Rev. E. Anderson

WHY PEOPLE NEED TO BECOME CHRISTIANS

Reading John 1: 35-51

Introduction

EVIDENT FEATURE: One cannot escape the fact that Christianity features very strongly in this world. Whether a person agrees or disagrees with it or not it has an undeniable, strong presence and influence upon society world-wide.

RECOGNISED TRUTH: Above everything else, Christianity has in the main to do with Christ and the Christian Church is called upon to be a true representation of Him. Griffith Thomas wrote about with the title: ‘Christianity is Christ’ and that really expresses the truth concerning it. Take Christ out of the word and you have I – anity, and such is not a good option. To get an honest discernment and judgment on the matter Christ, His life and work must be given true appraisal.

GOOD QUESTION: Why do people need to become Christians? There must be an answer of worth that is relevant to every person that ought to be fully known and understood. When the right answers are given then one is compelled and constrained to give Christ the opportunity of showing up and proving Himself as He has done to and for others.

1.      BECAUSE JESUS CHRIST IS THE PERSON REALLY WORTH KNOWING

Recently in a Countdown show a contestant was asked if he had the opportunity of meeting an important person to talk to and ask questions of, who would he chose. The presenter was taken aback when the reply was, Jesus Christ. When asked why Him. The man replied believed He would be able to provide some choice facts that would grip his attention etc.

He is the best quality person that has lives, and still does by right of resurrection, and is worth knowing and building a relationship with Him. He is the most dynamic, wise, loving, joyful etc., etc., individual that one could meet and who offers the choicest things in life. Sense the excitement of two young men as they make a first time discovery of Him – ‘We have found the Christ’ – vv41, 45, 46. You need to find out for yourself!!! The best thing in life is to be switched on and tuned in to Christ.

2.      BECAUSE YOU NEED TO BE YOUR SINFUL NATURE, PRACTISE AND GUILTY STATE

The Bible makes the truthful point about the state of every human being irrespective of race, colour, sex etc., that ‘all have sinned and all are sinners’ Romans 3: 23. None can squirm or worm their way out of this evident truth and fact. It must be effectively dealt with and it is Jesus Christ who came to deal with this issue.

The Christian message provides the perfect and absolute answer in Christ’s death and resurrection. Through being our substitute in death He has made it possible for all men to be forgiven and cleansed from their sin. It says in Romans 5: 8 ‘God commendeth His love towards us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us’, and 2 Corinthians 5: 21 that ‘He hath made Christ to be sin for us who knew no sin’. Christ became our sin offering and sacrificed Himself for us to free us from the guilt and penalty of sin.

BUT He rose again from the dead to prove what He did on the Cross was real and true and then to offer to come and live in all who will receive Him thus providing the power to live over the domination of sin. Christ makes sinners into saints by His personal indwelling of life.

3.      BECAUSE A NEW LIFE AND LIFESTYLE IS OBTAINED THROUGH JESUS CHRIST

He affords the opportunity to possess a dynamic life that enables a person to live in a brand new fashion that is much better and more productive. He comes to bring a fresh inspiration to existence and makes it more meaningful, profitable and pleasurable. Heed His promise: ‘I am come that they might have life, and have it more abundantly’ – John 10: 10. Someone once said: Life with a capital L. he introduces spiritual values that  bless and heighten the natural.

4.      BECAUSE THE GIFTS AND POTENTIAL OF A PERSON CAN ONLY BE PURELY RELEASED AND MAXIMISED THROUGH HIM

He takes hold of very ordinary and common people and shows how he can employ and exploit them in finest ways to their highest good. Average and nominal folk are willingly and successfully impacted and used and affect history in a great manner – e.g. A fisherman by the name of Peter, a cobbler by the name of William carey and Smith Wigglesworth a Yorkshire plumber etc.

5.      BECAUSE HE IS THE ONE THAT PROMISES A GLORIOUS ULTIMATE DESTINY

The prospects that Christ offers to all who are His genuine believers and followers are incredible – yes, out of this world. Not only does He commit and care for each one now, He is planning an eternal future that no one can afford to miss out on.  He is planning a glorious return to earth to resurrect and rapture the dead and the living Christians and take them to His residence in heaven – see John 14: 1-3; 1 Corinthians 15; 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18.

Paul states things quite excitedly in 1 Corinthians 2; 9, 10 – ‘Eye has not seen , nor ear  heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things that God hath prepared for those who love Him’.

CONCLUSION

The great challenge that comes through Christ and all He has accomplished: one cannot afford not to be a Christian. You need to choose  Christ today.

