Calvary News
August 28, 2006
Dr. Rick Worthy
Unbelievable week is an understatement if there ever was one. Calvary is still reeling with the resignation of Brother Tim Davis. It really is going to be hard to say good by.
Rick and Ricky T went to Victory Baptist School for their chapel program on Wednesday morning. The kids seemed to really enjoy them as they told the Bible Story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego;
The Youthful Defenders had a full weekend starting with a pizza outing at Cee Cees Pizza in Auburn and a Movie. We went to see the movie “World Trade Center”. It reminded us in vivid details just how evil man can be and on the other hand just how compassionate man can be.
After returning to Calvary around 1 AM Tim and Leigh took several of the youth down to Tom’s house on Lake Marin for a lock-in. Wilma and I decided to meet them the next day for a day of swimming, boating and good grilling out. It is official (the judges voted unanimously) Dr. Rick is the king of the dock. It is true he got pushed into the water; however, it took at less a dozen of the strongest girls there to do it. As I remember we only had 5 girls and one guy there but that is beside the point.
After a fun day of playing in the water and a hearty meal of Hot-dogs, Hamburgers and all the trimmings, we left Brother Tom’s around 4 pm heading to Verbena, Al to the En Fuego Youth Rally.
Meaning "On Fire" in Spanish, this one-day event is a rally at which students from every denomination and background come together for the purpose of worship and seeing Jesus Christ change lives. Each consecutive year the praise and worship has been spectacular and a clear Gospel message has been presented. An outdoor event, the rally has a very intense, yet intimate, camp-like feel and some have referred to it as "the Christian Woodstock of your generation." Located in central Alabama, this event has seen hundreds of students come to know Christ, make commitments of renewal and be called into full-time ministry. The Lord has made this rally grow in ministry, excellence and numbers since the first year when some 300 students came. In 2005, over 10,000 people covered an open hillside to exalt the name of Jesus, some for the very first time!
As we turned down the long rural road outside of Verbena we began to realize that this was far bigger than we had anticipated. Cars were bumper to bumper for several miles. As we approached the hillside were the rally had been in progress for several hours already we were flabbergasted to see the number of cars, trucks, and buses parked every where. We were blessed to find a parking spot fairly close. We made our way to the hillside were people from all over the south had gathered to worship the one true God! The number that was given was 25,000 plus.
David Nasser, Rick and Bubba, Hyper Static Union, Grits, and Third Day just to name a few of the top names there. Ending the Rally was Third Day. They were stupendous, keeping the crowd on their feet for the entire time they were on stage. It was a tremendous blessing to see so many young people with their hands stretched toward Heaven in praise to Jesus our Savior. It was a great way to end an awesome weekend.
Monday night the Senior Adult Ministry (SAM) got together at Oskars for a surprise birthday party for Mrs. Barbara Lightsey who turned (don’t even think that I’m going there) this week. There were 30 in attendance and yes she was surprised. It was a grand party enjoyed by all (maybe not those that came for a quite evening meal). Mrs. Barbara we wish you many more wonderful years and for the right amount of money I will reveal who planned the party.
Several members of SAM will be going to the Shakespeare Festival Friday, September 1.
Brother Rick and Mrs. Wilma will begin working with the kids Sunday evening at 5:30 pm. All kids grades k-6 or encouraged to come.
Check out our blog page. calvarybaptist1.blogspot.com
Monday, August 28, 2006
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Brother Tim Davis Handles September 17th Service
Brother Tim will be preaching on Sunday Morning, September 17. This will be his going away sermon. You must be there for this one.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
WEDNESDAY NIGHT STUDY AUGUST 23
Faith that Moves Mountains
Matthew 17:14-21
14 And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, 15 Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. 16 And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him. 17 Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. 18 And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. 19 Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? 20 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. 21 Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.
He foretells His own betrayal, death, and resurrection
Kent Hughes writes, "In the Vatican Gallery hangs Raphael’s last painting, which some think to be his greatest. It is entitled The Transfiguration. The uppermost part pictures the transfigured form of Jesus, with Moses on the left and Elijah on his right. On the next level down are the three disciples, Peter, James and John, recently awakened and shielding their eyes from Jesus’ blinding brilliance. On the ground level is a poor demon-possessed boy, his mouth hideously gaping with wild ravings. At his side is his desperate father. Surrounding them are the rest of the disciples, some of whom are pointing upward to the glowing figure of Christ – who will be the boy’s only answer. Raphael has brilliantly captured something of the overwhelming contrast between the glorious Mount of Transfiguration and the troubled world waiting below."
