Introduction: Do you love to spend time with Jesus? He makes the difference! People can even tell the difference He makes when we wait upon Him in “Prayer & Faith.” PRAYER WORKS if you WORK it!

A good example of that is found in the book of Acts.

Check it out:

“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13)

1. After being persecuted for doing the “Work of the Lord,” check out Peter’s response! (Acts 4:8-10)

“8Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, 9If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; 10Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.”

A lame man was healed. But as you might suspect, everyone was not happy, especially the religious crowd. Yet, Peter was “filled with the Holy Spirit,” That was the key. After spending time in the presence of Jesus Christ, the glory of the Lord was on Peter and John. They were bold witnesses. 

Have you been persecuted? Do you spend time to get “FILLED UP”?

2. The proof was in the pudding – the lame man was healed by the power of God, which was working through yielded vessels such as Peter and John! (Acts 4:11,12)

“11This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. 12Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

Here is the GOOD NEWS! Jesus is His name. There is POWER in His resurrected life. He holds the keys to death and hell (Rev 1:18).

Go tell! Don’t be ashamed!!

3. Others will not be able to deny the proof and the testimony of the transformation of a life that has been changed by Jesus Christ! (Acts 4:14)

“14And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.”

Glory! Don’t you love it!! Praise the Lord!!!

Conclusion: “Being with Jesus” makes the difference not only in our life but in others – like the lame man. In turn, when our Lord performs His mighty unstoppable work, others – like the religious crowd – cannot deny that Jesus Christ is Lord!

1. First, The UPLOOK! (Titus 2:13)

“13Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ.”

Along with the writings of Paul, Luke was inspired to write these words in the context of the second coming of Jesus – not the rapture. 

“28And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” (Luke 21:28).

2. Next, The INLOOK! (Titus 2:11-12)

“…Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14Who gave himself for us.”

3. Finally, The OUTLOOK! (Titus 2:11, 14)

“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men…..13Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.”

Conclusion: Keep LOOKING UP! Keep running the RACE where GRACE is in PLACE!! Keep your eyes on the PRIZE!!!
Finish Faithful.

Introduction: Why are so many relationships failing today? Yes. I agree. There are no “perfect” relationships. However, if our Lord Jesus is perfect, and He is, then He would know how to build a relationship that will last a lifetime….not perfect but BLESSED. He gives us not only instructions but also His overcoming life to enable us to make the most of our relationships.

Check out the following:

These principles will work for any relationship.

1. Medicine for our Marriages! (Col 3:18,19)

“18Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. 19Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.”

Two things. According to this and other Scriptures, the wife’s role is to come under the authority of a husband…God holds him accountable as a provider, protector, and priest of hi home. As she does, she is “submitting” to Jesus Christ who submitted to His Father’s will. 

On the other hand, the husband is to “love” – unconditionally – his wife as himself (Eph 5:22-33)….blemishes and all. If you do a word study on these words, you’ll discover “submit” is ὑποτάσσω(hoop-ot-as’-so), which means to place under, to put myself into subjection. If you do a word study on these words, you’ll discover “love” is agape, which means unconditional. Furthermore, the Lord instructs the husband not to be bitten with bitterness. 

2. Purpose for Parenting! (Col 3:20,21)

“20Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. 21Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.”

Both children and parents have guidelines for functioning in the home. 

Conclusion: Bottom line: Our God knows what is best! All of this is possible because of Jesus Christ’s power for the hour!

Introduction: Do you like Love Stories? Here is a passage of Scripture that is an intimate “Love” relationship between Solomon and his Shunamite bride. There are several different approaches to interpreting this book called the Song of Solomon. Some interpret it as meaning Jesus Christ and His relationship to the Church, which has some merit. Others understand it as God the Father’s relationship between He and His wife, namely Israel. This also has validity. Still others interpret Song of Solomon from the literal perspective as to mean this is Solomon and his bride. So we have the allegorical method, the historical method, and the literal method of understanding this book. The best interpretation is technical, which is the literal, although we can certainly draw parallels from other Scriptures.

Here is the The Bride’s response: “16Behold, thou art fair, my beloved, yea, pleasant: also our bed is green.” (Song of Sol 2:1f)

“3As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons. I sat down under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit was sweet to my taste. 4He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. 5Stay me with flagons, comfort me with apples: for I am sick of love. 6His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me.”

