Introduction: How many of you want to grow SPIRITUALLY? Probably all that are reading this. Otherwise, you wouldn’t be taking the time. I personally appreciate you diving deeper! That is what this is all about.

Solomon writes five (5) ways to grow Spiritually.

Check this list:

1. Prudent – wise! (Prov 22:3)

“A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.”

Discernment in our day is greatly needed. This comes thru asking and abiding in Jesus. To see down the road and make wise decisions is extremely important for believers and their families.

2. Accountable & Responsible! (Prov 22:17)

“Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge.”

The word “apply” is שִׁית, which means to put, set. In other words, be doers of the Word and not hearers only. (James 1:22)

3. Friendships! (Prov 22: 24, 25)

“24Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: 25Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul.”

Choosing the right friends is wise! In fact, they will influence us as we influence them. It is alright to have unbelieving friends; however, be careful that their influence does not “rub off” on you instead of the opposite.

4. Integrity (Prov 22:21)

“1That I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?”

“White lies” are still lies. (Prov 20:7)

5. Hospitality & Generosity! (Prov 22:9)

“9He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.”

Conclusion: Character Counts! Solomon suggests having a “GOOD NAME” is a top priority….Our influence is important to the Lord. How else can we effectively witness the grace of God – the Love of God – and the Power of God in Christ Jesus?

“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.” (Prov 22:1)

Text: Luke 18:1-8

Introduction: Does Jesus honor “Persevering Prayer”? You tell me! Throughout His earthly life, He seemed to emphasize to His followers to be persistent in prayer. In fact, not only did He illustrate this truth in the garden of Gethsemane, but He also demonstrated this principle in that “Golden Prayer” recorded in the seventeenth chapter of the gospel of John. In this passage of Scripture, Luke records the words of Jesus.

1. When the answer does not come immediately, do not GIVE UP! (Luke 18:2, 3)

“2Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man: 3And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary. 4And he would not for a while.”

Teaching on prayer in the sermon in the mount (Matt 7:7, 8), Jesus urged His disciples to be consistent in prayer.

“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 9Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? 10Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? 11If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?”

Interesting to note, the verbs “ask, seek, and knock” are all in the present tense…. meaning ask and keep on asking…etc. While it is true, our Father knows our need before we ask, yet He desires for His children to come to Him and depend on Him.

Have you “GIVEN UP” on prayer? Feel like quitting?
Unanswered?
Gotten discouraged?
Confused?

2. When the devil and others who oppose you want you to GIVE IN!

“But afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man; 5Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.”

3. When your FAITH in answered PRAYER feels like GIVING OUT, keep praying!

“And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith. 7And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them? 8I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?”

Conclusion: God answers prayers according to His will, and for His glory. These words should encourage every CHRISTian. Jesus is teaching His disciples, and us, to not GIVE UP PRAYING! But to Keep GIVING OUT!

Text: Acts 22:1-21

1. RUNNING from JESUS! (Acts 22:3-5)

“I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. 4And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. 5As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished.”

2. RUNNING to JESUS! (Acts 22:6-9)

“And it came to pass, that, as I made my journey, and was come nigh unto Damascus about noon, suddenly there shone from heaven a great light round about me. 7And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? 8And I answered, Who art thou, Lord? And he said unto me, I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom thou persecutest. 9And they that were with me saw indeed the light, and were afraid; but they heard not the voice of him that spake to me.”

3. RUNNING with JESUS!

“And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said unto me, Arise, and go into Damascus; and there it shall be told thee of all things which are appointed for thee to do. 11And when I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of them that were with me, I came into Damascus.

12And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good report of all the Jews which dwelt there, 13Came unto me, and stood, and said unto me, Brother Saul, receive thy sight. And the same hour I looked up upon him. 14And he said, The God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thou shouldest know his will, and see that Just One, and shouldest hear the voice of his mouth. 15For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard. 16And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.

17And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance; 18And saw him saying unto me, Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me. 19And I said, Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee: 20And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him. 21And he said unto me, Depart: for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles.”

