I. THINK ABOUT THE PROVIDER OF GRACE

See John 1:14, 17

A. Think about the freeness of the grace of God

Grace is the “unmerited favor of God.” Romams * 8:32 says, “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?”

B. Think about the fullness of the grace of God

John 1:16 says, “And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.”

II. THINK ABOUT THE POSSESSION OF GRACE

A. This involves a reception of Him as Lord and Savior

John 1:12a says. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” God’s grace, again, is unmerited, and not something to be earned. It is God’s gift to all who receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast” (Eph. 2:8, 9).

B. This involves a relationship with Him

John 1:12b tells us that those wsho believe become His children, as “sons of God.”

III. THINK ABOUT THE PURPOSE OF GRACE,

John 1:14 and 17 tells us that because Jesus has come into the world, “grace and truth” have also come into the world.

A. There is grace for the sins we have to deal with

2 Cor. 12:9 “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” What God said to Paul is applicable to all who believe in and on Jesus Christ.

B. There is grace for the struggles we have to deal with

Hebrews 4:16 says, “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Are you acting on this great privilege as a believer in Jesus?

Think about God’s grace.

Note: Three things about this anchor: (1) the promises from which it has been forged, (2) the people that this anchor is for and (3) the place where this anchor is fixed.

I. THE PROMISES FROM WHICH THIS ANCHOR HASBEEN FORGED

Note: 1. these are proven promises

2. God’s promises to Abraham used to illustrate them

A. The guarantee that Abraham had…

Read more

Note: 1. The Old Testament is story of God who:

a. is faithful to an unfaithful people

b. keeps being good to people who keep being bad

c. loves people who aren’t worth loving

d. who puts clothes on back, shoes on feet, ring on finger of people who prefer the far country and the pig pen of this world

2. The Old Testament is story of people who:

a…

Read more

Read the background to the above text and Ezek. 10:4, 18; 11:23. The glory of the Lord is something that can be forfeited by, lost to, an individual, a church or nation whether the party or parties involved are conscious of the occurrence or not (Jud. 16:20). The good news is that glory forfeited, can be found again. The glory of God relinquished because of sin can be restored gain by way of repentance.

This is a message of warning and of encouragement that is very much needed today. It’s a message I have endeavored to preach. Here are my notes:

I. THE CAUSE OF THE DEPARTED GLORY OF GOD

Note: chapter 2

A. a corrupt priesthood

1. the sons of Eli were irreverent

Note: 2:12-17 “Now the sons … of the Lord

Note: 1. Hophni and Phinehas were sensual, scandalous and lost

2. 1 John 3:7, 8a “Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righterousness is righteous even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil”

James 2:17 “faith, if it hath not works is dead, being alone”

3. Wm. Gurnall “Say not that thou hast royal blood in thy veins, and art born of God unless thou canst prove thy pedigree by daring to be holy”

2. the sons of Eli were incorrigible

Note: 2:22-25 “Now Eli was … would slay them”

Note: 1. they didn’t receive the truth because their sin had left them with nothing to receive the truth with.

2. 1 Cor. 2:14 “the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God : for they are foolishness unto him: neither indeed can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned”

*Note: Reason for this:

1. Notice information E:i had regarding this situation

1 Sam. 2:22-24 “Now Eli … to transgress”

a. Eli apparently put up with a lot from his sons. Their abuse of the women finally caused him to confront them

b. Early confrontation might have prevented this

2. Notic Eli the influence Eli had with his sons

v. 25b “Nevertheless they hearkened not to the voice of their father”

*Note: 1. What God told the child Samuel one night later on:

2. 3:11 And the … restrained them not.”

*Note: This happened because unfit leadership was in place. A leadership problem develops in families and churches where leadership doesn’t stay on top of things.

*Note: There was no respect for the moral law of God, either on the part of the priesthood or the people

B. a carnal and careless people

Note: the Commandments, Moral Law was given to thepeople as a whole; not just to the priests.

1. the people should have been more valiant for the truth than they were

2. should have gotten rid of Hophni and Phinehas

Note: There is no shelf life” on Ten Commandments; God’s moral law isn’t negotiable. It was etched in stone, not written in sand. There is now a full scale revolt in America against God’s moral law; 77% of Americans do not believe in concept of absolute truth; 50% of these are evangelicals.

*Note: There are growing numbers of “Church for Sale” signs because churches have sold out.

Note: Prov. 23:23: “Buy the truth and sell it not; also wisdom and instruction and understanding”

2 Tim. 4:2-4 “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. 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; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”

Jude 3b “Earnestly contend for the faith”

*Note: 1. George Gallup: “Only 10% of professingChristians say that their beliefs effect their lifestyles

2. Poll: “The morality factor among young people between non-Christian and evangelical young people is the same.”

3. This is something I’ve suspected for a long time

*Note: 1. Facebook page of F. B. Dallas; Jeffords

2. Christmas program; choreographed dancers in background

*Note: 1. The result of their ignoring the commandments of God

2. 3:1 “the word of the Lord was precious in those days; there was no open vision:

3. If actions demonstrate that you don’t need, want. or intend to obey God’s Word He will take it away. The Word , biblical preaching, etc., will become scarce. Amos 8:11 “Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord:”

*Note: See chapter 4

1. Their superficiality

Note: 1. They took a beating early on from the Philistines: V. 2 “And the Philistines … four thousand men”

2. They trotted out the ark of the covenant like it was a lucky rabbit’s foot, and put on a big show with lots of shouting: Verses 4, 5 “So the people … rang a gain.”