Rev. E. Anderson

MISSING THE MARK

Reading     Hebrews 3

Text             Hebrews 4:1

Introduction

EVER PRESENT DANGER: One of the obvious things that should come through within the realm of our Christian life and experience in observing what has taken place in other lives of previous generations, it is that of stopping short of achieving that which is virtually within one’s grasp Many have come within the bounds of accomplishing wonderful things in relation to both their lives and service but in the end fell short and missed out on fulfillment. It has to be said that it is an ever-current danger and has to be watched. An opportunity may only present itself once in a lifetime and the possibility of stopping short just at that moment is there. One has to be alert and sensitive to this issue because one can miss out on choice things and experiences.

To stop short can bring an untold sense of disappointment. It can introduce a long period of discouragement. It can start a roller-coaster in terms of failure and defeat and keep the spiritual morale in a low condition. The devil establishes a seeming ad­vantage and seeks to press home the situation further. It is imperative that there is a seizing hold of every God-given situation so that we make a success of our lives for God.

NEEDFUL REVELATION/DETERMINATION: Two things are essential if there is to be no stopping short: First a clear revelation from God of what is happening and what is expected of us. Divine vision and a proper knowledge of the vision in its interpretation and application must come through. Paul could affirm that he was not ‘disobedient to the heavenly vision’. This must have meant that he was absolutely sure of the route God was tak­ing him on and what was to be accomplished through his life. There is the indication from on high that he would not be left in the dark in this connection - Acts 9:15, 16. What was then necessary for realization was courage and determination and this was not missing from him - Acts 20:22-24. The important thing for him to effect was the will of Christ.

The keynote of Christ’s life and service was ‘fulfillment’. He had no intention of stopping short until He could cry: “It is finished” - John 19: 30. There must have been moments when he could have pulled off and out, but He didn’t.

It is noteworthy to view the things in which people did stop short so that if we are faced with similar situations and experiences we may take the positive action and go through.

   1/.  STOPPING SHORT IN TRUE DEVELOPMENT

Whilst Adam was created physically perfect, without spot, blemish or wrinkle, he needed to be fully developed as a person in terms of character. He certainly would be called upon to exert his physical powers, mentally, emotionally and volitionally in the environment and relationship that was his, but there was also to be the need to evidence his spiritual and moral powers. There was a sense in that he was not per­fect, areas that needed to mature, be conditioned in and brought to a state of com­pletion.

The initial test placed upon him in the Garden of Eden was but starters. This couple was required to move forward into achievement and success through their God-given powers and abilities. There would be progressive stages to be negotiated, and as they were fulfilled, they would be fulfilled in themselves, and yet move on to much greater relationship with God and attainment in and with God The condition placed upon them by God must not be regarded as an impediment, a stumbling stone, but a stepping stone to higher things.

In their act of disobedience it would seem they lost sight of the divine and heavenly vision that God had for them. Because they failed at this they missed out on the fuller development that would have benefited themselves and future offspring The family to be born missed out because the parents did not interpret and act aright in this matter. The golden opportunity of putting the human race on the right track was lost – Gen. 3.

   2/. STOPPING SHORT IN RICH POSSESSION

It seems incredible that Israel could experience so much at the hands of God by way of providence and blessing and miss it at an important juncture. What miraculous things they had witnessed through the leadership of Moses! They had been serfs un­der the Egyptians and had a very rough time. Life and work had been far from easy. Deliverance had come in a unique way and they had been enriched by their masters before the Exodus. The journey to the Promised Land had been signally marked by the guidance, protection and provision of God - see Exodus and Numbers. There had been no failure on the part of Jehovah.

They are then confronted with the challenge of entering into the land that had been vouchsafed to their fathers by God – Gen. 15: 13-16; 50: 24, 25. The revelation had been given in prophecy and now they stand on the brink of the fulfillment of that pro­phecy. The God that had given the word to their fathers was with them and had proved His fidelity and ability. It was an opportune time to honour Him and their fathers.

The spies are sent out into the land – Num. 13 and they came back with a good re­port concerning the land w26, 27. All that had been said of the land was true and it was worthy of possession. But regrettably, as history reveals, they failed to go in and stopped short. The record has it that they missed out on a choice time to inher­it their rights in God. They are not the only ones to have reached this point and stopped short. Many have finished up languishing in the wilderness when they could have enjoyed Beulah land. Many stop short of Pentecostal blessing in all of its fullness because of similar mind attitude.

   3/.  STOPPING SHORT IN THE MATTER OP VICTORY

It is utterly essential to know the continuous experience of victory. In no way does God desire His people to be subject to defeat either in spirit or actual circumstance. He does not simply want victory but resounding victories and conquests. The trail has to be one of supreme and overwhelming triumph. There are to be no half-measures in this. The enemy has to be completely routed and removed.