In the preceding verses, we have learned of Jesus’ majesty and glory in the Transfiguration, a preview of His Second Coming. In the passage before us, we will learn about ministering in faith to a troubled world.
Faith is absolutely necessary to live the Christian life. Consider three varieties of faith.
1. First, there is SAVING FAITH the God-given gift, the ability to believe on Christ for salvation.
2. Second, there is SANCTIFYING FAITH, the faith we walk in as we become conformed to the image of Jesus.
3. Third, there is SUFFICIENT FAITH, the faith to trust in the power of Christ, not our own ability. This is subject in the passage before us.
This passage marks the beginning of a period of specialized instruction for the disciples shortly before Jesus death. The next several events serve like a finishing school for ministry without the physical presence of Jesus.
Let’s note four natural divisions in the text.
I. The Pitiful Condition of the Boy (vv.14-15).
A. Jesus and the Inner Three come down from the Mountain.
Peter, James and John had just seen the most fantastic sight of their lives. They had seen Jesus in His glory and majesty flanked by Moses and Elijah. Now after this mountain top vision of God’s power, they descended into the valley to learn the lesson of their own lack of power.
Below the mountain, perhaps in Caesarea Philippi or some other nearby village, they met a "multitude," a large crowd of people encircling the other 9 disciples.
In a parallel account, Mark 9:14 says, "And when He came to the disciples, He saw a great multitude around them, and scribes disputing with them." It seems the scribes were arguing with the remaining 9.
It seems that these 9 had tried to cast a demon out of a boy could not. I imagine the "scribes" taunting them for their inability, calling them quacks and phonies.
B. A Grieving Father Approaches Jesus.
The crowd was probably so engrossed in this heated argument that they didn’t notice Jesus walking up. One man, the father of the demon-possessed son, did see Him.
He came to Jesus "kneeling down." Mark 9:15 adds, "Immediately, when they saw Him, all the people were greatly amazed, and running to Him, greeted Him." I imagine them saying, "Jesus! You are here! We were just talking about You!"
Obviously, this grieved father had some sense of faith and respect for Jesus because he addresses Him as "Lord." He pleads, "Have mercy on my son."
C. A Description of the Suffering Boy.
First, the father describes his son as "an epileptic." The KJV uses the word "lunatic" which is a good translation. Literally it means "moonstruck." Ancient people believed the cycles of the moon caused madness. The idea is that the boy had what we would describe as epileptic seizures.
Second, the father says that his son "suffers severely." This suggests that his condition was unusually serious and perhaps growing worse all the time.
Third, the father says his son "often falls into the fire." Open fires were common. In his seizures the boy had "often" been burned and carried hideous scars.
Fourth, the father says his boy also "often" falls "into the water." He fell in open wells or cisterns. Because he was in constant danger of being burned or drowning, someone had to stay near him at all times.
Fifth, Mark 9:17 adds that the father says the boy had "a mute spirit" so that he could not speak.
Another parallel passing in Luke 9:39 adds this graphic description, "And behold, a spirit seizes him, and he suddenly cries out; it convulses him so that he foams at the mouth, and it departs from him with great difficulty, bruising him."
Not everyone with epilepsy is demon-possessed. However, there was no doubt to anyone present that a demon was causing this boy’s sufferings.
II. The Powerless Attempt of the Disciples (v.16).
A. The Father had brought the Boy to Jesus for Healing.
Imagine this father’s desperate condition. Like any good parent, he would do anything to help his child. He had no doubt spent much money and time seeking someone who could help his poor son.
He hears about Jesus and His disciples. He knows they have power to heal the sick and cast out demons so with great anticipation he brings his son to them.
When he finds the disciples, Jesus is not with them. The disciples tell him not to worry they can help him. They probably say, "Jesus isn’t here, but we can certainly handle this problem. We’ve done it before."
B. The Disciples were Unable to do anything.
The desperate father admits to Jesus, "I brought him to Your disciples, but they could not cure him."
In 10:6-8, Jesus commissioned and empowered His disciples. Mark 6:13 says, "And they cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them." They were experienced. This wasn’t their first case.
