The following video sermons by Pastor White are available to view by clicking on the video link.
---------------------------------------
This Christmas season we placed several messages below which are relevant.
It is easy to see that things just haven't been the same since Jesus came to earth to dwell among men. Can you imagine a world without Jesus Christ? Without the good news of the great event of His first advent and all it entails? Without the gospel; the good news of His death burial and resurrection? Those of us who know Him personally as our Savior find it hard to conceive. Because not only is He, this Jesus, the very center of God's universe and man's short history on earth, but if we are committed Christians He is the very center of our personal universe. He is the very focus of our existence. He is the reason and the primary purpose of our life and being. He is the motive force behind our living and breathing. "For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain. " (Phil. 1:21) Before Christ came He created the universe and all it entails. (Col. 1:14-17) Before Christ came He was He was the source of all life and order. Before Christ came He eternally existed. (Rev. 1:18) Before Christ came He was One with the Father and the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:23)
-------------------------------------
Who Is Jesus?
Part 3 of 3 Parts
"Who does the Word of God say Jesus is?" In Matthew 16 Jesus asked His followers, "Who do men say I am?" Their reply reflected the religious opinion of some in that day. Jesus then asked the question, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter rose to the occasion as he answered for the group by saying, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.." Jesus then commended Peter for his insightful and truthful answer. The most important question that anyone can correctly answer in their lifetime is: Who Is Jesus?"
-------------------------------------
Who Is Jesus?
Part 2 of 3 Parts
"Who does the Word of God say Jesus is?" In Matthew 16 Jesus asked His followers, "Who do men say I am?" Their reply reflected the religious opinion of some in that day. Jesus then asked the question, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter rose to the occasion as he answered for the group by saying, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.." Jesus then commended Peter for his insightful and truthful answer. The most important question that anyone can correctly answer in their lifetime is: Who Is Jesus?"
-------------------------------------
Who Is Jesus?
Part 1 of 3 Parts
Go out into the everyday world and ask the man in the street the straight forward question, "Just who do you think Jesus is?" and you will get many different answers. Some will say He was a good and great man. Others will say He was one of the great philosophers of the past. Some will say He was a great religious teacher. Some may deny His historical existence and still others may view Him as a religious charlatan. C. S. Lewis said something to this effect: "Jesus must be Who He claimed to be, the divine Son of God, God in the flesh or a liar, deceiver or a madman etc...."
But the really important question is, "Who does the Word of God say Jesus is?" In Matthew 16 Jesus asked His followers, "Who do men say I am?" Their reply reflected the religious opinion of some in that day. Jesus then asked the question, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter rose to the occasion as he answered for the group by saying, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.." Jesus then commended Peter for his insightful and truthful answer. The most important question that anyone can correctly answer in their lifetime is: Who Is Jesus?"
-------------------------------------
God is a God of separation. His first covenant with His chosen people was based upon the concept they were to be a different people. A separate people. A peculiar people. They were to separate themselves spiritually, theologically, doctrinally, morally and even physically from the idol worshipping Gentile nations around them. A careful study of the Old Testament should convince even the most liberal and skeptical that Israel’s troubles were always related to their continuing disobedience to this heavenly command. Their willingness and eagerness to compromise, live among the mixed multitudes and accommodate themselves to their religion and adopt their standards, was the source of their continuing trouble; ultimately leading to their severe chastisement and final captivity and dispersion among the nations of the world. Those of us who are concerned about the present state of affairs and future threats might be well advised to consider this example. God is still a God of separation today. His New Covenant with His people today is based upon His requirement that they separate themselves from the world around them, spiritually, theologically, doctrinally, morally and even at times, physically. But it sometimes seems that Christians today have little understanding and even less committal to the concept of true Biblical separation.
God is a God of separation. His first covenant with His chosen people was based upon the concept they were to be a different people. A separate people. A peculiar people. They were to separate themselves spiritually, theologically, doctrinally, morally and even physically from the idol worshipping Gentile nations around them. A careful study of the Old Testament should convince even the most liberal and skeptical that Israel’s troubles were always related to their continuing disobedience to this heavenly command. Their willingness and eagerness to compromise, live among the mixed multitudes and accommodate themselves to their religion and adopt their standards, was the source of their continuing trouble; ultimately leading to their severe chastisement and final captivity and dispersion among the nations of the world. Those of us who are concerned about the present state of affairs and future threats might be well advised to consider this example. God is still a God of separation today. His New Covenant with His people today is based upon His requirement that they separate themselves from the world around them, spiritually, theologically, doctrinally, morally and even at times, physically. But it sometimes seems that Christians today have little understanding and even less committal to the concept of true Biblical separation.
Part Two
The Second Coming Of Jesus Christ
Jesus is coming again! Just as surely as the members of that first church saw the resurrected Christ ascend into the heavens in the company of two heavenly escorts, we can have confidence in the validity of His promise to return. One of His last promises given to reassure His followers on the night preceding His crucifixion was, "I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go, I WILL COME AGAIN, to receive unto myself, that where I am, there you may be also." His very last Words on the subject are found in the last chapter of the last book of the Bible. The fact of His second coming seems so important that He repeated his promise three times. "Behold I come quickly: blessed is he that keepth the sayings of the prophecy of this book." (Rev. 22:7) "Behold I come quickly and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." (Verse 12) "He that testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus." (Verse 20)
Christ's Constraining Love
Even more important than what we do in the Lord's service, is why we do what we do. Attitude and motivation are all important. Paul tells us that the love God has shown us by giving us His Son as an all sufficient sacrifice for our sin should be the ultimate factor moving us to love and serve Him. John tells us in his first letter that if we really love the Lord we will keep his commandments and that his commandments will not seem difficult to us. Serving Him should always be a blessing rather than a burden. Paul tells us as well that if we understand that God will judge the lost that this should move us to persuade men of the love of God and urge them to be reconciled to Him. What should constrain us to serve our Saviour? His love for us.