Illustration:      David did not leave Goliath stoned and stunned.

This is advanced to us in and through the prophet Elisha on his death bed - c.f. 2 Kings 13: 14-19. A great opportunity is presented to the king, Jehoash, to enter into and know the devastating of the forces of Israel. The Syrians would be making every effort to bring subjugation and destruction to his people and the advantage would be in his hands to deal drastically with them. The word came as to what should be done against this formidable foe – 2 Kings 6: 8 . Even though Elisha was in a dying condition he was in fighting spirit. An order is given by the prophet to the king vi 8 “Strike the ground” but the prophet was displeased at his apathetic response vi 9. He would live to re­gret it!

   4/.  STOPPING SHORT IN MINISTRY

One would never have thought that some of the Bible greats would have stopped short in their tracks with regard to ministry.  Even in the best there is weakness at times. There can be the unwillingness to go through and complete the ultimate will of God.

This is seen in the case of Elijah - 1 Kings 18 16 He was called upon to anoint Hazael as king over Syria and Jehu king over Israel. We do not read that he fulfilled this commission.

“Elijah would have been shattered, staggered even, to hear this part of God’s great Idea. This was unbelievable. Perhaps he had at last been driven over the abyss of madness. Why had he fled in terror In the first place? Because he was scared of Ahab and Jezebel And now listen to God’s instruction: ”Anoint another king !” Nothing could be more guaranteed to ignite the raging demonic anger of Jezebel to inferno pitch. To anoint Jehu would be to sign his own death warrant – or so it seemed to Elijah.”                                                             J. Lucas

It is possible that the following thirteen years of the reigns could have been thwarted by the immediate work of these two anointed ones. Elisha is the one that rises to do this task.

This is seen in the case of Peter. Did he stop short in his calling and ministry having ministered blessing to the Gentiles in the home of Cornelius - Acts 10. Did God want to use him in a fuller way in seeking to break down his racial pride and bias but Peter did not fully rise to it? There may well have been some pulling back and an unwillingness to go further. There was the start but was there the will to go further on into a much greater field of ministry?

   5/.  STOPPING SHORT IN PRAYER

Most would agree concerning the importance of prayer as to its power and its re­sults. Untold and unbelievable things have taken place because there has been an engaging in this vital ministry. Christ taught that it was imperative for men to pray - Luke 18:1. He prayed and encouraged others to do so.

In relation to it He said that it was essential to persist in it - ‘not to faint’. In other words, ‘never to despair and give up’. Because the answer does not come immediate­ly one must not think of stopping. Whilst one must not be merely repetitive in the matter of words with regard to prayer, ( i.e. vain repetitions Matt 6: 7), nevertheless, there must be the will to continue to ask until the answer is forthcoming. He taught, “Ask and keep on asking..” - Matt 7: 7.

There is the need for sheer persistence here. It is illustrated by Christ’s teaching re-­the widow asking the unjust judge for justice - Luke 18: 2-8; and the person asking for bread at midnight - Luke 11: 58. No one should call a halt until there is the answer. Elijah is given as an example as the man who prayed for rain - James 5. How many prayers have been nigh an answer but at the last minute there has been a calling off!

   6/.  STOPPING SHORT IN DELIVERANCE

It is possible to be so close to deliverance and healing and fail to experience at the last because of stopping short. It can be near at hand and yet go far away by rea­son of the lack of pressing through at the ultimate point and moment. If there was one person who had every reason to cry off because of circumstances it was the woman with the issue of blood - Matthew 9: 20-22. Everything was evidently against her in receiving her desire that day. The crowd and her physical condition were forbidd­ing factors but she refused to stop short.

Naaman nearly missed it in his day - 2 Kings 5. Pride virtually prevented him breaking through and getting what he desperately required. He had met the prophet, he had gotten a message for the removal of the curse of leprosy, but he nearly went back the same as he came. But good counsel and humble pie did the job!

CONCLUSION

What are you on the threshold of obtaining and achieving? you stand on the brink of seeing something divine and wonder­ful taking place but the spirit is low and the faith seemingly weak.

It is not the time to surrender to temptation, unbelief, fear, indifference, circumstances etc.

You are about to know the end result in and through God as you adhere to God’s purpose and strength.

Rev. E. Anderson                                                Source of the Nile - Uganda

This is but a sermon starter to get you thinking and studying in relation to the text and theme.  Trust it will be provocative and promotive. 

