manner, the Christians, though subjected day by day to punishment, increase the more in number. God has assigned them this illustrious position, which it were unlawful for them to forsake. ### 1. **DISPERSED** > The soul is dispersed through all the members of the body, and Christians are scattered through all the cities of the world. - Like Good seed, scattered. - **CHRISTIANS ARE EVERYWHERE** **less than 1% of the population in 150 AD**, their concentration made them unavoidable. They were found in the Roman Army, the Imperial Household, and the marketplaces. - In the mid-2nd century, Christians were a tiny numerical minority, but they were strategically located in almost every major urban center of the Roman Empire. About **40,000** Christians globally in 150 AD (about 0.07% of the Empire's population). Christianity was almost exclusively an urban movement. By 200 AD (~120,000), it is estimated that 60% of Christians lived in 6 cities: Rome had ~40,000 Christians. Antioch, Alexandria, and Carthage had ~10,000–15,000 each. Ephesus and Jerusalem had ~5,000 each. - 40% Growth every decade average between 40 AD and 300 AD: 1,000 (40AD) - 7,530 (100AD) - 40,490 (150 AD) - 217,795 (200 AD) - beginning in centers of trade, travel - Caring for the sick during plagues, lived longer + higher survival rate - If you were a traveler in 200 AD going from Britain to Mesopotamia, you could find a small but dedicated community of Christians in almost every single stop along the way. This "thin but universal" > Mt 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. > Acts 1:8 — But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. ### 2. **DUAL CITIZENS** > The soul dwells in the body, yet is not of the body; and Christians dwell **in** the world, yet are not **of** the world. - tabernacled, imprisoned, still model citizens of both > 1. The Testimony of Speratus (The Scillitan Martyrs, 180 AD) the trial of a group of Christians in North Africa. Speratus, When the Roman Proconsul Saturninus pressured him to swear by the "genius" of the Emperor \[a small harmless guesture, just swear by the emperor and go home\], Speratus replied: "I recognize not the empire of this world; but rather do I serve that God whom no man hath seen... I have committed no theft; but if I buy anything I pay the tax; because I know my Lord, the King of kings and Emperor of all nations." The Ethos: Speratus demonstrates the "Heavenly Citizen" who is a "Model Earthly Subject." He pays his taxes and follows the law, but his identity is not defined by the Roman Empire. ### 3. **INVISIBLE GODLINESS/SEEN YET NOT SEEN** > The invisible soul is guarded by the visible body, and Christians are known indeed to be in the world, but their godliness remains invisible. > 2 Corinthians 10:1-4 — 3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 ... no carnal .. - Worship a LIVING but INVISIBLE God (THE ATHIEST CHRISTIANS). - **The Suspicion of the "Secret" Society** Met in private homes, refused communion to non-believers. If you were Egyptian, you worshipped Isis. If you were Jewish, you followed the Law of Moses and lived in a specific community. If you were Roman, you participated in the state cults. NO TEMPLES, NO STATUES ... was a point of confusion to Romans. > 1 John 4:12 — No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. - SECULAR, have your religion to yourself ... BE A LIGHT, city on a hill ... in light of the distrust and captivity of the minds to conspiracy, Christians have an opportunity to spread **LIGHT**. - Why he can't "find" Christianity by looking at a map --- can only find it by looking at the transformed lives of the people who belong to it. > Acts 1:8 — But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and **ye shall be witnesses** unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. ### 4. **WARRING FACTIONS** > The flesh hates the soul, and wars against it, though itself suffering no injury, because it is prevented from enjoying pleasures; the world also hates the Christians, though in nowise injured, because they renounce pleasures. > 1 Peter 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; ### 5. **LOVING THEIR ENEMIES** > The soul loves the flesh that hates it, and \[loves also\] the members; Christians likewise love those that hate them. > Joh 15:19 If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. > Mt 5:43-48 — ... Love your enemies ... ### 6. **ROADBLOCK TO EVIL** > The soul is imprisoned in the body, yet keeps together that very body; and Christians are confined in the world as in a prison, and yet they keep together the world. > 2 Thess. 2:7 mdash; For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. - **POWER** over others is not true superiority; instead, true superiority is found in helping others. - The very institutions that labor to keep CHRISTIANS out, survive only by their presence. ### 7. **INCORRUPTIBLE** > The immortal soul dwells in a mortal tabernacle; and Christians dwell as sojourners in corruptible \[bodies\], looking for an incorruptible dwelling in the heavens. > 1 Co 15:52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. > 1 Co 9:25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. > 1 Peter 1:4 — To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, {for you: or, for us} > 1 Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. ### 8. **FLOURISHING FAITH** > The soul, when but ill-provided with food and drink, becomes better; in like manner, the Christians, though subjected day by day to punishment, increase the more in