Keeping On Keeping On
In the apostle Paul we can see a great example of someone who never gave up. In his own words he tells us that he had been knocked down many times but never knocked out. He just refused to give up or retire from the fray. He remained faithful to the very end. In the II Corinthian Letter he gives a listing of the persecutions he had endured that is frightening to even read. But through it all he remained faithful until, as tradition tells us, he gave his life for the Lord in Rome. In his "swan song" in II Timothy Chapter Four he gives us a farewell address that emphasizes his intention to finish well for the Lord. The desire to keep on keeping on and finish the race well should move and motivate all of us. Our Lord has promised that we will reap in due season, if we faint not. If we would be His disciple, we but need to keep on keeping on until the Lord calls us home!
Christian Troublemakers
Real committed Christians are called to be troublemakers in the world in which they love.. Not deliberately or intentionally, but as a result of aggressively sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with those in their world. In Acts Chapter 17 we have the story of some serious troublemakers. They were accused of being those who had turned the world upside down (or right side up) in every place they went. The good news of the gospel will usually elicit the same response today if shared enthusiastic with those who are lost; especially those who are religious but lost. The lost will be saved and those who reject the gospel may in envy attack the messenger of the gospel. Why? It is as our Savior said that men love darkness rather then light because their deeds are evil. Shining the light of the gospel upon them often results in Christians being accused of being troublemakers.
The Church That Made Jesus Sick
As John the Beloved Revelator was exiled on the Isle of Patmos in the Aegean Sea, Jesus Christ appeared to him and gave him the visions that the Holy Spirit inspired him to write down in what we know today as the Book of Revelation. The early part of the Book contains seven letters addressed to the pastors of and written to seven local churches in the area of Asia Minor. Jesus' letter to the Church at Laodicea is the last of these letters. In the previous letters Jesus dealt with matters that needed correction in each church, but He also spoke words of encouragement and commendation to them. The letter to the Church at Laodicea is somewhat different. In it our Savoir seems to find little to commend. This Church has come to personify the apostasy and backsliding that characterizes Christianity in these last days. Apathy seems to be the primary characteristic that Jesus condemns so strongly. Jesus complains that He has been shut out of the Church. One is made to think of the writting upon a wall that said, "Apathy destroys!" Underneath someone had written, "Who cares?" If there is one thing our Lord despises it is a lukewarm Christian in a lukewarm church!
The Three Crosses
Roman crucifixion was designed to be the ultimate punishment for those who had committed the most heinous crimes. A punishment for those who had sinned. The two thieves, who were crucified on either side of our Savior , evidently deserved such punishment. One of them clearly admits this to be the case and accuses the other thief of being guilty as well.
But these two were not the only ones being punished for sin. Our Savior was bearing the full weight of our sins on that momentous day. Peter said: "For Christ has also once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God...." Paul said: "For God has made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." But He was also paying the sin debt for the two hanging on either side of Him; if they would repent and place their complete faith in Him. What a tragedy that one died cursing God. But what a triumph that the other died with the words of our Savior echoing in his ears: "...today shalt thou be with me in paradise...." Perhaps these two represent the two possible reactions to the good news of the gospel today.
A Letter To The Church At Sardis
Responding To Adversity
This Christmas season we placed several messages below which are relevant.
Before Christ Came
It is easy to see that things just haven't been the same since Jesus came to earth to dwell among men. Can you imagine a world without Jesus Christ? Without the good news of the great event of His first advent and all it entails? Without the gospel; the good news of His death burial and resurrection? Those of us who know Him personally as our Savior find it hard to conceive. Because not only is He, this Jesus, the very center of God's universe and man's short history on earth, but if we are committed Christians He is the very center of our personal universe. He is the very focus of our existence. He is the reason and the primary purpose of our life and being. He is the motive force behind our living and breathing. "For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain. " (Phil. 1:21) Before Christ came He created the universe and all it entails. (Col. 1:14-17) Before Christ came He was He was the source of all life and order. Before Christ came He eternally existed. (Rev. 1:18) Before Christ came He was One with the Father and the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:23)
-------------------------------------
Who Is Jesus?
Part 3 of 3 Parts
"Who does the Word of God say Jesus is?" In Matthew 16 Jesus asked His followers, "Who do men say I am?" Their reply reflected the religious opinion of some in that day. Jesus then asked the question, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter rose to the occasion as he answered for the group by saying, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.." Jesus then commended Peter for his insightful and truthful answer. The most important question that anyone can correctly answer in their lifetime is: Who Is Jesus?"