2. Their surprise

Note: 1. Even the Philistines were surprised.2. 4:10, 11a “And the Philistines … was taken”

II. THE CONSEQUENCES OF THE DEPARTED GLORY OF GOD

A. In terms of the news that was given

1. News that confirmed that their army had been conquered

Note: v. 17a “And the messenger answered and said, Israel had fled before the Philistinnes, and their hath been a great slaughter among the people”

2. News that confirmed that the ark had been captured

Note: v. 17c “and the ark of God is taken”

B. in terms of a name that was given

1. The conditions that were involved in the giving of thi name

Note: vv. 19c, 20a “[Phinehas’ wife] she bowed herself and travailed, for her pains came upon her. And about the time of her death”

2. The commemoration that was involved in the giving of this name

Note: v. 22 “And she said … ark of God is taken”

III. THE CONTINUANCE OF THE DEPARTED GLORY OF GOD

Note: 1. chapters 5, the ark of God sent to the Philistine cities of Ashdod, Gath and Ekron

2. Chapters. 6, 7: the ark of God brought to the house of Joshua the Bethshemite (ch6) and to the house of Abinhadab (ch. 7)

*Note: Notice and remember in chapter 6:7, the “new cart” that the Philistines made.

Note: the glory of God has not departed the earth, but it still isn’t where it was intended to reside for the sake of maximum glory

A. The glory was witnessing

1. Notice the witness the ark had among the heathen

Note: the frustration brought to the Philistines

1. The temple of Dagon, the emerods, in Ashdod, 6:1-5

2. The destruction and emerods ioin Gath, 6:8, 9

3. the destruction and death in Ekron, 6:10-12

2. Notice the witness the ark had among the Hebrews

Note: chs. 6 and 7

B. The glory was waiting

1. Waiting for someone concerned enough to bring it back

2. Waiting for someone competent enough to bring back

Note: someone who would bring it back properly, according to God’s revealed way.

CONCLUSION:

Note: (1) the death in view, (2) the discovery in view and (3) the deliverance in view

I. THE DEATH IN VIEW

A. The intentions that were in place in the midst of this dearth

Note: v. 38 “And Elisha … the prophes.”

B. The ignorance that was in play in the midst of this dearth

Note: v. 39 “And one … knew them not.”

II. THE DISCOVERY IN VIEW

A. The ti…

Read more

Note: Background

Note: The sin of Ahab relative to Naboth’s garden, notice: (1) the covetousness involved, (2) the conspiracy involved, (3) the criminality involved and (4) the consequences involved.

Note: Here is one of history’s most evil and infamous husband-

wife teams. (Think: Bill and Hillary Clinton).

I. THE COVETOUSNESS THAT IS IN VIEW HERE

Note: 1. Col. 1:5 “Mortify … an covetousness, which isidolatry.”

2. Ahab’s coveting of Naboth’s vineyard was consistent with his idolatrous nature.

A. The property that Ahab wanted

1. Ahab’s desire for Naboth’s vineyard was very strong

Note: vv. 1, 2 “And it came … in money.”

2. Ahab’s desire for Naboth’s vineyard was very sinful

Note: Num. 36:7 “So shall not the inheritance of the children of Israel remove from tribe to tribe: for every one of the children of Israel shall keep himself to the inheritance of the tribe of his fathers.”

B. The proposition that Ahab made

1. Notice the disinterest of Naboth’s response

Note: v. 3 “And Naboth … unto thee.”

2. Notice the disappointment of Ahab in Naboth’s response

Note: v. 4 “And Ahab ... eat no bread.”

II. THE CONSPIRACY THAT IS IN VIEW HERE

Note: 1. The enabler of this conspiracy

a. The idolatry that Jezebel embraced

b. The influence that Jezebel exerted

2. The execution of this conspiracy

a. The intrigue involved in Jezebel’s plan

vv. 8-10a “So she … God and the king.”

b. The intention involved in Jezebel’s plan

v. 10b “And then … that he may die.”

A. The report that Jezebel heard from her husband

1. Notice Jezebel’s concern

Note: v. 5 “But Jezebel … no bread?”

2. Notice Ahab’s complaint

Note: v. 6 “And he said … my vineyard.”

B. The reassurance that Jezebel had for her husband

1. Jezebel’s pacification of Ahab

Note: v. 7a “And Jezebel … the Jezreelite.”

Note: def. “to ease the anger or disturbance of”

2. Jezebel’s pacification of Ahab

Note: v. 7b “I will give thee … the Jezreelite.”

Note: Jezebel saw herself as a “fixer.”

Note: She was the Hillary Clinton of her time.