number. > John 12:24 — Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. - Tertullian, " We multiply as often as we are mown down by you; the blood of Christians is like a seed." > 2 Corinthians 12:15 — And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; **though** the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved. ### 9. **GOD MADE** > God has assigned them this illustrious position, which it were unlawful for them to forsake. - This unique character is the fruit of an unique creed. The Christian life is more than human in its manifestation because the Christian faith is **divine in its origin**. > Psalm 100:3 — Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. ## Conclusion > \[CH 5\] For the Christians are distinguished from other men neither by country, nor language, nor the customs which they observe. For they neither inhabit cities of their own, nor employ a peculiar form of speech, nor lead a life which is marked out by any singularity. The course of conduct which they follow has not been devised by any speculation or deliberation of inquisitive men; nor do they, like some, proclaim themselves the advocates of any merely human doctrines. But, inhabiting Greek as well as barbarian cities, according as the lot of each of them has determined, and following the customs of the natives in respect to clothing, food, and the rest of their ordinary conduct, they display to us their wonderful and confessedly striking method of life. They dwell in their own countries, but simply as sojourners. As citizens, they share in all things with others, and yet endure all things as if foreigners. Every foreign land is to them as their native country, and every land of their birth as a land of strangers. They marry, as do all \[others\]; they beget children; but they do not destroy their offspring. They have a common table, but not a common bed. They are in the flesh, but they do not live after the flesh. 2 Corinthians 10:3 They pass their days on earth, but they are citizens of heaven. Philippians 3:20 They obey the prescribed laws, and at the same time surpass the laws by their lives. They love all men, and are persecuted by all. They are unknown and condemned; they are put to death, and restored to life. 2 Corinthians 6:9 They are poor, yet make many rich; 2 Corinthians 6:10 they are in lack of all things, and yet abound in all; they are dishonoured, and yet in their very dishonour are glorified. They are evil spoken of, and yet are justified; they are reviled, and bless; 2 Corinthians 4:12 they are insulted, and repay the insult with honour; they do good, yet are punished as evil-doers. When punished, they rejoice as if quickened into life; they are assailed by the Jews as foreigners, and are persecuted by the Greeks; yet those who hate them are unable to assign any reason for their hatred. ## Sources: - https://dn790002.ca.archive.org/0/items/epistletodiognet00just/epistletodiognet00just.pdf - https://archive.org/details/apostolicfathers00ligh/page/486/mode/2up The Apostolic Fathers: Revised Texts with Short Introductions and English Translations by J.B. Lightfoot# 8. Exceeding Great and Precious Promises > 2 Peter 1:1-4 — 4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. ## Exegesis (vs. 1-4) - **A LETTER FROM**: Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, - **A LETTER TO**: them that have obtained\[received\] like precious\[of equal value or honor\] faith \[persuasion, moral conviction, reliance upon Christ\] with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: - **Grace, peace** be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, - According as **his divine power** hath given unto us **all things that pertain unto life \[zoe\] and godliness \[holiness\]**, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: - **Whereby** \[the channel of an act => the knowledge of Christ\] are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: - that **by these** \[promises\] ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. ## Word Study (vs. 4) - **exceeding great**: superlative, greatest or very great \[only here but root that is superlative of: Matthew 2:10; 22:36; John 11:43\] - **precious**: had in reputation, valuable, honored, dear \[Acts 5:34; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Peter 1:7\] - **promises**: a self-committal, assurance of conferring some good "**I** WILL..." \[2 Pe 3:13\] - **partakers**: a sharer, fellowship, partner \[Luke 5:10; 1Co 10:20\] - **divine nature**: theios/godlike | native, sort, kind, constitution \[Romans 1:26; Romans 2:14; Romans 11:21; 1 Corinthians 11:14; Ephesians 2:3; James 3:7\] - **corruption**: decay \[Galatians 6:8\] > Galatians 6:8 — For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. ## 1. The Channel: "The Knowledge of God", v. 2 - What could we know of God without Him revealing it, sharing it? > John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. > **ADAM CLARKE**: Those who know Christ; and do not acknowledge him before men, can get no multiplication of grace and peace ## 2. The Source: "The Power of God", v.3 - endowed us with supernatural gifts > Ephesians 1:3 ¶ Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: - but not merely impersonal "gifts" or "force" but a **Comforter** --- the Person of the Holy Ghost **HE** > Ac 10:45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. > John 14:26 — But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, **he** shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. ## 3. The Gift: "Exceeding Great and