-------------------------------------
Part 2 of 3 Parts
"Who does the Word of God say Jesus is?" In Matthew 16 Jesus asked His followers, "Who do men say I am?" Their reply reflected the religious opinion of some in that day. Jesus then asked the question, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter rose to the occasion as he answered for the group by saying, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.." Jesus then commended Peter for his insightful and truthful answer. The most important question that anyone can correctly answer in their lifetime is: Who Is Jesus?"
-------------------------------------
Part 1 of 3 Parts
Go out into the everyday world and ask the man in the street the straight forward question, "Just who do you think Jesus is?" and you will get many different answers. Some will say He was a good and great man. Others will say He was one of the great philosophers of the past. Some will say He was a great religious teacher. Some may deny His historical existence and still others may view Him as a religious charlatan. C. S. Lewis said something to this effect: "Jesus must be Who He claimed to be, the divine Son of God, God in the flesh or a liar, deceiver or a madman etc...."
But the really important question is, "Who does the Word of God say Jesus is?" In Matthew 16 Jesus asked His followers, "Who do men say I am?" Their reply reflected the religious opinion of some in that day. Jesus then asked the question, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter rose to the occasion as he answered for the group by saying, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.." Jesus then commended Peter for his insightful and truthful answer. The most important question that anyone can correctly answer in their lifetime is: Who Is Jesus?"
-------------------------------------
Christian Separation
Part Two
The Requirement of Biblical Separation
God is a God of separation. His first covenant with His chosen people was based upon the concept they were to be a different people. A separate people. A peculiar people. They were to separate themselves spiritually, theologically, doctrinally, morally and even physically from the idol worshipping Gentile nations around them. A careful study of the Old Testament should convince even the most liberal and skeptical that Israel’s troubles were always related to their continuing disobedience to this heavenly command. Their willingness and eagerness to compromise, live among the mixed multitudes and accommodate themselves to their religion and adopt their standards, was the source of their continuing trouble; ultimately leading to their severe chastisement and final captivity and dispersion among the nations of the world. Those of us who are concerned about the present state of affairs and future threats might be well advised to consider this example. God is still a God of separation today. His New Covenant with His people today is based upon His requirement that they separate themselves from the world around them, spiritually, theologically, doctrinally, morally and even at times, physically. But it sometimes seems that Christians today have little understanding and even less committal to the concept of true Biblical separation.
-------------------------------------
Christian Separation
Part One
The Requirement of Biblical Separation
God is a God of separation. His first covenant with His chosen people was based upon the concept they were to be a different people. A separate people. A peculiar people. They were to separate themselves spiritually, theologically, doctrinally, morally and even physically from the idol worshipping Gentile nations around them. A careful study of the Old Testament should convince even the most liberal and skeptical that Israel’s troubles were always related to their continuing disobedience to this heavenly command. Their willingness and eagerness to compromise, live among the mixed multitudes and accommodate themselves to their religion and adopt their standards, was the source of their continuing trouble; ultimately leading to their severe chastisement and final captivity and dispersion among the nations of the world. Those of us who are concerned about the present state of affairs and future threats might be well advised to consider this example. God is still a God of separation today. His New Covenant with His people today is based upon His requirement that they separate themselves from the world around them, spiritually, theologically, doctrinally, morally and even at times, physically. But it sometimes seems that Christians today have little understanding and even less committal to the concept of true Biblical separation.
-------------------------------------
The Second Coming Of Jesus Christ
Part Two
This video sermon is part two of the previous "The Second Coming of Jesus Christ"
"I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go, I WILL COME AGAIN, to receive unto myself, that where I am, there you may be also." His very last Words on the subject are found in the last chapter of the last book of the Bible. The fact of His second coming seems so important that He repeated his promise three times. "Behold I come quickly: blessed is he that keepth the sayings of the prophecy of this book." (Rev. 22:7) "Behold I come quickly and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." (Verse 12) "He that testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus." (Verse 20)
-------------------------------------
The Second Coming Of Jesus Christ
Jesus is coming again! Just as surely as the members of that first church saw the resurrected Christ ascend into the heavens in the company of two heavenly escorts, we can have confidence in the validity of His promise to return. One of His last promises given to reassure His followers on the night preceding His crucifixion was, "I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go, I WILL COME AGAIN, to receive unto myself, that where I am, there you may be also." His very last Words on the subject are found in the last chapter of the last book of the Bible. The fact of His second coming seems so important that He repeated his promise three times. "Behold I come quickly: blessed is he that keepth the sayings of the prophecy of this book." (Rev. 22:7) "Behold I come quickly and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be." (Verse 12) "He that testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus." (Verse 20)
-------------------------------------
Christ's Constraining Love
Even more important than what we do in the Lord's service, is why we do what we do. Attitude and motivation are all important. Paul tells us that the love God has shown us by giving us His Son as an all sufficient sacrifice for our sin should be the ultimate factor moving us to love and serve Him. John tells us in his first letter that if we really love the Lord we will keep his commandments and that his commandments will not seem difficult to us. Serving Him should always be a blessing rather than a burden. Paul tells us as well that if we understand that God will judge the lost that this should move us to persuade men of the love of God and urge them to be reconciled to Him. What should constrain us to serve our Saviour? His love for us.