CONTAGIOUS CHRISTIANITY

Reading     Genesis 12

Text           vv

Introduction

RELEVANT QUESTIONS:  What are you carrying around that is transmittable to others of a holy and positive nature? What are other people catching from you of a contagious nature that is wholesome and good, in your family, Christian fellowship and world at large? Christians are to be divine carriers, bearing forth factors of a transmittable and infectious character that will make a tremendous difference to others.

POWERFUL INFLUENCE: There is no doubt that Christ was the greatest person that ever lived and wielded a spiritual, supernatural and powerful influence wherever He went and whoever He met and ministered to. The Gospel records leave a lasting testimony to Him with respect to His dynamic presence and power, countless people feeling and knowing the impact of His life and ministry. Wherever He went and to whoever He came across, all knew in a real sense the vibrant and forceful quality of His person and power. People were never the same as a consequence of His major input into their lives and situations. See the contagious impact upon Saul who became the apostle Paul – Acts 9.

DIVINE POSSESSION AND EXPRESSION: Paul makes the statement that God’s purpose in and through Christ was that the whole of Christendom that it should be ‘filled with all the fullness of God’ – Ephesians 3: 19. Jesus Christ has come not only to bring forgiveness of sins but to implant and initiate His life and nature within every Christian believer. They are born anew from above to live the heavenly kind of life inspired by divine love. But then there has to be the powerful indwelling of the life of God in every Christian so that they are spiritually influential wherever they are. Each, henceforth, are to carry around divine inspiration and factors that are of a heavenly and contagious nature so that others are invaded and impacted.

BIBLICAL EXAMPLES: One only has to turn to the Bible to discover people who were invaded by God in a definite manner and as a consequence were blessed and became divine carriers of and for Him in some distinct way. It is still possible to catch some of their holy contagion and pass such on to the benefit of countless others.

1.      A DIVINE CARRIER OF RICH PROMISES AND BLESSING

One of the first people to be a bearer of something significant and worth catching and possessing was Abraham. He was one of the earliest to experience and enjoy something of immense value that could be safely and abundantly passed on to the benefit of all.

·          He was to be the recipient of choice promises that would profit him and also inspire and encourage others in an outstanding manner – Genesis 12: 2, 3. The eternal God was to confront him and impart to him some outstanding guarantee that would dramatically change his life and career. From the moment God spoke he was to be the recipient and possessor of a legacy of promise and his life had to be built on them.

·          He was to know that, in the main, the promises focussed on divine blessing – Genesis 12: 2, 3; 13: 14-1; 15; 17. This ancient patriarch was to discover that God was committed to his future progress, increase and blessedness in a phenomenal manner. God had great plans and destiny for him to fulfil of a worthwhile character and as he simply believed and obeyed he would become renowned as a person whom the Lord had blessed..

2.      A DIVINE CARRIER OF INCREDIBLE FRUITFULNESS

It is in the mind of God that those who live in connection and communion with Him should be as fruitful trees. This is the image and revelation that God seeks to sow and establish in those who would enter into accord with Him – see Psalm 1. A tree is very contagious factor: it has the capacity to produce fruit and more fruitful trees.

·          The young man Joseph was destined to be a fruit bearer of immense significance. His father prophesied into his life and stated what this beloved son had become – ‘Joseph is a fruitful bough, even a fruitful bough by a well; whose branches run over the wall’ – Genesis 49: 22. It seems that his life and ministry could not be contained and that there was something contagious about his character and ministry that was rather contagious.

·          Christ taught that the object of being a believer in Him and being spiritually united to Him would create this experience of immense fruitfulness – John 15: 1- 16. One cannot be linked and associated with Him and be sterile and barren. The indwelling of himself, and His life flow, is sure to bring about a gradual state of fruitfulness. Illustration:  Consider the life and ministry of Barnabas – Acts 4: 36; 9: 27; 11: 20-30; 13: 1-4 etc.

3.      A DIVINE CARRIER OF GREAT WORKS OF SALVATION

It is a worthy thing to be the means of bringing salvation to others in ways that are quite astonishing. You can be the channel or conduit through whom the power of God is declared and demonstrated to countless others.

·          God was to lay His hand upon a man by Moses, show him salvation and the deliverance that was to be birthed and released through him – Exodus 3.  The moment had providentially arrived in his life where he was to become a deliverer and saviour to his people and God was ready to evidence His power at the burning bush thus proving His capacity to exercise on a bigger front.

·          God was to lay His hand upon a teenager, the other end of the spectrum, and manifest salvation again in unusual circumstances – 1 Samuel 17. As the young man moved into Israel’s camp God had got rather a big job for him to do and he was up for it.