With great confidence, the 9 tried to exorcise the demon, but nothing happened. They were probably surprised. Imagine how the taunts of the scribes infuriated them.
What was the problem? They had cast out demons before without Jesus’ presence. They were trying to operate in their own power, not the power of Jesus.
C. We are unable to do anything without Jesus.
Like the disciples, we can believe so strongly in our traditions, our past successes, our present programs that we forget that any changing power comes from Jesus.
We can become so divided by petty divisions and strife that we are like a bucket with holes, we can’t hold God’s power for ministry.
Look again at this verse. Here was a genuine need that they should have met but "they could not." How many needs have we not met because of our lack of faith, our trusting in our resources rather than Jesus?
Let us always remember that great faith comes from seeking God’s plan, God’s will and God’s power.
III. The Purposeful Healing of the Master (vv.17-18).
A. Jesus Rebuked the People (v.17).
Now Jesus grieved alongside the father. We can hear in His words His own grief at the lack of faith (v.17).
This is a glimpse into the thought life of Jesus. We see the compassion of the Son of God but also the exasperation of the Son of Man.
Jesus was grieved because of that "faithless [unbelieving] and perverse generation." He was grieved by the unbelieving "multitude" representative of national Israel that had no faith to recognize Him as their long-awaited Anointed One, the Messiah.
What grieved Jesus even more was the weak faith of His disciples. Instead of dropping to their knees in fervent prayer when they encountered an obstacle, they became embroiled in a religious debate with the "scribes."
In effect, the Savior was asking, "What more do you need but to rely on Me?" We love to quote Phil.4:13, but how often do we practice its truth?
We also hear Jesus’ longing for His Father’s house. His desire to return to the glory we see on the Mount.
MacArthur suggests the Enemy whispered words of discouragement to Him, "If they do not trust You while You are with them, how do You expect them to trust You after You have returned to heaven?"
B. Jesus Rebuked the Demon (v.18).
His frustration did not hinder His compassion. He said, "Bring him here to Me."
Mark tells us that Jesus said to the father, "If you can believe all things are possible to him who believes." The father responded with an honest prayer that should be on all our lips, "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!" When you are unsure, admit it!
As Jesus "rebuked the demon" the evil spirit made one last assault on his victim. Mark 9:26 records, "Then the spirit cried out, convulsed him greatly, and came out of him. And he became as one dead, so that many said, ‘He is dead.’"
V.18 also says, "the child was cured from that very hour." There would be no more seizures, no more foaming at the mouth, and no more falling into fires or wells.
Luke 9:43 says of the crowd, "And they were all amazed at the majesty of God."
Sufficient faith comes only when we surrender only when we confess our lack of belief and lack of ability. We have to empty ourselves before we become full of Jesus.
IV. The Prevailing Reality of Faith (vv.19-21).
A. A Private Question (v.19).
After this event, "the disciples came to Jesus privately." Mark tells us they were in a house. Perhaps they were enjoying the hospitality of the family of the boy that Jesus healed.
They ask, "Why could we not cast it out?" Again, they asked this question in privacy. No doubt their egos were a bit bruised by their inability. They had already cast out many demons. Certainly that gave them a sense of power and authority. Why had they failed so miserably and Jesus succeeded so easily?
B. A Difficult Answer (v.20).
Jesus answer was short, simple and difficult for them to hear, "Because of your unbelief" or "because of your lack of faith." They had saving faith, sanctifying faith but had not invoked sufficient faith for this problem.
When Jesus stilled the storm He asked, "Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?" (Mat 8:26). Later when Peter began to sink, He asked "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"
What is "little faith?" It is trusting God’s provision when you already have everything you need. "Little faith" is trusting God’s direction when the way ahead is clear. "Little faith" is trusting God’s goodness when everything is turning up roses.
Great faith is trusting provision you don’t have, going in a direction where the way is not clear or relying on God’s character when times are tough.
It seems a little contradictory that Jesus spoke of their "little faith" but then speaks of "faith as a mustard seed." Mustard seed faith represents faith that starts out very small but grows. A mustard seed is a very small seed that grows into a large plant. Jesus means that a growing faith is a powerful faith!
Jesus tells the disciples that if they had "faith as a mustard seed" or a growing faith "you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move." Further He adds, "Nothing will be impossible for you."
We know that Jesus was not literally speaking of moving a literal mountain. "Able to move mountains" was a common figure of speech in that time which meant the ability to overcome great obstacles.