-------------------------------------
Keeping On Keeping On
In the apostle Paul we can see a great example of someone who never gave up. In his own words he tells us that he had been knocked down many times but never knocked out. He just refused to give up or retire from the fray. He remained faithful to the very end. In the II Corinthian Letter he gives a listing of the persecutions he had endured that is frightening to even read. But through it all he remained faithful until, as tradition tells us, he gave his life for the Lord in Rome. In his "swan song" in II Timothy Chapter Four he gives us a farewell address that emphasizes his intention to finish well for the Lord. The desire to keep on keeping on and finish the race well should move and motivate all of us. Our Lord has promised that we will reap in due season, if we faint not. If we would be His disciple, we but need to keep on keeping on until the Lord calls us home!
-------------------------------------
Christian Troublemakers
Real committed Christians are called to be troublemakers in the world in which they love.. Not deliberately or intentionally, but as a result of aggressively sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with those in their world. In Acts Chapter 17 we have the story of some serious troublemakers. They were accused of being those who had turned the world upside down (or right side up) in every place they went. The good news of the gospel will usually elicit the same response today if shared enthusiastic with those who are lost; especially those who are religious but lost. The lost will be saved and those who reject the gospel may in envy attack the messenger of the gospel. Why? It is as our Savior said that men love darkness rather then light because their deeds are evil. Shining the light of the gospel upon them often results in Christians being accused of being troublemakers.
-------------------------------------
The Church That Made Jesus Sick
As John the Beloved Revelator was exiled on the Isle of Patmos in the Aegean Sea, Jesus Christ appeared to him and gave him the visions that the Holy Spirit inspired him to write down in what we know today as the Book of Revelation. The early part of the Book contains seven letters addressed to the pastors of and written to seven local churches in the area of Asia Minor. Jesus' letter to the Church at Laodicea is the last of these letters. In the previous letters Jesus dealt with matters that needed correction in each church, but He also spoke words of encouragement and commendation to them. The letter to the Church at Laodicea is somewhat different. In it our Savoir seems to find little to commend. This Church has come to personify the apostasy and backsliding that characterizes Christianity in these last days. Apathy seems to be the primary characteristic that Jesus condemns so strongly. Jesus complains that He has been shut out of the Church. One is made to think of the writting upon a wall that said, "Apathy destroys!" Underneath someone had written, "Who cares?" If there is one thing our Lord despises it is a lukewarm Christian in a lukewarm church!
-------------------------------------
The Three Crosses
Roman crucifixion was designed to be the ultimate punishment for those who had committed the most heinous crimes. A punishment for those who had sinned. The two thieves, who were crucified on either side of our Savior , evidently deserved such punishment. One of them clearly admits this to be the case and accuses the other thief of being guilty as well.
But these two were not the only ones being punished for sin. Our Savior was bearing the full weight of our sins on that momentous day. Peter said: "For Christ has also once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God...." Paul said: "For God has made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." But He was also paying the sin debt for the two hanging on either side of Him; if they would repent and place their complete faith in Him. What a tragedy that one died cursing God. But what a triumph that the other died with the words of our Savior echoing in his ears: "...today shalt thou be with me in paradise...." Perhaps these two represent the two possible reactions to the good news of the gospel today.
-------------------------------------
A Letter To The Church At Sardis
The letter to the Church at Sardis is one of seven letters dictated to John the Revelator by Jesus and addressed to seven particular churches in the area of Asia Minor. It is a literal letter primarily dealing with the spiritual conditions of that church and giving warning and instruction about remedial action that should be taken. But the letter, as does all seven letters to all seven local churches, contains information and instruction that may be applicable to any local church in any age. It would seem the letter would have been delivered to the minister (pastor) of the church and would have been read in the hearing of the members of that assembly. This church existed in a very opulent and rich city. It seems that perhaps materialism was a prevelant problem. In this sense the letter might be especially applicable to our day and time.
-------------------------------------
Responding To Adversity
Why do God's people have adversity? As David asked, "Why do the wicked seem to prosper at the expense of God's people?" Why do terrible tragedies occur in the midst of times of great success and prosperity? Why do a multiplicity of calamities, as in the case of Job, seem to come one upon the heels of another? Why does the topography of trouble seem to continually undulate, taking us on a spiritual roller coaster ride? Why, in our time of greatest distress, do our most heartfelt petitions and pleas seem to fall upon a deaf ear and fail to penetrate a heaven made of brass? The answers to these questions are not easily found or understood, It is important to understand some of the common reasons why, but even more important is to understand how God wishes us to respond to adversity. Why we do what we do is often more important than what we do. He who sees into the depths of our heart and discerns the intent of our actions is vitally concerned with motive. Our response to adversity should always be guided by our desire to glorify God.
-------------------------------------
The Church Is His Place
There can be no honest refutation of the obvious truth that when Jesus gave His marching orders He was speaking to a select group of correctly immersed believers, a number of whom had followed Him from the time they were called out at the beginning of His ministry. He clearly was committing the mission of evangelizing and discipling to that local assembly of baptised believers and to all other such assemblies in the centuries to come. There can be no doubt He intended that His people in every age would continue to follow the simple pattern He established when He gave His Great Commission to that first local church at Jerusalem; as well as to all succeeding churches of like faith and practice. True church history confirms this primitive pattern was closely followed by the vast majority of succeeding assembles for some two hundred or more years. The creation of so-called denominations or divisions entailing churches with radically different origins, doctrines or histories would have been inconceivable in the days so close to this simple beginning. His New Testament Churches have always been the particular place of His presence and His power.