Conclusion: After reading and hearing Paul’s testimony – RUNNING from Jesus, to JESUS and with JESUS, the question remains, where are we? Why not right now, purpose in your heart to RUN with JESUS?

Text: “Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine” (John 21:12)

Introduction: Have you ever failed the Lord? Peter did. Probably you have….honestly, I have. But Jesus cares about us so much that He does not give up on us. Hallelujah! His desire is to RESTORE us back into a good relationship of trust and obedience to His Word and His will. Do you know that Jesus invites us to come and fellowship with Him? Not only should we learn the secret of worship but also partnership. Even when we fail, Jesus reaches out to every believer. This can be seen after Peter’s shameful denial. Yet, Peter is restored back into fellowship with Jesus. And he becomes a powerful preacher and a flaming witness on the day of Pentecost. Check out the steps of his restoration.

1. Never Say Never! (Luke 22:31-34)

“31And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: 32But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. 33And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death. 34And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.”

Like Peter, in our mind we say what we will not do, but in our flesh, we fall prey to the enemy, the devil!

**The lesson: Never say Never!

2. Back to the Flesh! (John 21:1-3)

“1After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself. 2There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples. 3Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing.”

Often when we fail the Lord like in Peter’s case, we resort back to the things we are good at – the works of the flesh!

Keep in mind, Peter had not communicated with Jesus after his denial, but he went out and “wept bitterly.” (Luke 22:62)

3. Jesus calls out to us! (John 21:4-8)

“But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus. 5Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No. 6And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes. 7Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher’s coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea. 8And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes.”

Peter had been fishing all night long without a catch until Jesus told him how to catch a boat load of fish.

“And saw two ships standing by the lake: but the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. 3And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon’s, and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land. And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship. 4Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon, Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught. 5And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing: nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net. 6And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes: and their net brake.” (Luke 5:2-6)

The same thing happens here after Jesus had been resurrected; He calls to His disciples.

3. Jesus cares for us! (John 21:9-13)

“As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread. 10Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught. 11Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three: and for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken. 12Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord. 13Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise.”

The word “dine” is ἀριστάω, (ar-is-tah’-o), which means to breakfast, to take a meal, dine. Jesus invites us.

4. Jesus corrects us! (John 21:15-17)

“15So 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. 16He 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. 17He 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.”

Peter’s test of faith turned into a testimony of faith. Check out what Peter writes.

“6Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 8Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.” (1Pet 5:6-9)

Peter learned from his mistakes. Are we?

Conclusion: 
Jesus calls us, cares for us, and corrects us, all because He loves us!
Peter was restored.
Peter was rebuked.
Peter was reconciled.
Peter was reminded.

Instead of worrying about John, Jesus tells Peter something worthwhile that we need to remember.

“Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee? 21Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? 22Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.” (John 21:20-22)

Following Jesus and fulfilling His Will is life’s greatest goal!

“Hope’s Here”

1. Where is the HOPE? (1Cor 15:3-4)

• The Scriptures are the CONFIRMATION! (vv 3, 4)

• The Disciples experienced a TRANSFORMATION! (vv 5-9)

“5And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: 6After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. 7After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. 8And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. 9For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.”

• Paul writes with an AFFIRMATION! (vv 8-11)

“10But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. 11Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed.”

2. Why is there HOPE? (1Cor 15:12-28)

“12Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: 14And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 15Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. 16For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: 17And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. 18Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. 19If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.

20But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. 24Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 28And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all.”

The word “firstfruits” is ἀπαρχή
Transliteration: aparché
Phonetic Spelling: (ap-ar-khay’)
By definition, it means the beginning of a sacrifice, the first fruit. It is used for the earliest crop of the year. It can mean a sacrifice, gift.

At the resurrection, Jesus was the FIRST to rise from the dead never to DIE again! (Firstfruits- aparche)

The word “order” is τάγμα, (tagma) pronounced tag’-mah. The definition means it is that which has been arranged in order, a division, rank, an ordered series.