When we face mountain-sized difficulties in life as the disciples had just done with the demonized boy, we are to remember that faith is the key. Instead of worrying, arguing or whining we should drop to our knees and fully surrender to God.
C. A Lasting Principle (v.21).
Jesus adds "this kind" of demon "does not go out except by prayer and fasting."
"Fasting" is an important technique, a spiritual discipline that focuses us on prayer. Prayer is the key. When we don’t know what to do, we are to pray, Pray, PRAY!!!
Folks, in many ways we are just like the disciples. We know the traditions. We have programs for every conceivable type of ministry. We understand the need for prayer. What we need is to just do it. We need to surrender ourselves to God and let Him use us.
Remember the painting? The disciples are pointing toward the transfigured Lord. That’s what we must do. Get down on our knees and point people toward Jesus.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Matthew 17:14-21
14 And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, 15 Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. 16 And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him. 17 Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. 18 And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. 19 Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? 20 And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. 21 Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.
He foretells His own betrayal, death, and resurrection
Kent Hughes writes, "In the Vatican Gallery hangs Raphael’s last painting, which some think to be his greatest. It is entitled The Transfiguration. The uppermost part pictures the transfigured form of Jesus, with Moses on the left and Elijah on his right. On the next level down are the three disciples, Peter, James and John, recently awakened and shielding their eyes from Jesus’ blinding brilliance. On the ground level is a poor demon-possessed boy, his mouth hideously gaping with wild ravings. At his side is his desperate father. Surrounding them are the rest of the disciples, some of whom are pointing upward to the glowing figure of Christ – who will be the boy’s only answer. Raphael has brilliantly captured something of the overwhelming contrast between the glorious Mount of Transfiguration and the troubled world waiting below."
In the preceding verses, we have learned of Jesus’ majesty and glory in the Transfiguration, a preview of His Second Coming. In the passage before us, we will learn about ministering in faith to a troubled world.
Faith is absolutely necessary to live the Christian life. Consider three varieties of faith.
1. First, there is SAVING FAITH the God-given gift, the ability to believe on Christ for salvation.
2. Second, there is SANCTIFYING FAITH, the faith we walk in as we become conformed to the image of Jesus.
3. Third, there is SUFFICIENT FAITH, the faith to trust in the power of Christ, not our own ability. This is subject in the passage before us.
This passage marks the beginning of a period of specialized instruction for the disciples shortly before Jesus death. The next several events serve like a finishing school for ministry without the physical presence of Jesus.
Let’s note four natural divisions in the text.
I. The Pitiful Condition of the Boy (vv.14-15).
A. Jesus and the Inner Three come down from the Mountain.
Peter, James and John had just seen the most fantastic sight of their lives. They had seen Jesus in His glory and majesty flanked by Moses and Elijah. Now after this mountain top vision of God’s power, they descended into the valley to learn the lesson of their own lack of power.
Below the mountain, perhaps in Caesarea Philippi or some other nearby village, they met a "multitude," a large crowd of people encircling the other 9 disciples.
In a parallel account, Mark 9:14 says, "And when He came to the disciples, He saw a great multitude around them, and scribes disputing with them." It seems the scribes were arguing with the remaining 9.
It seems that these 9 had tried to cast a demon out of a boy could not. I imagine the "scribes" taunting them for their inability, calling them quacks and phonies.
B. A Grieving Father Approaches Jesus.
The crowd was probably so engrossed in this heated argument that they didn’t notice Jesus walking up. One man, the father of the demon-possessed son, did see Him.
He came to Jesus "kneeling down." Mark 9:15 adds, "Immediately, when they saw Him, all the people were greatly amazed, and running to Him, greeted Him." I imagine them saying, "Jesus! You are here! We were just talking about You!"
Obviously, this grieved father had some sense of faith and respect for Jesus because he addresses Him as "Lord." He pleads, "Have mercy on my son."
C. A Description of the Suffering Boy.
First, the father describes his son as "an epileptic." The KJV uses the word "lunatic" which is a good translation. Literally it means "moonstruck." Ancient people believed the cycles of the moon caused madness. The idea is that the boy had what we would describe as epileptic seizures.
Second, the father says that his son "suffers severely." This suggests that his condition was unusually serious and perhaps growing worse all the time.
