Sermons

The Bible: Society’s Missing Measurement of Truth

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In construction and carpentry, no one guesses at what “level” means—tools like a level or a tape measure give a fixed standard. Without that standard, every cut, every line, and every joint drifts off course. The same is true for society. When the Bible is removed from schools, governments, and even churches, we lose our fixed point of reference. Truth becomes whatever voice shouts the loudest or makes the most persuasive argument. Scripture shows that God Himself is the standard of truth, and His Word is the reliable “measure” by which all things must be tested.

Let’s not let this become a “preaching to the choir” article. When we look at what society has become, this one truth (the original truth) is the compass, the ruler, the level, the flashlight, the map and any other analogy you can think of that helps us measure what is truth and what is not.  

God Is Truth

Truth does not begin with people; it originates in God’s very nature. Scripture declares, “He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4, KJV). The psalmist affirms this: “Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth” (Psalm 31:5, KJV). Isaiah echoes it, saying, “He who blesseth himself in the earth shall bless himself in the God of truth” (Isaiah 65:16, KJV). Jeremiah likewise proclaims, “But the LORD is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting king” (Jeremiah 10:10, KJV).

When society denies God’s truth, it elevates human opinion to the throne. Like a crooked ruler on a builder’s bench, everything measured by it will be off. Only by returning to God as the ultimate source of truth can any person, church, or culture stand straight and sure.

God’s Word Is Truth

If God Himself is truth, then His Word carries the same quality. Jesus prayed to the Father, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” (John 17:17, KJV). “Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth” (Psalm 119:142, KJV). “Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever” (Psalm 119:160, KJV). Proverbs reinforces this: “Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him” (Proverbs 30:5, KJV). Jesus Himself said, “If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32, KJV).

A tape measure is valuable because every inch is fixed and unaltered. In the same way, Scripture gives a fixed standard for morality, justice, and purpose. Remove the Bible from public life and, like a builder discarding his tape, you guarantee chaos and inconsistency in every decision. This is why, whenever society declares a new “truth,” the first question we should ask is, “What does God say about it?”—not “What does a professor, movement, or social trend say?” Abortion, homosexuality, drinking alcohol, and countless other practices are often promoted as “the normal progress of civilization,” but when measured against God’s Word, their true moral character becomes clear. Returning to this question—“What does God say?”—would eliminate much of the hate and confusion that swirl around these debates, because we would all be measuring from the same divine standard.

Jesus, as God, Is Truth

Truth is not only a principle but a Person. Jesus Christ declared, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6, KJV). John tells us, “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us… full of grace and truth” (John 1:14, KJV). “For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ” (John 1:17, KJV). Before Pilate He said, “To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth” (John 18:37, KJV). And the risen Christ is described as “he that is holy, he that is true” (Revelation 3:7, KJV).

When society tries to replace Christ with trends, celebrities, or political power, it’s like replacing a level with a rough plank—there is no guarantee of straightness. Jesus alone provides the unbending line against which our lives and cultures must align.

None of These Can Lie

Scripture underscores that God’s truthfulness is absolute. “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent” (Numbers 23:19, KJV). “By two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie” (Hebrews 6:18, KJV). “And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent” (1 Samuel 15:29, KJV). Paul adds, “Yea, let God be true, but every man a liar” (Romans 3:4, KJV). John writes, “And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true” (1 John 5:20, KJV). This divine inability to lie is our assurance that the standard never moves.

Contrast this with a world where the “truth” is redefined with every election, every trending hashtag, or every new ideology. Without God and His Word, society ends up like a house built without a square—crooked, unstable, and destined to fail.

Measuring Our Lives by God’s Standard

A level or tape measure is only useful if you actually use it. Knowing about it but ignoring it still leads to a crooked wall. In the same way, we must not only acknowledge that the Bible is true but actively measure our lives, policies, and decisions against it. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Psalm 119:105, KJV).

When schools teach ethics without Scripture, when governments legislate without divine principles, and when churches preach self-help instead of God’s Word, the “measurement” of truth disappears. We end up ruled by whoever is most persuasive, loudest, or powerful—not by what is actually right.

The call today is to return to the fixed standard: God Himself, His Word, and His Son. Just as a builder stops to check the level before driving the next nail, individuals and societies must stop to check their direction by the Bible. Without it, every plan will be off, no matter how sincerely we work.

The Footnote of Context

For many years, society has sought shortcuts to enlightenment. People pull Bible verses out of context to support an argument or justify their position. When the King James Bible doesn’t fit the narrative, they change the Bible. Sadly, Christians can be no different—using Scripture out of context to defend worldly habits they’re unwilling to surrender, such as drinking alcohol.