·          God sent Jesus, Jehovah in Salvation, into the world to fill the whole world with the holy contagion of divine salvation – Matthew 1; 21. His name stands for salvation and as it is truly believed in and used aright brings salvation. There is something divinely infectious about this sacred Name and when employed as the Lord desires and requires is able to introduce works of salvation. As His Name is used in prayer and ministry glorious works of salvation take place – John 14: 13; Acts 3: 6; 16; 16: 18. When the believer becomes divinely inspired and infected with His Name the spread of its presence and influence can be quite extraordinary.

4.      A DIVINE CARRIER OF THE PROPHETIC IN-WORD

One of the means that God has ordained and chooses to use is that of the prophetic word. He, in His design and purposes both within the Old and New Covenant, desires to employ the use of prophetic messengers who can inspiringly on His behalf prophesy into the lives of people that require His mind and will.

·          Samuel was called upon very early in life to be a carrier and bearer of the prophetic word – 1 Samuel 3: 10-21. His age was not a preventative to God’s call on his life to function in such an important ministry. God’s elect household were in desperate need for God’s in word into its life and direction and so God took hold of this individual to commence a vital ministry and service.

·          Elijah was a carrier and conduit of the prophetic word and no was in any doubt that he was in direct communion and communication with God – 1 Kings 17-18. Northern Israel had a dynamic witness from God through this man as he exercised his prophetic ministry.

·          There was the manifestation of the prophetic in the early Church and the spiritual gifts include the use of prophecy – Acts 9: 17. God spoke to an Ananias to tell him about Saul’s conversion and to go and minister to him. There are other instances in this book that reveal how prevalent this ministry was and people became carriers of messages of prophetic importance. See Paul in Acts 27: 21-25.

5.      A DIVINE CARRIER OF HEALING LIFE AND MIRACLES

Beyond any doubt, the Bible is itself a miraculous Book and contagious in this matter. It presents the fact of the supernatural and miraculous and seeks to advance the same.

·          Jesus Christ in the course of His ministry career was the bearer of such and sought to make His disciples contagious with the miraculous. John the apostle makes an amazing concluding statement with regard to what He actually wrought in this ministry. He says: ‘And there also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written’ – John 21: 25. Christ made the affirmation that ‘greater works than these shall you do because I go to my Father’ – John 14: 12. He gave His Church the divine commission to move into and to expect the outworking of the supernatural, marvellous and miraculous – Mark 16: 15-20.

·          The Christian Church moved into and expected the miraculous to take place. They were filled and possessed with a heavenly contagion in relation to it – Acts 3: 1-16. They exercised the divine right and power to raise a crippled man and expected much more to follow as their praying indicates – Acts 4: 30. God’s power was so present in Peter and contagious that even his passing shadow wrought amazing things – Acts 5: 15, 16. God has been pleased throughout the Church’s history to perform miracles and bring about outstanding cases of healing – Smith Wigglesworth, George and Stephen Jeffreys, Kathryn Kuhlman

      CONCLUSION

·          There is challenge for every Christian believer and minister to face and deal with. What is actually being carried and communicated of a divine dynamic and nature within the Church and to the outside world? Honest, humble and earnest inquiry must be made personally and collectively.

·          There must be a seeking of God until there is the possession of those things that are going to make an essential and excellent difference to ourselves and others. There is to be no giving up until we have received from God that which will bring these things into manifestation and ministration. God still loves to take hold of ordinary people, sanctify, fill and use them to manifest His grace and glory

Rev. E. Anderson

This is but a sermon starter to get you thinking and studying in relation to the text and theme.  Trust it will be provocative and promotive. 

WRONG THINKING

Reading    Genesis 20

Text         v11

Introduction

Even the best of men make some very bad mistakes. The choicest are vulnerable and fall to assuming doing wrong things. Abraham, although rich with divine promises and encompassed with many blessings and does the wrong thing. Excuse may be proffered but it does not eliminate the fact that wrong was committed.

1.  WRONG THINKING STEMMED FROM MERE OUTWARD CONSIDERATION

      He permitted and allowed appearances to govern his thinking. What he saw and beheld from mere observance gave him a judgment that the fear of god was not in the place and so fear arose in his heart that he would be slain. This is not Abraham in perfect trust. The natural appears to dictating rather than the spiritual. He would have found it better to have looked to God and rejected his own assumptions, for that is what they were, assumptions.