Third, the father says his son "often falls into the fire." Open fires were common. In his seizures the boy had "often" been burned and carried hideous scars.
Fourth, the father says his boy also "often" falls "into the water." He fell in open wells or cisterns. Because he was in constant danger of being burned or drowning, someone had to stay near him at all times.
Fifth, Mark 9:17 adds that the father says the boy had "a mute spirit" so that he could not speak.
Another parallel passing in Luke 9:39 adds this graphic description, "And behold, a spirit seizes him, and he suddenly cries out; it convulses him so that he foams at the mouth, and it departs from him with great difficulty, bruising him."
Not everyone with epilepsy is demon-possessed. However, there was no doubt to anyone present that a demon was causing this boy’s sufferings.
II. The Powerless Attempt of the Disciples (v.16).
A. The Father had brought the Boy to Jesus for Healing.
Imagine this father’s desperate condition. Like any good parent, he would do anything to help his child. He had no doubt spent much money and time seeking someone who could help his poor son.
He hears about Jesus and His disciples. He knows they have power to heal the sick and cast out demons so with great anticipation he brings his son to them.
When he finds the disciples, Jesus is not with them. The disciples tell him not to worry they can help him. They probably say, "Jesus isn’t here, but we can certainly handle this problem. We’ve done it before."
B. The Disciples were Unable to do anything.
The desperate father admits to Jesus, "I brought him to Your disciples, but they could not cure him."
In 10:6-8, Jesus commissioned and empowered His disciples. Mark 6:13 says, "And they cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick, and healed them." They were experienced. This wasn’t their first case.
With great confidence, the 9 tried to exorcise the demon, but nothing happened. They were probably surprised. Imagine how the taunts of the scribes infuriated them.
What was the problem? They had cast out demons before without Jesus’ presence. They were trying to operate in their own power, not the power of Jesus.
C. We are unable to do anything without Jesus.
Like the disciples, we can believe so strongly in our traditions, our past successes, our present programs that we forget that any changing power comes from Jesus.
We can become so divided by petty divisions and strife that we are like a bucket with holes, we can’t hold God’s power for ministry.
Look again at this verse. Here was a genuine need that they should have met but "they could not." How many needs have we not met because of our lack of faith, our trusting in our resources rather than Jesus?
Let us always remember that great faith comes from seeking God’s plan, God’s will and God’s power.
III. The Purposeful Healing of the Master (vv.17-18).
A. Jesus Rebuked the People (v.17).
Now Jesus grieved alongside the father. We can hear in His words His own grief at the lack of faith (v.17).
This is a glimpse into the thought life of Jesus. We see the compassion of the Son of God but also the exasperation of the Son of Man.
Jesus was grieved because of that "faithless [unbelieving] and perverse generation." He was grieved by the unbelieving "multitude" representative of national Israel that had no faith to recognize Him as their long-awaited Anointed One, the Messiah.
What grieved Jesus even more was the weak faith of His disciples. Instead of dropping to their knees in fervent prayer when they encountered an obstacle, they became embroiled in a religious debate with the "scribes."
In effect, the Savior was asking, "What more do you need but to rely on Me?" We love to quote Phil.4:13, but how often do we practice its truth?
We also hear Jesus’ longing for His Father’s house. His desire to return to the glory we see on the Mount.
MacArthur suggests the Enemy whispered words of discouragement to Him, "If they do not trust You while You are with them, how do You expect them to trust You after You have returned to heaven?"
B. Jesus Rebuked the Demon (v.18).
His frustration did not hinder His compassion. He said, "Bring him here to Me."
Mark tells us that Jesus said to the father, "If you can believe all things are possible to him who believes." The father responded with an honest prayer that should be on all our lips, "Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!" When you are unsure, admit it!
As Jesus "rebuked the demon" the evil spirit made one last assault on his victim. Mark 9:26 records, "Then the spirit cried out, convulsed him greatly, and came out of him. And he became as one dead, so that many said, ‘He is dead.’"
V.18 also says, "the child was cured from that very hour." There would be no more seizures, no more foaming at the mouth, and no more falling into fires or wells.
Luke 9:43 says of the crowd, "And they were all amazed at the majesty of God."
Sufficient faith comes only when we surrender only when we confess our lack of belief and lack of ability. We have to empty ourselves before we become full of Jesus.