Fast forward to today’s culture. Social media reduces information to soundbites and talking points. We form opinions from 30-second clips or single-line statements rather than understanding the full scope of an issue. To make matters worse, we rely on “news” outlets that refine these out-of-context snippets into a narrative.

When we do this, we set ourselves up as our own gods. Pastor James Coffman once said, “Every lie must contain an element of the truth to be believed.” News reports, YouTube, and social media are full of fragments of truth that are repurposed into stories. Then we ban or bury the real truth behind the narrative.

If we are to regain moral authority, we must listen to the entirety of a matter and use the Bible as our final authority — our filter through which all matters should be judged.

Romans 1:20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.

24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:

25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.

Conclusion

God is truth. God’s Word is truth. Jesus Christ, as God, is truth. None of these can lie. Together, they form the one reliable “measurement” for life and society. A tape measure doesn’t bend to our feelings, and neither does truth. If we desire a straight, strong, and lasting foundation for our homes, our laws, our education, and our churches, we must again pick up the divine “level”—the Bible—and align everything to it.

Only then will society stop drifting under the sway of the loudest voice and return to the unshakable standard of the One who cannot lie.

Supporting Verses:

Psalm 31:5
“Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.”

Isaiah 65:16
“That he who blesseth himself in the earth shall bless himself in the God of truth; and he that sweareth in the earth shall swear by the God of truth; because the former troubles are forgotten, and because they are hid from mine eyes.”

Jeremiah 10:10
“But the LORD is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting king: at his wrath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide his indignation.”

Psalm 119:142
“Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth.”

Psalm 119:160
“Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever.”

Proverbs 30:5
“Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.”

John 8:31-32
“Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

John 1:14
“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.”

John 1:17
“For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.”

John 18:37
“Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.”

Revelation 3:7
“And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth.”

Hebrews 6:18
“That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us.”

1 Samuel 15:29
“And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent.”

Romans 3:4
“God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.”

1 John 5:20
“And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.”

Love in Action – John 3:16

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Love is a word that has no meaning without action

John 3:16 

The Statement: For God so loved the world,

The Action: that he gave his only begotten Son,

The Return: that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Example of Love in action

John 21:15 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.

16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

  • The action was to serve the Lord. Otherwise, the words had no meaning.

In this account Peter is challenged to a comparison… lovest thou me more than these?

Who loves:

  • Sports… lovest thou me more than these?
  • Music… lovest thou me more than these?
  • Food… lovest thou me more than these?
  • .. lovest thou me more than these?
  • Sleeping… lovest thou me more than these?
  • TV… lovest thou me more than these?
  • Phone… lovest thou me more than these?
  • Pet… lovest thou me more than these?
  • Family… lovest thou me more than these?

So many say they love the Lord, but their actions show otherwise. When you say you Love the Lord… does your Love have any action behind it?

God’s Love Toward Us

Galatians 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

1 John 4:7 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

9 In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.

10 Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.

11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

12 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.

13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.

14 And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.

Romans 5:8  But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

 

 

 

Missions and Veterans: A Shared Calling to Serve

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Mark 16:15: “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”

Missions month and Veterans Day bring an opportunity to reflect on two noble callings: one spiritual, the other physical. Both missionaries and soldiers are tasked with stepping outside their comfort zones to serve a purpose greater than themselves. As we honor their contributions, it becomes clear how much these vocations share in spirit, preparation, and commitment.

“Go Ye Into All the World”

Missions are the lifeblood of the Great Commission, a divine mandate to bring the Gospel not only to our neighbors but to the furthest reaches of the globe. Missionaries are more than preachers; they are teachers, mentors, and builders. Their work helps establish self-sustaining local churches that eventually send out missionaries of their own, creating a ripple effect that spans nations and generations.

1 Thessalonians 1:5-6:
“For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost.”

Missionaries’ tasks often include developing leadership, empowering communities to engage in discipleship, and training local believers to share their faith. This ensures that the Gospel does not depend on foreign aid alone but thrives as an organic, local movement. Just as the early church multiplied through shared testimony and sacrifice, today’s missionaries are continuing that divine strategy.

Likewise, the military serves as an extension of humanitarian aid and freedom. Soldiers are sent to far-flung corners of the world, where they help rebuild communities ravaged by conflict or natural disaster. They train foreign forces to stand strong, defend their people, and even assist neighboring nations in times of need. Their presence brings stability and hope, just as missionaries bring spiritual renewal.

1 Timothy 1:18:
“This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before on thee, that thou by them mightest war a good warfare.”