III. THE CRIMINALITY THAT IS IN VIEW HERE

A. Notice the misrepresentation of Naboth that was part of this criminality

1. The communications that were involved in this demonization and defamation of Naboth

Note: vv. 8-10 “So she wrote … he may die.”

2. The coconspirators who were involved in thisdemonization and defamation of Naboth

Note: vv. 11-13a “And the men … God and the king.”

B. Notice the murder of Naboth that was part of this criminality

1. The unjust taking of Naboth’s life

Note: vv. 13b-14 “they carried him … is dead.”

2. The unjust taking of Naboth’s land

Note: vv. 15, 16 “And it came … possession of it.”

Note: 1. Jezebel had no qualms about incorporating religion (fasting) or the name of God into her plan.

2. Luke 18:2 “There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man:.”

IV. THE CONSEQUENCES THAT ARE IN VIEW HERE

Note: Num. 32:23 “Be sure your sin will find you out.”

Note: 1. Rom. 6:23 “The wages of sin is death … “

2. Payday was on its way for Ahab

A. The consequences of sin that were explained to Ahab

1. The revelation that was made to Ahab

Note: vv. 17-26 “And the word … the air eat.”

Note: A. W. Pink (1956): “It is just such messages which our degenerate age calls for. It is the lack of them which ahs brought about the terrible condition which the world is now in. Mealy-mouthed preachers deceived the fathers, and now their children have turned their backs on the churches.”

2. The repentance that was manifested by Ahab

Note: vv. 27-29 “And it came … his house.”

B. The consequences of sin that were experienced by Ahab

1. How Ahab and Jezebel were confronted with the consequences of their sin here

Note: 1. Ahab

1 Kings 22:29-38 [vv. 34, 35] “And a certain man drew a bow at a venture, and smote the king of Israel between the joints of the harness: wherefore he said unto the driver of his chariot, Turn thine hand, and carry me out of the host; for I am wounded. And the battle increased that day: and the king was stayed up in his chariot against the Syrians, and died at even: and the blood ran out of the wound into the midst of the chariot.

2. Jezebel

2 Kings 9:30-37 “And … This is Jezebel.”

2. How Ahab and Jezebel are being confronted with the consequences of their sin in hell

Note: 1. The time came for both of them when they had to abdicate all their earthly status and absent themselves from the space that had been temporarily allocated to them of earth and go for eternity into a place that was enlarged to make space for them—a place where space had been enlarged before, and will continue to be enlarged to receive people like them.

2. Isa. 5:14 “Therefore hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure: and their glory, and their multitude, and their pomp, and he that rejoiceth, shall descend into it.”

CONCLUSION:

Note: There is much to learn in this chapter about the depths of the evil with which we have to contend, God’s Condemnation of it, and the grace that God offers in times such as our own.

I. THE CORRUPTION IN VIEW HERE

A. The conditions that are referred to here

1. The increase of mankind that is mentioned here,

Note: v. 1 “And it came to pass … unto them.”

2. The intercourse with mankind that is mentioned here,

Note: v. 2 “That the sons … all which they chose.”

B. The consequences that are referred to here

1. The offense that is mentioned here

Note: v. 3 “And the Lord said … twenty years.”

2. The offspring that are mentioned here,

Note: v. 4 “There were giants … men of renown.”

II. THE CONDEMNATION IN VIEW HERE

A. The cause of this divine condemnation that is in view here

1. The consciousness of God of the wickedness taking place on the earth

Note: v. 5 “And God saw …evil continually.”

2. The choice relative that was made relative

Note: vv. 6, 7 “And it repented … made them.”

Note: The exercise of divine prerogative in answer to sin is seen here.

B. The consequences of the wickedness taking place on the earth

1. The displeasure that is mentioned in connection with these consequences

Note: v. 6 “And it repented … His heart.”

2. The destruction that is mentioned in connection with these consequences

Note: v. 7 “And the Lord …made them.”

III. THE COVENANT IN VIEW HERE

A. The person in view here

1. The grace associated with Noah

Note: v. 8 “But Noah found grace …the Lord.”

2. The goodness associated with Noah

A famous preacher once said, “I milk a lot of cows, but I make my own cream.” I hope many will visit https://charlescurtman.substack.com/s/bible-study-notes and find some “cream” they can skim off to help them make their own “butter.” Much content is already available and more will be added each week. Comments and suggestions will be deeply appreciated. Please click the “Gift Subscription” button and share this offer with as many people as you can.

Contributions in any amount toward the upkeep of this ministry have been, and will be, appreciated. But they aren’t required.

Note: In these verses learn, from Jesus’ instruction to His disciples that offenses are something for which we must be prepared, and ready, with and by faith to forgive.

I. SOMETHING IS SPOKEN OF HERE THAT WAS, AND IS, INEVITABLE FOR JESUS’ DISCIPLES

A. The potential for offenses is in view here

Note: v. 1a “Then said he unto his disciple, it …

Read more

Note: What is involved with, included in and what issues from ones being “saved”?

Note: (1) We have been saved from the penalty of sin, (2) we are being saved from the power of sin and (3) we will be saved from the presence of sin.