Please identify the word “then” in the text.

The word “then” ἔπειτα, epeita, ep’-i-tah means then, thereafter, afterwards.

The word “then” does not mean as in a sequence of measurement of time – immediately right afterwards.

Why is this important? There are those who claim the “then” indicates that after Jesus will come in the rapture (they include the rapture and the second coming), and “then” the end of the millennium – their claim is there is no tribulation -Post tribulationist – or amillennialist… no millennium.

Jesus returns and “then” the end comes. But is this correct? How does one explain?

“But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ’s at his coming. 24THEN cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.”

The answer is the “then” does not necessarily mean immediately right afterwards. For example, in the same chapter (1Cor 15:5, 6), Paul writes using the word “then” but it is abundantly clear that he does mean right afterwards.

“5And that he was seen of Cephas, THEN of the twelve: 6After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. 7After that, he was seen of James; THEN of all the apostles.”

Conclusion: Do you have Hope? Because Jesus Christ has risen and is changing lives, there is HOPE for the future. This resurrected Jesus will come again in the rapture. Then after the tribulation (meant for the Jews, not the Church), He will come again and inaugurate His 1,000 year Kingdom reign.

Introduction: Are we willing to deny ourselves so that the resurrection power of Jesus Christ will shine thru? Then, and only then, will we be able to OVERCOME the world, the flesh and the devil! Jesus was willing to deny himself and become obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

( Phil 2:8-10)

“And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Yet, because of His SELF-DENIAL, we can have LIFE ETERNAL!

1. What is the CROSS principle? (Luke 9:23)

“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. 24For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.”

2. How does the CROSS Principle work? (Gal 2:20; Rom 8:13; Gal 5:16-24)

“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.”

“For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.”

“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. 17For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. 18But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. 19Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. 24And they that are Christ’s have  crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.”

Conclusion: Understanding and appropriating the CROSS principle is vital to every CHRISTian. Without RESURRECTION Power available, the believer would stay defeated because of the deeds of the flesh.

But thank God for Jesus not only becoming obedient into death, but also triumphing over the grave, thereby giving His followers Holy Spirit empowerment and ultimate victory!

1. What does it mean when Paul says, we have been “RISEN” with Christ? (Eph 1:3; Col 3:1-4)

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.”

“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.”

A term “In Christ” is used throughout the Bible. Technically speaking, God the Father sees every son or daughter placed “into” Jesus Christ. (Identification)….His death, burial and resurrection (Rom 6:1-11)…

** Christ in you, the hope of glory (Col 1:27)

** Been made accepted in the beloved (Eph 1:6)

** In Him, we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28)

Back to Colossians 3:1.

“If ye then be risen with Christ.”

The word “if” is εἰ, which means forasmuch as, if, that…..some translate the word if – “since” you have been risen with Christ.

The phrase “be risen” is συνεγείρω, sunegeiró (soon-eg-i’-ro), which means to raise together or I raise along with.

Interesting to note, it is in the aorist tense meaning it is a past event, rather than a future event, although we will be raised in the future with a new body as well (1Cor 15:1-58; 1Thess 4:13-18), here it refers to the moment of the Holy Spirit’s quickening.

Again, the Holy Spirit is revealing His inward work at the moment of conversion for the believer. Please recognize. This is not something the CHRISTIAN earns, rather it is a “done deal” at the time of regeneration- when you are saved.

2. How does this, being “RAISED” in Christ, work out in a  practical way for believers? (Col 3:1-4)

“1If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. 2Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. 3For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. 4When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.”

“6Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” (Phil 1:6)

Second, there is the practical part for the believer. When we accept by FAITH Jesus Christ’s payment for our sins,  we also must accept by FAITH His power over sin.

“11Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Rom 6:11)

Conclusion: Have you been RISEN with CHRIST? If you are a CHRISTian, then technically speaking this has happened to you even though you may not have known it. Now that you know, how about appropriating this truth that will release the RESURRECTION POWER of Jesus Christ. 

Also do not forget…..

Introduction: Have you ever had to wait? Are you known for being patient? Have you got unanswered prayers pending? Are things not happening as fast as you would like them? Do you get impatient with people?

Sometimes it seems like eternity before things happen. But learning to be understanding with people and exercising patience is a part of the fruit (singular) of the Spirit.

1. Jesus Christ RESURRECTION was marked with VICTORY! (Luke 24:1-6)

“1Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. 2And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. 3And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. 4And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: 5And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? 6He is not here, but is risen.”

A. The two men on the road to Emmaus’ eyes needed to be open to SEE JESUS as the SON of GOD! (Luke 24:13-16)

“And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. 14And they talked together of all these things which had happened. 15And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. 16But their eyes were holden that they should not know him.”

Like the two men on the road to Emmaus, our eyes need to open to see Jesus as our RESURRECTED Lord who justifies us. (Rom 4:24, 25)

“But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; 25Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.”

B. The two men on the road to Emmaus’ hearts needed to be open to BELIEVE the BIBLE was the WORD of GOD! (Luke 24:25-27)

“Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: 26Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? 27And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.”

Once we decide to read the Scriptures daily, our hearts are warmed (burn) by the Spirit of God. (Luke 24:32)

“And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?”

C. The disciples needed to be emptied of SELF that they might be FILLED with the SPIRIT of GOD! (Luke 24:48, 49)

“And ye are witnesses of these things. 49And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.”

The one MISSING element….HOLY GHOST POWER!

2. Jesus Christ’s ASCENSION is marked with MAJESTY! (Acts 1:3)

“To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God.”

Jesus appeared on 10 different occasions over a 40 day period. On the 50th day, He sent the PROMISE.

A. Patiently Waiting – (Acts 1:4,5)

“4And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. 5For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.”

It is difficult to wait patiently but the benefits are worth it.

B. Kingdom Waiting! Delayed until the Millennium! (Acts 1:5-7)

“When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? 7And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.” 

Jesus is speaking to the Jews of His day. The fulfillment of the Kingdom being restored will take place when Christ comes again in His second coming and ushers in His Kingdom….yet to come.

“Church Now, Kingdom Later”

C. Witnessing Holy Ghost Power!

“8But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

That is the secret to witnessing – Holy Ghost Power!

D. The Promise of Jesus’ Return! (Acts 1:9-11)

“And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. 10And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; 11Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.”

Conclusion: Being patient and waiting was worth it for the disciples. When Jesus tells us to WAIT, He gives the “GRACE” to do it!

Introduction: Have you heard the song, “WHEN HE WAS ON THE CROSS I WAS ON HIS MIND”?

Here are the words:

1. When Jesus was on the Cross You were on His Mind! The first 3 Hours!! (John 19:18-27)

“8Where they crucified him, and two other with him, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst. 19And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS. 20This title then read many of the Jews: for the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin. 21Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate, Write not, The King of the Jews; but that he said, I am King of the Jews. 22Pilate answered, What I have written I have written. 23Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout. 24They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did. 25Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. 26When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! 27Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.”

The next stanza says:

The look of love was on his face
Thrones were on his head
The blood was on his scarlet robe
Stained a crimson red
Though his eyes were on the crowd that day
He looked ahead in time
For when he was on the cross
I was on his mind.

He knew me, yet he loved me
He whose glory makes the heavens shine
So unworthy of such mercy
Yet when he was on the cross
I was on his mind.

Yet when he was on the cross
I was on his mind.

2. When Jesus was on the Cross You were on His Mind! The last 3 hours!! (John 19:28-30)

“28After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst. 29Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth. 30When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.”

Remember the words:

Yet when he was on the cross,
I was on his mind.

Jesus cries out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Matt 27:46)

A little boy once misquoted, John 3:16…..For God so loved the world, that He gave his only FORGOTTEN SON…..
He meant BEGOTTEN. But technically speaking, God the Father, FORGOT His Son, in order to REMEMBER me and you!!

Literally becoming sin for us, who knew NO sin, Jesus Christ tasted death and experienced hell for all who would trust in Him. Our sin debt was paid in full! “JESUS PAID IT ALL”!

Conclusion: 

He knew me, yet he loved me
He whose glory makes the heavens shine
So unworthy of such mercy
Yet when he was on the cross
I was on his mind.

Let when he was on the cross
I was on his mind.

1. The Arrest! (John 18:4-6)
As the soldiers accessed the situation with the intention of apprehending Jesus, here is what Jesus asked?

“Whom seek ye? 5They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them. 6As soon then as he had said unto them, I am he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.”

2. The Mock Trial! (John 18:13)

“And led him away to Annas first; for he was father in law to Caiaphas, which was the high priest that same year.”

He resorts to violence when he strikesthi Jesus in the face. (John 18:19)

“And when he had thus spoken, one of the officers which stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, Answerest thou the high priest so?”

Next, Jesus is taken from Annas to Caiaphas where the elders and the teachers of the law were waiting.
According to Bible scholars, a meeting of the Sanhedrin was illegal at night. (Matt 26:57)

“57And they that had laid hold on Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.”

The assembly of the Sanhedrin would normally take place in the temple. However, on this occasion this was not the case. Furthermore, witnesses were required. In this case, it was so haphazardly put together they could only find one accusation against Jesus. (Mark 14:56-64)

“And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put him to death; and found none. 56For many bare false witness against him, but their witness agreed not together. 57And there arose certain, and bare false witness against him, saying, 58We heard him say, I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands. 59But neither so did their witness agree together. 60And the high priest stood up in the midst, and asked Jesus, saying, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee? 61But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed? 62And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. 63Then the high priest rent his clothes, and saith, What need we any further witnesses? 64Ye have heard the blasphemy: what think ye? And they all condemned him to be guilty of death.”

Jesus was spit on! Smitten. The charge….Blasphemy!! (Mark 14:65)

“And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to buffet him, and to say unto him, Prophesy: and the servants did strike him with the palms of their hands.”

(John 18:28-32)

“28Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover. 29Pilate then went out unto them, and said, What accusation bring ye against this man? 30They answered and said unto him, If he were not a malefactor, we would not have delivered him up unto thee. 31Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, It is not lawful for us to put any man to death: 32That the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying what death he should die.”

Since the Jews could not execute a person legally, the “MOCK TRIAL” they took Jesus to Pilate, the Roman governor early in the morn. But since it was Passover, they did not go into the Praetorium. Consequently, Pilate walked outside and asked what were the charges. (John 18:29,30)

At that time, the Sanhedrin understood that the charges of blasphemy was not enough to sentence one to death.

After examining Jesus, Pilate “found no fault” in Him.

Yet, the Jews needed an accusation that would require the death penalty, therefore they charged Jesus with “TREASON”! They claimed he was a king, which He was. This king status would be brought before Herod and the Roman world. He was an insurrectionist!! (John 18:34)

“33Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews? 34Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me? “

Next Jesus appears before Herod, but His innocence seemed to be evident. (Luke 23:6-12)

“When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilaean. 7And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time. 8And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad: for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him; and he hoped to have seen some miracle done by him. 9Then he questioned with him in many words; but he answered him nothing. 10And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently accused him. 11And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate. 12And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves.”

So back to Pilate goes Jesus, but a criminal named Barnabas is released. (John 18:39-19:1)

“Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all. 39But ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the passover: will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews? 40Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.”

Pilate trying to placate the Jews turned Jesus over to be scourged. (John 19:1-5)

“1Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. 2And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe, 3And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands. 4Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him. 5Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! “

Crucify Him, shouted the Jews! Blasphemy!! (John 18:6-7)

Conclusion: Between Pilate and Herod, Jesus has been announced innocent 5 times!

We would say, “IT was a DONE DEAL!!”

But actually Jesus fore told us that no man would take His life. (John 10:17, 18)

“17Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. 18No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again.”