“My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies.” (Song of Sol 2:16)

Solomon uses flattering words as he seduces his bride to be, while she is captured and bitten with the LOVE BUG! Yet as you know, love is deeper than an emotion!

“7Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. 8Charity never faileth.” (1Cor 13:7,8)

That is our Lord’s definition of love.

2. Next the Wedding! (Song of Sol 3:9-11)

“9King Solomon made himself a chariot of the wood of Lebanon. 10He made the pillars thereof of silver, the bottom thereof of gold, the covering of it of purple, the midst thereof being paved with love, for the daughters of Jerusalem. 11Go forth, O ye daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon with the crown wherewith his mother crowned him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart.”

Imagine the pomp and pageantry of the wedding of the King. By the way, he was one of the richest men in the world. However, here is a side note looking back in retrospect. His many wives and concubines helped turn his heart away from God. Consequently, his kingdom was divided after his death in 931 BC.

3. Finally, after the wedding! (Song of Sol 4-8:6,7)

“Set me as a seal upon thine heart, as a seal upon thine arm: for love is strong as death; jealousy is cruel as the grave: the coals thereof are coals of fire, which hath a most vehement flame. 7Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it: if a man would give all the substance of his house for love, it would utterly be contemned.”

After the fantasy and ecstasy comes the REALITY!

Introduction: It is already here! The Spirit of the Antichrist was prevalent during John’s time as well as our day. How can one tell when the Spirit of the Antichrist is present?

1. When Jesus Christ is denied! (1John 2:18)

“18Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.”

(1John 4:1-3)

“Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 2Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 3And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.”

In concluding, not only do we see the Spirit of Antichrist more and more but we should be able to detect this movement and refute its claims.

2. When the Bible is defied! (Gen 3:1-15)

“And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: 5For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.”

This is Satan’s chief tool. Beware. Watch out. Be on guard.

3. When Satan is desired! (Rev 13:1-18)

“……And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?”

This world political, religious and economic leader will rule the world.

But his demise is inevitable. Jesus will throw him into the lake of fire.

Introduction: Does man have a leg to stand on? Is God fair? Why would the Lord condemn anyone? Check out how Paul meticulously declares man to be guilty without any defense.

1.Revelation (Rom 1:18)

“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness.”

The word “hold” is κατέχω, (kat-ekh’-o). By definition it means to hold fast, bind, arrest, to take possession of, lay hold of, to hold back, detain, restrain, to hold a ship, keep its head.

Basically, it means to hold down or suppress.

In other words, when a person hears the Word of God being proclaimed through reading or teaching or preaching and one “turns a deaf ear” or denies its TRUTH, he or she is in danger of the next downfall after CREATION which is DECEPTION. It is an irreversible slippery slope that leads to destruction.

2.Creation (Rom 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.”

Did you see the words “without excuse”? That means with defense. There is no excuse. CREATION is an undeniable witness.  

3.Deception (Rom 1:21)

“21Because 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. 22Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, 23And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.”

Denying or suppressing the TRUTH of the WORD of God leads to delusional thinking….then delusional acting. Now we can see why a man or a woman does abominable things; i.e. bestiality, etc.

Perverted living is the result.

4.Rationalization (Rom 1:22-33)

“24Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: 25Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. 26For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: 27And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 28And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient.”

Because of man’s disobedience through deception and delusion, and perversion, Paul reveals the Lord “TURNING” them OVER to a “reprobate” mind.

The word “reprobate” is παραδίδωμι (par-ad-id’-o-mee). It means to hand over, to give or deliver over, to betray….It can also mean to abandon.

This is sad indeed. But there is hope, but only through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

Conclusion: It is not that man doesn’t believe in God, instead he rejects the TRUTH of God. Here we have description of a downward spiral of our culture. And yet, our Lord has empowered His followers to stand up, speak up, and get ready to go up!

Keep looking up!!

Introduction: There’s no doubt we are experiencing INFLATION…highest it’s been in decades ( 7.8%). But what is really troubling is that far too many CHRISTians are facing SPIRITUAL INFLATION! But why? And how can we go from INFLATION to FORMATION?

1. The Causes! (Rom 1:6-11)

“6Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:”

There’s is a lack of PURPOSE! How about you? Do you know God’s PURPOSE for your life?

Notice the word “CALLED.” (Rom 1:6)

“7To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Next, look at the word FAITH. (Rom 1:8)

“First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.”

Is there a lack of FAITH?

Finally consider the element of PRAYER. (Rom 1:9)

“For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;”

PRAYER Works if you Work it!

Now what are the CURES?

2. The Cures! (Rom 1:14-16)

“I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. 15So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. 16For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.”

Bottom line:

SERVING Jesus! SHARING Jesus! These are God’s cure for SPIRITUAL inflation.

Conclusion: Is SPIRITUAL INFLATION more important to the Lord than Economical Inflation? Probably so. Let’s make the adjustments necessary to turn things around by serving and sharing Jesus. 

Introduction: I love Romans chapter 12. Why? Because it describes in a nutshell the process God uses to make His children useful. Please notice the steps. While studying the process ask yourself, “Where am I?”

1. Transformation (Rom 12:1,2)

“1I 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. 2And 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.”

First – Presentation
Second – Confirmation
Third – Alteration

Do you agree that we have to have a “change of heart” first? Do you? Is your mind being renewed?

2. Assimilation (Rom 12:4-8)

“For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: 5So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. 6Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; 7Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; 8Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.”

Rather than sitting, soaking, and souring, God’s will is for His children to SERVE Him with the spiritual gifts that have been imparted to each believer. Do you know your spiritual gift(s)? Are you SERVING with a good attitude?

3. Dedication (Rom 12:9-13)

“9Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. 10Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; 11Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; 12Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; 13Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality….”

After saving us by His marvelous grace and calling us through His spiritual gifts, we are to exercise those gifts for His glory.

Introduction: Did you know Jesus Christ fulfills this role as PROPHET, PRIEST, and KING? King David verifies this truth in Psalm 110. The writer to the book of Hebrews, many believe Paul, while under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, declares the same in Hebrews 9:24-28.

1. Jesus As PRIEST! (Heb 9:24)

“4For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us: 25Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every year with blood of others;”

As you recall, the high priest was the only one who could enter into the holiest of holies on the special day designated as “The Day of ATONEMENT”! While in that sacred place, he would sprinkle the blood of a goat for the purpose of the forgiveness of the people’s sins. However, this was repeated year after year and only “covered” their sins unlike when Jesus Christ poured His life giving blood which would be “once and for all” a sacrifice for man’s sins forever! Do you see the difference? Now, Jesus sits at the right hand of the FATHER making intercession for the saints. (see Rom 8:34, Heb 1:3; Heb 8:1; Heb 10:12; Heb 12:2)

“We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heaven.”

2. Jesus as PROPHET! (Heb 9:26)

“For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.”

Did you notice the phrase, “hath he appeared”? This means Jesus’s role on earth was a prophetic role. He foretold events that would happen. Interestingly enough, how many have been fulfilled. Others will be fulfilled in His timing.

3. Jesus as KING! (Heb 9:28)

“So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.”

Jesus will return as the “King of Kings”!

Introduction: Choices. We have daily choices. Is it going to be dominating by the flesh today….me myself & I? Or is it going to be under the control of the Holy Spirit?

This passage of Scripture lays out the “tug of war.” Which will you choose today? Anger vs Forgiveness. Pride vs humility. Jealously vs unselfishness, etc.

1. Walking in the Spirit (Gal 5:16)

“16This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”

The word “walk” is περιπατέw: (per-ee-pat-eh’-o), which means conduct my life, to live. This speaks of lifestyle. To walk in the Spirit means to live by the Spirit. Are you living by the Spirit? What changes need to take place in order for you to walk in the Spirit?

2. Walking in the flesh (Gal 5:17-21)

“For 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.”

Sounds like a modern day description. Doesn’t it? As an unconverted man, this is the lifestyle when it comes to the heart. Are there too many flesh patterns in your life?

Conclusion: It appears that even after receiving Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, we have daily choices. Feed the flesh or surrender to the Spirit. 

However, make no mistake about it, “IT PAYS to WALK in the SPIRIT”! So let’s walk in the Spirit…