I. THOSE WHO ARE SAVED HAVE BEEN SAVED FROM THE PENALTY OF SIN

A. Being saved from the penalty of sin means that we have been saved from a certain condition and a certain position.

Note: Eph. 2:1 “And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sin.”

Eph. 2:12 “aliens and strangers … and without God in the world.”

Col. 1:21 “And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled.

B. Being saved from the penalty of sin means that we have been saved from a certain condemnation and a certain place

Note: Rom. 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk, not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”

Luke 16:28b “ … this place of torment.”

II. THOSE WHO ARE SAVED ARE BEING SAVED FROM THE POWER OF SIN

A. the reality involved with our emancipation from the power of sin

Note: Heb. 2:14, 15 “ Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.”

Note: 1. Rock of Ages

Rock of ages, cleft for me
Let me hide myself in Thee
Rock of ages, cleft for me
Let me hide myself in Thee

Let the water and the blood
From Thy riven side which flowed
Be of sin the double cure
Cleanse me from it's guilt and pow'r

2. The “double cure” here refers not only to our

once and for all, finished, salvation, from the penalty of sin but also to our day to day emancipation from the power that sin once had over us.

B. the responsibility involved with our emancipation from the penalty of sin, but also our emancipation for the power of sin

Note: Rom. 6:11-22

III. THOSE WHO ARE SAVED WILL BE SAVED FROM THE PRESENCE OF SIN

A. We will be caught up

Note: 1 Thess. 4:13-18

B. We will be changed

Note: 1 Cor. 15:51-57

Phil. 3:20, 21

CONCLUSION:

Note: Background

Note: Brought into view in these opening verses are: (1) Paul’s credentials, (2) Paul’s companions and (3) Paul’s concern

I. PAUL’S CREDENTIALS ARE MENTIONED HERE

A. Paul lets it be known that his credentials relative to the Gospel ministry were not the result of any human calling.

Note: v. 1a “Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man”

B. Paul lets it be known that his credentials relative to the Gospel ministry were the result of any a holy calling

Note: v. 1b “but by Jesus Christ … from the dead;)

II. PAUL’S COMPANIONS ARE MENTIONED HERE

Note: 1. Paul wrote to the churches of Galatia from Corinth.

2. Paul valued and loved his companions in the ministry; those who were true rather than “false” brethren (2 Cor. 11:26).

Note: 1. Rom. 16 (26 “brethren” mentioned by name plus “households” referred to.

2. Paul wrote to the Church at Rome from Corinth

Rom. 16:21-23 “Timotheus my workfellow, and

Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you. I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord.Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother.The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.”

A. notice Paul’s companions love for him

Note: v. 2a “And all the brethren … are with me”

Note: they were with him in terms of their bodily presence

Note: Real friends are those who show up; tthose who walk in when everybody else has walked out.

B. Notice Paul’s companions like-mindedness with him

Note: v. 2b “unto the churches of Galatia

Note: 1. Like-mindedness was the secret, the key to the power and success of the early church.

Luke 24:49 “And,, behold, I send the promise of my

Father upon you: but tarry ye in Jerusalem until ye be endued with power from on high.”

Acts 2:1 “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with on accord, in one place.”

2. Like-mindedness has always been and is the secret, the key to the power and success of any church

Note: 1. Paul’s companions were with him in terms of his burden for those in Galatia

2. Paul’s letter expressed the sentiments of all of the brethren who were with him for the churches of Galatia

III. PAUL’S CONCERN IS MENTIONED HERE

Note: An often used salutation

1 Cor. 1:3 “Grace [be] unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and [from] the Lord Jesus Christ.”

2 Cor. 1:2 “Grace [be] unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and [from] the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Eh. 1:2 “Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

Phil. 1:1 “Grace [be] unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and [from] the Lord Jesus Christ.”

A. Paul and his companions’ concern involved a certain progress that they wanted the Galatians to always be enjoying

Note: v. 3a “Grace be to you and peace … “

Note: 1. Paul and others disturbed by who had crept in, were introducing error and perverting the Gospel in the Galatian churches

2. this can happen, has happened and is happening in many good churches.

3. There are many “other” gospels; The gospel of the charismatics, Calvinists, Catholics and cults (JW’s and Mormons, etc.)

B. Paul and his companions’ concern involved a certain

Person that they wanted the Galatians to always be exalting

Note: v. 3b “from God the Father … Jesus Christ.”

Note: Eph. 1:22b “[God the Father has given] him to be

the head over all things to the church.”

CONCLUSION:

Note: Lessons to learn: (1) The arrival of Paul and his fellow laborers (2) the agenda of Paul and his fellow laborers and (3) the adversity of Paul and his fellow laborers.

I. THE ARRIVAL OF PAUL AND HIS FELLOW LABORERS IN THESSALONICA

A. The journey to Thessalonica

Note: This journey involved a 100 mile walk. Nothing said of the time or tiredness; the distance or difficulties; these didn’t matter.

Note: Here is an example of the Holy Spirit inspired strategy employed by the early church to reach their world for Christ.

1. This strategy can be seen in how they were directed to a particular continent

Note: Acts 16:6-11 “Now when … to Neapolis.”