2/.  WRONG THINKING WAS PREVARICATION OF THE TRUTH

   Whether Abraham realised or appreciated or not this fact, the fear of God was in the place. God was in some way known and valued to Abimelech, maybe not to the extent of Abraham, but there was a righteousness about his ways and he certainly had no intention of doing evil. He considered this when God revealed to him the sin that would have been enacted. Abraham shows that he is way out in his perception and assessment and perverts the truth of what really existed. Really he was to blame for issue because he failed to speak the truth. Our minds capable of the grossest error of judgment at times so the need always to know help of God.

3/. WRONG THINKING LEADS TO WRONG DOING THAT CAN END IN EMBARRASMENT

         It is a sorry thing that this patriarch has to be reproved somewhat. No doubt he must have made o think again of this kind of procedure. It had exposed him to a great number of people. God helped him out even here  and saved him from acute shame. Prayed for Abimelech and his household.

Rev. E. Anderson

This is but a sermon starter taken from the late Charles Hadden Spurgeon’s notes. It should get you thinking and studying in relation to the text and theme. Trust it will be provocative and promotive. 

A LIFE-GIVING MINISTRY

Proverbs 25: 23 ‘As cold waters to a thirsty soul. So is good news from a far country’.

It is only on hot summer days that we can appreciate the illustration here employed for we dwell in a well-watered country where thirst is readily assuaged.  Yet we can imagine ourselves in the condition of Hagar, Ishmael, and Samson; or of a caravan in the desert or of poor sailors in a boat upon the salt sea dying for a draught of water.

When separated from friends by their journeying, or by our own, or when we have a trading interest in foreign ports, or a holy concern in missions, good news from a far country is eminently refreshing.

We shall use the text in three ways:

           1/. GOOD NEWS FOR SINNERS FROM GOD.

Sin put men into a far country, but here is the good news,

       1. God remembers you with pity

       2. He has made a way for your return.

       3. He has sent a messenger to invite you home.

       4. Many have already returned, and are now rejoicing.

       5. He has provided all means for bringing you home.

       6. You may return at once.  “All things are ready.

If this good news be received it will be exceedingly refreshing to thirsty souls.  To others it will be commonplace.

             2/. GOOD NEWS FOR SAINTS FROM HEAVEN.

       1.  News does come from heaven:  By the Spirit’s application of the Word, and by the sweet whispers of Jesus’ love.

       2.  To keep up this intercourse is most refreshing, and it is very possible; for Jesus delights to commune with us, the Father himself loveth us, and the Holy Spirit abideth with us for ever.

       3.  If for a while suspended, the renewal is sweeter than ever, even as cold water is doubly refreshing to a specially thirsty soul.

       4.  The news itself may thus be summarized: The  Father on the throne of Providence works all things for your good. Lord Jesus is interceding, preparing a place for you, and representing you before God.

            He will shortly come in his glory.

            Many like yourself are with him in the Father’s house above.

           You are wanted there: they cannot be a perfect family till you are brought home.

Rev. E. Anderson

This is but a sermon starter to get you thinking and studying in relation to the text and theme.  Trust it will be provocative and promotive. 

THE AWESOMENESS OF GOD

Reading    Revelation 1

Text         v17

Introduction

MISUNDERSTOOD FACTOR: Many Christian people and leaders use the word ‘awesome’ in relation to God and some spiritual experiences that when truly looked at and fully considered really have no deep connection. It is a word banded about by Christians at times when something has occurred that appears to be quite wonderful and makes a big impact to a large extent to the life, yet it falls short of the truth and reality of awesomeness. REQUIRED APPRECIATION: There is a great need to discern and properly differentiate so that there is a perfect apprehension and knowledge so that there is no wrong expression used. Of course it is vital as a divine evaluation of God and that His awesome does break through and make impact so that life is greatly affected. BIBLICAL REVELATION: The Bible is the perfect handbook and aids in a right assessment so that we are not deceived on this front. Meditation on God in a genuine fashion should create this important factor.

Definition: “It is being overwhelmed by some divine manifestation of God that possesses the elements of grandeur, glory and majesty that humbles and subdues the spirit in a state of holy reverence and adoration.  What is in the content of the word/experience? Wonder, grandeur, magnificence, splendour, majesty, reverence, awe, admiration, adoration, amazement and all are certainly to be seen and known in a great revelation of God.

It is possible to gather and gain this awesome sense by a deep reflective meditation on God in many ways. It is certainly a factor that ought to feature in those who profess to have an experience of and relationship with God. This is gathered from the manifestations of God as made known in the Scriptures as was experience by people who knew tremendous experiences of God.

