SERVANTS OF THE GOSPEL
Romans 1:1-7
Intro: Paul's letter to the Romans has become the greatest document of all the New Testament writings. It speaks to every doctrine of the church and about practical Christian living. In this introductory message from this great book, we will see something about Paul's inspired thoughts about the gospel and its' service.
I. The Promise of the Gospel (vs. 1-2)
A. The Messenger of the Gospel
1. His Attitude=slave, debasing, contemptible, performance of duties-never merited praise or thanks. To the Galatians, Paul said we are to "serve one another." To the Corinthians, he said we are to be "slave to all that we might win the lost." And, Jesus said in Matthew that to be honored above all, one must learn to do the service of a slave towards others.
2. His Allegiance=to Jesus Christ, nothing else
3. His Apostleship=not to become, but to perform
4. His Appointment=set apart for the Gospel
B. The Message of the Gospel – What is it? – It is the story of Christ’s Birth, Death and Resurrection. Faith in this is what brings salvation to one's life; not religious knowledge, understanding, or practice.
II. The Person of the Gospel (vs. 3-4)
A. He's the Revealed One-through Scripture & Birth
B. He's the Reigning One-The Lord
C. He's the Resurrected One-Victory through the
Spirit of Holiness. Victory over
1. the power of sin-eternal separation from God
2. the penalty of sin-eternal death
3. the person of sin-Satan
III. The Plan of the Gospel (vs. 5-7)
A. To Call Others to Salvation
B. To Serve Others in Salvation
Concl: The message this morning has had three goals. 1. to speak to our hearts about our attitudes of service as Christians. 2. to challenge those who may never have made a decision to accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior. 3. to challenge each of our lives to become involved in the gospel work of calling and serving others.
SERVING IN THE GOSPEL
Romans 1: 8-15
Intro: We have seen in the first seven verses of this chapter what Paul understood was to be ones attitude, allegiance, & appointment as a servant in Gospel Ministry. Paul gives to us the understanding that it is our responsibility as servants to call others to salvation, and to serve others because of our salvation. This idea of serving in the gospel is what Paul presents to us in this passage. Look with me this morning as we see:
I. Reports of Faith (vs. 8-12)
A. Paul's Intercession for the Faithful
1. Began with praise v. 8
2. Continued with prayer vd. 9-10
B. Paul's Interest in the Faithful
1. To Entrust spiritual gifts v.11
2. To Encourage each other v. 12
II. Responsibilities of the Faithful(v.14-15)
A. Speaks of ones Opportunity v. 13
B. Speaks of ones Obligation v. 14
C. Speaks of ones Objective v. 15
Concl: What is it that drives you to serving the Lord Jesus Christ? Simply put, it should be Others. Fellow believers who need to be strengthened, and those who God will call to Faith by your witness.
UNASHAMED SERVICE
Romans 1:16-17
Intro: In the previous two sermons from this chapter, the major theme has been our serving the Lord. Paul summarizes this thought in this closing paragraph. He tells us our service should be without shame. There are many ways in which we reveal our hesitancy to speak up about our faith in the Gospel. By many of our actions we show the Gospel does make us ashamed. We fail to bow our heads at restaurants to give a simple thanks to the God who provides our food. We refuse to speak up in crowds as to the rightness or wrongness of actions and words, because, we are afraid we will be branded a religious nut. We do not take the many opportunities to share one on one the greatest news that has and will ever face ones needs of life, because, to share the Gospel might be rejected, and we be embarrassed by our failure.
Let me help you to understand why the gospel is not something of which to be ashamed. we don't have to be ashamed of the gospel because of:
I. The Gospels Author - of Christ
II. The Gospels Ability - the power for Salvation
III. The Gospels Adequacy - to everyone who believes
IV. The Gospels Attribute - God’s righteousness is revealed
V. The Gospels Anticipation - the righteous will live by faith
Concl: We have no reason to be ashamed or feel disgrace about that which; is the greatest thing that ever touched our lives. If you are having problems with the sharing of the gospel, or the living out the gospel in your world, then YOU have a problem, not the Gospel. Could it be that the reason you might be having problems
sharing the gospel be that you do not possess the gospel?
#5 BUT, I OBJECT!
Rom. 2:1-29
Intro: In last weeks message, we found man without excuse as he stands before God. In verse 19 & 20, Paul explicitly stated man can see and find evidence God is God through this created world He gave us in which to live. It is man’s fault he has chosen to not believe that which is before his eyes and choose to trust in that which he can make or buy as is seen in verse 21. Therefore, the judgment God hands down is righteous and fair. Yet, there have always been those who would argue with God or His Shepherds about how they feel God should be, and on what grounds He should judge people. And, these grounds are those they choose wanting to justify themselves as they seek to point out their good qualities as they see them.
Chapter 2 is Paul’s answer to this hypocritical and self-righteous argument people of the world and religion make. That is why I’ve entitled this message, But, I Object! Let me read Romans 2:4 through verse 5 from the NIV. Do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness leads you towards repentance? But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God’s wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed. Paul’s major purpose in this chapter is to have his readers understand their objection to God’s expressed will in this matter of man’s acceptance of Him does not stand up to His final judgments. What is important, is that man sees God’s righteous qualities, and His judgments will be based upon them.
Man’s objection to God’s righteous judgments are:
I. I Object Because I Am Better Than Others! – v. 1-16 But notice:
A. He judges man based upon their deeds. – v. 5-9a
B. His judgments are not biased based upon who a person is. – v. 11
C. His judgments will be based upon the Gospel. – v. 16
II. I Object Because I Am A...! – v. 17-29
A. Instructor of Religion – v. 17-24
Self justification is not adequate based upon what one teaches, but upon how one lives what he teaches. – v. 21
B. (Christian) – v. 25-29
What one does according to his religious practices does not matter. It is what he does as a result of what is in his heart placed there by God’s Holy Spirit. – v. 29
Concl: When one objects to God’s standards revealed in His Word, and attempts to justify himself based upon his objections, he reveals what a self-righteous hypocrite he really is. Self-justification is really a form of Idolatry. That is, the attempt to place himself above God and His ways. God forbid we ever come to the point of doing this. How can we be sure we don’t? First, by humbling ourselves before God and doing what His Spirit teaches us in our inward person. Second, to never give in to our ego’s attempt to justify our sinful practices.
#6 Totally Lost
Romans 3:9-18
Intro: Total Depravity is the Biblical Belief that every person born into this world is completely lost and in personal need of God saving their depraved nature. Yet, we live with the idea that we are not as bad as that. There is a belief that says that within a person is a spark of goodness and if given the right situation or positive influence in their life, that spark will ignite and become a flame of light turning them toward God. I wish that was true, but it is not. God’s Word teaches the opposite. People are totally lost, without God, without hope, without a spark of light in themselves. That is why God sent Jesus to be the Christ, the saviour of our soul, healer of our lostness, and forgiver of our sins. (Read the Baptist Faith and Message statement). We know we are without the ability to turn to God because this passage of God’s Word paints us the picture of our lostness. Let’s allow the Scripture to guide our understanding as to how serious this lostness is.
I. A Person’s Lostness Is Seen In His Relation To God. – v. 10,11,18
Because he is in a continuous life situation while being lost (under).
A. He is not in a right relationship my his nature. – v. 10b
B. He has no spiritual understanding/intelligence. – v. 11a
C. He does not earnestly seek after God. – v. 11b
D. He has no fear or does he stand in awe/reverence before God. – v. 18
II. A Person’s Lostness Is Seen In His Own Actions. – v. 12-13
Even if a person was not born with a lost nature, his own sins would convict him of lostness.
A. He always turns away from God. – v. 12a
B. His actions have made him worthless. – v. 12b
C. His mouth produces death due to his vicious tongue and lying lips. – v. 13
III. A Person’s Lostness Is Seen In His Relationship To Society. – v. 14-17
A. He always desires evil upon others. – v. 14 (a prayer for evil or a curse and has a bitter spirit in their talk)
B. He’s quick to kill others (literally and with his tongue). – v. 15
C. His actions lead to destruction and misery of others. – v. 16
D. He is not a peace maker. – v. 17
Concl: If this were the end of the story, we would all be in a very sad and desperate situation. Whereas man is totally lost, man can be totally saved. That is why Jesus was born into this world. That is why he lived among men yet without sin and the sin nature we have. That is why He died on Calvary. That is why He arose from the grave. That is why He ascended into heaven. That is why He is coming again. He came to save us and to deliver us into His Kingdom in Heaven. Are you ready to go with Him?
# 7 The Way Of God’s Righteousness
Romans 3:19-31
Intro: Remember the Ray Stevens hit song about the Mississippi Squirrel? It got loose at the First Righteous Church, and began to cause all kinds of trouble. Sister Sue Better than You, got all stirred up and began to confess heinous sins; giving names. You see, the shocker was, she wanted everyone to think she was a perfect person. But, the fact is what Paul points out in verse 23 of this section, everyone has fallen short of living a perfect life. We all have sin in our being. Where the passage of scripture we used last Sunday teaches about the sinfulness of man, this passage emphases the Righteousness of God. We want to see the way in which His righteousness was revealed.
I. God’s Righteousness Comes Through His Favor. – v. 21,24
A. Does not come through Following a set of Rules. – v. 21 (Jesus used Law & Prophets to teach about Himself – Luke 24:27) Then beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He interpreted for them the things concerning Himself in all the Scriptures.
B. Comes Undeserved and Unbought. – v. 24a (Verse 23 emphasizes the magnitude of God’s Grace. It is for all sinners, that is, all peoples.)
II. God’s Righteousness Comes Through The Father. – v. 24b-25. This righteousness is seen through three things aspects of Jesus’ death or shedding of His blood.
A. The Father made Jesus to be our Redemption – v. 24b
Redemption = a release brought about with the payment of a price.
B. The Father made Jesus to be our Propitiation – v. 25a
Propitiation = the breaking down that which blocks our ability to relate to God; i.e. Lost Nature (sin)
C. The Father made Jesus to be our Vindication – v. 25b
Vindication = that which has become our defence. The guilt or cause of ones need to be defended is not gone, but is passed over.
III. God’s Righteousness Comes Through Faith.
– v. 21-22, 26b-31
A. Faith is believing God’s plan for our salvation and not on a formal catechism. – v. 21-22
B. Faith is not that which comes from man’s efforts. – v. 27-30
Concl: The Mississippi Squirrel in some ways represents the Holy Spirit. When God's Spirit begins to move around a persons life he begins to see himself as he really is. When this happens, he recognizes either his bondage under sin and the righteousness of God, and seeks to know God through faith; or, he bows his neck and refuses the righteousness of God available to him by faith and decides to live in his badness. Where are you this day?
#8 HOW CAN I BE MADE RIGHT WITH GOD?
Romans 4:1-25
Intro: The Rich Young Ruler of Matthew, chapter 19, presents what lost man always thinks concerning getting saved. That is, what do I need to do for God to save me? The issue of ones personal salvation is of such great importance, Paul now spends an entire chapter describing how one can be made right with God. Paul uses the life of Abraham to show how one can be right with God through faith. Faith is:
I. Not Religious Performance vs. 1-2,4-5
A. Produces an Attitude - boasting v. 2
B. Produces an Anticipation - wages v. 4-5
II. Not Religious Practices vs. 9-12
A. Note When the practice began. v. 9-10
After Abraham was saved.
B. Note Why the practice began. v. 11-12
To confirm to others through an
outward sign the inward change.
III. Not Religious Policies vs. 13-18
A. It's Faith instead of Doctrines. v. 13-15
B. It's Faith including Doctrines. v. 16-18
Concl: The answer to our question comes loud and clear from this passage; as well as from all of scripture. It is BY FAITH.
1. Faith is a state of being, not an action ( v. 3).
2. It is a state of being in total acceptance of the truths of God and Biblical Christian conduct, and carries with it the idea of unquestioned obedience and a binding obligation (v. 19; Matt. 19:21 If you want to be perfect, go, sell your belongings and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me).