Both missionaries and soldiers are agents of change, tasked with confronting challenges and spreading hope across barriers of language, culture, and geography.

A Call to Prepare

Preparation is a cornerstone of both missions and military service. For missionaries, the call to serve begins long before they step onto the mission field. Their journey involves studying Scripture, developing spiritual disciplines, and often attending Bible college or seminary. This intensive preparation equips them to navigate the cultural, theological, and logistical complexities of cross-cultural ministry.

Colossians 3:16:
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”

Missionaries must not only know the Bible but also understand the unique needs of the communities they serve. Whether learning a new language, adapting to unfamiliar customs, or addressing sensitive social issues, their readiness is rooted in a deep, abiding relationship with God and a willingness to grow in wisdom.

In the military, preparation is equally rigorous. Soldiers begin their journey in basic training, where they are stripped of civilian habits and molded into disciplined, focused individuals. From there, they undergo specialized training to master the technical skills required for their specific roles. Over time, soldiers learn leadership and strategy, preparing them for responsibilities that often mean life or death.

Joshua 4:13:
“About forty thousand prepared for war passed over before the LORD unto battle, to the plains of Jericho.”

The parallel is striking: both missionaries and soldiers must prepare not only their minds and bodies but also their hearts. The mission—whether spiritual or physical—demands unwavering focus, resilience, and faith.

The Role of a Servant

Service is the essence of both vocations. Missionaries and soldiers willingly place themselves under authority, dedicating their lives to the commands of a higher power.

Colossians 3:22:
“Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God.”

Missionaries exemplify servanthood by surrendering their preferences and comforts to God’s will. They go where they are called, often living in challenging conditions, eating unfamiliar foods, and embracing the unknown. Their obedience stems from a deep desire to honor God and serve others selflessly.

Similarly, soldiers learn early on that obedience is non-negotiable. In basic training, they are taught to put aside personal ambitions and align themselves with the mission. This discipline prepares them to respond decisively under pressure, ensuring the success of their team and the safety of those they protect.

Both roles require humility and a heart focused on the greater good, mirroring Christ’s example of servanthood.

Enduring Hardness

2 Timothy 2:3:
“Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.”

Hardship is an undeniable part of both missions and military service, testing the endurance, faith, and resilience of those called to these roles. For missionaries, the challenges often begin long before they reach the mission field. They may face the uncertainty of leaving behind family, friends, and familiar comforts to embark on a journey of faith. Once on the field, they encounter physical challenges such as harsh climates, inadequate medical care, and limited resources. Cultural misunderstandings and language barriers add another layer of difficulty, requiring patience and humility to navigate effectively. Missionaries often face emotional trials, including loneliness, homesickness, and the heartache of seeing people reject the Gospel. In some cases, they endure persecution for their faith, risking their safety for the sake of spreading God’s Word.

Soldiers also understand what it means to endure hardship. From the rigors of basic training to the challenges of deployment, their lives are marked by physical and emotional tests. Soldiers may sleep in the dirt, work through extreme weather, and go without adequate food or rest for extended periods. Whether in conflict zones or disaster-stricken areas, they face constant threats to their safety, yet remain steadfast in their duty. Separation from loved ones adds an emotional burden, as they sacrifice time with their families to fulfill their mission.

Despite these hardships, both missionaries and soldiers draw strength from their purpose. Missionaries find joy in advancing God’s Kingdom, knowing their efforts contribute to eternal transformations. The hope of seeing lives changed and souls saved sustains them through even the most difficult circumstances. Similarly, soldiers take pride in their role as protectors, finding meaning in defending freedom and justice for others. Their sacrifices are rooted in a deep commitment to something greater than themselves.

Endurance in these roles requires a focus on the higher calling, whether it is serving God or one’s nation. For missionaries, this means relying on God’s strength and promises to persevere through trials. For soldiers, it involves trusting their training and fellow servicemembers to carry them through the challenges. Both understand that the path they walk is not an easy one, but it is one worth taking for the sake of their mission and the lives they touch.

Avoiding Entanglements

2 Timothy 2:4:
“No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.”

Missionaries and soldiers alike must maintain unwavering focus, ensuring that nothing distracts them from their ultimate purpose. Both vocations demand a singularity of mind and dedication to the mission at hand. Distractions or unresolved commitments can compromise their ability to serve effectively and honor the one who called them to their role.