(1)     AWESOMENESS OF HIS PERSON AND BEING

God makes it very clear that He is the Only, True and Living God and there are no other gods. Men may set up other deities but they are not and never will be God. God gave Isaiah a dynamic unveiling of Himself and made this point – see Isaiah 44: 8; 40: 18-31 There is no likelihood of a competitor succeeding in replacing Him. Satan tried and failed – see Ezekiel. All who have any genuine revelation of Him have been awestruck by Him in His glory and have had to prostrate themselves before Him – see Ezekiel 1: 1, 28; Revelation 1: 17.

(2)     AWESOMENESS OF HIS EXISTENCE

This is a unique title ascribed to God and indicates His eternity, the Ancient of Days – Daniel 7: 9, 13, 22. To ponder on this feature gives a sense of extreme wonder. The One who has created all things is the uncreated Being and has been existent eternally and so can be called The Eternal One. He who is the originator of all ages and days is without age or days.

(3)     AWESOMENESS OF HIS TITLES

He has numerous titles that bespeak the wealth and majesty of God. They are intended to convey His infinite worth and create a sense of awe and reverence in those who He has created. To Moses and Israel He communicated His Name ‘Jehovah’ = ‘LORD’ and they treated this name with immense respect. It is a Name that implies His eternity and sovereignty. Within it are the three tenses, past, present and fiuture and present Him as the Ever Living LORD.

(4)     THE AWESOMENESS OF HIS ATTRIBUTES

         In considering the qualities of nature one sees He is the possessor of every noble property of being that makes and marks Him out as unique and distinct above all others. He has and never will have an equal. In considering His love, mercy, truth, righteousness, goodness, faithfulness, etc., He possesses them in infinite, perfect and absolute degree. He is the Holy God who will never be in accord with sin or unrighteousness and a sight and sense of Holiness produces an overwhelming dread – see Isaiah 6, and Moses and Joshua were made to know they stood on holy ground – Exodus 3: 5; Joshua 5: 15.

(5)     THE AWESOMENESS OF HIS DOINGS AND WORKS

      In deeply meditating on His tremendous deeds of power as revealed in Genesis 1, His miracles on behalf of Israel – Exodus 7-14, and the stupendous supernatural works as manifest in and by Christ – John’s Gospel. One is simply staggered and filled with astonishment and reverence – see Exodus 15: 11. The disciples were awestruck as they witness Christ’s mastery of wind and wave – Mark 4: 35-41.

(6)     THE AWESOMENESS OF HIS WORD

God only has to speak and His very word is creative, generative and productive. In Hebrews 11: 2 we are told that ‘the worlds were framed by the word of God’, and Genesis 1 makes this obvious. The Roman centurion was in awe of Christ’s word and knew He only had to give an authoritative command and his request would be answered – Matthew 8: 8. Peter was somewhat amazed at the fig tree that had wither under the direct word of Christ – Mark 11: 21. One lives in awe of the One who only has to speak and such is performed!

(7)     THE AWESOMENESS OF HIS CREATURES

In bringing beings of an heavenly and earthly nature into being, The awesomeness of God is to be witnessed in both angels and men. The psalmist makes the point with regard to his creation when he stated: ‘I will praise you; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are your works; and that my soul knoweth well’ – Psalm 139: 14.  God did not make anything mean but wonderful to express His awe.

CONCLUSION

This awesomeness of God, as it is encountered, impacts the being and life to such an divine extent that everything is touched, moved and affected.

• The character is immediately and continually changed and transformed as a result.

Illustrated:  Reflected in Daniel’s life throughout

• The faith factor is increased and heightened as a consequence.

Illustrated:  Burning bush experience – Exodus 3

• The service to God has more spiritual worth and significance attached to it.

Illustrated:  Saul after meeting the resurrected Christ – Acts 9

Rev. E. Anderson

This is but a sermon starter to get you thinking and studying in relation to the text and theme.  It is taken from Paul’s letter to the Philippians. Trust it will be provocative and promotive. 

CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP

Reading    Philippians 1

Text         v5

Introduction

Paul thanked God for Christian fellowship -3, and so should we. Christian fellowship is the greatest, sweetest and most enduring of all relationships and accord. It started by Christ and finds its realisation, growth and continuation in and through Him. This chapter reveals some things wherein it finds great and meaningful expression.

1. THE FELLOWSHIP OF PRAYER

Paul was found to be praying for them and making request on their behalf –v9, and they at Philippi were found praying for him in the midst of his prison circumstances – v19. Prayer, let it be understood, has a binding effect upon the fellowship. It brings and strengthens minds, hearts and spirits in mutual Christian love and accord before the throne of God our Father.

1. THE FELLOWSHIP OF PURPOSE

Paul was confident of the ultimate outworking of the grace of God in their lives. He desired that they would come to the full and highest intention – v6, and they desired that the divine will should be wrought out in him. He shows that he was ready for anything – v20. Unity in purpose in the will of God strengthens the ties of fellowship.