2. This can be seen in how they were directed to a particular city

Note: v. 1a “Now when … Thessalonica”

Note: Barclay:”The coming to Thessalonica was an event of the first importance. The great Roman road from the Adriatic Sea to the Middle East was called the Egnatian Way; and the main street of Thessalonica was actually part of that road. If Christianity was firmly founded in Thessalonica it cold spread both east and west along that road until it became a very highway of the progress of t kingdom of God.”

B. The Jews who were in Thessalonica

Note: v. 1b “where there was … Jews:”

1. There was great potential at the synagogue

Note: people grounded in Law of Moses (Gal. 3:24)

2. There were gentile proselytes in the synagogue

Note: The Jews didn’t want to lose them.

*Note: We need a life strategy and the Lord has a “strategy” for us to follow as individuals, and as a church.

1. Prov. 37:23, 24 “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: And he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: For the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.

2. We may stumble or “fall” while following His strategy, but He’ll pick us up and see us through, help us stay the course.

II. THE AGENDA OF PAUL AND HIS FELLOW LABORERS IN THESSALONICA

A. Christ was preached

Note: 1. Paul followed the same modus operandi here as he did elsewhere.

2. Acts 9:20 “And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues that He is the Son of God.”

1. Preaching Christ must be preeminent

Note: v. 2 “And Paul as his … Scriptures.”

Note: 1. Paul’s “manner” of preaching:

2. He “reasoned with them out of the scriptures.” (True preaching).

Note: 1 Cor. 1:23, 24 “But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.

Phil. 1:18 “What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ ispreached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.

Note: There are a lot of topics to preach on, and preachers are preaching a lot of things. But, preeminently, Christ must be preached.

2. Preaching Christ must be powerful and pointed

Note: 1Thess. 1:5 “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.”

Note: v. 3 “Opening and alleging … is Christ.”

Note: His vicarious death and His victorious resurrection must be preached

B. Converts were produced

1. The decisions that were made by these converts

Note: v. 4a “And some of them believed … and Silas”

Note: 1. “consorted with” = Acts 2:42 “And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.”

2. Interesting def.: “To habitually associate with someone; typically with the disapproval of others.”

Note: Not enough just to “think about it,” know what is the right thing to do,” etc. Have to come to a point of decision to exercise “Repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.”

2. The differences mentioned concerning these converts

Note: v. 4b “and of some … not a few.”

Note: Gal. 3:28, 29 “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.”

III. THE ADVERSITY EXPERIENCED BY PAUL AND HIS FELLOW LABORERS IN THESSALONICA

A. The accomplices in this persecution

1. The ringleaders of this persecution

Note: v. 5a “But the Jews which … envy”

2. The recruits to this persecution

Note: v. 5b “certain lewd … a company”

Note: There are a lot of “lewd fellows” opposing the Gospel today in our government, schools, media, etc.

*Note: 1. The ringleaders did what they did because they were “moved with envy.”

2. The recruits did what they did because they were “lewd fellows of the baser sort.”

B. The attack that were involved in this persecution

1. The assault that was made

Note: vv. 5c, 6a “[they] assaulted … the city.”

Note: Attacks becoming more and more common.

2. The accusations that were made

Note: vv. 6b-8 “These that have … there things”

Note: v. 6b on the pagan’s part was a complaint; on our part it is a commendation and compliment that they has “turned the world upside down.” (to “unsettle”).

Note: 1. Christians being accused of all sorts of things today.

2. This is nothing new.

IV. THE AFTERMATH OF PAUL AND HIS FELLOW LABORERS VISIT TO THESSALONICA

A. The converts in Thessalonica were set free

Note: v. 9 “And when … let them go.”

Note: When people like this are “let go,” they get going

B. A great church in Thessalonica was soon founded

Note: See First and Second Thessalonians

CONCLUSION:

Note: Notice here: (1) The place attended by Eutychus, (2) The position assumed by Eutychus and (3) The problem associated with Eutychus.

I. THE PLACE EUTYCHUS ATTENDED

Note: Where he was, was a good place for him to be.

A. It was a good place to be because who was gathered together there – the people of God

Note: v. 7a “And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples together”

B. It was a good place to be because what was going on there – the preaching of the Gospel

Note: v. 7b “Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.”

Note: 1 Cor. 1: 18, 21 “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God … 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.”

Acts 28:30, 31 “And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him, Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

Matt. 9:35a “And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom,

II. THE POSITION EUTYCHUS ASSUMED

Note: v.9a “And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus.”

Note: He chose to sit where he was; he put himself in this window. It was nobody’s fault except his own that he was where he was.

A. Selflessness and service to others had nothing to do with the position he had assumed

Note: 1. His position was obstructing the “Breeze” from falling on the rest of the congregation.

Acts 2:1, 2 “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.’

2. Some people’s spirit in the house of God make them “quenchers of the Holy Spirit” for others (1 Thes. 5:19).

Note: Sometimes, people like Eutychus, conscious of, and concerned with only what they want, or they, like Achan, can become the “sin in the camp” that prevents the their church and others from catching the “Breeze” of the Holy Ghost” and getting victory, etc.

B. His own safety had nothing to do with the position he had assumed

Note: 1. He was careless in his attentiveness to the worship and to the preaching of the Word of God.