For soldiers, this often means carefully delegating personal and financial responsibilities before deployment. They entrust their families, homes, and day-to-day affairs to others so they can fully dedicate themselves to the demands of their mission. With the weight of these concerns lifted, they can focus on their task, whether it is combat, humanitarian aid, or peacekeeping. Soldiers must be agile and ready to respond to orders without hesitation, knowing that their preparedness can mean life or death for themselves and others.

Missionaries face a similar challenge, though their “entanglements” may differ. They must remain free from burdens such as unresolved debts, unhealthy relationships, or worldly distractions that could hinder their ministry. By simplifying their lives and focusing on their calling, missionaries are better able to respond to God’s direction, even when it requires sacrifices of time, comfort, or personal desires.

Both roles demand a mindset of service over self-interest. For missionaries, this means trusting God to provide and sustain them as they pursue His work. For soldiers, it means relying on their training, discipline, and team to achieve their mission objectives. Ultimately, avoiding entanglements allows both missionaries and soldiers to serve wholeheartedly, keeping their eyes fixed on their respective goals: pleasing their Commander and fulfilling their mission. This clarity of focus empowers them to act decisively, undeterred by distractions, and to leave a lasting impact in their fields of service.

The Tools of the Mission

Every mission requires tools, carefully chosen to meet the unique challenges and objectives of the task at hand. The tools available to missionaries and soldiers, though vastly different, are equally vital in fulfilling their respective callings. For missionaries, their most powerful weapon is the Word of God, a living and active force that transforms hearts and minds.

Ephesians 6:13:
“Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”

Missionaries are equipped with spiritual tools, including prayer, Scripture, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. These tools empower them to confront spiritual battles against sin, unbelief, and darkness. Prayer provides direct communication with God, offering strength and wisdom in moments of doubt or hardship. The Scriptures serve as both a guide and a weapon, sharper than any two-edged sword, bringing truth and light to those in need. The Holy Spirit acts as their constant companion, directing their steps and giving them the courage to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of adversity.

For soldiers, the tools of their mission are often physical and tangible. They rely on weapons for combat, vehicles for transport, and machinery for tasks like clearing debris or rebuilding infrastructure. In times of peace, their tools might include medical supplies for humanitarian aid or even a warm meal for those affected by disaster. Soldiers must be adept at adapting their tools to fit the situation, whether it’s providing security, aiding in recovery efforts, or directly engaging in combat. Each tool plays a critical role in achieving their mission’s goals.

Preparation and training are essential for both missionaries and soldiers to wield their tools effectively. Missionaries must study Scripture deeply and practice communicating the Gospel clearly and compassionately. Soldiers, too, spend countless hours in training to master their equipment and understand its capabilities. Without proper preparation, even the most advanced tools are rendered ineffective.

Both missionaries and soldiers recognize that tools are only as effective as the hands that wield them. Their success lies not only in the quality of their equipment but also in their skill, focus, and reliance on a higher purpose. For missionaries, their tools serve the eternal purpose of building God’s Kingdom, while for soldiers, their tools protect lives and uphold justice. Together, their commitment to utilizing these tools with wisdom and diligence reflects their dedication to the missions they are called to fulfill.

Fighting the Good Fight

1 Timothy 6:11-12:
“But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.”

The concept of fighting the good fight resonates deeply with both missionaries and soldiers. For missionaries, the battle is spiritual, waged against sin, unbelief, and the spiritual darkness that blinds hearts and minds. Their ultimate goal is to bring light, hope, and the transformative power of the Gospel to a lost and dying world. They face opposition from societal pressures, cultural barriers, and sometimes outright persecution, yet they press forward, driven by their faith and trust in God’s promises.

For soldiers, the fight is often physical, confronting oppression and standing as protectors of the vulnerable. Their mission is to defend justice and uphold liberty, often at great personal risk. Whether responding to the call of duty on foreign soil or providing aid in times of crisis, soldiers exhibit unwavering dedication and sacrifice for the greater good.

Both must remain steadfast, drawing strength from their faith and their cause. Their courage and perseverance inspire others to rise to challenges, whether advancing God’s Kingdom or defending the values of freedom and human dignity. Fighting the good fight requires endurance, selflessness, and a focus on the higher purpose that transcends personal gain.

Conclusion

Missionaries and soldiers are united by their commitment to serve, their willingness to endure, and their dedication to a higher calling. Whether spreading the Gospel or defending freedom, their work is a testament to the power of faith, sacrifice, and perseverance.

Matthew 8:8-10:
“The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it. When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.”

This Veterans Day, as we honor those who have served in the military, let us also remember the missionaries who labor tirelessly for the Gospel. May their example challenge us to live with purpose, faith, and devotion, wherever God has called us to serve.

Obedience

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1 Peter 2:3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,

5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.