Precious Promises" v.3,4 - **HAS CALLED US** to glory (the end) and virtue/courage/perfection of the divine nature (through his own infinite goodness) - Grace & Peace multiplied - all things that pertain unto life and Godliness - Great - and Precious --- Distinguised by the Promises - Abraham, Isaac, Jacob , Moses, prophets are distinguished by the promises given to them. \*\*BY THE GIFT OF THE PROMISES, TO THE END \*\* > Ge 1:26 ¶ And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. - Partakers of the Divine Nature > 1Co 6:9 ¶ Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. > Col 1:12 — Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: > Col 1:13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: 14 In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: 15 Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20 And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. 21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled 22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: 23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;# 9. A Story of Worship ## Introduction - a story worth telling - Who or What do you worship - 102 verses, worship (166x "shachah"): +bowed, bow down, fell flat, obesiance, humbly beseech - instruments of worship: - first occurrence of "worship" Genesis 22:5 (vs. 1tempt = test; offer a burnt **offering** upon a **mountain** <= OFFERING & PLACE & OBJECT OF WORSHIP) - ATTITUDE, PHYSICAL ACT, > **WORSHIP:** STRONG's 07812. shachah a primitive root; to depress, i.e. prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or God):--bow (self) down, crouch, fall down (flat), humbly beseech, do (make) obeisance, do reverence, make to stoop, worship. > **OBESIENCE** a physical act of reverence, such as a bow, courtesy, or prostration, signifying submission, honor, or homage to a superior or deity ( more broadly, an attitude of deep respect: reverance) > **HOMAGE** a public show of high respect through artistic immitation or direct attribute ## 1. God Did Tempt Abraham > James 1:12-17 — Jas 1:12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. 13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: Jas 1:14 But every man is tempted, **when he is drawn away of his own lust**, and enticed. 15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. 16 Do not err, my beloved brethren. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. - vs. 1 **TEMPTED?** tested, proved, tried > Genesis 22:5 And Abraham said unto his young men, Abide ye here with the ass; and I and the lad will go yonder and **worship**, and come again to you. God organized a meeting with Abraham and Isaac on Mount Moriah. "And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham". The devil tempted Jesus in the wilderness in Matthew 4 **hoping he would fail** while God tested Abraham in Genessis 22 (in a sense) **hoping he would pass**. God proved or tested Abraham on Mount Moriah. - - - - - - - (Is this sort of testing a habit of God?) YES, generally speaking. The temptation or test Genesis 22 is just 1 section in a series of quizzes God gave to Abraham: - **Genesis 12** Before Abraham was Abraham and he was the son of an idol salesmen in Ur of the Chaldees. God intructed Abraham "Go from your country," - leave behind everything familiar for something I will show you later - **Genesis 15**: The Delay in Abraham receiving a son, did not mean God would provide in an unconventional way (God didn't take the off ramp suggested by Abraham), but Abraham was to wait for hs promised heir despite the physical impossibilities. - **Genesis 21** Finally Abraham received a son (Ishmael) which proved problemsome. When Ishmael was 14-16 years old, after Sarah had given birth to Isaac and he was weaned. Ishmael "made sport of" or "mocked" Isaac. Paul in Galations 4 called it "persecuting". > Galatians 4:29 — But as then he that was born after the flesh **persecuted** him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now. This is clearly not light hearted jest or simple silliness on Ishmael's part. They were threats of more serious behavior to come. There is quite a bit of irony still to consider here. - Isaac's name literally means "he laughs" - Sarah laughed in disbelief years before when hearing the prophesy she would give birth. - Sarah also testifies in Genesis 21:6, after Isaac's birth that "God had made her to laugh" and she rejoiced "All that hear will laugh **WITH ME**" - Ishmael's mocking was no joke, he was not laughting WITH sarah, but **was laughing AT Isaac** - Instead of **everything just coming together** for Abraham, God tested Abraham. This division in his home was a burden on Abraham and he did not want to send one of his son's away. God then tells him not to grieve over Ishmael because it was in Isaac God would fulfill his promise. - **THEN** comes Genesis 22 and **GOD DID TEST ABRAHAM** - - - - - - - BUT this particular **binding of Isaac** is a ONE TIME THING (hapax legomenon: a word that occurs only once in the Bible) Abraham tied the hands and feet of Isaac as one would to an animal for sacrifice. The binding of Isaac was a singular, unprecedented event intended never to be repeated. - - - - - - - What was it that God was testing exactly about Abraham? **the binding of Isaac \[the Akedah\]**: Abraham was to bind and offer his only son, Isaac, as a **burnt offering**. > Exodus 24:1 — And he said unto Moses, Come up unto the LORD, thou, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and seventy of the elders of Israel; and **worship** ye afar off.