Luke 8:18 “Take heed how ye hear”

Rev. 2, 3 “He that hath an ear to hear.”

2. He may have become contemptuous of, or cold towards, the preaching of the Word of God.

2. Job 23:12b “I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.”

III. THE PROBLEM WITH WHICH EUTYCHUS IS ASSOCIATED

Note: v. 9b “Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up taken up dead.”

Note: People are leaning the wrong way today in terms of theeir spirituality, Bibles, worship, morality, politics, separation.

A. The reason for this problem

Note: 1. The position he’d taken was a perilous

Note: He was leaning the wrong way in that he wasn’t all the way in the house of God, the service, etc.— neither was he all the way out.3. Which way are you “leaning” right now?

Note: When did you start leaning out instead of in? When are you going to start leaning the right way? You start leaning the wrong way when you start slipping into a spiritual sleep.

1. It was a developing problem

Note: 1. He hadn’t “fallen into a deep sleep” instantly or “sunk down with sleep” all at once. This state happened gradually.

2. Problem: Eutychus was too inclined toward, interested in, getting his sleep than he was with what he might have been able to get out of Paul’s ministry of the Word of God. As he lapsed more and more into a state of sleep, he started leaning in the wrong direction. See Rom. 13:11

2. It was a disastrous problem

Note: v. 9c “[he} fell down from the third loft and was taken up dead

B The remedy for this problem

1. Notice the response extended here

Note: v. 10a “And Paul … embracing him”

2. Notice the rescue/revival experienced here

Note: v. 10b “[Paul said] “Trouble …in him.”

Note: v. 12 “They … a little comforted.”

CONCLUSION:

Note: Have you gotten spiritually slothful? starting to lean? Are you leaning the wrong way? When will you start leaning the right way? Are you obstructing the “Breeze” in your church?

Note: There are two kinds of anger. One of them is good and the other one is bad. The main focus in this devotional is on the bad kind of anger.

A. There is an anger that is permitted that is good and that God praises

Note: William Paley: “All anger is not sinful, because some degree of it, and on some occasions, is inevitable. But it becomes sinful and contradicts the rule of Scripture when it is conceived upon slight and inadequate provocation, and when it continues long. “

Note: Eph. 4:26 “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:”

Note: Aristotle: “We praise a man who feels angry on the right grounds and against the right persons and also in the right manner at the right moment and for the right length of time.”

B. There is an anger that is prohibited that is bad and that God punishes

Note: John Webster: “There is not a thing in nature which makes make so deformed, so beastly, as doth intemperate anger. “

Note: James 1:19 “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.”

Ecc. 7:9 “Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.”

Note: Isaac Watts: “To be angry about trifles is mean and childish; to rage and be furious is brutish; and to maintain perpetual wrath is akin to the practice and temper of devils; but to prevent and suppress rising resentment is wise and glorious, is manly and divine.”

*Note: “How much more grievous are the consequences of anger than the causes of it. If a man meets with injustice, it is not required that he shall not be roused to meet it; but if he is angry after he has had time to think upon it, that is sinful. The flame is not wrong, but the coals are.

II. THE DANGER THERE IS IN AN ANGRY SPIRIT

Note: Unknown: “Anger is only one letter short of danger. “

Note: Eph. 4:26 “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:” (Notice how the next vwerse is connect with this:

Eph. 4:27 “Neither give place to the devil.”

A. An angry spirit comes from the devil and helps him get control of us

Note: Eph. 4:26 “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:” (Notice how the next verse is connect with this:

Eph. 4:27 “Neither give place to the devil.”

Note: 1. Horace: “Anger is momentary madness, so control your passionor it will control you.”

2. Ecc. 7:9 “Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry: for anger resteth in the bosom of fools.

Note: 1. We can get into the habit of being angry

2. Epictetus: “Whenever you are angry, be assured that it is not only a present evil, but that you have increased a habit. If you do not wish to be prone to anger, do not feed the habit; give it nothing which may tend to its increase.”

3. Plutarch: “Frequent fits of anger produce in the soul a propensity to be angry; which oft-times ends in choler, bitterness and morosity, when the mind becomes ulcerated, peevish, and querulous, and is wounded by the least occurrence.”

B. An angry spirit hurts us more than it does anyone else

Note: 1. Malabar Proverb: “Anger is as a stone cast into a wasp’s nest. “

2. Unknown: “Indulge not thyself in the passion of anger; it is whetting a sword to wound thine own breast.”

Note: Seneca: “Anger is the most outrageous, brutal, dangerous, and intractable of all passions, the most loathsome and unmannerly, nay, the most ridiculous too. . .If I were to describe it, I would . . .dress it up as the poets represent the furies, with whips, snakes and flames: it should be sour, livid, full of scars, and wallowing in gore, raging up and down, destroying, grinning, bellowing and pursuing, sick of all things, and most of all of itself.”