7 Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,

8 And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.

9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

This message, clearly to those who are saved or are Christians; we explore a major doctrine that has been discarded as much in Church as in society.

Practical Exercise

(In a Sunday School setting, have the students complete a task. One that takes them uncomfortably out of their norm. Do this without a reason, the only requirement is to obey. Example: if room, move them from one side of the room to another. Another might be to stack the chairs, then set them back up. Something that some might do without consideration, others murmuring and complaining)

Obedience is greater than sacrifice (and becomes our sacrifice)

1 Samuel 15:22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.

Obedience as a doctrine today has been replaced with a list that we check off. In one of the many promotions that the Church I attend sponsors, qualifications are to come to church, boys must wear a dress shirt, tie, bring their Bible and memorize a verse. Girls do the same except wear a modest dress. Yet the day the promotion is over, we are back to the same way it was before.

The motivation of obedience was not what would please the Lord, but rather what is the minimum needed to gain something. A simple look across nearly any teen service today would reveal this mindset. I don’t want to pick on clothing except through how one dresses at Church often defines the spirit of an individual, even to a point of rebellion (the opposite of obedience).

As our opening text, Christians are supposed to be set apart and obedient to the things of God. More so than the following of a checklist.. it’s a motivation of the heart.

Do You Love God?

John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

Christianity today has redefined a Christian on their terms, not God’s. We love God when it’s convenient, or fits in our schedule, or doesn’t change our style. Frankly we want all the benefits of being a Christian without any of the sacrifices…

NOTHING is further than that of obedience.

Think of it in 2 terms:

  • To obey: A physical reaction to an acceptable command… One we choose to obey. A Checklist to complete.
  • Obedience: Removing any desire we have, any preconceived notion, any motive of self… where the only desire is to follow those that have been appointed or directly what God directs.

If we truly love God it will show in our actions. This mindset of obedience goes well beyond following rules, but taking on each task as if Jesus Christ himself was standing next to us.

NOTE: The day I presented this message at teen Sunday school, there we 2 teen girls, dressed in worldly attire who went outside after the bus dropped them off. Set up their phone and recorded some twirking style dance… DIRECTLY under the church sign. No conviction. No humility. No respect. No obedience to the standards God has set in HIS house.

1 Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.

(This is where the opening physical exercise comes into play)

In our exercise of moving over chairs your body may have obeyed, but for some your heart rebelled. Some even murmured and complained, mocked and rebelled. I wonder if coming to church is done in the same breath… Just the physical action to obey… but no heart, no desire to actually be in God’s house for God’s purpose.

Salvation is an act of Obedience

God has always made a path to get to Him… through obedience.

  • Don’t eat of the fruit (Adam)
  • Get on the boat (Noah)
  • Take up your family and move (Abraham)
  • Follow the Law (Moses)
  • Jesus said “I am the way”

God did all the preparation, created the path… be we need to choose to obey. Where obedience is so important… is that GOD sets the way, not us. We always want to make our own way… change the words of God to justify it… rather than simply obeying God.

John 14:6  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

John 10:1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.

Jesus is our Example

We would do good to recognize the choice that Christ made in the area of obedience. Even if we look at this from a Parent to a Child and an example that is set. That moves further to that of a servant and a master, we need to know what true obedience is; where we set aside self and only seek to obey.

Hebrews 5:8 Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;

9 And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him;

We Choose to Serve, Choose Wisely

I have, over the years, found those who say that they serve noone are the ones that are under the greatest servitude; and don’t even realize it. Servant to self, servant to vanity, servant to society, servant to a career, servant to a marriage, servant to drugs, servant to alcohol… you get the picture. They fold their arms in rebellion not realizing they are choosing to serve, just not the things of God. 

Joshua 24:14 Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD.

15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

Romans 6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?

17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.

18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

The Importance of Submission to Leadership

While there is much more that can be said about obedience and even leadership, it is important to realize that obedience isnt an action as much as a condition of the heart. I mean there are many who are in a position of authority, but that authority is useless if God’s people won’t submit to the people He placed into leadership. I have heard some say at the foot of the alter, I only serve God, I will not serve a man; not having a clue how God has ordained the chain of command. God has placed a structure, to provide His people with something and someone to obey… not some mystical thought of obedience but rather a heart motivated action of God’s ordinances… through a man of God placed in leadership. As such we need to submit ourselves, and it’s not easy; the root of rebellion runs deep, but this is how God ordained it to be.

Hebrews 13:15 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

16 But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

Words of a Fool

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1 Timothy 5:13  And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.