-------------------------------------
Things That Are Important
We often hear of theological essentials and non-essentials. Some say that the Bible teaches major and minor doctrines. Some even go as far as to indicate that those who wish to obey God and follow Jesus Christ have an option system. Just pay your money and make your choice. If you don't like a particular teaching, just skip it or omit it. Just opt for what you may feel at the moment is a more dignified, sophisticated or loving teaching or practice. If you feel that what Jesus or the apostles taught is too narrow or pedantic, if applied to our present ecumenically inclined culture, just ignore it and start forcefully asserting that all that matters in the last analysis is, "Love, love, love..." It matters not that by doing so you not only are indicting the Christ of the New Testament and the writers of the New Testament, and those who would follow them explicitly and faithfully today, as being narrow, bigoted and legalistic; but you are also piously preening and.placing yourself in a category of apostates who, by inference at least, claim to be more tolerant, loving and compassionate than the Saviour of the world! Thus, Christianity is portrayed as a department store type religion. You can leisurely shop through whatever department that may take your fancy, viewing whatever items that may tweak your interest and select such goods (teachings) that might titillate your palate at the moment. Obviously this is not so. The Word of God puts the lie to such nonsense. Just good old common horse sense tells us differently. If the above thesis was so, the key questions would be: Essential to what? Major or minor to whom? God or man? Where does the Bible give man an option to obey or disobey any particular portion of God's teachings - and still please God? Instead, we find that God in His Word has always placed a high premium upon complete and absolute obedience. The apostles said, "We rather obey God than man..." The prophet said, "To obey is better than sacrifice." Therefore we must conclude that every word of the Word of God is important!
-------------------------------------
The Pursuit Of Happiness
What is happiness anyway? That elusive element and elixir of life? That essence of all worthwhile existence? Man longs for it, plans for it, pleads for it and pursues it with all his might. After all, isn't life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness the natural birthright of all free men? But every time man seems to have happiness in his hand, it seems to vanish like an elusive soap bubble from a child's eager grasp. But we Christians should know that happiness can only be life as God intended. Only God and Jesus, the Son of God, can guarantee abundant and fulfilling life. But even Christ does not promise us a rose garden or to bear us to heaven on beds of flowery ease. But He does offer His power to remove the guilt of sin and His presence to share the joys and trials of life and give true happiness. But what is this happiness anyway? Perhaps the old children's chorus says it clearly enough. "Happiness is, to know the Saviour, living a life within His favour, happiness is the Lord."
-------------------------------------
Before Christ Came
It is easy to see that things just haven't been the same since Jesus came to earth to dwell among men. Can you imagine a world without Jesus Christ? Without the good news of the great event of His first advent and all it entails? Without the gospel; the good news of His death burial and resurrection? Those of us who know Him personally as our Savior find it hard to conceive. Because not only is He, this Jesus, the very center of God's universe and man's short history on earth, but if we are committed Christians He is the very center of our personal universe. He is the very focus of our existence. He is the reason and the primary purpose of our life and being. He is the motive force behind our living and breathing. "For to me to live [is] Christ, and to die [is] gain. " (Phil. 1:21) Before Christ came He created the universe and all it entails. (Col. 1:14-17) Before Christ came He was He was the source of all life and order. Before Christ came He eternally existed. (Rev. 1:18) Before Christ came He was One with the Father and the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:23)
-------------------------------------
While the elderly apostle, John the beloved, was exiled on the Island of Patmos in approximately 96 AD, Jesus Christ appeared to him and dictated the contents of the Book of Revelation. At the time, John appears to have been the sole survivor of all the twelve apostles. At the beginning of the Revelation, Jesus gives John seven letters that are addressed to seven specific churches and pastors. These churches were located in Asia Minor.
The letters were to be sent to the pastors of these churches and read to the members of the congregations. Some think these churches represent specific periods of church history and speak of the condition of "the Church" during these periods. I do not think so, If that were the case it would mean that Christ would have been designating a terribly corrupt institution as His Church throughout the terrible history of that group. This would also mean that His promise of perpetuity to His true churches throughout the ages would have been set aside. I believe the letters are for the caution and instruction of all true churches in every age until He returns. In any case, in Jesus' letter to the church at Ephesus He has one major complaint. They had left their first love and needed to repent and return to it. That need is still relevant today.
-------------------------------------
Acts 11:19-26
One dictionary definition of a Christian reads: "One who has accepted Christ and His way of life..." "Belonging to or a follower of Christ." In Antioch, a great trading city of the Roman Empire, their sophisticated critics weren’t inventing a definitive or complimentary description of these simple followers of the man of Galilee. One might easily envision them as they passed by, stopping and pointing, and whispering in derision and scorn, "See the little Christs!" In every generation since this generation of the first Christians, true believers have always had their critics. In most generations their more severe critics eventually become their persecutors and even their murderers. In the harsh and pagan city of Antioch, cruelty that characterized the Roman Empire was the norm. Prostitution, slavery, sensuality, sexual perversion, paganism and idolatry of every description were rampant. The simple, unpretentious behavior of these followers of the Galilean must have been a breath of fresh air in a sewer of wickedness. Their kind, compassionate and benevolent life style was, to say the least, radically different. Their cultural contemporaries could not understand their peculiar conduct. It was in such a ungodly culture that the record tells us the followers of Christ were first called Christians. The passage highlights three outstanding things about these who were first called Christians. They had made a CHOICE for Christ. They had been CHANGED by Christ. They were accepting a CHALLENGE for Christ.