Note: Chinese Proverb: “The fire you kindle for your enemy often burns yourself more than him. “

Note: 1. Marcus Antoninus: “Consider how much more you often suffer from your anger and grief, than from those very things for which you are angry and grieved.“

2. Friedrich Nietzsche : “Nothing on earth consumes a man more than the passions of resentment.”

Note: Edward Hyde Clarendon: “Anger is the most impotent of passions. It effects nothing it goes about, and hurts the one who is possessed by it more than the one against whom it is directed. “

III. HOW TO DEAL WITH AND DEFEAT AN ANGRY SPIRIT

Note: How not to deal with anger:

1. Don’t defend your anger

Jonah 4:9 “And God said to Jonah, Doest thou well to be angry for the gourd? And he said, I do well to be angry, even unto death.

2. Don’t deny that you’re angry when you really are. Don’t rationalize or attempt to justify your anger by calling it “righteous indignation,” etc.

Note: There are four main ways that we can resist and defeat an angry spirit.

Note: Isaac Watts: “To be angry about trifles is mean and childish; to rage and be furious is brutish; and to maintain perpetual wrath is akin to the practice and temper of devils; but to prevent and suppress rising resentment is wise and glorious, is manly and divine. “

A. Trust God

Note: 1. There are some things that we can never know or understand. They are secrets that right now, only God knows about.

2. Deut. 29:29 “The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us

Note: We have to realize that there are times when we don’t know …

1. Why the things that happen to us happen to us or don’t happen that we think ought to happen.

2. Why people treat us the way that they treat us or don’t treat us the way we want them to treat us.

B. Think the right thoughts

Note: Everyone has the ability to control their thoughts. We can flush our mind of sad, bad, thinking by filling it up with all the good thoughts that we bring to our minds. This is why we sing the song that says “Count your blessings, name them one by one.” You could start getting control of your mind by writing one by one, the good things and people and possibilities for the future that you have in your life.

Note: 1. Give your anger some time subside or go away altogether.

2. Thomas Jefferson: “When angry, count ten before you speak; if very angry, an hundred.”

Note: Phil. 4:8 “Finally brethren, Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

*Note: 1. ALSO, make it a point to not be around angry people. There angry spirit will rub off on you without you even realizing it. Get away from them as quickly as you can.

2. Prov. 22:24 “Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:”

*Note: Put off being angry as long as you can. Seneca: “The greatest remedy for anger is delay. -

3. Sovakian Proverb: “Anger is the only thing to put off till tomorrow.”

*Note: Marcus Aurelius: “When thou art above measure angry, bethink thee how momentary is man’s life.”

C. Talk over your anger

Note: Talk over your anger with yourself, a friend, God

Note: Edward Bulwer-Lytton: “Anger ventilated often hurries towards forgiveness; anger concealed often hardens into revenge.”

*Note: Coco Channel: “It's amazing how many cares disappear when you decide not to be something, but to be someone.”

IV. ANGER IS A DECISION

Note: John Ray: “Anger dieth quickly with a good man.—

A. Whether or not you let yourself become or stay angry is a personal choice

Note: Nobody can make this decision, but you. You can decide either how long you are going to be angry and miserable and vulnerable to the devil to get more and more control of your life or you can decide to get the angry spirit out of your mind and heart as quickly as possible

Note: Eph. 4:27 “Neither give place to the devil.”

James 4:7 “Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

Note: Prov. 19:11 “The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression. “

Note: “He who angers you conquers you.

B. Whether or not you let yourself become or stay angry is a powerful choice

Note: The decisions you make concerning anger are powerful. Every time you deal with it in the wrong way your life will be weakened, your attitude will become worse. But every time you deal with it in the right way you will become a little more stronger, you’ll find it easier and easier to deal with anger and you’ll develop a stronger and stronger attitude, character and spirit.

Note: Prov. 16:13 “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.

Note: How you decide, moment-by-moment, hour by hour, day by day, week by week to deal with anger is powerful. It will make all the difference in whether or not you are a winner or a loser in life, a blessing or a burden to others, a splendid example as a Christian or a sorry example of one. Your decision about this will decide whether your life is, generally speaking a happy one or if it is, generally speaking a less than happy life.

CONCLUSION

Note: Spurgeon: “When I hear of anybody losing his temper, I always pray that he may not find it again. Such tempers are best lost.”

Note: Tryon Edwards: “To rule one’s anger is well; to prevent it is better.”

Note: Publilius Syrus: “An angry man is again angry with himself when he returns to reason.”

Note: (1) the composition of man, (2) the commissioning of man,

(3) the command to man and (4) the completion of man

I. THE COMPOSITION OF MAN

A. The process

1. the dust of the ground

Note: v. 7a “And the Lord … the ground”

2. The dynamic of God

Note: v. 7b “and breathed … breath of life.”

B. The product

1. The change

Note: v. 7c “and man became a living soul.”

2. The capacity

Note: For fellowship with God.

II. THE COMPOSITION OF MAN

A. The residence that was prepared for Adam

Note: vv. 8-15a “And the Lord …. Of Eden.”

B. The responsibility that was presented to Adam

Note: v. 15b “to dress it and to keep it.”

III. THE COMMAND THAT WAS GIVEN TO MAN

A. The clarity that is in this command

Note: vv. 16, 17 a “”And the Lord … not eat of it.

B. The consequences involved qwith this command

Note; v. 17b “in the day … surely die.”