IV. The Prevailing Reality of Faith (vv.19-21).
A. A Private Question (v.19).
After this event, "the disciples came to Jesus privately." Mark tells us they were in a house. Perhaps they were enjoying the hospitality of the family of the boy that Jesus healed.
They ask, "Why could we not cast it out?" Again, they asked this question in privacy. No doubt their egos were a bit bruised by their inability. They had already cast out many demons. Certainly that gave them a sense of power and authority. Why had they failed so miserably and Jesus succeeded so easily?
B. A Difficult Answer (v.20).
Jesus answer was short, simple and difficult for them to hear, "Because of your unbelief" or "because of your lack of faith." They had saving faith, sanctifying faith but had not invoked sufficient faith for this problem.
When Jesus stilled the storm He asked, "Why are you fearful, O you of little faith?" (Mat 8:26). Later when Peter began to sink, He asked "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"
What is "little faith?" It is trusting God’s provision when you already have everything you need. "Little faith" is trusting God’s direction when the way ahead is clear. "Little faith" is trusting God’s goodness when everything is turning up roses.
Great faith is trusting provision you don’t have, going in a direction where the way is not clear or relying on God’s character when times are tough.
It seems a little contradictory that Jesus spoke of their "little faith" but then speaks of "faith as a mustard seed." Mustard seed faith represents faith that starts out very small but grows. A mustard seed is a very small seed that grows into a large plant. Jesus means that a growing faith is a powerful faith!
Jesus tells the disciples that if they had "faith as a mustard seed" or a growing faith "you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move." Further He adds, "Nothing will be impossible for you."
We know that Jesus was not literally speaking of moving a literal mountain. "Able to move mountains" was a common figure of speech in that time which meant the ability to overcome great obstacles.
When we face mountain-sized difficulties in life as the disciples had just done with the demonized boy, we are to remember that faith is the key. Instead of worrying, arguing or whining we should drop to our knees and fully surrender to God.
C. A Lasting Principle (v.21).
Jesus adds "this kind" of demon "does not go out except by prayer and fasting."
"Fasting" is an important technique, a spiritual discipline that focuses us on prayer. Prayer is the key. When we don’t know what to do, we are to pray, Pray, PRAY!!!
Folks, in many ways we are just like the disciples. We know the traditions. We have programs for every conceivable type of ministry. We understand the need for prayer. What we need is to just do it. We need to surrender ourselves to God and let Him use us.
Remember the painting? The disciples are pointing toward the transfigured Lord. That’s what we must do. Get down on our knees and point people toward Jesus.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sunday, August 20, 2006
DAVIS RESIGNS
Calvary Baptist Church was saddened Sunday by the resignation of Reverend Tim Davis, our Associate Pastor/ Youth leader. Tim used bittersweet to describe the announcement that Beulah Baptist Church, in the Union Community, had called him as their Associate Pastor. Tim, Leigh, Tad and Amber have been at Calvary for the past 2 years. We realize that being a Preacher of the Gospel means one will move from time to time, but that realization does not make it painless saying good by. We will miss the contagious smiles, quick wit and laughter that we all have come to love about Tim. He is a person that sees no wrong in anyone and loves you with an unconditional love from the beginning. He has been and will continue to be a faithful worker for Christ. Calvary will truly miss the Davis family. Beulah has gained a great man of God. Tim, Leigh, Tad and Amber have become very close friends to Wilma and I over the last year. We wish them God speed in their new field of Service.
CALVARY ECHOS
Calvary News
Rick Worthy
Calvary Baptist Church was saddened Sunday by the resignation of Reverend Tim Davis, our Associate Pastor/ Youth leader. Tim used bittersweet to describe the announcement that Beulah Baptist Church, in the Union Community, had called him as their Associate Pastor. Tim, Leigh, Tad and Amber have been at Calvary for the past 2 years. We realize that being a Preacher of the Gospel means one will move from time to time, but that realization does not make it painless saying good by. We will miss the contagious smiles, quick wit and laughter that we all have come to love about Tim. He is a person that sees no wrong in anyone and loves you with an unconditional love from the beginning. He has been and will continue to be a faithful worker for Christ. Calvary will truly miss the Davis family. Beulah has gained a great man of God. Tim, Leigh, Tad and Amber have become very close friends to Wilma and I over the last year. We wish them God speed in their new field of Service. Brother Tim will remain on the field at Calvary until the 17th of September. He will preach during the Morning Service on that day. There will be a fellowship meal after the Morning Service.