-------------------------------------
Who Is Jesus?
Part 3 of 3 Parts
"Who does the Word of God say Jesus is?" In Matthew 16 Jesus asked His followers, "Who do men say I am?" Their reply reflected the religious opinion of some in that day. Jesus then asked the question, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter rose to the occasion as he answered for the group by saying, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.." Jesus then commended Peter for his insightful and truthful answer. The most important question that anyone can correctly answer in their lifetime is: Who Is Jesus?"
-------------------------------------
Part 2 of 3 Parts
"Who does the Word of God say Jesus is?" In Matthew 16 Jesus asked His followers, "Who do men say I am?" Their reply reflected the religious opinion of some in that day. Jesus then asked the question, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter rose to the occasion as he answered for the group by saying, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.." Jesus then commended Peter for his insightful and truthful answer. The most important question that anyone can correctly answer in their lifetime is: Who Is Jesus?"
-------------------------------------
Part 1 of 3 Parts
Go out into the everyday world and ask the man in the street the straight forward question, "Just who do you think Jesus is?" and you will get many different answers. Some will say He was a good and great man. Others will say He was one of the great philosophers of the past. Some will say He was a great religious teacher. Some may deny His historical existence and still others may view Him as a religious charlatan. C. S. Lewis said something to this effect: "Jesus must be Who He claimed to be, the divine Son of God, God in the flesh or a liar, deceiver or a madman etc...."
But the really important question is, "Who does the Word of God say Jesus is?" In Matthew 16 Jesus asked His followers, "Who do men say I am?" Their reply reflected the religious opinion of some in that day. Jesus then asked the question, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter rose to the occasion as he answered for the group by saying, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.." Jesus then commended Peter for his insightful and truthful answer. The most important question that anyone can correctly answer in their lifetime is: Who Is Jesus?"
-------------------------------------
Christian Responsibility
(Or What Is A Christian Supposed To Do)
In our world today there are many occupations and jobs that are necessary to keep the wheels of our industries and economies turning. Many of these tasks could be seen by the ordinary person as mundane and of little importance. But to the person performing the task and to those who are beneficiaries of his work, the job is quite important. Each job has a job description that describes the responsibility of the one doing it. For instance, a postman's primary job is to deliver mail. But just what is the job description of a Christian? Just where would we find a clear and accurate description of the responsibilities of at real, committed Christian? Where would we go to find the answer to the question, "Just what is a Christian supposed to do?" Clearly, we would look first of all at the job description given to us by the One who made us and is the One to whom we are ultimately responsible. We would look in the "Owner's Manual," the very Word of God. A clear and concise description of our task could be summarized by the expression, "the all things of whatsoever He has commanded us - to do." Simply put, a Christian is responsible to follow Christ. He is responsible to be His disciple......"
-------------------------------------
As each New Year comes around we should always remember stand on the verge of a new spiritual venture; a new calling to serve the Lord in the land of a new year. In a sense, the challenge of a new year is like stepping out on the beautiful, sparkling, trackless surface of new fallen snow. It is like standing on the edge of the fresh sand of a wave swept beach. Or a child contemplating a clean sheet of paper or a clean slate. All are free of the contaminating touch of man. Yes, we are like a those who walk in a new land. We have not passed this way before. Our footprints are yet to be made in the sands of time of the New Year. Yet it is a great blessing to know that as we ring out the old and ring in the new, we can immerse the failures of yesteryear in the sea of God’s forgiveness. We can face with a great expectant faith the challenges of a new year. By the grace of God, if He wills it, we can cross over boldly into the land of the new year with an expectant faith based upon the precious promises of God.
-------------------------------------
The story of Israel's Babylonian captivity tells us of a time when the people of God were so discouraged and downcast they could no longer sing to the glory of God. We who are saved also have been called to sin a special song of salvation to the world around us. It is a different and beautiful song that the world does not know or understand. God is both the composer and the lyricist. He gives it to us. Places it right in our heart when we are born again of His Spirit. Our new found joy soon moves us to give expression to it. It is the song of the redeemed. The song of Zion. If we love the Lord we must sing it. The redeemed of the Lord must say so.
-------------------------------------
Have you ever received a very special invitation? Perhaps it was to accompany someone on a trip or to be their guest at a function. Perhaps it was to dine with them in their home or at a nice restaurant. In any case, such sincere invitations are a way of saying someone values you as a person and honors you by desiring your personal presence or company. All these sorts of invitations are great but they
fade into complete comparative insignificance when we consider the invitation Jesus gives to all men everywhere to come unto Him. Just imagine! The great Creator of all things, seen and unseen, and the Sovereign and Eternal Lord of this universe, inviting His lowly creature, man, to come unto Him and to have an intimate and eternal loving relationship with Him as His eternal offspring!
fade into complete comparative insignificance when we consider the invitation Jesus gives to all men everywhere to come unto Him. Just imagine! The great Creator of all things, seen and unseen, and the Sovereign and Eternal Lord of this universe, inviting His lowly creature, man, to come unto Him and to have an intimate and eternal loving relationship with Him as His eternal offspring!