IV. THE COMPLETION OF MAN

A. God’s awareness of the incomplete state of e man that he had made

Note: v. 18 “And the Lord … help meet for him.”

B. God’s answer to the incomplete state of the man that he had made

Note: vv. 19-25 “And out of the ground … not ashamed.”

CONCLUSION:

Note: Three thoughts pertaining to living the Christian life well:

I. THE IMPORTANCE OF ONE’S ATTITUDE TO LIVING THE CHRISTIAN LIFE WELL

Note: attitude that is conducive to a strong approach to the living of the Christian life

A. the pursuit that is in view here

Note: v. 33a “But seek ye … “

Note: Heb. 12:14; Jud. 8:4; Heb. 12:1; 1 Cor. 9:24; Phil. 3:13, 14

B. the priority that is in view here

Note: v. 33b “But seek ye first … “

Note: 2 Cor. 8:5

II. THE IMPORTANCE OF AMBITION TO THE LIVING OF A TRULY CHRISTIAN LIFE

Note: ambition that is consistent with a specific aim.

A. a heavenly realm is in view here

Note: v. 33c “the kingdom of God … “

Note: Define the Kingdom of God. Rom. 14:17.

B. a holy righteousness is in view here

Note: v. 33d “and His righteousness … “

Note: The imputed righteousness of Christ comes to mind here; but the righteousness of Christ that is to be imitated also comes to mind. (2 Cor. 5:21; Rom. 8:28; Rev. 19:8).

III. THE IMPORTANCE OF ANTICIPATION TO LIVING THE CHRISTIAN LIFE WELL

Note: anticipation that is compelling in terms of expectation.

A. the blessings that are in view here

Note: v. 33e “and all these things …”

Note: The direct reference here is to the material things God wants us to enjoy here, but there are also things that we can expect to enjoy in heaven. (1 Tim. 6:17; 2 Cor. 2:9; 2 John 1:8).

B. the beneficiaries who are in view here

Note: v. 33e “shall be added unto you.”

Note: Notice how personal this is.

CONC:

Note: Illust: Being shown the vast store of blessings intended for God’s people that were unclaimed, forfeited, etc.

Note: vv. 25, 26

Note: Four things: (1) the possibility for this, (2) the power for this, (3) the pitfalls involved in this and (4) the prize involved with this

I. THE POSSIBILITY THERE IS FOR LIVING IN THE SPIRIT

Note: 1. v. 25a “If we live I n the Spirit …. ”

2. Two things that happen at salvation that make walking in the Spirit possible:

A. Those who are born of the Spirit are delivered from sin

Note: 1. From it’s condemnation

Rom. 8:1 “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”

2. From its control

Rom. 6:1, 2, 14 “What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? ² God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? … For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.“

1 John 1:2 “My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.”

B. Those who are born of the Spirit are desirous of sanctification

Note: 1. Demoniac

Mark 5:16 “And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine.“

2. Zacchaeus

Luke 19:8 “And Zacchæus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.”

3. Samaritan woman

John 4

4. Saul

Acts 9:6 “And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.”

Note: 1 Thess. 4:3a “For this is the will of God, even your sanctification”

Note: 1. Col. 3:2 “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.”

2. You have to keep your affections set in place (tuck-pointing) because they can be shaken. (more re. pitfalls).

II. THE POWER THERE IS FOR LIVING IN THE SPIRIT

Note: v. 25b “ … let us also walk in the Spirit.”

Note: We are indwelt by, endued with, empowered by the same Spirit that “moved and initiated creation of the universe.

A. We have a power working in us that enables us to make the right decisions relative to Life in the Spirit ”

Note: Decisions are a primary aim of preaching. You will make a decision this morning, etc.

B. We have a power working in us that enables us to maintain our direction

Note: 1. It’s easy to get pulled, drift, off course;

relative to “Life in the Spirit in 2025”

2. We need to stay “on the way”

Jer. 6:16 “Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.”

Job 17:9 “The righteous also shall hold on his way, and he that hath clean hands shall be stronger and stronger.”

Josh. 1:7=9 “Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper withersoever thou goest.

⁸ This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

⁹ Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.

Prov. 4:27 “Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.”

Note: Ps. 119 :105 “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”

III. THE PITFALLS INVOLVED WITH LIVING IN THE SPIRIT

Note: 1. The pitfalls are suggested in verse 26

2. v. 26 “Let us not be … one another.”

Note: 1. Our attention is drawn in v. 26 to two pitfalls related to the biggest enemy. we have—our flesh

2. The devil seeks by “wiles” and “devices; but not with any legitimate claim on power, to dominate Christians, to head us towards any pit that he can.

1 John 4:4 “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.”

Note: Two pitfalls here:

A. Ego

Note: v. 26a “Let us not be desirous oFvain glory”

B. Envy

Note: v. 26b “provoking one another, envying one another.”

IV. THE PRIZE INVOLVED WITH LIVING IN THE SPIRIT IN 2025

Note: Phil. 3:12-14 “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.’

A. What this prize is

Note: Kingdom

B. Who this prize is for

Note: Overcomers

CONCLUSION: