Whose table do you sit at… Joh 3:16-21 AFV For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may not perish, but may have everlasting life. 17 For God sent not His Son into the world that He might judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 The one who believes in Him is not judged, but the one who does not believe has already been judged because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the judgment: that the light has come into the world, but men loved darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. 20 For everyone who practices evil hates the light, and does not come to the light, so that his works may not be exposed; 21 But the one who practices the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be manifested, that they have been accomplished by the power of God… …And this is the message that we have heard from Him and are declaring to you: that God is light, and there is no darkness at all in Him. 6 If we proclaim that we have fellowship with Him, but we are walking in the darkness, we are lying to ourselves, and we are not practicing the Truth. 7 However, if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, then we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus Christ, His own Son, cleanses us from all sin. 8 If we say that we do not have sin, we are deceiving ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our own sins, He is faithful and righteous, to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His Word is not in us…1Jn 1:5-10 AFV 1Co 10:20-22 AFV But that which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to demons, and not to God; and I do not wish you to have fellowship with demons. 21 You cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord, and the table of demons. 22 Now do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? Are we stronger than He? 2Th 2:7-12 AFV For the mystery of lawlessness is already working; only there is one Who is restraining at the present time until it arises out of the midst. 8 And then the lawless one will be revealed (whom the Lord will consume with the breath of His mouth, and will destroy with the brightness of His coming); 9 Even the one whose coming is according to the inner working of Satan, with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in those who are perishing because they did not receive the love of the truth, so that they might be saved. 11 And for this cause, God will send upon them a powerful deception that will cause them to believe the lie, 12 So that all may be judged who did not believe the truth, but who took pleasure in unrighteousness… And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure (perhaps) will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will. 2Ti 2:24-26 KJV Jas 4:7-10 KJV Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. 9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. 10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up… Father, please grant us repentance and a love of the Truth which cannot be quenched…we renounce any other table and ask to receive only from Jesus of Nazareth Your only Son…please clean us and free us so we can learn the Truth and never do an evil thing again by forsaking lies and doing right by You…In Jesus of Nazareth’s name amen. Try…A…Daily Pause for Prayer and Devotional a Wellsaid Christian Devotional about the teachings of Jesus… https://www.anopenbiblestudy.com/blog-by-ben-the-friend... #benjaminbrianstewart #Love #Christianity #Faith #Bible #Jesus #Prayer #Art #ChristianLife #Gospel #ChristianInspiration #Salvation #ChristianCommunity #love #instagood #photoftheday #beautiful #happy #new #sports #entertainment #technology #business #fashion #health #travel #food #music #art #photography

A big oak tree is just a little nut that held its ground… Are you faithful with the truth…do you behave properly when the truth is revealed to you…the best any soul can do is what is right when he learns the truth… Ask yourself do you have any of these in your life… Gal 5:16-21 ASV But I say, Walk by the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17 For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are contrary the one to the other; that ye may not do the things that ye would. 18 But if ye are led by the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these: fornication (no sex outside of marriage), uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmities (hostilities), strife, jealousies, wraths, factions, divisions, parties, 21 envyings, drunkenness, revellings, and such like; of which I forewarn you, even as I did forewarn you, that they who practice such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God Forsake the works of flesh…do you have any of these Christian fruits… Gal 5:22-25 ASV But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 meekness, self-control; against such there is no law. 24 And they that are of Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with the passions and the lusts thereof. 25 If we live by the Spirit, by the Spirit let us also walk. Try…A…Daily Pause for Prayer and Devotional a Wellsaid Christian Devotional about the teachings of Jesus… https://www.anopenbiblestudy.com/blog-by-ben-the-friend... #benjaminbrianstewart #Love #Christianity #Faith #Bible #Jesus #Prayer #Art #ChristianLife #Gospel #ChristianInspiration #Salvation #ChristianCommunity #love #instagood #photoftheday #beautiful #happy #new #sports #entertainment #technology #business #fashion #health #travel #food #music #art #photography

Do you persecute Christians… Act 22:8 ASV And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecute. Mat 7:1-6 ASV Judge not, that ye be not judged. 2 For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured unto you. 3 And why behold thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considers not the beam that is in thine own eye? 4 Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me cast out the mote out of thine eye; and lo, the beam is in thine own eye? 5 Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. 6 Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast your pearls before the swine, lest haply they trample them under their feet, and turn and rend you. Mat 6:8-15 ASV Be not therefore like unto them: for your Father knows what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. 9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so on earth. 11 Give us this day our daily bread. 12 And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. 13 And bring us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. 14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. 1Jn 5:1-5 ASV Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is begotten(Father) of God: and whosoever loves Him that begat loves him also that is begotten of Him. 2 Hereby we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and do his commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. 4 For whatsoever is begotten of God overcomes the world: and this is the victory that hath overcome the world, even our faith. 5 And who is he that overcomes the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? Father…please help me overcome any forms of trial and temptation and reveal to me the Truth needed to change and be right with You and Your Only Holy Son…in Jesus of Nazareth’s name amen. Try…A…Daily Pause for Prayer and Devotional a Wellsaid Christian Devotional about the teachings of Jesus… https://www.anopenbiblestudy.com/blog-by-ben-the-friend... #benjaminbrianstewart #Love #Christianity #Faith #Bible #Jesus #Prayer #Art #ChristianLife #Gospel #ChristianInspiration #Salvation #ChristianCommunity #love #instagood #photoftheday #beautiful #happy #new #sports #entertainment #technology #business #fashion #health #travel #food #music #art #photography

Waiting on the Lord… Isa 40:31 AFV But those who wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint. We have greater promises found in the New agreement between God and creation in the New Testament (covenant, agreement) of Christ listen… Heb 8:6-7 AFV But on the other hand, He (Jesus the Christ) has obtained a supremely more excellent ministry, as much greater as the superior covenant of which He is also Mediator, which was established upon superior promises. 7 For if the first covenant had been faultless, then no provision for a second covenant would have been made. Mar 13:32-37 AFV But concerning that day and the hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only. 33 Take heed, be watching and praying. For you do not know when the time is coming. 34 It is like a man journeying to a far country, leaving his house and giving authority to his servants, and to each one his work, and commanding the doorkeeper to watch. 35 Be watching, therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming: at evening, or at midnight, or at the cock's crowing, or in the morning; 36 Lest he come suddenly and find you sleeping. 37 And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!" 2Th 1:7-10 AFV And to you, who are persecuted, rest with us, at the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with His mighty angels, 8 Dealing out vengeance with flaming fire upon those who do not know God, and those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ; 9 Who will suffer the penalty of eternal destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His strength, 10 When He shall come to be glorified in His saints, and to be admired in that day in all those who believe (because our testimony was believed by you); Heb 5:8-9 AFV Although He was a Son, yet He learned obedience from the things that He suffered; 9 And having been perfected, He became the Author of eternal salvation to all those who obey Him… Mar 12:30-31 AFV And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.' This is the first commandment. 31 And the second is like this: 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no other commandment greater than these." Father please meet our soul’s deepest needs, heal our soul’s deepest wounds, and forgive the unforgiven when we deserve it the least and above all help us to be faithful this day…please cover the faithful in grace, mercy, peace, joy, and love in Jesus of Nazareth’s name amen. Try…A…Daily Pause for Prayer and Devotional a Wellsaid Christian Devotional about the teachings of Jesus… https://www.anopenbiblestudy.com/blog-by-ben-the-friend... #benjaminbrianstewart #Love #Christianity #Faith #Bible #Jesus #Prayer #Art #ChristianLife #Gospel #ChristianInspiration #Salvation #ChristianCommunity #love #instagood #photoftheday #beautiful #happy #new #sports #entertainment #technology #business #fashion #health #travel #food #music #art #photography

Overcomer for the faith... Text to be read… Revelation 21:6 - And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. 7 - He that overcomes shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. Revelation 15:1 - And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvelous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God. 2 - And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. Revelation 15:3 - And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvelous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. - Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest. Revelation 21:1-5 - And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. - And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. - And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. - And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. Introduction: Heaven is a prepared place for a prepared people. You cannot get to Heaven by mistake. You have to decide to live your life according to Jesus of Nazareth's new agreement between God and mankind called the New Testament or New Covenant of Christ. Jesus of Nazareth is the God of gods and became born of a virgin, named Mary. Jesus, the only Fathered son of the God of Creation, who also known as the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jesus the only Fathered Son of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob died a sinless death in the place of you and me. He lived under the law of good and evil taught to us by the sons of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, Jesus never choose evil and always choose good. He never violated the law of good and evil or the Old Jewish Law most people call the law of Moses. Jesus remained pure as unleavened bread and became a sacrifice like living bread to give life to all who have faith in His sinless sacrifice of His own human life, Jesus died on the cross and was raised the third day, the first day of the week. Jesus was and is the only human that has lived and never sinned and God was so pleased with His work of reconciliation, God gave Jesus a new agreement to mediate reconciliation with Himself the Creator of All for all of our ungodly ways. Do you believe that Jesus died and was raised three days later in order to make a way of reconciliation with God, a way of redemption, and a way of eternal salvation with our Creator? Yes or No? Outline of Sermon: I. Rev 15:2. we can overcome any form of evil (1 Cor 10:13) A. The faithful will overcome the mark, the name, the image, and number 1. At some point there is a guy causes everyone to receive a mark (Rev 13:16) a. As it is written: Revelation 13:16 - And he causes all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: 2. We have hope and a way out of any temptation common to man (1 Cor 10:13) a. As it is written: 1 Corinthians 10:13 - There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. 3. We have the promise of the holy Spirit praying for us a way of salvation (Rom 8:26) a. As it is written: Romans 8:26 - Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. II. Rev 21:6-7, there is no evil that will enter into the Heaven A. You cannot do evil and be rewarded in heaven (Rev 21:6-7) 1. Rev 21:6-7 a. As it is written: Revelation 21:6 - And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcomes shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. B. You can only be rewarded if survived by a fire (1 Cor 3:11-15) 1. 1 Cor :11-15 a. As it is written: 11 For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. 14 If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. C. Our works remain in heaven (Rev 14:13) 1. Rev 14:13 a. As it is written: Rev 14:13, “13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them.14 And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. 15 And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe. 16 And he that sat on the cloud thrust in his sickle on the earth; and the earth was reaped. 17 And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle. 18 And another angel came out from the altar, which had power over fire; and cried with a loud cry to him that had the sharp sickle, saying, Thrust in thy sharp sickle, and gather the clusters of the vine of the earth; for her grapes are fully ripe. 19 And the angel thrust in his sickle into the earth, and gathered the vine of the earth, and cast it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. 20 And the winepress was trodden without the city, and blood came out of the winepress, even unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand and six hundred furlongs.” III. Rev 21:1, for the faithful there is hope of never having to choose evil A. The good news of Jesus we will never have to choose evil again (Matt 11:27-30) 1. Matthew 11:27-30 a. Jesus says as it is written: “27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knows the Son, but the Father; neither knows any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him. 28 Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. B. We have a promise of enough bread and water (John 6:35) 1. John 6:35 a. As it is written: John 6:35 - And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. C. We have the promise of eternal life if we obey Jesus (Heb 5:8-9) 1. Hebrews 5:8-9 a. As it is written: Hebrews 5:8-9 - Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Conclusion: We can overcome any form of evil, because we stand with the God of gods Jesus of Nazareth. I have been baptized into His life, death and resurrection and I have eternal life abiding in me thanks to His glorious work of redemption. To all those that know me I am a work in progress, I go to Jesus because I do not have it all figured out. I go to Jesus because I need help to live my life. I go to Jesus for comfort when the devil gets me down. We can overcome any form of temptation, after all…if you don't want what the devil or this world offers you then he will flee James 4:6. No evil will enter into heaven, so be zealous for good works. If you hang around people doing good things then you will be more likely to do good things as well. Do you have a good work? In the parable of the talents Jesus said to feed, clothe the naked, visit the sick and imprisoned and to help strangers were the works his talents should be used for. Are you truly loving your neighbor as yourself? Remember love works no ill will towards its neighbor… We believers have the hope and promise of never having to participate in evil or having to choose evil. Jesus promised us a light and easy yoke and rest for the soul. He is the captain and we just follow his lead through the darkness He is the light. Jesus of Nazareth is the author of salvation to all those that obey Him…Jesus Christ said these words… Mar 16:16 The one who believes and is baptized shall be saved, but the one who does not believe shall be condemned. Father please free us from all forms of evil so we can learn the Truth and do what is right with You our Creator and Your only Son…in Jesus of Nazareth’s name amen. Try…A…Daily Pause for Prayer and Devotional a Wellsaid Christian Devotional about the teachings of Jesus… https://www.anopenbiblestudy.com/blog-by-ben-the-friend... #benjaminbrianstewart #Love #Christianity #Faith #Bible #Jesus #Prayer #Art #ChristianLife #Gospel #ChristianInspiration #Salvation #ChristianCommunity #love #instagood #photoftheday #beautiful #happy #new #sports #entertainment #technology #business #fashion #health #travel #food #music #art #photography

Victory in Jesus… Hear some instructions and encouragement from the New Testament of Christ which is the New Agreement between God and creation to be saved… 2Co 2:14 AFV But thanks be to God, Who always leads us triumphant in Christ, and manifests the fragrance of His knowledge through us in every place. Php 4:13 AFV I can do all things through Christ, Who empowers me. Php 4:19-20 AFV But my God will supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 20 Now to our God and Father be glory into the ages of eternity. Amen. Mat 5:6-9 AFV Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they shall find mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the sons of God. Eph 6:13-18 AFV Therefore, take up the whole armor of God so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having worked out all things, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girded about with truth, and wearing the breastplate of righteousness, 15 And having your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. 16 Besides all these, take up the shield of the faith, with which you will have the power to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one; 17 And put on the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God; 18 Praying at all times with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and in this very thing being watchful with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints; Rev 21:1-8 AFV Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away, and there was no more sea. 2 And I, John, saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a great voice from heaven say, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men; and He shall dwell with them, and they shall be His people; and God Himself shall be with them and be their God. 4 And God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there shall not be any more death, or sorrow, or crying; neither shall there be any more pain, because the former things have passed away." 5 And He Who sits on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." Then He said to me, "Write, for these words are true and faithful." 6 And He said to me, "It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the one who thirsts, I will give freely of the fountain of the water of life. 7 The one who overcomes shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be My son. 8 But the cowardly, and unbelieving, and abominable, and murderers, and fornicators, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone; which is the second death." Father thank you for all the victories You see in us…please heal our soul’s deepest wounds and forgive the unforgiven that we may learn the Truth and make things right with You…In Jesus of Nazareth’s name amen. Try…A…Daily Pause for Prayer and Devotional a Wellsaid Christian Devotional about the teachings of Jesus… https://www.anopenbiblestudy.com/blog-by-ben-the-friend... #benjaminbrianstewart #Love #Christianity #Faith #Bible #Jesus #Prayer #Art #ChristianLife #Gospel #ChristianInspiration #Salvation #ChristianCommunity #love #instagood #photoftheday #beautiful #happy #new #sports #entertainment #technology #business #fashion #health #travel #food #music #art #photography