3. It is a persuasion which comes from The Promise (v. 20-21).
Verse 24b-25 teaches salvation is believing in God. Specifically, in God’s work through Jesus Christ:
1. God raised Jesus from the dead.
2. Jesus’ death was for our sins.
3. His resurrection was for our justification.
It began and still begins with God for our justification. When we come into the persuasion of this promise, we can say we are RIGHT WITH GOD.
# 9 BENEFITS OF BEING SAVED
Rom. 5:1-5
Intro: The Apostle Paul has carried us through the greatest explanation of Faith that could possibly have been given. It is through faith one is brought to Christ in salvation. Because of ones personal salvation, there are great benefits to one who accepts Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. Paul, in these five verses most effectively and beautifully, points out, our Salvation provides:
I. Peace With God v. 1
A. Speaks of God's Mercy
B. Speaks of God's Justice
II. Access To His Grace v. 2a
A. Introduced by Christ
B. Imparted by Christ
III. Rejoicing In His Glory v. 2b
A. For that which He Gives the Redeemed
B. For that which He Possesses Himself
IV. Growth Through Grief vs. 3-4
A. Produces Endurance
B. Produces Assurance
V. Holy Spirit As Our Gift v. 5
A. He Exemplifies God's Love
B. He Engulfs our Souls'
Concl: In the minds of most people when they think of being saved, they think only that they are now on the road to heaven and not to hell. Where this is vitally true, the Christian life; the Saved life is far more exciting than a spiritual insurance policy. These benefits of the saved person enables one to LIVE for Christ.
# 10 Our Life With Christ
Romans 6:1-23
Intro: In his book Alaska, James Michner weaves a tell about an old Aleut woman who died in a cave. Her body mummified by the dried air of the cave. Later found by a Shaman (witch doctor) who carried the mummified remains with him and by trickery, used this dead, lifeless remains to make those he influenced believe that she still communicated with them about the old ways of life. What Paul is saying in this chapter is the old life is dead. The lost nature has been dealt with (SIN - The word used in this chapter for sin is the word for principle cause of sin or the lost nature (the adamic life). The exception being the word used in verse 15=acts of sin). We who have put our faith in Christ have been justified. In light of this, Paul now begins dealing with the Christians sanctification. In this chapter, He uses key words to draw pictures that should allow is to understand what has really happened to the one who puts his faith in Christ Jesus as Lord of his life. These words form our outline for the message today.
I. We Are Buried With Christ. – v. 3-4 BAPTISM = Paul uses this event in the life of the of the believer to depict the New Birth Experience. The word translated = to dip, dye, to perish as a ship that has sunk.
II. We Are Joined With Christ. – v. 5-7 PLANTED = This word is translated united with in the NIV. It has the meaning of two seeds being bound together and planted. When they sprout the shoots are woven so close together that they become one; there is no separating them.
III. We Live In Christ. – v. 8-11 RECKON = This word is taken from business vocabulary. It is an accounting term meaning to write it on the appropriate side of the ledger. Dead indeed on the loss side; Alive on the asset sign. Another way of saying it is that our account is settled; paid in full.
IV. We Reign With Christ. – v. 12-14 REIGN = This word pictures a throne room. Someone is king and is sitting on the throne of your life. Is it the Old Lost Nature, or is it the New Man, Christ Jesus? Paul says it is to what or to whom we give allegiance. What authority rules your life?
V. We Are Slaves To Christ. – v. 15-23 WAGES = This word depicts the work force. There are benefits owed due to what one's work is. If one's work is found in the old nature (lost nature) then eternal separation from God. If one's work is within the confines of the redeemed life then Paul says we have holiness and eternal Life.
Concl: What Paul has tried to teach us is that we who have placed our life in Christ Jesus are truly dead to the old life of being separated from God. Just as dead as the mummified old Aleut woman in Michners' book. The story of the old woman ended as she was burned up due to the fact that lightning struck the place she was being kept. The old lost nature has been dealt with. It has been buried, covered by the red blood of Jesus, united with the person of Christ in his resurrection, and sentenced to eternal damnation. IT IS GONE, PUT AWAY, DONE WITH.
#11 I AM WEAK BUT HE IS STRONG 6V23-cp7
Romans 6:23-7:25
Intro: Smithy had a mischievous look in his eyes when he bent down and picked up the rock and threw it through window of the old building. He had been told not to throw rocks and even been told not to go to the old closed warehouse district. But, like most young children he got caught up in having fun. The policeman picked him up and carried him home and told his parents about the incident. "Why, Smithy did you go there and why did you throw the rock throw the window?" Smithy stood there with his head hanging very low and with shoulders shrugged, he said, "I don't know." The truth of the matter is Smithy really didn't know why he had done this mis-deed. Some would say that he was just being a boy, others that he was a disobedient child. Both would be right, but why had he done what he did?
In the 6th chapter of Romans, Paul discussed the Lostness of man & the New Birth Experience; in chapter 7, the Christian who has yet to grow into spiritual maturity. The reason a child does things he has been told not to do is because of his immaturity. Not that he doesn't know right from wrong, but he is unable to understand the consequences of his actions. This is what Paul is trying to get across in this most important passage of scripture. Read the Scripture now.
I. The Annuity of Incompleteness - vs. 23-6
A. The Exchanged Life - vs. 4-6
B. The Effective Life - vs. 4-6
II. The Awareness of Instruction - vs. 7-13
A. The Law's Purpose – v. 7
B. The Flesh's Persistence – v. 11
III. The Action of Inheritance - vs. 14-23
A. Flesh is Incompatible With the Spirit – v. 15-20
B. Flesh is Irreconcilable With the Spirit – v.21-23
IV. The Activity of the Incarnate - vs. 24-25
A. He is our Rescuer (our 911) – v. 24-25a
B. He is our Redeemer – v. 25 (Christ)
Concl: It is right to instruct children in right and wrong actions. Parents want their children to be productive citizens in society. If a child is left alone and never appropriately corrected, he becomes a spoiled and disturbed person, nonproductive and useless in life. Christians are the same way. That is why God desires his children to know and understand His Word. That's why we have Sunday School, Preaching, Wednesday Bible Study, and should practice Daily Bible Study times. It is important that Christians mature in their faith.
#12 SPIRIT LIVING
Romans 8:1-17
Intro: Because of being spiritually malnourished many Christians never leave the carnal life. They never learn the Christian Life is far more than a life of trials, troubles, and tribulations. Many have become comfortable at that spiritual address. They have learned well the carnal answer found in 7:18 For I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my flesh. For the desire to do what is good is with me, but there is no ability to do it. This carnal attitude about the Christian life has become the NORMAL ATTITUDE of Believers. But, what is normal is not what is RIGHT! This is not where God wants His Children to live. Paul now takes his stance with the Christians in Rome by feeding them some strong spiritual food. Here is where we should live. Here is to be the address of Christians. Once the Christian has feasted upon this spiritual food, he will never be satisfied with anything else. This chapter is about Spirit Living! Why? Because...
I. We Are In Christ! [vs. 1-4]
A. No Condemnation for Sin (v.1)
B. No Control by Sin (v.2)
C. No Continuance in Sin (vs.3-4)
II. Christ Is In Us! [vs. 5-13]
A. He Controls Our Minds (vs.5-7)
B. He Controls Our Motives (vs.8-9)
C. He Controls Our Members (vs. 10-13)
III. We Are God's Children! [vs. 14-17]
A. We Have the Spirit of Sonship (v.15)
B. We Have the Superiority of Sonship (v.16-17a)
C. We Have the Sharing of Sonship (v.17b)
Concl: The message is about our position in Christ. It is not about SINLESS PERFECTION. No one can live above sin, but we do no have to live in sin. The Believer who once stole, does not need to steel anymore. He who hates another does not need to hate anyone again. The one who is addicted, does not have to live in his addiction. God has set you free. God has condemned these things and continually condemns them, but we have been set free by His powerful hand. How do we apply this to our lives? By living with the mind of being faithful to God even in the presence of sinful desires. The invitation is for each of us to ask ourselves the questions this passage raises. Am I In Christ? Does He Control Me. Do I Live as a Son of Holy God?
#13 SECURED IN CHRIST
Romans 8:17-39
Intro: In the last message we found this chapter being about those things we as Christians possess because we placed our faith in Christ as Lord and Savior. The great truth of our Eternal Security is not just a Baptist Doctrine. It is a stated and factual biblical truth. Ones personal faith in Christ, his salvation, is not secured because of his performance as a saved person or lack of it; it's not because of his church membership; it's not because of his personal faith. It is, however, because of the work of God in Christ on the cross, shedding his pure, spotless, sinless blood upon a cursed and lost world so we might be forever delivered from our lostness and this cursed world. It's my prayer this message will give you biblical basis in which to hold concerning your eternal salvation. We are Secured in Christ because:
I. We are Heirs of God! vs. 17-22
A. We Share in His Splendor
B. We Share in His Sufferings
C. We Share in His Stance v. 22
II. We are Helped by the Spirit! vs. 23-27
A. We Hope for that we have not seen. v.24
B. We Pray for that we do not know. v.26
III. We are Honored by God! vs. 28-30
A. He has Predetermined our Likeness of Christ.
B. He has Called us to Christ.
C. He has Justified us through Christ.
D. He has Glorified us with Christ.
IV. We are Held by Christ! vs. 31-39
A. Satan can not Have us.
B. Satan can not Accuse us.
C. Satan can not Separate us.
D. Satan can not Conquer us.
Concl: The biblical truths that we see here about our eternal salvation is based not on our greatness but upon how great God is. How great and powerful is your God? Is His work and truths greater than your ability to keep yourself pure and holy? The answer is emphatically, YES!
#14 SAVING FAITH
Romans 9:1-33
Intro: In this chapter, Paul deals with the practical understanding of Saving Faith in a very theological manner. What he does is show that even a wonderful belief system such as Judaism with all its tapestry of beautiful worship and rituals is not what causes one to be saved. Salvation is very clear. The results are very visible. One who is truly saved exhibits natural by products of the Christian life. They are definable. {Story of Dr. Seals little boy while in the Philippines i.e. Filipino children trying to impress the American Children with their English. The little boy was about 4 years old. He was very sharp. The manner (manure) of the chicken, goat, carabao, dog. The little boy wanting to show them he was smart, seeing the tire tracks of a truck said, "And this is the manner of the truck."} The tire print was very visible, it was constant. Saving Faith is the same. It is very understandable. SAVING FAITH:
I. Responds In Concern For the Lost vs. 1-5
II. Recognizes Grace vs. 6-15; 17-29
A. Abraham
B. Isaac Not Ishmael
C. Jacob & Esau
D. Potter & Clay [Noble Use (work of beauty) & ignoble]
E. Jew & Gentile
F. Israel & Israel
III. Refutes Works vs. 16; 31,32
IV. Responds To God vs. 30,33
Concl: Is your faith visible? Is it Practical? Is it Biblical? Does your faith leave tracks? Is it Saving?
#15 Being Right With God
Romans 10:1-13
Intro: In our haste to do evangelism, we look over that which lies behind these wonderful verses which explains How we can be saved. Paul is combating serious false philosophy of his day. The strange thing about it is these ideas are still mankind's basic thoughts today. That is, that one can be right with God by means of his own ideas of existence. Paul says being right with God is not something far from you or difficult to posses. It is NEAR you!
There are Four important truths found in this passage of scripture. There is or should be:
I. Great Concern For One's People to be Right With God.
The greatest missionaries are those who become so burdened with the lostness of their fellow man they will go and do most anything for the opportunity in leading them to the Lord.
II. An Explanation Why People Miss Being Right With God.
A. Not Zealousness v.2
B. Not Self-Righteousness v.3
C. But -- Submitting to God's Righteousness by believing in Christ v. 4
III. The Simplicity of How People Can Be Right With God.
A. Acknowledging God's Word (Rema) v. 8 (message)
B. Accepting Christs' Lordship v. 9
C. Acclaiming Salvation's Miracles v. 9,10
D. Appeal to Jesus to be Saved. v. 13
IV. The Disgrace of People Who Fail to be Right With God.
Man's philosophical ideas about how one can be right with God are to no consequence. To exist in ones on ideologies will ultimately cause one great embarrassment when the Lord judges those who have failed to place their trust and faith in Him. v.11
Concl: How are you going to respond to this passage of scripture? Are you, as a Christian concerned for your fellow man? Will you:
1. Miss being right with God because of your own ideas of how to be right with Him?
2. Will you become one who will be saved by simply accepting Christ as the Sovereign of your life?
3.Will you be one who will doggedly refuse the simple and hold fast to your own ideas of what is right and ultimately be disgraced by your own deceit?
#16 Getting Saved
Romans 10:13-17
Intro: When we know that someone is very sick, we urge them to go to the doctor. When the doctor determines what it will take to make the person well, he prescribes the correct remedy. When the sick person follows the remedy they usually get well. There are those whom we know that are spiritually sick. They need to be made well. They need to Get Saved. How can we help them? How can we show them that the only answer they have for a peaceful and happy life is a life with Christ. Paul gives us the answer to this question in these verses.
I. The Promise of Salvation v. 13
A. Everyone-not for elite, good, few
B.Everyone who calls=calls toward, to become dependent. to take an additional name. Of ones on volition-(middle voice)
C. Everyone calls upon the name of the Lord
The promise is fulfilled only if directed toward the Jesus-owner/ruler of life.
II. The Preacher of Salvation v. 14
A. It is a necessity to Hear the Gospel.
B. It is a necessity to Proclaim the Gospel
C. It is a necessity to Believe the Gospel.
III. The Patrons of Salvation v. 15
A. Implies a structural system of support.
B. Implies an obedient church to the Lords Great Commission.
C. Implies accountability of the proclaimer
IV. The Prescription For Salvation vs. 16 & 17
A. No salvation without believing.
B. Belief's direction is in the message preached.
C. The message preached must be God's Word
(Rema) *That which comes from His throne
Concl: Can a person who is lost Get Saved? Absolutely!! How? They must first be witnessed to. Who is going to do that? Every believer who is true and faithfully obedient to the leadership of God's Holy Spirit. If any lost here, you have heard the need stated and how you can be saved. All you must do is in faith respond to Jesus. But, God may be dealing with some of you about a call to vocational ministry. To be a called preacher, pastor, missionary. What will you do about that calling?
#17 WARNING!!! DANGER AHEAD!
Romans 10:17-11:36
Intro: Driving the roads in the Philippines was always an experience of faith. Along the way you would see signs that read "Warning Base Failure." You no more read the sign when the next second found you facing a part of the road that had fallen down the side of the mountain, barricaded with a few limbs of some tree. You learned to drive always looking out for these signs and with a great respect for them.
There are many warning signs in life that we heed. Chemical warnings, Physical warnings, Consumption warnings, but, our society does not want to be warned about Spiritual things. Even those who are regular in church attendance sometimes resent being warned about attitudes, actions, or accountability. Paul has just told the Christians at Rome how the message of salvation must be preached. Then he heads off into a discussion that seems to be totally different than what he just finished. But this is not the case. It is so important that the church be actively involved in the proclamation of the gospel so as not to incur the same thing that happened to Israel. Thus, the WARNING!!! They were warned about Unconcern, Self-pity, and being Replaced. I believe, that the WARNING still should be given today.
I. About Losing Sight of God's Voice. vs 17-21
A. Tendency to not Listen to God. v 18
B. Tendency to not be Concerned about God.
vs 19-20
C. Tendency to not Surrender to God. v. 21
II. About Feeling Rejected. 11:1-10
A. Example of Elijah
B. Example of Election
III. About Failing to Produce Fruit. vs 11-24
A. This passage alludes to the lose of the possibility of salvation to some. Not the lose of ones personal salvation.
B. As a generation leaves the worship of God, they quit bearing fruit and dry up. They become useless. God will have His Fruit. He will save man until the "number of Gentiles" is complete. He will graft in any people groups which will do His work.
What a sobering warning!
Concl: How does one keep from falling into this Danger? vs. 33-36
1. Recognize God's Sovereignty
2. Recognize God's Omniscience
3. Recognize God's Grace
#18 Coming to Know God’s Will
Romans 12:1-2
Intro: Paul closed his Theological section of Romans by telling us how fortunate we are to be accepted by God as His children by being grafted in place of Israel until the times of the Gentiles comes in. We are not to be so conceited we think we are better than they, but understand how marvelous God’s grace is to us.
Now Paul writes an encouraging invitation from the very heart of God, reminding his readers they belong to God because of His marvelous mercies, on what is our practical responsibilities as the children of God. In these two verses, Paul deals with three never ending basic truths: personal dedication, spiritual dedication, and personal/spiritual growth.
I. Personal Dedication
A. To be used by God.
B. To take a stand for God.
C. To give-up established way of life.
II. Spiritual Dedication
A. Death to the world – not conformed
B. Living service
1. Well-pleasing
2. Grateful
3. Responsible service/worship
III. Personal—Spiritual Growth
A. Continual process – renewing (step by step)
B. Trial & Error – prove
Concl: To what end have we been invited as God’s children? To come to know what God’s will is for our lives. One cannot know God’s will by living as children who are no different in thought, actions, participation, and dress with the way of this world. We can only know God’s will when we daily, step by step, find ourselves thinking about God, the things of God, and the ways of God. This becomes our only reasonable Christian responsibility or service/worship.
#19 A Renewed Mind In Christ
Romans 12:3-5
Intro: Paul told us in verses one and two because of who we are in Christ, to present our lives to God as living sacrifices by renewing our minds or it might be more correctly to say by causing our minds to think in new ways now that we are Children of God. In these next three verses, Paul expands upon this idea of what this renewed mind will help us to understand. Paul, straight up - if you will, establishes his role or responsibility to his readers in two ways: 1. By being true to his calling; For the grace given to me 2. By proclaiming truth to his charges; I tell you. He will later use this same idea in helping them understand more completely God’s grace (calling) to them.
This renewed mind helps us to understand more fully our Rank and Relationships as Brothers in Christ. In these next three verses we come to:
I. Understand Our Rank in His Service. – v. 3
A. Not to be Arrogant.
B. Not to think of himself as better than anyone else.
C. To think as a sound minded person.
D. To think as an humble minded person.
II. Understand Our Relationships in His Service. – v. 3c - 5
A. God has Measured Out our responsibilities.
1. We are given roles/tasks to perform– (assigned/distributed)
2. He has set our Specific Portion or Limitation.
(Be all that you can be! — Be all God Wants You to be–that is enough.)
B. God has Made You part of the Body of Christ (Church).
1. You draw your importance only because of the Body.
2. You perform your responsibilities within the Body.
Concl: In our world of Electronic Churches, the Body of Christ is losing her understanding of God’s purpose for the church. The Biblical idea of the church gives more emphasis upon the local/visualized Body of Christ than it does on the Church as part of the Kingdom of God. The worlds view wants you to give up your responsibilities and rank to the charismatic and to view the local church only as needed to marry and bury the dead. The local church is important, and each member is vital, and their role within the local church is vital. You are important to the health, strength and witness of this church in this community. God has a plan of service for each of you. You must stand up and accept His place for you in this church. I close with one statement: Rise up and get involved!
# 20 Worshiping Service
Romans 12:6-8
Intro: Paul instructed his readers teaching them their reasonable/spiritual/or appropriate worship was to be carried out through the Body of Christ or the church. We are to function as a healthy body should function. All parts, inward and outward, are important and each should carry out its appropriate function the way God intended. There is no room in the church for the high and mighty, spiritually elite, proud and puffed up, or the I’m better than you because... That is why Paul wrote these next three verses; the same things he also wrote to the Corinthians and Ephesians.
Our service of worship through the church is to be accomplished as he said in the beginning of verse 6; that is: according to the grace given to us’ . . . different(ly). Last week Paul spoke about his specific grace and that was his call to Apostleship. Now, he writes to the grace of gifts/callings to members of the church. The message this morning centers around the use of these gifts/callings in our Worshiping Service and may reside upon Pastor/Leader and/or members.
I. The Worshiping Service of Prophecy — v. 6b
A. This gift carries the idea of Forth-telling, not Foretelling.
(The idea is more of Interpretation, Inspiration, and Communication.)
B. The Prophet of the Old Testament was known for his speaking God’s Word as the representative/interpreter. (Moses was referred as an interpreter more than as Prophet.)
C. The Prophet’s guideline was that which became the rule/standard/acceptable truths of the faith; not one’s personal interpretation of God’s will. This is the same idea Peter expressed in his letter of 1Peter 1:20-21: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
II. The Worshiping Service of Serving — v. 7 - 8
A. The Gift of Serving – doing whatever is asked of our service.
1. To the poor
2. To the needy
3. To the sick
4. To go the second mile
B. The Gift of Teaching – Instruction not new interpretation. (Teachers are to teach what they themselves have been taught.)
C. The Gift of Exhortation – One who invites, exhorts, and/or comforts/encourages
D. The Gift of Giving/Distributing – This gives caries a restriction. The person worshiping God in this service is to do so with simplicity. The idea is:
1. With no judgement toward the receiver.
2. With liberality - Don’t be stingy. 1Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days. 2Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth. 3If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be. 4He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap. 5As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all. 6In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good (Ecclesiastes 11:1-6).
E. The Gift of Leadership – With diligence. If it is worth doing, it is worth doing well. There are many leadership roles within the church. Each has its own merits of importance. Scripture teaches’ Let all things be done decently and in order. Paul said this when ending his instructions to the church at Corinth concerning gifts.
F. The Gift of Mercy – With cheerfulness/hilarity or be happy about it. This gift generally refers to service rendered to the sick and needy.
Concl: I’m not sure but what Paul is teaching that true worship in one’s personal life is not Biblical worship if it is done on one’s own behalf and not in conjunction to Christ’s Body, the church. And, that the only true worship in which God is pleased takes place in the presence of His Body, the church. Serving Him should never point to the individual member of a church, but to Christ, who is the head of the church. If we Interpret, serve others, teach, exhort/encourage, give, lead, or show mercy for personal pleasure or to receive praise, then Christ does not receive glory and we have received our only blessing from it. Oh, that we should want and desire God’s blessings and not praise and kudos from man. May God help each of us to understand that serving Him is not about us, but about living out our sacrificed life until He comes.
# 21 Worshiping Service of Serving
Romans 12:6-8
Intro: As Paul stated in the beginning of verse 6,Acording to the grace given to us, he is implicating two things. First, the grace in Salvation. Most Believers quickly learn Ephesians 2:8; For by grace you are saved through faith, and this is not from yourselves; it is God’s gift. And, what a wonderful gift it is. It is a gift of change in one’s life: When God gives you salvation: your direction is changed; your purpose in life is changed; your desire to live for your own self is changed; your desire for others is changed; your desire for worship is changed. The saved life is a changed life! Second, with this changed life comes more grace and it is revealed as gifts.
Last week the message centered upon the gift of prophecy, that is: speaking forth the Word of God, or communicating His Word to Believers so they may understand the meaning God desires. Hopefully, this gift of grace is accomplished in churches every week. The gifts we look at today center upon gifts of service.
I. The Gift of Serving – doing whatever is asked of our service.
A. To the poor
B. To the needy
C. To the sick
D. To go the second mile
II. The Gift of Teaching – Instruction not new interpretation. (Teachers are to teach what they themselves have been taught.)
III. The Gift of Exhortation – One who invites, exhorts, and/or comforts/encourages
IV. The Gift of Giving/Distributing – This gives caries a restriction. The person worshiping God in this service is to do so with simplicity. The idea is:
A. With no judgement toward the receiver.
B. With liberality - Don’t be stingy. 1Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days. 2Give a portion to seven, and also to eight; for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth. 3If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be. 4He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap. 5As thou knowest not what is the way of the spirit, nor how the bones do grow in the womb of her that is with child: even so thou knowest not the works of God who maketh all. 6In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good (Ecclesiastes 11:1-6).
V. The Gift of Leadership – With diligence. If it is worth doing, it is worth doing well. There are many leadership roles within the church. Each has its own merits of importance. Scripture teaches’ Let all things be done decently and in order. Paul said this when ending his instructions to the church at Corinth concerning gifts.
VI. The Gift of Mercy – With cheerfulness/hilarity or be happy about it. This gift generally refers to service rendered to the sick and needy.
Concl: Whereas, each Believer must have private/individual worship of our Lord on a personal basis, cooperate worship is probably the most important form of worship. Even when an individual is worshiping God through the gift of grace He has given, it is better when done through the ministry of the church. God is pleased when our service takes place in the presence of His Body, or on behalf of the Body. Serving Him should never point to the individual member of a church, but to Christ, who is the head of the church. If we Interpret, serve others, teach, exhort/encourage, give, lead, or show mercy for personal pleasure or to receive praise, then Christ does not receive glory and we have received our only blessing from it. Oh, that we should want and desire God’s blessings and not praise and kudos from man. May God help each of us to understand that serving Him is not about us, but about living out our sacrificed life until He comes.
#22 Conquering Evil
Romans 12:9-21
Intro: This chapter is still dealing with how we, who have died to ourselves and are living our lives in meaning service to God, should act. He deals with basically one theme in this section; conquering evil. Evil can show up anywhere at anytime in anyone. How are we to handle it when it does? Paul helps us by dealing with our response towards our relationships. He seems to describe three general areas of relationships: those in our Christian Family, those who are our neighbors and relatives, and, people in general. Yet, let me caution each of us, every Christian must live in Godly actions toward everyone all the time. We should exemplify towards all people Christly actions. With this thought, let us see this morning how we, as Believers in Christ, can conquer evil.
I. Toward One’s Christian Family. – v. 9-13
A. With Sincere Love—as opposed to Pretense. – v. 9-10
1. Hate Evil
2. Do Good
3. Devoted to each other
4. Honor one another
B. With Spiritual Faithfulness – v. 11-13
1. Be Zealous
2. Be Serving
3. Be Joyful
4. Be Patient
5. Be Prayerful
6. Be Sharing/Giving
7. Be Hospitable
II. Toward Neighbors and Relatives. – v. 14-16
A. Bless/Pray for those who Pursue you. – v. 14
B. Empathize with them. – v. 15
C. Be Friendly – v. 16
III. Toward People in General. – v. 17-19
A. Don’t follow your Fleshly Inclinations – v. 17
B. Don’t Instigate Conflict – v. 18
C. Don’t Retaliate – v. 19
Concl: One’s action toward fellow men is important for Believers. What we do for them or towards them reflects how close to the Lord Jesus we are. If we treat people of the world different than we treat our Christian Family or our individual family, we are expressing to them that the Christian life is no better than any other life which might be obtained through any Religion the world has to offer. Our actions must exemplify what Christ taught when He said: But I say to you who listen: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If anyone its you on the cheek, offer the other also. And if anyone takes away your coat, don’t hold back your shirt either. Give to everyone who asks from you, and from one who takes away your things, don’t ask for them back. Just as you want others to do for you, do the same for them. If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them (Luke 6:27-32).
#23 Christian Righteousness
Romans 13:1-10
Intro: If we would allow God to teach us of His Righteousness, we would more quickly learn what He expects of our lives in righteous living. The very word; righteous brings to most peoples mind a bit of ridicule, caring the idea of being holier than thou. But the Bible’s use of the word carries the idea of being in covenant with. To Paul, ones personal righteousness was a moral code derived from God and given to all men to understand how to live with God and with man. Especially true and binding is this for those who have been saved by God marvelous grace and abundant mercy. Christians, then, should understand how they are to live in covenant with our fellow man, because, we are in covenant with God.
In this passage, we find two areas of important covenant relationships Christians should take seriously; Civil Righteousness, and Relational Righteousness.
I. Civil Righteousness vs. 1-7
A. The Rule: v.1
1. An Imperative Command-Submit
2. An Individual Choice-submit yourselves
B. The Reason: v.1-2
1. It's Godly Ordained
2. It's Godly to Obey
II. Relational Virtue vs. 8-10
A. Follow the Commandments
B. Fulfill the Commandments
Concl: Biblical Christian Righteousness is the answer to the ills of our society. But this righteousness comes only through Jesus Christ. One might try to Reform, but what he really needs is to be Transformed. Reformation can only come through Transformation. Our world is turned upside down. 911 brought everything back into perspective. Life is a battle, a war between good (righteousness) and evil (ungodliness). Where the Moslem faith has expressed it’s stated goals of ridding the world of infidels, our God teaches us to respect all governments as His tool of righteousness to bring judgment upon its subjects who disobey their laws, and to love all people, regardless of who they are. Denial of this Biblical truth will lead ungodly faiths to cause anarchy. What will it be for you? Will it be Anarchy or Acceptance of Christ as your Authority? Will it be Disobedience or Obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ? Acceptance of Christ as The Authority of your life is to accept His rule of Righteousness over your life. That is, you submit to Government’s right to rule; and, to love your neighbor, whomever that may be.
#24 Knowing The Time
Romans 13:11-14
Intro: If someone asked you about the Second Coming of our Lord, would you know what to tell them? How would you answer a question of when is Jesus Coming again?, or why hasn’t he already come?, could He come today? Most Christians have in the back of their mind, Christ is going to come again, someday, but it’s probably not going to be in my lifetime, so, I am not to worry about it or think too much about it, so, I do not have to let it affect my life. But, this is exactly what Paul was getting at in this passage. The time of Christ’s coming must affect our lives. When it affects our lives, we will not find ourselves involved with ungodliness of actions or lifestyles. Knowing the time is at hand, whither it is the imminent time of His Second Coming, or of our dying, this passage tells us we are to:
I. Awake Out of Our Sleep – v. 11
A. Aware of our Spiritual Slumber – things have always been like this; I’m ok–you’re ok; don’t get excited.
B. Arise from our Spiritual Slothfulness – I can do that tomorrow.
C. Alleviate our Spiritual Sleepers – blinders, things that hinder our sight.
II. Cast Off Our Bed Cloths – v. 12a
A. Reject Sins of Darkness – we make a choice
B. Renounce Sins – we will not participate
C. Repent of Sins – we turn our backs
D. Reprove Sinfulness – censer/rebuke
III. Cloth Ourselves For Work – v. 12b-13
A. With a Thankful Heart – we have another day!
B. With a Prayerful Mind – what can I do for You, Lord?
C. With a Purposeful Activity – to defeat Satan’s hold on some lost soul.
IV. Conduct Ourselves As Clothed With Christ – v. 14
A. To be Intimately United with Jesus
B. To be Actively Affected by Jesus
C. To be Interestingly Attractive for Jesus
Concl: Is there a more timely message for our day? Do we not fail to appropriate the imminent return of Christ into the daily living our lives? As Christians, it is important for us to live with the perspective and anticipation of Jesus’ coming or of our dying, and standing before Him at His Judgement Seat.
1. Are there things of which you need to Awake to?
2. Are there things of Darkness you need to Cast off?
3. Do you need to Put on Christ Armor to enter His work?
4. Do you need to Cloth Yourself with Christ?
# 25 CLOTHE WITH CHRIST
Romans 13:14-14:23
Intro: It is said clothes makes the person. When one wears business suits, we assume they are a business person; a work uniform, they are a professional worker; beltless dungarees; they are in the medical profession; and so on we could go. We also know one can wear different garbs of a profession to fool or deceive others. In other words, they want people to think they are something they are not.
One can even pretend they are a Christian. They can, when around Christian people, look like a Christian, talk like a Christian, and even act like a Christian. but there is one time this act of deception will be disclosed and that is when we stans before Holy God (14:10b-12). Let's look at what God's Word says will be our Clothing, when we are Cloth with Christ.
I. We Live Before Man! vs. 1-16
A. Acceptance of Others
B. Attitudes Toward Others
C. Actions in the Presence of Others.
II. We Stand Before God! vs. 17-23
A. In Holiness v. 17
B. In Harmony v. 19
Concl: Does your religious clothes look like one who is Cloth with Christ? It is true one day we will all stand before Christ either at His Judgment Seat, or His Great White Throne Judgment. But, we are today standing before His presence. One might deceive all of us here on this earth with our religious life, but, you will never deceive the Lord of Glory, hear or in eternity.
#26 Living In Unity With God
Romans 15:1-13
Intro: When one is clothed with Christ, that person is better equipped to live in harmony with other Christians, no matter their spiritual maturity. In chapter 14, Paul addressed issues regarding one’s freedom in conscience and Christian responsibility to live and do what ever God’s Holy Spirit allows him to do. He used eating or not eating meat offered to false gods as examples. For some Christians, it matter not that the meat was purchased at a market for idol worship; these Paul considered as “strong in the faith.” Those who saw this practice as partaking or participating in “unclean” food offered to idols, Paul considered as “weak brethren.” The point he was making is continued in this passage we look at this morning. No matter what the issue, God’s Children must learn to live, love, and unite together in Christ; the stronger in faith leading the way, so in unity of faith we may all glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ with a united mind and voice. Our witness to this world must be united so they might hear the gospel, see the gospel, and receive the gospel.
In this passage, Paul outlines three things about God, which promotes unity in our lives:
I. He Is The God Of Endurance – v. 5
A. The Meaning — Patient endurance/awaiting; perseverance; remains constant Literally, Paul is identifying God as He who is always the same. Patients and perseverance are part of His character.
B. The Purpose — To help us come to better understand how to apply Scripture truth to making us become more like our Lord. v. 4 And, doing so helps us to:
1. Be in agreement with one another
2. Glorify God with united mind and voice.
II. He Is The God Of Encouragement – v. 5
A. The Meaning — a calling upon, exhortation, persuasion; entreaty or earnest supplication; cheering and supporting influence. God is always calling upon His Children, exhorting and persuading us and earnestly wanting what is best for us. He is our greatest supporter.
B. The Purpose — God wants us to be the same in our relationships with each other. Imagine all members of this Body being this kind of person toward each other. This is what Paul was getting at in verses one & two.
III. He Is The God Of Hope – v. 13
A. The Meaning — the object of hope, author or source of hope, confidence, security with a guarantee. Literally, God is the only one of hope, the author and source of confidence, security, and guarantee of faith.
B. The Application — Paul has quoted three O.T. passages showing how Gentiles and Jews have been drawn together through the generations to worship and glorify God. How could this be? Because God, who is all the meaning of Hope instills His attributes into the lives of His Children. Together, they produce:
1. A Filling-up of joy and peace in Believers.
2. An Abundance of THE HOPE through the Holy Spirit.
Concl: It has been said; Christianity is the only religion that buries its wounded. Where we would vehemently refute this statement, the testimony of its accuracy can not be denied. The reason so many people leave a Fellowship of Christ, is not necessarily because they are weak in the faith, but that there is little “fellowship” in the Fellowship. God’s Children have more in their lives to help us live in Unity than any other kind of organization. We have God in our lives. The God of Enduring Patience; Encouraging Support; and only God of Confident Hope. With Him living in us, can we but be the same toward each other.
#27 A PASTOR'S CARING HEART
Romans 15:14-16:27
Intro: The book of Romans is the greatest commentary of the doctrines, practices, warnings, and concerns that faces the Christian church. Paul has been more thorough in this book than any other of his letters to churches. He has come to the end of instruction as the Apostle to the Gentiles, and closes with what can be seen as his caring heart for these people, even though he had never met them. This message might better be heard by preachers yet, it was written to the church at Rome. Therefore, I believe the church of our day needs to see what kind of heart a pastor should have. This passage demonstrates Paul's Caring Heart. A Pastor Should:
I. Give Confirmation In The Spirit -15:14-19
A. He Understood The Responsibility
B. He Understood The Results
II. Show Concern About Service - 15:30-33
A. Pray Intentionally
B. Pray Intelligently
III. Share Commendation Of A Sister - 16:1-2
A. To Accept Her
B. To Assist Her
IV. Teach Caution To The Saints - 16:17-19
A. Be Ware!
B. Be Warned!
V. Present Confidence In The Savior - 16:25-27
A. In His Power
B. In His Purpose
C. In His Praise
Concl: It's just like Paul to come to the very end of his writing and end not with a warning, but with a Gospel Presentation. You see, no message is ever complete without the telling of how one can be saved. God has something for you this morning. He wants you to be obedient to Him. That is to trust Him ...