  • We live in a time… that seeks to distract us from the things that God would have us work on. Including the one we need to with on the most; ourselves.
  • We look at things in the media, entertainment and music that seeks to fill our minds with everything but…
  • In fact, the argument of the day, the buzz word if you will, is in social media; what is fake news or who is telling the truth.

How do we discern the truth? How do we decide who is telling the truth? If we are to believe that God is truth, maybe we look at what God has to say about this matter.

Deuteronomy 32:4 He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.

A Note: In order to discern a matter, you should have at least a foundation in the subject matter. When it comes to that of the scriptures, having a fundamental understanding of the pillars of the faith will be necessary to keep from being deceived or mislead.

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Discerning the Truth

Let them talk

Often the truth is suppressed because it is contrary to the belief of the hearer or what is popular. I am not a proponent of silencing an opposing view, unless that view has already been disproved. Oftentimes the truth can be more easily discerned when you let them talk. If you let them go just a little bit… you’ll hear what you need to discern the truth:

Ecclesiastes 5:3 For a dream cometh through the multitude of business; and a fool’s voice is known by multitude of words.

Once you have heard what they are saying, you can use your spiritual discernment to mark them. Ask questions like, what is their motive, what is their premise, what are their facts, where did you get this information? We must have a firm foundation in the word of God in order to have the discernment to know the truth.

Romans 16:17 Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

Once you have identified these people, avoid them. By that same note, mark those who are telling the truth as well.

1 Thessalonians 5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

Use caution for those who are all the time talking…

Proverbs 17:27 He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit.

28 Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.

Proverbs 29:20  Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? there is more hope of a fool than of him.

Ecclesiastes 10:14  A fool also is full of words: a man cannot tell what shall be; and what shall be after him, who can tell him?

Minding your own business (read your own mail)

1 Thessalonians 4:11  And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

Proverbs 15:1  A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

Stop crying and complaining about things you can’t change.

Psalms 131:1 LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I exercise myself in great matters, or in things too high for me.

2 Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul is even as a weaned child.

Ecclesiastes 9:17  The words of wise men are heard in quiet more than the cry of him that ruleth among fools.

1 Timothy 2:2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;

2 Thessalonians 3:11 For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.

12 Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

People sometimes are more attracted to the sensational rather than the truth of God

1 Kings 19:11 And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake:

12 And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.

Churches today are looking for God in the wind and the earthquake… loud and sensational. They are drawn to the music, the lights.. the show! Yet all along God wasn’t in the wind, wasn’t in the earthquake… wasn’t in the show… but He was speaking, just in a still small voice.

When seeking the truth often we need to turn off the TV, turn off the internet, turn off the social media, turn off YouTube and all these sources that flood the mind with information. Find a quiet spot and turn on God and listen to that still small voice where the source of truth and discernment have been all along.

I will seek thy good

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Psalms 122:1 I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.

Why Do People Go To Church?

In David’s gladness there was a desire to go to the House of God. In today’s Churches people are going to for perhaps, the wrong reasons. Some might argue that just having someone go to Church is a good thing but, if the result is bitterness; what did it accomplish? In my ministry I have seen people come to Church out of guilt, to socialize, legacy obligation, being forced (parents with the bus ministry) and even to commit mischief.

Part of the Church should be to become a place that people desire to come to. This “testimony” will assist those who to anticipate the house of God, rather than endure it.

Psalms 122:2 Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem.

3 Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together:

4 Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the LORD.

5 For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David.

6 Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.

7 Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces.

8 For my brethren and companions’ sakes, I will now say, Peace be within thee.

9 Because of the house of the LORD our God I will seek thy good.

What you learn in Church should change how you look at the world

Those who are saved and desire to be about God’s business, should be able to say that the Church participated; in changing our outlook of the things of the world.

John 4:35 Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.

When we look at those outside the Church building, what do we see? Does what you hear and experience in Church change how we perceive the things of the world?

Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

1 Corinthians 1:21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.

You should come to Church expecting to hear something

Churches today have so lowered the expectation of Church attendance, that they come only out of habit or obligation. Are we excited to be amongst God’s people, in God’s House, hearing the Man of God presenting the Word of God?

Ecclesiastes 5:1 Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil.

People that come, just to come; find themselves bringing the mischief of the world into the walls of the very House of God. Just a glance across the crowd at those on social media, playing video games or other activities to “pass the time” till they dismiss; is opposite to being glad to be at the House of God!

How to behave

One teaching lost on today’s Churches is how to behave in God’s House. I am seeing more and more people in their 20’s and 30’s who have never been to a Sunday School class, been to a Church camp or even been in a Church building short of getting married. As a result they have never learned how to behave in God’s house. This creates an atmosphere of disorder and distraction that hinders the presentation of God’s message.

1 Timothy 3:15 But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.

I find it interesting for those who say you shouldn’t have rules or order in the Church, because it would cause people not to come; still go to a library, courthouse or funeral home. Don’t those have an order, a rule or a manner to operate? Interesting we try to lower the standards for the one place that should have the HIGHEST of standards.

Church should not only change our perception of the world, but our perception of ourselves.

1 Peter 4:17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?

Should not God’s House have a higher standard… that the world?

Ephesians 5:25b… even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;

26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,

27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.

Are you glad you are here?

Psalms 122:1 I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.

Does the Church shape the way that we see the world? Do we have more compassion? Do we desire the things of God beyond the walls of the Church?

9 Because of the house of the LORD our God I will seek thy good.

We take the House of God with us…

1 Corinthians 3:16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

 

Off with the OLD and on with the NEW

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2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

One of the lost doctrines in the Modern Church is that we are physically transformed when we get saved. It not JUST some spiritual decision, if is a transformation. Without this realization there is little desire to allow God to change our lives, because many make a profession out of guilt rather than grace. It is this that leads people to make a profession and not a change in position, Christianity becomes nothing more than a club that you join to sear your conscious and justify our sins.

A Change that Needs to Take Place

Ephesians 4:21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:

Paul is speaking to saved people early in the Church that are just adding to their daily existence without removing the things of the world…

22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

(This is the point when you decide which way to go…)

24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Part of why the world does not take Christians seriously, is because Christians don’t take it seriously.

We should PUT OFF

Colossians 3:8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.

9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;

We should PUT ON

Colossians 3:10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:

11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.

12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

When you get Saved there are some NEW things you get…

  • A New Name

Revelation 2:17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

  • A New Nature

2 Peter 1:4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

(David and Daniel called this an Excellent Spirit)

The OLD nature likes: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth, lying…

  • A New Heart and Spirit

Ezekiel 36:26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.

  • A New Song

Psalm 40:3 And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD.

The Transformation

If we truly get saved we are indwelt with the Holy Spirit. Literally having God with us all the time. So many fight against the still small voice because they never desired a change, they just desired to get rid of their guilt. It would be good if we show salvation as it truly is, not just a way to go to Heaven, but a transformation whereby we are a New Creature… old things are passed away… all things become new.

Who is the friend that Jesus laid down His life for?

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John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

This verse MUST be put into context. This is one of those verses that people mis-quote and stick on tshirts and plaques on the wall, with never really understanding the importance of what Jesus is trying to convey. 

In this verse Jesus was referring to Himself as He was going to lay down His life for the sins of mankind…

— however, this has some conditions.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Jesus Continues in John 15 to identify who is His friend…

John 15:14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

IF…

This sacrifice (laying down His life) that Jesus is WILLING to give is conditional… the whosoever (John 3:16) is the friend that Jesus is talking about. This teaching that Jesus died for the sins of the world, and as a result the penalty of sin has been removed (fatherhood of God and the Brotherhood of man) is a false teaching.

God LOVED the world so much that He gave His only Son… that WHOSOEVER BELIEVETH… would receive the gift and be a friend of Jesus…

But it goes further…

Note the stipulation when you take this in context: John 15:14 Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

1 John 3:22 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.

23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.

24 And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.

John 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

John 14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

This isn’t some circular reasoning. The commandment that God, through Jesus commands is basically… get saved, and love one another.

Back to our Base Text…

John 15:15 Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.

This is why the Word of God is so important. There’s no mystery, God provided everything we need to know in His word. He has made known everything we need. As such we are not kept from the information, like a servant would be; but the truth is shared with us.. like a friend would receive.

Jesus wants to be your friend. A friend of Jesus is someone who follows His commandments… that commandment is basically… Get Saved. (And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another)

The opposite of this is just as true

James 4:4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.

A Spiritual Sacrifice

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Society today has come to the point that it does not take Christians seriously. This is because many Christians don’t take the word of God seriously. How can we effect a world with the change that the Bible speaks about, if we don’t allow it to effect us, first.

1 Peter 2:5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

??? What are some spiritual sacrifices someone might offer up to God?

  • Name something that can be: spent, haggled for, bargained with, wasted, squandered, and redeemed and even sacrificed… but you can never get any more than you have? (answer: time)
  • Remember a sacrifice must cost you something… and be acceptable to God

What do you have that you can offer up to God? That will be acceptable?

Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Today’s modern Church wants to tell God what HE should accept for a sacrifice…

Hebrews 11:4a By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous,…

A Testimony of having an effect

Philemon 1:4 I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,

5 Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;

6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

7 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.

Effectual

The term effectual is a noun and a verb. It means that something not only had an effect but also the act of having an effect. (Life changing)

Paul could see that when people spoke to each other about the testimony of the people that were meeting at Philemon’s house that it was having an effect on their lives. That their testimony was challenging them to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of others.

If you examine the passage carefully you will note that Paul was not addressing what the this group at Philemon’s house was saying to the world (the witness)… but rather what the world was saying about the church at Philemon’s house. (their testimony!)

  • People today need to see our testimony, the need to see Jesus Christ in us.

An Effectual testimony, lifts up Christ

6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

Note again: what was causing this effect was the testimony of this church that was causing a communication. People saw all their good works and it got them talking.

What about you? What is your testimony? Do the people around you see you as a Christian?

Do you even know the difference? Because those watching your testimony DOES.

God can do something special when you do it together

  • We are His hands, feet and voice

Acts 19:11 And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul:

Romans 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

What is the value of your sacrifice?

If I were to offer up $100 to each person in here that genuinely wanted to:

  • Come to church
  • Dress in a manner honorable to God
  • Act in a way honorable to God
  • Memorize just one verse a week (not just 3 minutes before quoting it) Thy Word have it hid in my heart… not head…
  • Bring your Bible
  • Bring a visitor

Is that worth $100? Or is that your “reasonable sacrifice?”

But like Cain some look at that and offer up the worldly effort and dare God not to accept it.

Like some arrogant gansta you pull out your own $100 just so you don’t have to go by God’s terms… but your own.

Even to the point that this effort isn’t WORTHY of your sacrifice…

These are the efforts that the world sees (our testimony), Is your sacrifice something that will have an effectual testimony? When people see YOUR faith… will it change peoples lives?

 

Biblical Inspiration

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The King James Bible is a book that God provided, that was written over a 1500 year span where God used 40 men of God to write down God’s words from Shepherds to Kings across three continents (Asia, Africa, and Europe) in three languages (Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek) and translated for the English speaking people to a point of perfection in circa 1611 with no errors and no contradictions.

There is no book in history that has ever came close to meeting any criteria that the King James Bible can stand upon.

It is important to recognize that God Himself pinned the scriptures so we can learn about Him, and about ourselves.

We Teach What We Have Learned

2 Timothy 3:14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;

It is important to recognize here the importance of the local church and the importance of Pastors, Teachers and Evangelists. God uses these individuals to help teach and administer the scriptures to our benefit. As such we see Paul telling Timothy to remember whom he has learned the scriptures from. It is also important to identify how important it is to make sure that those you choose to gain knowledge from, preach and teach it straight.

15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

It is important to teach children to love the book. To understand how to rightly divide the word and how to discern truth when it is provided. As such we can help parents help their children to grown in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

How the Bible is Written: (Inspiration)

The Method

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

Practical exercise:

Find someone to write down a verse or statement exactly as its said:

(Example) Write Down – Psalms 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

  • Now who wrote it?
  • Who Authored it?

Now have another student copy the words from one paper to another exactly.

  • That is a Scribe – and how God spread the written word abroad.

Now hold up both… Which one is the Word of God?

Now if someone wrote this from English to Spanish – it is Translated.

This is the method that God used to write and spread the word of God.

The Purpose

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

Profitable: For our benefit.

Mark 8:36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?

Doctrine: Principle, a position or truth.

2 Timothy 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.

3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;

4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

Reproof: Is Blame – To take responsibility for your actions

This has so much truth as reproof in today’s society has been removed. We need to know and grow from our mistakes. We often deny them, ignore them or blame others rather than acknowledging them.

Proverbs 15:31 The ear that heareth the reproof of life abideth among the wise.

32 He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.

NOTE: We can not seek correction without reproof.

Correction: To right those things that are wrong; the physical change after reproof (false doctrine, world’s information)

Proverbs 3:11 My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction:

Instruction in Righteousness

2 Timothy 3:17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

That we may be perfect

Throughly: Complete to the end. This is a correct spelling. Some modern publishers change this to thoroughly, so let me show you the difference. If you wash the dishes thoroughly, they are clean (or should be). However, they will get dirty again. Throughly means that they will be clean again and again until Jesus comes.

Furnished: Have every thing you need provided

Good Works: What we do to show what God has done for us.

Ephesians 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Let’s break that down:

God will furnish everything that we need through the word of God until He comes for His Church so that we may be perfect before him.

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