Devil’s Temptation of Jesus… Mat 4:1-11 AFV Then Jesus was led up into the wilderness by the Spirit in order to be tempted by the devil. 2 And when He had fasted for forty days and forty nights, afterwards He was famished. 3 And when the tempter came to Him, he said, If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread. 4 But He answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. Jesus was human…and was very hungry…each of these temptations has the lust of the eyes and flesh and the pride of life…notice Jesus had fasted…the devil appeals to Him to use His God given Authority for personal gain instead of waiting on God to feed Him…Also the appeal to see bread in a desert would be appealing to the eyes…and the flesh to eat and be satisfied. Jesus did not fall to this temptation. 5 Then the devil took Him to the holy city and set Him upon the edge of the temple, 6 And said to Him, If You are the Son of God, cast Yourself down; for it is written, He shall give His angels charge concerning You, and they shall bear You up in their hands, lest You strike Your foot against a stone. 7 Jesus said to him, Again, it is written, You shall not tempt the Lord your God. Again all three lust of flesh…lust of eyes…and pride of life are present in this second temptation of the devil. The Authority to be on top of the temple and fly or have angel save Him…would have been like jumping into the fire then saying God keep from burning…He did not fall to the pride of life thinking Angels are supposed to protect me I can jump and be ok…Appealing to the flesh to be carried by angels and appealing to the eyes to something Holy in middle of a temptation…Jesus did not fall to this temptation. 8 After that, the devil took Him to an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory, 9 And said to Him, All these things will I give You, if You will fall down and worship me. 10 Then Jesus said to him, Begone, Satan! For it is written, You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him alone shall you serve. 11 Then the devil left Him; and behold, angels came and ministered to Him. Again the devil tempts the Lord our God with the pride of life (I am the only Son of God…) saying you do not have to die but I will make all these kingdoms do Your will if you serve me instead of Your Father…Appealing to the flesh not having to die…appealing to the eyes…seeing all the good or glory the kingdoms could do without Him dying….Jesus offered satan a fallen angel repentance and said worship the Lord your God and Him only serve…but satan did not repent…and Jesus did not fall to this temptation. 1Jn 2:15-17 AFV Do not love the world, nor the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him 16 Because everything that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pretentious pride of physical life—is not from the Father, but is from the world. Father…please meet our soul’s deepest needs and lead us not into temptation in Jesus of Nazareth’s name amen. Try…A…Daily Pause for Prayer and Devotional a Wellsaid Christian Devotional about the teachings of Jesus… https://www.anopenbiblestudy.com/blog-by-ben-the-friend... #benjaminbrianstewart #Love #Christianity #Faith #Bible #Jesus #Prayer #Art #ChristianLife #Gospel #ChristianInspiration #Salvation #ChristianCommunity #love #instagood #photoftheday #beautiful #happy #new #sports #entertainment #technology #business #fashion #health #travel #food #music #art #photography

God verses Science... A science professor begins his school year with a lecture to the students, "Let me explain the problem science has with religion." The atheist professor of philosophy pauses before his class and then asks one of his new students to stand. "You're a Christian, aren't you, son?" "Yes sir," the student says. "So you believe in God?" "Absolutely." "Is God good?" "Sure! God's good." "Is God all-powerful? Can God do anything?" "Yes." "Are you good or evil?" "The Bible says I'm evil." The professor grins knowingly. "Aha! The Bible!" He considers for a moment. "Here's one for you. Let's say there's a sick person over here and you can cure him. You can do it. Would you help him? Would you try?" "Yes sir, I would." "So you're good...!" "I wouldn't say that." "But why not say that? You'd help a sick and maimed person if you could. Most of us would if we could. But God doesn't." The student does not answer, so the professor continues. "He doesn't, does he? My brother was a Christian who died of cancer, even though he prayed to Jesus to heal him. How is this Jesus good? Hmmm? Can you answer that one?" The student remains silent. "No, you can't, can you?" the professor says. He takes a sip of water from a glass on his desk to give the student time to relax. "Let's start again, young fella. Is God good?" "Er...yes," the student says. "Is Satan good?" The student doesn't hesitate on this one. "No." "Then where does Satan come from?" The student falters. "From God" "That's right. God made Satan, didn't he? Tell me, son. Is there evil in this world?" "Yes, sir." “Evil's everywhere, isn't it? And God did make everything, correct?" "Yes." "So who created evil?" The professor continued, "If God created everything, then God created evil, since evil exists, and according to the principle that our works define who we are, then God is evil." Again, the student has no answer. "Is there sickness? Immorality? Hatred? Ugliness? All these terrible things, do they exist in this world?" The student squirms on his feet. "Yes." "So who created them?" The student does not answer again, so the professor repeats his question. "Who created them?" There is still no answer. Suddenly the lecturer breaks away to pace in front of the classroom. The class is mesmerized. "Tell me," he continues onto another student. "Do you believe in Jesus Christ, son?" The student's voice betrays him and cracks. "Yes, professor, I do." The old man stops pacing. "Science says you have five senses you use to identify and observe the world around you. Have you ever seen Jesus?" "No sir. I've never seen Him." "Then tell us if you've ever heard your Jesus?" "No, sir, I have not." "Have you ever felt your Jesus, tasted your Jesus or smelt your Jesus? Have you ever had any sensory perception of Jesus Christ, or God for that matter?" "No, sir, I'm afraid I haven't." "Yet you still believe in him?" "Yes." "According to the rules of empirical, testable, demonstrable protocol, science says your God doesn't exist. What do you say to that, son?" "Nothing," the student replies. "I only have my faith." "Yes, faith," the professor repeats. "And that is the problem science has with God. There is no evidence, only faith." The student stands quietly for a moment, before asking a question of His own. "Professor, is there such thing as heat?" "Yes," the professor replies. "There's heat." "And is there such a thing as cold?" "Yes, son, there's cold too." "No sir, there isn't." The professor turns to face the student, obviously interested. The room suddenly becomes very quiet. The student begins to explain. "You can have lots of heat, even more heat, super-heat, mega-heat, unlimited heat, white heat, a little heat or no heat, but we don't have anything called 'cold'. We can hit up to 458 degrees below zero, which is no heat, but we can't go any further after that. There is no such thing as cold; otherwise we would be able to go colder than the lowest -458 degrees." "Every body or object is susceptible to study when it has or transmits energy, and heat is what makes a body or matter have or transmit energy. Absolute zero (-458 F) is the total absence of heat. You see, sir, cold is only a word we use to describe the absence of heat. We cannot measure cold. Heat we can measure in thermal units because heat is energy. Cold is not the opposite of heat, sir, just the absence of it." Silence across the room. A pen drops somewhere in the classroom, sounding like a hammer. "What about darkness, professor. Is there such a thing as darkness?" "Yes," the professor replies without hesitation. "What is night if it isn't darkness?" "You're wrong again, sir. Darkness is not something; it is the absence of something. You can have low light, normal light, bright light, flashing light, but if you have no light constantly you have nothing and it's called darkness, isn't it? That's the meaning we use to define the word." "In reality, darkness isn't. If it were, you would be able to make darkness darker, wouldn't you?" The professor begins to smile at the student in front of him. This will be a good semester. "So what point are you making, young man?" "Yes, professor. My point is, your philosophical premise is flawed to start with, and so your conclusion must also be flawed." The professor's face cannot hide his surprise this time. "Flawed? Can you explain how?" "You are working on the premise of duality," the student explains. "You argue that there is life and then there's death; a good God and a bad God. You are viewing the concept of God as something finite, something we can measure. Sir, science can't even explain a thought." "It uses electricity and magnetism, but has never seen, much less fully understood either one. To view death as the opposite of life is to be ignorant of the fact that death cannot exist as a substantive thing. Death is not the opposite of life, just the absence of it." "Now tell me, professor. Do you teach your students that they evolved from a monkey?" "If you are referring to the natural evolutionary process, young man, yes, of course I do." "Have you ever observed evolution with your own eyes, sir?" The professor begins to shake his head, still smiling, as he realizes where the argument is going. A very good semester, indeed. "Since no one has ever observed the process of evolution at work and cannot even prove that this process is an on-going endeavor, are you not teaching your opinion, sir? Are you now not a scientist, but a preacher?" The class is in uproar. The student remains silent until the commotion has subsided. "To continue the point you were making earlier to the other student, let me give you an example of what I mean." The student looks around the room. "Is there anyone in the class who has ever seen the professor's brain?" The class breaks out into laughter. "Is there anyone here who has ever heard the professor's brain, felt the professor's brain, touched or smelt the professor's brain? No one appears to have done so. So, according to the established rules of empirical, stable, demonstrable protocol, science says that you have no brain, with all due respect, sir." "So if science says you have no brain, how can we trust your lectures, sir?" Now the room is silent. The professor just stares at the student, his face unreadable. Finally, after what seems an eternity, the old man answers. "I guess you'll have to take them on faith." "Now, you accept that there is faith, and, in fact, faith exists with life," the student continues. "Now, sir, is there such a thing as evil?" Now uncertain, the professor responds, "Of course, there is. We see it everyday. It is in the daily example of man's inhumanity to man. It is in the multitude of crime and violence everywhere in the world. These manifestations are nothing else but evil." To this the student replied, "Evil does not exist sir, or at least it does not exist unto itself. Evil is simply the absence of God. It is just like darkness and cold, a word that man has created to describe the absence of God. God did not create evil. Evil is the result of what happens when man does not have God's love present in his heart. It's like the cold that comes when there is no heat or the darkness that comes when there is no light." The professor sat down.

The Doctrine of the Lord’s Supper found in the New Testament or Christ’s Law… Mat 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:19-20, 1 Cor 11:23-29, Acts 20:7, Acts 2:42-46 Introduction: 1. Little Johnny, came home from Sunday school and his mom asked what did you learn. Little Johnny says, we read about Moses and the Egyptian army. How that Moses was in battle and running from the Egyptians, when they had to helicopter a bridge to go over the Red Sea. Then they blow up the bridge with the Egyptian Army on it and won”. The mom says, Little Johnny is that really how the story went?” He said no but if I told it like my teacher then you would never believe it.” Little Johnny had the right idea concerning wanting to make people believe but failed to realize that adding to God’s word was wrong. When we say that Christmas is a Holy day or a part of the Christian’s life we make a mistake. 2. All of us keep some form of memorials. We all have anniversaries, birthdays, holidays, and other such special occasions we keep as tradition. Christmas is one such holiday, in which there is no religious authority given by the Bible to celebrate, yet many of us celebrate it as a religious memorial. Today I want to talk about the greatest Bible memorial given to us as Christians: The Lord’s Supper. 3. When the Israelites were being held in bondage as slaves after the time of Joseph. God sent the Pharaoh of Egypt 9 plagues before He told Moses of the final plague, the first borne. He warned the Israelites of the 10th and final plague. He told them to kill a perfect Lamb without blemish and put its blood on the doorposts and lintel of their houses. Because the Lord was going to take all of the 1st borne children except those with the Lamb’s blood. 4. When the Jews or Israelites came out of Egypt and were set free, God instituted a memorial feast. Each year the Jews had to participate in the Passover Feast. God wanted His people to remember what great things He did in order to redeem them from the Egyptian bondage. It is human nature to forget and we, especially us guys forget important stuff like birthdays, anniversaries, and so on. We all forget and when we do not take time to remember our commitments, our goals, our family, and then sometimes we forget why we are doing things. 5. God knows this and He instituted a Memorial feast to cause the Jews to remember being delivered out of physical slavery. As Christians today, God has done the same for us. We have been given the Lord’s Supper to help us remember and treasure being delivered from Spiritual bondage or slavery. In this lesson, I want to talk about the Institution, The Significance, The Frequency, and the Focus of the Lord’s Supper. I. Institution A. The Time of the Jewish Passover 1. It was during the time of the Jewish Passover that the Lord instituted the Lord’s supper 2. The Jewish Passover Explained a. The Passover was one of the 3 great feasts for the Jew (Passover, Pentecost, Booths or tent) b. Accompanying the Passover was the feast of unleavened bread which was a 7 day observance. On the 14th day of Nisan was the paschal meal observed. (Nisan was the Jewish month that relates to our time period of mid-March and mid-April 30 days total) 3. The order of Events (Ex 12:1-14) a. The Lamb without blemish was sacrificed in the Temple (The Law required the Lamb be slain between the evenings, which were from 3pm to Sunset and from Sunset to 9am). b. It then was roasted and cooked c. Unleavened loaves were made (unleavened = without yeast) d. Wine was prepared e. Herbs were provided f. They would eat the Paschal Meal which was prepared and eaten around sunset. B. The Lord’s Command 1. The Passover for the Jew was a reminder to their freedom of their physical bondage a. It was a shadow of the Lord’s Supper or an anti-type. It was a deliverance from death by a sacrificial Lamb and was a symbol for the real thing to come in the future. 2. The Event (Mat 26:26-29) a. Took unleavened bread and blessed it, broke it, and then gave it (unleavened due Passover requirements) (26) b. This is my body, took the cup and gave to those there 3. This is the blood of the New Testament a. It was an Eastern practice to confirm a covenant with blood (Ex 24:6-8) b. Jesus represents Himself as the victim to which the blood was taken as a seal c. The fruit of the vine represents the sealing blood of the covenant of man and God d. The Forgiveness of sins shows us the purpose of the Lord being our Paschal Lamb e. Luke 22:19 includes, “This do in remembrance of me” II. The Significance A. The Representation for us to remember 1. It reminds us of the shedding of Jesus blood for our own sins a. It is a reminder that Jesus took our pain and suffering so we could live. 2. The Bread is a reminder of Jesus physical body being beaten, bruised, and slain a. Jesus took our punishment on the chin, so you and I would not be punished. b. He was punished as if He broke all Ten Commandments even though He had never broken any. 3. The Fruit of the Vine is the symbol for His atoning blood shed for us a. Heb 10:1-4, says that the blood of bulls and goats could never fully remove sin b. Jews had to offer up yearly the blood of bulls and goats for sins c. Jesus being more perfect offered His blood once for all time and for all of creation B. It Proclaims the Lord’s Death until He comes (1 Cor 11:26) 1. Each time the Christian takes of the Memorial Feast, he says the Lord died for me! a. Each time we participate, we say the Lord is the One that died so I could be forgiven b. We each confess we have been baptized and raised by partaking 2. When the non-Christians see the observance, they ask questions. a. They will want to know what is going on. Then once understood, they realize Christians are remembering and reliving the sacrifice Jesus made for them. 3. By participating the Christian is saying thank you Jesus for dying for me C. It is a time of Self-Examination (1 Cor 11:28-29) 1. The Memorial if for those who are Christians only a. For those who have not obeyed the Gospel of Christ, it is a time to think about Jesus and why He died. b. It is a chance to take seriously, the death of Jesus. To reflect on their sins and weigh the question, Did Jesus do that for me and do I want to be forgiven? 2. The Christian before he takes needs to examine Himself a. The Lord died in order to forgive us and cleanse us. When a Christian is not living like a Christian then we are laughing at what Jesus did for us. We disrespect the greatness of a sacrifice the Lord made to save us. b. It is a time to remember the punishment and power of our personal sins. He died so I could live a better life, why then I am living like those in the gutter? 3. Our Self-Examination causes us to Love the Lord More a. By remembering the sacrifice, we realize each time we have sinned, we have put the stripes on his back and the nails in his flesh. b. It creates a sense of conviction of sin and a commitment to avoid sin at all costs c. It causes us to repent of any un-confessed sin and seeking to be forgiven. d. We can say I may have sinned, but because I became a Christian I have been forgiven III. The Frequency A. The Apostles Teaching 1. After the church was established on Pentecost they continued in breaking of bread (Acts 2:42) a. The Apostles clearly taught the observance of the Lord’s Supper (vs. 42, and also had fellowship meals vs. 46). The 1st Christians observed the Lord’s Supper. 2. The Approved Example of When to Observe the Lord’s Supper (Acts 20:7) a. The first day of the week. Sabbath was the day of rest and was the last day of the week b. Sunday is the first day of the week. c. The Disciples came together to break bread and Paul preached d. They were having church service 3. Since we have an example of an Apostle and the disciples observing we do the same a. The Apostles taught to observe the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor 11. Acts 2, and Acts 20) b. This is the only example of which day they observed it on and so that is why we come to service on Sundays because it is the first day of the week. c. Since there is a first day of the week, each and every week: We meet every Sunday to observe and remember the Lord’s Supper and Sacrifice for our sins. IV. The Focus A. It is a time to look up to God 1. We remember God and His Love for us (John 3:16-17) a. It shows that we are worthy in God’s eyes. God counts you so worthy that He was willing to die for you. b. God loves us and wants what is best for us that is why He died for you. Because you are worthy of His love and sacrifice. 2. It is a time of communion with Jesus and our Father a. We can all look up to God and realize that He thinks we are precious to Him B. It is a time to look inward 1. Time to take self-inventory and evaluate a. Again we can see if we are living up the price paid for our freedom b. We can re-position our lives back at the foot of the cross 2. Time to look inward at our love for God and His love for us a. We can thank God in gratitude for the second chance on our spiritual lives b. The church of Christ is the hospital for the sin sick and Jesus gives us all a second chance on life. We should be grateful for the opportunity to be an heir of eternal life. C. It helps us to look forward 1. As we participate we know one day the Lord will come back and take us home a. The day is coming when the Lord will come and measure out justice and vengeance on them, that do not know the Lord and obey not the Gospel of Christ(2 Thes 1:7-8) b. For those who are prepared and living right it is day to look forward to and pray for. c. For those who are not it is day to run from and be fearful of. 2. It helps build expectation and hope of the Day of the Lord a. The Christian builds his hopes on things eternal. As we participate in the Lord’s Supper it is a time to realize the value of eternal life and the punishment of sin D. It can also cause damnation 1. 1Co 11:27-29 KJV Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 29 For he that eats and drinks unworthily, eats and drinks damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. b. If you are living unfaithful to Jesus and then pretend to be right with Him by partaking of the Lord’s Memorial Feast, we commonly c all the Lord’s supper…you may as well be drinking damnation or God’s wrath. c. You are in the congregation and can be right with God by confession of sin to the elders…there is no need to be wrong with God…all has been provided so you can be saved. d. By not partaking you are showing an open confession of I am not right with God. Conclusion: 1. The Lord’s Supper causes us to be reminded of the value God places on each Christian. It shows the Love of a Savior and the need of the sinner. It reminds of how we would end up if Christ had not died for us. 2. It carries us back to the cross: a. Jesus was mocked by the courts, Annais, and Caiaphas b. Where Jesus said I am the Son of God (Mark 14:62) and because of that was then Struck by the officer of the High Priest, after having false witnesses accuse Him Then Was delivered to Pilate as an evil doer though He was innocent. c. In front of Pilate He was accused of: (1) Forbidding to pay tribute (Mk 12:17) (2) Making himself a king, Jesus was the spiritual king and never intended to be a physical king. d. Sent from Pilate to Herod,who wanted to see a sign and then sent back to Pilate e. Then was scourged f. Given a crown of thorns, purple robe, and a reed to be mocked as king by Roman soldiers that hit and spit on Him g. The robe then taken off ripping the dried blood off from the scourging h. Due to the loss of blood fell beneath the load of the cross as he carried it to the place of His death i. Hung Him to an open shame by nailing His feet and hands to the cross. j. Then Jesus suffocated for our sins. Our sins caused Jesus to no longer breathe and in agony He died for our sins. 3. Jesus suffered more than we will ever know. It is God’s will for us to live for Him and not ourselves. Jesus died for you because you are worthy of His love and sacrifice. Let us all take hold of eternal life before it is too late. Have you been baptized into Christ? Yes or No. Will you be baptized into Jesus Christ? Yes or no? Jesus said…He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that disbelieves shall be condemned… Father…please meet our soul’s deepest needs and forgive the unforgiven…and confirm the Truth with us in Jesus of Nazareth’s name amen.

Intro: 1. Prayer is a large subject and yet simple. Prayer defined would be communication between man and God. When we read the Bible that is when God speaks to us and when we pray that is when we speak to God. Prayer is one of the most valuable gifts God has given man. The Gospel is the power to save and change the lives of men, women and children. Prayer is the power to change the mind of God. Dan Gilbret has said that prayer moves the hand that moves the universe. 2. Some may ask why should I pray? God knows everything he even knows what I am thinking? Well this may be true that God knows everything, but He wants us to pray so that we can create a desire and dependence on Him for the things we want in this life. Prayer is extremely important in the lives of Christians. 3. Christians that do not pray are like fish that do not swim, or like humans that do not breathe. Prayer is that important. As Christians we can not survive without it. It is through prayer that we are able to ask God to forgive us of our wrongs, it is through prayer that we are able to ask God to provide our food, or help in anything. Prayer is expressing our hearts desire to God. Prayer should by used in our everyday life if we are following Jesus. I. Why Pray? A. Jesus Set The Example 1. After being baptized Jesus prayed (Luke 3:21) 2. Before selecting the 12 Apostles Jesus prayed all night (Luke 6:12) a. The example is when facing a very big decision Jesus prayed all night b. The 12 Apostles he was about to chose would be the ones who established Jesus’ Church after he had been resurrected and was seated at the right hand of God. c. These 12 would be some of the most influential and important men of all time d. Jesus prayed all night before making the extremely difficult decision on the 12 Apostles e. How much should we pray when facing difficult decisions? You can never pray too much about extremely important issues. 3. Jesus spent time alone with His Heavenly Father in prayer (Mat 14:23) a. If we never spend time in prayer with our Heavenly Father we will not grow closer to Him. b. Jesus had been busy teaching all of those people and then he took some alone time for himself so He could “talk” to God. c. A regular private devotion with God everyday will bring us to a closer relationship with our Heavenly Father. d. Devotional should include at least one of the following: singing to God, reading His Word (the Bible), and praying. 4. Jesus because of all the people following Him rose up early before anyone else and went off by himself and prayed (Mark 1:35) a. Jesus sacrificed some of his sleep in order to draw closer to God. b. Jesus must have considered being alone with God an Important part of His life c. How much should we consider praying to our Father in Heaven important? B. The Disciples Prayed Much 1. The Apostles taught Christians they should pray a. After the church was established in Acts chapter 2, the disciples or followers of Jesus continued in the Apostles teaching which included prayer (Acts 2:41-42) b. It has been said that there was nothing that the early Christians did not pray about c. If it is important to you then it will be important to our Heavenly Father d. God wants us to be happy but He will not hear us unless we are following Him or obeying Him. 2. The Different Churches were told to pray a. The Church at Rome (Rom 12:12) b. The Church at Corinth (1 Cor 7:5) c. The Church at Ephesus (Eph 6:18) d. The Church at Thessonalica (1 Thes 5:17-18) e. These are only a few examples II. Conditions of Answered Prayer A. God always hears prayer 1. He always gives us an answer a. Could be a no b. Could be a yes c. Could be later d. You are not ready for this blessing right now. 2. He hears his children’s prayers a. Be righteous: “The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous and His ears are open to their prayers” (1 Pet 3:12), so we must be righteous in God’s eyes in order to have our prayers answered. Being in Christ makes us so. If you walk with Jesus according to His word then you are said to be righteous or justified. Another way to say it is “just-as-if-I’d- not sinned. b. Your mom and dad will hear you because you are one of their children. The same is true with God. He knows those that are His and He listens to them so He can take care of them and bless them. B. How do you get God to answer your prayer? 1. Be obedient children: “and whatsoever we ask we receive of him because we keep his commandments and do the things that are pleasing in His sight” (1 John 3:22). If we are doing what God wants us to do then He is more willing to answer our prayers. a. It is like your dad our mom, if you have been bad or been misbehaving and you ask you mom or dad to go skating then you know they will say no. However if you have been good and done what they asked you to do, then you know they will carry you. 2. Ask in faith: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.(Jam 1:5-8) a. If we ask something from God and do not believe that He will give it to us do you think He will? We are to ask in faith. b. Faith can be defined as a strong conviction. If we truly know that God is good and He wants to make us happy then that conviction will cause us to believe that He will give us what we ask from Him. c. Heb 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please God, he that comes to God must believe that He exists and He is a rewarder of those that diligently seek Him.” d. If you do not believe that God is real then it will be impossible to receive anything from Him. 3. Have the Right Motives: “Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war; yet ye have not, because ye ask not. Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts. (Jam 4:2-3) a. You do not have because you do not ask. If you never pray to God for things in your life then He will never give you the desires of your heart. b. However if you are asking for stuff that you want that has no purpose whatsoever then He is not likely to give it to you. c. In a conversation with man God is asked, “God how long is a million years to you?” He answers, “It is like 1 second’. The man then asks, “How much is a million dollars to you?” God answers, “It is like 1 penny.” The man then asks, “Well God can I have a penny?” God answers, “In just one second”. d. God may not give you a million dollars so you can be rich, but if you asked for a million dollars to build a homeless shelter them He would have reason to give it to you. 4. Pray in Jesus’ Name a. Jesus said, “And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments. (John 14:13-15) b. What does it mean to ask something in Jesus name? c. If I was a policeman and I said stop in the name of the Law, then I would be saying stop because the law gives me the authority to make you stop. So in the same way to say in the name of Jesus, is another way of saying according to Jesus and His will or authority. d. We can not pray in the name of men and please God; Jesus was not a man? He was and is God. III. How do we pray in a way that pleases God? (Mat 6:5-15) A. To be seen of men (Mat 6:5-8) 1. Not like a hypocrite (Mat 6:5) a. The word for hypocrite gets its meaning from actors that put on a face or mask. It is to be someone who pretends to be something else. To act like a Christian, instead of being a Christian. b. Standing in the street corners: The Jews Jesus was calling hypocrites were required to pray at certain times of the day. It was easy for then to be found at a busy street corner when it was time to pray. By doing so they could be heard by all those who were passing by. c. Standing in the synagogues: Those religious leaders would also be sure to be in, or at the “church building” at these times so they could impress those that heard them pray to God. d. They have their reward: Instead of praying to God, they were praying so they could impress the people that heard them. By doing so, Jesus said that is their reward. They get a reward by those that heard them saying man that guy sure knows how to pray, instead having the prayer heard and answered by God. 2. The Father sees in secret (Mat 6:6) a. Enter into your closet: It was a custom for the Jewish people to have an upper room in which they could pray. Sometimes these rooms would be roofs, inner rooms, but usually was an upper room. It was a place where they could be alone with God and pray to Him alone. If you are in your bedroom alone and you pray to God, then whom are you trying to impress? God is the only one any of us should try to impress. b. He will reward you openly: The hypocrites prayed outwardly so they could be heard and impress people. Jesus wants us to pray to God inwardly and impress Him. By praying only to God so He can hear our hearts desires then He will give us those things we ask for. By answering our prayers we are rewarded for all to see how God has blessed us. 3. Do not use vain repetitions.(Mat 6:7) a. Vain repetitions: another word for vain is empty. The heathen are those who do not know God. In Jesus time they were people who would worship idols or man made objects. They would repeat their desires over and over again in order that their false god may hear what they were asking. b. It could be like a poem. Sometimes a poem expresses a thought then repeats it another way in the following lines over and over only re-wording the theme. By repeating themselves over and over again they thought that they would be heard better by their false gods. 4. Your Father knows what you need before you ask (Mat 6:8) a. Those that were heathens were praying to gods that were not real. Jesus draws a picture that is different for our God. Our God is so great that before we even ask He knows what we need. We do not need to repeat ourselves in our prayer to God. Our God is not deaf He knows what we need before we ask. b. Why do we need to ask then? So we can create a dependence, desire, and faith in God for providing us with the things we need and want. B. The Model Prayer (Mat 6:9-15) 1. The Benediction (Mat 6:9) a. Our Father: Signifies a close relationship to all those that are praying with the one leading the prayer. Those that were hypocrites would cast insults to those that were not as pious or good as themselves. It also gives the idea of a family and not that of separation. b. Which art in Heaven: Instead of being as one of the false gods, He was the one true God that created the Heavens as His dwelling place…Who lives there where we want to be one day. c. Hallowed by thy name: Hallow means Holy, as in Holy is your name. Holy is a word that is used to separate the common things from the things of God. He is saying Your name and person is set apart in out hearts as Holy; or as above all other things. Your ways are higher and better than our ways. 2. Submission (Mat 6:10) a. Thy kingdom come: Your kingdom is our desire. We want you to reign over all the earth and in our hearts and minds. Let all those who do not know you come to know in the same ways we know you as our God and King. b. Thy will be done: You are the Creator of all that is and will be, You are the all-powerful. All knowing, all present God. Whatever you say may it be done in us and in the world that does not recognize you as their God and King. c. In earth and in Heaven: In Heaven only those that love God are there. If we love God then we will keep His commandments (John 14:15). So all those in Heaven are seeking to please God. However we have been given free choice as humans to love and obey God or to reject and hate Him. So we are to pray that even as God’s will is carried out by those who dwell in Heaven may it be carried out by all that dwell in the earth below Heaven. 3. Necessities (Mat 6:11) a. Give us our daily bread: By praying for the provision of food daily, we are taught a dependence on God for our life. This daily food helps keep us healthy and able to do God’s will. It could also be our spiritual food so we can grow in Christ as well as our physical food. 4. Forgive us as we have forgiven others (Mat 6:12) a. God’s will is supreme and when we break His law it is far worse than hurting our friends’ feelings. So if we can not forgive our fellow man of these small things, then why would God forgive us of our sins against Him? Everyday each of us has to ask for forgiveness of something. None of us is perfect and anyone that says he has not sinned is a liar. b. It took me a long time to figure out that being a Christian was not about being perfect. No matter how hard I tried, I always messed up somehow and I would beat myself up each time I did sin. Until one day I heard someone say that Christianity is not about being perfect but is about being faithful. No one can be perfect, but let each of us ask God to forgive us so that we can try to do better each time we sin. 5. Lead us not into temptation a. God knows everything, and He can prevent certain circumstances from happening to keep us from being tempted. He has promised that “he will not tempt us above that which we are able and with the temptation will make a way of escape” 1 Cor 10:13. How many times though do you and I look for the door that leads away from the temptation? b. He can allow circumstances to happen to build our characters, but it will not allow circumstances that are to great for us. Jesus was saying we should pray to be lead away from such temptations that could make us fall away from God. 6. Deliver us from evil a. There are two types of evil. One is the devil and his angels a spiritual evil. The devil can cause us many heartaches and pains by being around us. The other type of evil would be calamities or physical evil caused by the devil. Things like earthquakes, tornadoes, house burning down, circumstances that would make our lives hard to live. He was saying to deliver us from the devil and all that could cause us harm. 7. Doxology (Mat 6:13) a. For yours is the kingdom: No matter what men may do here on earth, your kingdom is still the greatest and the best. Everything belongs to You and Your sovereignty. b. Thine is the power: Submitting to the power of God. God is all-powerful. He is self-sufficient. He does not need anything other than Himself to survive but we are His dependents. We depend on Him and His power for deliverance from evil and sin and every other thing we need. c. The Glory: God is Glory. In other words there is nothing greater than God is. We may see a fireworks display and think that is glorious, but to see God would make a fireworks display look like a handclap. God is the Glory, we look at the stars and think they are glorious when God is the one that: thought of them out of nothing, made them, weighed them, placed them in there places, and set a time for them to last. C. Forgive or forget about being forgiven (Mat 6:14-15) 1. Forgiveness is required to be forgiven a. If we are willing to forgive our fellow man the things he may have done us wrong in, then God will be willing to forgive us of our wrongs we have done to Him. b. If we are intolerant of the sins or mistakes of our brothers and sisters then God will be intolerant of our mistakes and shortcomings. c. Jesus also said, “blessed are the merciful for they shall receive mercy” Mat 5:7 Conclusion: 1. We have discussed a lot about prayer in this lesson. We know that in order to be a Christian we have to pray. Jesus taught his disciples to pray He prayed himself. His disciples taught us to pray. They even told the churches they established to pray. For a Christian prayer is a must. 2. In order to have our prayers answered we have to be one of God’s children and live like He wants us to. We must ask our prayers in faith knowing that God hears us and will do what is best for us. We must have the right motives when we pray seeking God and His will for us. We also must pray in Jesus name, meaning according to Jesus’ will or authority as God. 3. We are not to pray in order to be seen of men. Men who are asked to lead prayer in worship sometimes may fall into this trap. A quick way to check the heart is to ask one’s self, “Am I praying for prayer’s sake or am I praying for my sin and theirs?” It is out of a sincere desire that one must pray; we are not to pray in order to receive prestige, or to be patted on the back by our fellow man as a man that can pray. We are to lead God’s people in a prayer that will be heard by God and not by our fellow men. 4. We have gone through the model prayer which is so simple and complete. May we all keep the spirit of prayer alive in our lives. You can pray to God at anytime and anywhere. You can even be in a conversation and being praying to God as to what to say next. Pray is vital to the Christian. Christians can not be Christians without prayer. Father…please hear our prayers concerning forgiveness, reconciliation and repentance…In Jesus of Nazareth’s name amen. Try…A…Daily Pause for Prayer and Devotional a Wellsaid Christian Devotional about the teachings of Jesus… https://www.anopenbiblestudy.com/blog-by-ben-the-friend... #benjaminbrianstewart #Love #Christianity #Faith #Bible #Jesus #Prayer #Art #ChristianLife #Gospel #ChristianInspiration #Salvation #ChristianCommunity #love #instagood #photoftheday #beautiful #happy #new #sports #entertainment #technology #business #fashion #health #travel #food #music #art #photography

Introduction of a role of a child: 1. Today in this world there is an assault on the homes of Americans. It may not be just in America but also in other parts of the world. In the past I have given a lesson on the role of a father and that of a mother. In this lesson I will be speaking to the children. 2. Children are an awesome blessing to have, in fact they are the future of the world. They are the products of their moms, dads, brothers, sisters, and even society. They are the ones who are most influenced in the world today. 3. Children have to worry about all kinds of pressure that those of past generations did not have to worry about. Today by watching the invited rude guest in all of our homes, they are influenced by him to smoke, to drink, to think that premarital sex is okay, to try and fit in with their friends, and that lying is okay as long as it is for a good purpose. Do you know who this invited gust is? We call Mr. T.V. 4. The T.V. spends more time influencing our lives than anything else does in our society today. The children and teenagers of this era have to be strong enough to resist the temptations of peer pressure. They must see the love and need for God in their lives. Children today must realize they are responsible for their actions. We can not always have mommy or daddy bail us out of jam. All of this is brought about by being disciplined…and Jesus is our example… Although He was a Son, yet He learned obedience from the things that He suffered; 9 And having been perfected, He became the Author of eternal salvation to all those who obey Him, Heb 5:8-9 AFV I. Honor your Father and your Mother A. A commandment for all times. 1. The Old Testament this was a command to be obeyed. a. Ex 20:12. It was the 5th commandment given to the Jews. 2. It is repeated in the New Testament a. Eph 6:1-3 “children obey your parents in the Lord for this is right. Honor your father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise, that it may be well with you and that you might live long on the earth.” 3. God changed many things from the Jewish religion to what Christians practice today a. We no longer worship in the temple, we no longer have incense, we no longer kill animals to atone for sins, we no longer have tribes or the Levitical priesthood. b. God changed what he expected from us in many things but one of the things he did not was to honor our fathers and mothers. 4. Even those that do not know God understand that this is right to do. a. Your mom and dad have wiped your but and nose for a many a night. They have provided for you in all your life. They took care of you and nurtured you, as you needed it. b. It is only reasonable that when they are feeble and can not take care of themselves, that their children should be their providers. c. James said it this way, “Pure religion and undefiled is this to visit the widows and orphans in their afflictions, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world” James 1:27 d. God has always had a soft spot in His heart for those who are unable to take care of themselves. That is why such a great emphasis is put on taking care of widows and orphans. They are helpless. e. We should not allow our mothers and fathers to be helpless. It is our duty to provide for them as the best that we can. B. Wisdom of Solomon for children (Excerpt from Leroy Brownlow Christian Do’s & Don’t’s) 1. “A wise son hears his father’s words but a scoffer does not hear a rebuke” Prov 13:1 2. “A fool does not regard his father’s correction, but he that regards reproof gets prudence” Prov 15:5 3. “A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish man despises his mother” Prov 15:20 4. “A foolish son is a grief to his father and bitterness to her that bore him” Prov 17:25 5. He that is violent towards his father and chases his mother away is a son that causes shame and brings reproach” Prov 19:26 6. Hearken unto your father that beget you and do not despise your mother when she is old” Prov 23:22. C. How can we honor our father and our mothers? 1. We can tell them we love them. What is louder than words? Our actions. The saying I can not hear what you are saying over what you are doing rings true. James said it this way, “faith without works is dead” James 2:17 a. We can not say mom I love you and allow her to starve or be without can we? b. One of the last thing Jesus did before he gave up his life as a ransom for all was to make provision for his mom in his absence. He was the oldest son and asked a dear friend to watch out for his mother. John 19:27 2. We also can honor them by writing to them if they are a distance away. a. By keeping in touch a person can tell if their mom has an urgent need. b. By staying in contact we are able to show and give affection if only through our communication and concern for their well being. 3. We can honor our moms and dads by being the type of person we should be. a. The old saying the apple does not fall far from the tree is generally true. b. When a person is of good moral character it reflects well on the parents of the child. Children are the fruit of their parents. 4. We can take care of their needs a. They cared for us at least we can do is the same. D. Blessings that happen if we honor our fathers and mothers 1. If all of us tried to please our moms and dads then the world would be a better place to live. We would all live in such a way that makes our parents proud and not ashamed. a. The stronger the family the stronger the society and the stronger the society the stronger the nation will be. If children disrespect their parents and their parents authority then there will be no respect for what is right in that child’s life. b. A person who has this type of attitude will develop other good attitudes. I imagine that most people who honor their moms and dads probably are good neighbor and friends. In other words they have a better sense of duty towards others. c. Helping out someone you love is a way to make yourself feel better. The story goes, there was a man ready to give up on going to church he had about all he could stand. He goes to talk to the preacher to tell him he is going to leave and not come back. Well the wise preacher sees this coming and when he gets to his office, he asks the man “will help me run some errands? I need to carry this bag of groceries over to Jones house.” The disturbed man said, “sure” not knowing why. So they went out an ran the errand, then the preacher stopped by and helped someone else out of a jam, and by the time they had got back to the office, they had helped more than just two families. Then the preacher invited the man into his office and said, “now what was it you were wanting to talk about?” The disturbed man said, “nothing now” The man had forgotten what following Jesus was all about. It is all about love. d. It produces long life. God gave a commandment and a promise saying that it may go well with you and have a long life. II. Temptations Teenagers and Kids face A. Drugs and Alcohol 1. Gal 5: 19-25 a. Notice that being drunk or drunkenness is in this list of fleshly sins. b. Notice also that anyone who does these will not inherit the kingdom of God 2. It also applies to pot, weed, or marijuana a. Notice carefully, that if some one does things like these also they will not inherit the kingdom of God. It was not only the drinking but also anything that is similar to being drunk. b. It applies to anything that causes one to not be themselves. If inhibits the mind, then it is wrong. God wants us to be as he made us. You must keep a sober mind…if you get drunk and it causes you to lie…or fight…then you have gone to far. You must keep a sober mind and make sound moral decisions regardless of the drug or medicine. 3. Anything can be used for good a. Anything can have good purposes, such as alcohol can be used to clean a wound, or disinfect your mouth. Alcohol is used in some cough syrups. If it used as medicine to help the body heal then it is okay, however if it is being abused in order to enjoy a buzz it is wrong. b. Doctor prescribes marijuana to cancer patients because it helps them deal with chemotherapy. The medicine for chemotherapy causes extreme nausea and marijuana helps counteract these effects. 4. One of three things will happen if a person begins involving themselves with drugs. a. You will end up in jail b. You will end up dead c. You will end up a junkie. d. It all depends on time, the more times you mess with it the more likely hood the more severe will occur. The more times you do it the easier it is to do it next time. B. Sexual Activity 1. On TV it is easily portrayed that sex is common and recommended as nature behavior among people who are not married. a. There is a false prophet in you living room called the TV. He is telling you lies. b. He shows programs that say it is okay to do these things it is the normal things people do. If the devil can get you to think that sin is okay then he has you beat. 2. In the same list in Gal 5, notice that fornication is one of the sins that will condemn a person a. Fornication is defined as sex between two people who are not married, make no mistake if a person has premarital sex they will be lost. b. Adultery is also in that list and is defined as sex between a married person and an unmarried person. This was the only grounds Jesus gave for divorce, unfaithfulness and death. c. Regardless of what people may say about sex being natural, the fact still remains that we are to listen to our Lord above any other source of information. 3. Peer pressure to have sex a. People tend to want to fit it with those people they consider their friends. That is called peer pressure. It is human to want to be accepted. b. So the thing to keep in mind is who are we to be accepted by, our friends or our Lord? Which is more important? Of course that would be Jesus. c. We need to be more concerned about what Jesus said than out friends say. C. Becoming worldly 1. We are to be in the world but not of the world. a. 1 John 2:15-17, “Love not the world neither the things in the world, for all that is in the world the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life is not of the father but of the world.” b. If a teenager or child fits in with the world more than those of good moral values then they are becoming wordily. I am not saying have no contact with anyone who is not a Christian but just to safe guard your heart in such a way that you will influence them and they would not influence you. 2. We can turn our backs on God and walk away if we choose to do so. a. In order to have love there must be free will. Love does not seek its own, therefore in order to love someone a person must be willing to sacrifice his or her desire for someone else’s. b. That is what God wants for us even as adults. We all would do good to learn this. c. Heb 10:26 “for if we sin willfully after we have a knowledge of the truth there remains no more sacrifice for sin” This is not oops I messed up sin it is I know it is wrong and I do not care what you think God I am going to do it anyway type of sin. 3. The cure to becoming of the world is to walk with Jesus everyday from the time you wake up to the time you go to bed. a. You may think it odd but pretend that Jesus is right beside you one day all day long and see how many times you and Him grow closer together. b. When you are driving down the road by yourself pretend, He is sitting in the empty car seat beside you. You will find yourself praying more often and in a more intimate way. c. You could always ask wwjd? Or if you are pretending Jesus is beside you; you could say what would you do Lord? Or even What will we do Lord? Conclusion: 1. So the commandment for that of children is simple. Obey your parents in all things and honor you father and mother. If the mother or father is asking things that are in conflict with Jesus then we are to obey Jesus first family second. If your mom asks you to steal you need to follow Jesus instead of your mom. 2. By honoring our parents we help make society and the world a better place. We give a good name to our parents. We can feel good about ourselves when we are taking care of those who would be helpless unless we did help. We are promised a long life if we honor them. 3. Some temptations that are being thrown at kids and teenagers these days are thing that were unheard of a few decades ago. Kids today are bombed with images, ideas, movies, etc of sex, drinking, and drug use. Some may even think that everyone is doing it when really there are only a few. I used to think that the cool kids, was where I needed to be so that I would fit in. So that I could be with the “in crowd”, but guess what I realize now, the group of cool kids was actually a small group. If there are only a few cool kids, then the majority of the kids are not doing the things the cool kids are doing. So actually the fitting in is doing what most kids are doing and hopefully that is not drinking, doing drugs, or having causal sex. No matter what group or groups you fit in with a Christian must at all cost follow Jesus and His Will. 4. Teenagers and kids are faced with a temptation to become like the world around them. They want acceptance so they will try to fit in with everyone else. To become familiar with the world is to become a stranger to God. The more you fit in with the God the less you fit in with world. It is the most important thing in the world to keep Jesus as your friend and Lord. 5. Remember… Col 3:17-25 AFV And in everything—whatever you do in word or in deed—do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him. 18 Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as it is fitting in the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives, and do not be bitter against them. 20 Children, obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing to the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not provoke your children, lest they be discouraged. 22 Servants, obey your fleshly masters in all things—not with eye service as pleasing men; but with singleness of heart, fearing God. 23 And whatever you do, do heartily, as to the Lord and not to men; 24 Knowing that you shall receive from the Lord the recompense of the inheritance, for you are serving Christ the Lord. 25 But the one who does wrong shall receive for the wrong he has done, and there is no respect of persons. Father please teach us the Truth and help us raise our children right by You the Creator of all things…we renounce anything unholy and ask Your will be done in Jesus of Nazareth’s name amen. Try…A…Daily Pause for Prayer and Devotional a Wellsaid Christian Devotional about the teachings of Jesus… https://www.anopenbiblestudy.com/blog-by-ben-the-friend... #benjaminbrianstewart #Love #Christianity #Faith #Bible #Jesus #Prayer #Art #ChristianLife #Gospel #ChristianInspiration #Salvation #ChristianCommunity #love #instagood #photoftheday #beautiful #happy #new #sports #entertainment #technology #business #fashion #health #travel #food #music #art #photography

Do you want to know what Jesus says about being a husband… Introduction: 1. In today’s society there is problems with morality, spirituality, roles, and respect for authority. The problems we are facing in America stem from the family. If we strengthen the family in these areas, then our society in due time will heal itself. 2. The roles of the family in America have been transparent as of the last few years and possibly decades. In this lesson I intend to try to define the role of the marriage for a Christian Husband… In this lesson I am going to speak on the role of the husband, father, or man. I am indebted to Leroy Brownlow and will be using his material for my foundation of this series and this lesson. 3. The roles of fathers and dad are extremely important in a family. The dads are the ones who God expects to be the authority, to love their wives and children, to take care of their families, and make the living. The husband is the man and is considered by God to be head of the household. I. Head of the Household A. Everything has a head or source 1. The body of any human has a head. a. The head is the central part of the body. b. The body cannot be sustained without the head nor the head without the body c. The head is the authority in that it tells the rest what to do. d. No institution can survive without a head: Can you imagine going to work and there be no one to work under. We would never get anything accomplished. 2. The head of America is the government 3. The head of the government is the president 4. The head of a school is the principal 5. Even the rivers and streams have a head or source B. The Head of the Church 1. Jesus is the head of the church of Christ (1 Cor 11:3; Eph 1:22, 4:15, 5:23; Col 1:18, 2:10-19) 2. Jesus has the all authority concerning the Church. (Eph 1:22) 3. He has first place or the preeminence i.e. the highest rank (Col 1:18) 4. Through the head all the body is supplied and knit together (Col 2:19) C. The Head of man 1. Christ is the head of man (1 Cor 11:3; Eph 5:23) 2. God is also the head of Christ (1 Cor 11:3) D. The head of woman 1. The man is the head of the woman (Eph 5:23) 2. This is part of the punishment God gave the women due to the sin in the garden (Gen 3:16) 3. It was a threefold punishment: 1. The man was to have rule over her, 2. She was to have her husband as her desire, 3. To have pain in child birth 4. It should be said that the woman was not taken out of the man’s head to have authority over him, or taken from his feet that he may trample her under him, but from his side that they may rule together. 5. The problem occurs in a household when the two parties do not agree as to the end action or result. So the man has the final say so in the matters regarding the home. 6. The man is not a miser, or a tyrant but is like the president of the U.S.A. He has the final veto ability or the final say so. II. Love the family A. Love the wife 1. Love your wife as Christ loved you (Eph 5:25) a. That is a tough call, what was there that Jesus was not willing to do for you and I? b. Jesus did not seek to be the ruler over everybody, even though he was. c. Jesus looked out for the best interest of those whom he was around. d. Jesus was more concerned for people and their souls than he was there physical health. e. Jesus put his neck out on the line for you and I, in other words he loved us so much that he was willing to be judged by hypocrites, to be called a sinner when he was not, to be mocked in a mocked trial, to suffer humiliation, to suffer a scourging, mocking of his true position and nature, to have nails driven in his hands and feet, he was crucified, and he bore our punishment for our sins. f. In other words, Jesus loved us in every way and we also need to initiate, imitate, and involve ourselves in that kind of love in our relationships with our wives. 2. Love our wife and be not bitter towards them (Col 3:19) a. Not to be bitter towards our wives is to say do not irritate them. b. Immature people irritate others; as with a little brother that irritates his siblings. c. Immature people try to provoke attention or love in the wrong ways, they try to tease or make their companion into doing their will. d. Those who love their wives, when they ask something from their wives will receive it. e. They receive it because of the love we as men have shown them our wives. This is similar to Jesus, “We love him because he first loved us” 1 John 4:19 f. If we provoke our wives into doing our will then they will indeed be bitter. The best way is to love them as yourself. I use this phrase in evangelism: “People do not care what you know until they see that you care”. The wife that never experiences selfless love from their husband will soon wonder why she ever married him. 3. Love the greatest gift (1 Cor 13:4-7) a. It has been said that for love a man will do anything. In songs we hear of men that will swim the sea, climb the highest mountain; the idea is that if we love something nothing we can do is to great. The same can be said of the woman, that she also will do anything for love. b. Love does not seek its own: Each party has to be seeking after love. A lot of times it is about compromise and not my way. We each give a little and we each take a little. B. Love the children 1. Bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Eph 6:4) a. Nurture – The training of a child, including instruction. b. Admonition – A putting in mind. As in putting God’s instruction into their minds. 2. The training of a child a. Example- Often times children will walk were their fathers or parents have walked b. Putting to practice what we preach or teach. The phrase “if you talk the talk then you got to walk the walk” is of great significance when making the instruction real and practical to a child. c. The phrase, “do what as I say and not as I do” will never work in enforcing a truth that you have taught or described to them. The children will do as you do. d. Training involves more than just instruction but making practical application. e. It involves more than just how to get to Heaven but is a whole and complete instruction that prepares the children for their adult lives. The object of parenting is to work yourself out of a job. 3. Provoke not the children unto anger lest they be discouraged (Col 3:21) a. Dads are not to be people that hand out heavy burdens of work and toil. b. Dads are not to load down the children with more than is necessary. A child is a child. c. If our Christian dad makes our life miserable by causing unnecessary grief then any child will be discouraged from the faith. In other words the dad is not to ask something unreasonable from the children. He is the head of the house but he cannot ask something unreasonable from either the mom or the children. d. Dads are most of the time how we picture God. If our dad was loving then we see God as loving, if our dad was a policeman then we see God as a policeman, and if our dad was always busy, then we see God as some important Being that is to busy to handle our mediocre problems here on earth. e. We are to encourage the children; we are the closest person they will see to God until they get old enough to read and understand, or until they get to Heaven. III. Making the living A. We need to provide for our own (1 Tim 5:8) 1. Who is our own? a. Those who would be considered under our care. b. Relatives that depend on us for health, food, and any other support. c. In most cases, it would involve those who are living under your roof or in your household. d. In some cases, our widow relatives, would need our assistance and care. Because of this necessity and our relationship to them this responsibility would be ours to fulfill. 2. What kind of provisions should be provided? a. Certainly the necessities of life (food, water, clothes, etc) b. Foresight or thinking ahead: We know that if our wife is pregnant then we will have two mouths to feed or if our moms are getting feeble they will need extra attention. So we can plan ahead to meet those upcoming needs. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” c. God thinks ahead for us, he knows that the population of the world is going to be and provides us with animals, plants, and water for everyone to have. He also sees the needs of our upcoming spiritual struggles and can prepare us for those battles. d. All provisions should be relevant and needed. B. Neglect is denial of the Christian religion 1. Denied the faith a. The person who through neglect by way of drunkenness, laziness, drugs, fails to provide for those in his family is in a serious boat headed for a waterfall of destruction. b. Peter denied the faith in a verbal way c. The Christian can deny the faith by neglecting to fulfill his roles in life. d. “Faith without works is dead” James 2:17 e. We may go to church and be active in looking religious but if we are not providing for our own families we are denying the faith of Jesus Christ 2. Worst than an infidel a. An infidel is a person who does not believe in Jesus. b. Most people who are not believers in God practice the principles of providing for their own. c. The Christian is called to higher way of life so that he is to exceed the virtues of those who have no faith at all. Conclusion: 1. The man is not better than the woman or the children. The man is given a responsibility to God to fulfill. Each person in a family have certain roles to fulfill for it to function in the way God planned and ordained. The woman has her role to fill; the children have their roles to fill, and the man his. 2. The man is to be the head of the household. A job that has no boss will become a place of neglect; a government that has not authority will not last. God’s plan involves a person of authority in all things. In the family that authority is indeed the man. 3. The man is to love his wife and his children. The man is not to be a tyrant barking out orders to be obeyed but is to lovingly lead the family into a closer relationship with God. A wife and children will do anything within reason when they know the man of the house is asking them to do something. 4. The man is to provide for his own kindred. He is to be the one who is responsible to take care of those placed in or under his care. This would involve widows, children, moms, dads, wives, etc. Those to whom he considers his own. 5. The man is not to ask anything unreasonable of his wife or his children. He is to respect them, he is to love them as Jesus loves us, and Jesus was willing to give His life for all. The ideal relationship between a husband and wife should imitate or reflect the relationship of Jesus and His church. It is a relationship of love, unity, closeness, and oneness. Father help us to be faithful to the role we have been called into so we can know the truth when revealed and do right by You…In Jesus of Nazareth’s name amen. Try…A…Daily Pause for Prayer and Devotional a Wellsaid Christian Devotional about the teachings of Jesus… https://www.anopenbiblestudy.com/blog-by-ben-the-friend... #benjaminbrianstewart #Love #Christianity #Faith #Bible #Jesus #Prayer #Art #ChristianLife #Gospel #ChristianInspiration #Salvation #ChristianCommunity #love #instagood #photoftheday #beautiful #happy #new #sports #entertainment #technology #business #fashion #health #travel #food #music #art #photography