-------------------------------------
In the simple yet profound story of the love and grace of Israel's first great king in dealing with Mephebosheth, we find an incomparable preview of the story of God's infinite love for us. Here we see portrayed in a beautiful figure the grace that brought His love down to man. We see in David's action a clear metaphor of the loving act of God's Son Who died on the cross for our sins. The Biblical story is quite clear. David and Jonathan had a very special relationship. This relationship is expressed in their beautiful covenant. It seems God brought all this to pass. It would not be natural in any ordinary sense for Jonathan to love and befriend David.
Jonathan was the son of Saul, the King. Saul clearly despised the sweet psalmist of Israel. He disdained the shepherd boy who was a man after God's own heart. David's love for Jonathan found its ultimate expression in his gracious treatment of Jonathan's helpless descendant.
Jonathan was the son of Saul, the King. Saul clearly despised the sweet psalmist of Israel. He disdained the shepherd boy who was a man after God's own heart. David's love for Jonathan found its ultimate expression in his gracious treatment of Jonathan's helpless descendant.
-------------------------------------
The Philippians could easily understand the concept of colonization. Their fair city was the center of a Roman colony. It was a busy cosmopolitan city. It was also a multicultural city. As a cultural trade center, its citizens came from all over the Roman Empire. Although they were Phiippians geographically, the one thing they had in common was their allegiance to Caesar and his Empire. The application to a New Testament Church and its members in any city in any geographical area on earth at any time in history is clear.We are also already citizens of a COLONY OF HEAVEN. We should understand this world is not our home. We are just passing through this veil of tears on our way to our heavenly home. As indicated by the writer of the Hebrew letter, we have a continuing city whose Builder and Maker is God. We are wayfarers, pilgrims trekking to a better land. We are to be in this world, but not of it. In fact, we live in enemy territory. The greater world around us is temporarily controlled and governed by the god of this world. “ .. . know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” (James 4:4b) “ In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not . .” (II Cor. 4:4a)
-------------------------------------
Our world is filled with contrasts. Without darkness how could we know light and be thankful for it? Without bitterness how could we know sweetness? Without sorrow how could we know real joy? Without sadness how could we appreciate real happiness? Our Saviour gave a number of contrasts as He taught lessons on spiritual matters. In Matthew Chapter Seven He spoke of two foundations, one of sand and one of stone, of two paths or roads, one wide and one narrow, and of two gates, one wide and one narrow. In doing so, He illustrates clearly and simply.the fact that there is only one way from earth to heaven. That it is not as so many seem to think that all religious roads lead to God. Jesus said later, "I am the way, the truth, and no man comes to the Father but through me.." (John 14:6).
-------------------------------------
One of the most challenging metaphors of the Christian life is presented in the Second Chapter of the Book of Second Timothy. Here, as in his letter to the Ephesians, Paul compares Christian life to a soldier called to wage spiritual warfare. (Eph. 6:10-18) Many of the militant calls in the Bible to spiritual battle are based upon this easily understood analogy. Grand old hymns of the faith have been penned about the challenges and responsibilities of Christian soldiers. Make no mistake about it, the battle of the ages is joined with Satan and his cohorts of evil. The war has been raging ever since his initial rebellion in the heavens. As the centuries pass, it only grows in its scope and intensity. As the population of planet earth explodes exponentially, more fodder is made available for the fight and more fuel is furnished for the fire of his fiendish, ferocious and vindictive wrath.
In order to an effective combatant in this great battle of the ages we should note the parallel qualities and characteristics of the good military soldier and the Christian Soldier that Paul clearly outlines this analogy.
-------------------------------------
Surviving Trouble
God has never guaranteed Christians immunity from trouble. Although Jesus said we could come to Him to have life more abundantly, He wasn't inferring that life would be a rose garden or that we would be borne to heaven on flowery beds of ease. The person was right who said life wasn't meant to be easy. But just why is this so? Jesus says that in this world we shall have trouble didn't He? We are, as the writers of the New Testament said, in the world but are not of the world. This world is not our home. We are just sojourners, pilgrims, seeking a city whose build and maker is God. Since we are spiritual strangers in a strange land, we can expect trouble as we try to live out the will and way of God before man. But although we are not guaranteed immunity from trouble, God in His Word gives us the tools we need to survive troubles, trials and tribulations. We can trust Him. During times of trouble we can: TRUST THE THOUGHTS OF GOD. WE CAN TRUST THE TECHNIQUES OF GOD. WE CAN TRUST THE TIMING OF GOD!
-------------------------------------
Characteristics Of A Converted Christian
True conversion means real change. Those who have been regenerated by the blood of Christ have been changed and converted by the renewing of the Holy Spirit. This will be characterized by a life-style starkly contrasting to their past worldly pattern of living. They will maintain good works and do those things that are good and profitable for men and pleasing unto God. One primary change relates to attitude and motive. The uncoverted person often strives to please God in order to be saved. The truly converted person will strive to serve and please God our of a grateful heart. He knows he has been saved and has as his present tense possession eternal life. Paul's life after conversion personified the truth of this proposition. The old saying that the proof is in the pudding has never been more clearly illustrated than in his life. He underwent a complete radical transformation in the purpose and pattern of his life. His life is a clear and classic confirmation of the statement he would make later to members of the Church at Corinth, "If any man be in Christ Jesus he is a new creature, behold old things have passed away and all things have become new"
-------------------------------------
It seems difficult for the world to understand that a person not only needs to be born again but must be born again spiritually, if they are to enter the eternal Kingdom of God. Why is this so? It would seem that the greatest difficulty lies in accepting that without a new birth man remains inherently and practically a sinner. He is, as David said, born with a sinful nature and begins to exercise that nature as soon as he has the capacity to choose good or evil. Nicodemus was perhaps one of the most religious men of his nation, but our Saviour said to him, "Ye must be born again." Since the Word of God tells us all have sinned and come short of the glory of God and that the wages of sin is death, it is clear that a new spiritual nature is needed if we are to go into the presence of an eternal and Holy God. We must be born again....
-------------------------------------
Qualities Of God's Word
The Word of God is absolutely unique. In the history and literature of man there is no other book or writing that even begins to compare with the influence, persuasion, and power of the Word of God. The derivation of the Word Bible clearly illustrates it’s vitality and essentiality. The word for Bible comes from Greek and Latin words for book. In relation to the Bible, the expressions came to mean The Book. The Book that became the standard against which all other books and every moral law and philosophy was to be measured. The measuring rod and canon against which all false doctrines and teachings were to be compared and accepted or discarded as the light of the Word was shone upon them. The Word of God is not only unique, vital and essential, as to defy description, but that it is also peculiarly, particularly and practically beneficial to the Christian in his life and walk before the Lord.
-------------------------------------
New Testament Discipleship
Considering the consistency and clarity of New Testament teachings, perhaps it would be fair to ask why does it seem that it is only in the field of Christianity logical people will claim that two people or organizations can hold diametrically opposed views or positions and both be correct? Why is it only in Christianity that some of those who profess to believe and practice it dare to speak of major truth and minor truth? It is a peculiar characteristic of the professing Christian faith that some will speak of essential and nonessential truth. This not only contradicts the clear teaching of the Founder of the Faith, but flies in the face of all logic and common sense as well. If all this is correct, and it is, we would expect that the apostles and disciples in the first century would understand and accept His commands as being clear and correct. We would be justified in believing they consistently followed His marching orders and detailed instructions. It should be safely assumed that the Lord desires the making and training of disciples in the local church should follow His Biblical pattern in our day and time ......."
-------------------------------------
Why Adversity?
Why do God's people have adversity? As David asked, "Why do the wicked seem to prosper at the expense of God's people?" Why do terrible tragedies occur in the midst of times of great success and prosperity? Why do a multiplicity of calamities, as in the case of Job, seem to come one upon the heels of another? Why, in our time of greatest distress, do our most heartfelt petitions and pleas seem to fall upon a deaf ear and fail to penetrate a heaven made of brass? Adversity can be the deadliest source of discouragement or the greatest impetus for spiritual growth in the life of a believer. The difference depends upon and is determined by our understanding, attitude and response to the pressure involved. ....."
---------------------------
Testimony for Christ
The attached testimony has been an inspiration and encouragement to me for quite some time. I just ran across it again and had the thought that if it could be posted on the website it might be an encouragement to others who have shared the gospel for years and in many cases, not known the outcome. It is not copyright and duplication and use is encouraged. Pastor John G White
----------------
What Makes Heaven Special
This message is intended to focus our thoughts on heaven. Imagine a place that multiples infinitely the beauty of this earth. And just imagine a place completely free of the effects of sin. A place with no pollution brought about by man's destructive nature. A pure and pristine environment will surely prevail. Imagine a place without sin and sin's effects. A place where all the sorrows, sickness and sadness of earth are even beyond the reach of memory and beneath the nature of a mind like Christ. Imagine a place where all will be equally rich, happy and content. Imagine a place where all will be busy, yet blissfully at peace and rest. Imagine a place where wars and rumors of war will be no more. Imagine a place where there will be no need for defence forces. Imagine a place where the concept of a constabulary is contradictory to existence. Imagine a place where man's inhumanity to man will cease forever more. Imagine a place where no friend will betray you. Imagine a place where no one can hurt or harm you. Imagine a place where no fear can be felt. Imagine a place where no terrorist can threaten you. Imagine a place where no locks are needed and doors can always be open. Imagine a place where no walls or fences will separate you. Imagine a place where no hate nor ill will can destroy you. Imagine a place where everyone will love and cherish the presence of all those who are there. But best of all, imagine a place where you will live in the Light of Jesus and see Him face to face. Imagine a place where you will be like Him for we will see Him as He is.
---------------
Dealing with Discouragement, 2006
No one is immune from discouragement. Some of the most well known and successful men of faith in history have been afflicted by it. Spurgeon was prone to long periods of discouragement and even depression. So was Wesley.
It is said that Satan had an auction. He decided to sell all the tools of his trade. Lust had a high price placed upon it. So did pride, arrogance, envy and bitterness. But one tool was seen sitting off to the side with a sign reading, "Not for sale." It was the tool of discourgement. Discouragement is Satan's most effective tool in his effort to thrawt the purpose and plan of God in our lives. He is in that business.
Do we not also get weary in well doing? As the old hymn says, "Sometimes I feel discouraged, and think my work's in vain, but then the Holy Spirit, revives my soul again." In this message Pastor White deals with the curse of discouragement, the causes of discouragement and the cure for discouragement.
-------------------------------------------------------------
No comments:
Post a Comment