1. THE FELLOWSHIP OF PROCLAMATION

Paul was bearing forth an effectual witness in the prison cell al though there were adversaries – v12, and other fellows in The Gospel were encouraged – v14, and the saints at Philippi were also being inspired to bear forth the testimony –vv27, 28. It is a fellowship in the Gospel –v5 to make known the Gospel of Christ.

1. THE FELLOWSHIP OF PERSUASION

Paul was assured of the Christian faith – there was a fellowship of Christian persuasion and assurance. he desired to see that furtherance of that faith in them – vv25, 27 and no doubt it was mutual.

1. THE FELLOWSHIP OF PERSECUTION

Paul clarifies the position with regard to persecutions and suffering – vv28-30. The ties of affection are especially strong as they are strengthened together in times of trial.

CONCLUSION

Every Christian should learn to appreciate the Christian fellowship and make sure that they make a valid and valuable contribution to it continually.

Rev. E. Anderson

This is but a sermon starter to get you thinking and studying in relation to the text and theme. Trust it will be provocative and promotive. 

GOD’S WORKMAN

Reading    Exodus 31

Text         vv1-5

Introduction

The Lord gave the commandment to construct the Tabernacle. It was under divine orders that Moses received directions to building such a dwelling place for God that would house His unique presence. He was also given the master-plan of the Tabernacle straight from heaven. The things concerning the Tabernacle were to symbolise heavenly truths and realities. Beside this, God directed as to who should be involved in this sacred work. He knew that this intricate work could be done and had His workman and craftsman for the task. Amongst them was Bezaleel.

1.      HE WAS AN  APPOINTED WORKMAN – v1

The Living Bible says, ‘See I have appointed Bezaleel’. So the call and preparation of God was already upon him. His destined vocation was to carry out this important material yet spiritual task. God saw to it that He had a man suitably fitted for the demanding role of artificer and so directed Moses to appoint him to place of responsibility. It is always good to recognise that God does the selecting and ordaining for His enterprise.

2.      HE WAS AN ANOINTED WORKMAN – v3

When God appoints, He anoints. In other words, He puts His Spirit upon them in such a manner that they are fully equipped to a perfect and satisfactory work that can meet His approval. Without the anointing Bezaleel would have been utterly inadequate but God does not desire that His workman should be placed in this kind of situation. He places at the disposal of all His appointed servants the wherewithal in grace and gift to achieve the best. The Holy Spirit is an absolute necessity in God’s work if it is to be accomplished aright.

3.      HE WAS AN ACCREDITED WORKMAN – vv4,5

Bezaleel is so blessed and used that he is able to tackle the most meticulous and minutest detail in all the intricate furnishings. He seems to be able to do anything and is more than meet to cope with all the artistic design of this divine dwelling, God’s servant is so inspired and possessed with abilities that the job can be done well to perfection.  No less is true with regard to the construction of the Church of Christ.

CONCLUSION

It is Jesus Christ, the Head of the Christian Church who appoints, anoints and accredits all of His servant-workman.

All are to regard it is as a glorious privilege to employed by such a Master and be used in such a masterpiece!

Rev. E. Anderson

This is but a sermon starter to get you thinking and studying in relation to the text and theme. Trust it will be provocative and promotive. 

DIVINE GUIDANCE

Reading    Genesis 24

Text         v27

Introduction

Abraham knew what it was to experience divine guidance in his life. It is great to see his trusted servant, Eliezer, coming into a conscious and definite realisation of a similar experience. He had evidently beheld and taken note of the blessing of God upon his master in relation to this – v25, but now he was to know and prove personally the joy of divine guidance.

1.      HE KNEW DIVINE GUIDANCE BECAUSE HE WAS READY TO CARRY OUT THE INSTRUCTIONS OF HIS MASTER –vv9, 10

He was a faithful servant and was quick to obey his master’s wishes and directions. It was in the process and carrying out of duty and responsibility that God broke in with necessary guidance. Because he was about his task and commitment that he received heavenly help. He was not afraid to embark by faith upon this journey at Abraham’s command and confidence. At least his master was confident of fulfilment. And so obedience to order and involvement in the thing concerned was important to supervision and divine assistance.

2.      HE KNEW DIVINE GUIDANCE BECAUSE HE WAS READY TO PRAY AT THE CRUCIAL MOMENT – v12-14

How was he to discover the right young lady and family? He looked to be in some sort of dilemma but he resorted to a vital ministry. It was not an audible prayer of the lips but from the heart – v45, and what a request to make of