Doctor Rick Worthy was called as Associate Pastor and Youth Leader to take Brother Tim’s place. Rick and Wilma will work together in this position, as did Tim and Leigh. Rick and Wilma have been members of Calvary Baptist for the last year. Doctor Worthy and Wilma came to Calvary from Bon Air Baptist Church in Bon Air, Al. were he served as Pastor for four years. He served as Pastor of Union Baptist Church in Central Association for six years prior to that. He currently teaches the Masters Program at Lake Martin Bible Institute in Alexander City, Al.
Calvary Baptist, in a unanimous decision, voted to go ahead with the purchase of a 23 or 36 passenger bus. It was reported that the liability of using a 15-passenger van has gotten to be too great and that the pressure from the Government to do away with their use has gotten stronger. The deacons will be looking at what will be the best option, a 23 or 36-passenger bus.
The Church had talked about installing new high-tech video monitors and computers but it was decided to wait on this phase until after the purchase of the Bus.
Dewayne Sanders under went Laparoscopic surgery on Monday, August 14,2006. The doctors were able to remove the cancer from his colon along with several lymph nodes associated with the tumors. Dewayne will have to go back for more surgery in about 4 to 8 weeks to remove a spot on his liver. Continue to pray for him and his family as they fight this battle they are in. We know that we serve a God of Healing and He will prevail in this situation. It was a blessing to see Dewayne in Church Sunday morning.
The New Beginning Sunday Sunday_School Class has adopted Curt and Conner Sanders, the infant twin sons of Dewayne and Christie, as a mission project while Dewayne recovers from his treatments. Everyone is encouraged to pick up a few items as they shop during the week. Jars of baby food, diapers, cereal etc.will be a great help since Dewayne will not be able to return to work for some time; if you need more information on ways to help e-mail me at rickworthy@bellsouth.net. Please make a note help for Dewayne in the subject line.
The Youthful Defenders (Youth of Calvary) will have a movie/pizza party Friday night August 25. They will meet at Calvary at 6:00 P.M. and after the movie they will have a lock-in at Brother Tom’s house on the lake. On Saturday afternoon they will be going to Verbena, Al. to a Third Day Concert. This is a full weekend of fun so don’t miss it.
Mrs. Pam Parker announced Sunday morning that on some Wednesday nights the kids would be going to McDonalds for treats and study time. This is for kids Nursery-6 grade.
Rick and Wilma will be starting the Puppet Ministry for kids grades k-6 on September 3,2006 at 5:30 PM
We have many things going on at Calvary Baptist Church. God is blessing in a mighty way. Come join us and see just what He is doing and can do in your life.
Check out our web site: calvarybaptist1.blogspot.com
Rick Worthy
Calvary Baptist Church was saddened Sunday by the resignation of Reverend Tim Davis, our Associate Pastor/ Youth leader. Tim used bittersweet to describe the announcement that Beulah Baptist Church, in the Union Community, had called him as their Associate Pastor. Tim, Leigh, Tad and Amber have been at Calvary for the past 2 years. We realize that being a Preacher of the Gospel means one will move from time to time, but that realization does not make it painless saying good by. We will miss the contagious smiles, quick wit and laughter that we all have come to love about Tim. He is a person that sees no wrong in anyone and loves you with an unconditional love from the beginning. He has been and will continue to be a faithful worker for Christ. Calvary will truly miss the Davis family. Beulah has gained a great man of God. Tim, Leigh, Tad and Amber have become very close friends to Wilma and I over the last year. We wish them God speed in their new field of Service. Brother Tim will remain on the field at Calvary until the 17th of September. He will preach during the Morning Service on that day. There will be a fellowship meal after the Morning Service.
Doctor Rick Worthy was called as Associate Pastor and Youth Leader to take Brother Tim’s place. Rick and Wilma will work together in this position, as did Tim and Leigh. Rick and Wilma have been members of Calvary Baptist for the last year. Doctor Worthy and Wilma came to Calvary from Bon Air Baptist Church in Bon Air, Al. were he served as Pastor for four years. He served as Pastor of Union Baptist Church in Central Association for six years prior to that. He currently teaches the Masters Program at Lake Martin Bible Institute in Alexander City, Al.
Calvary Baptist, in a unanimous decision, voted to go ahead with the purchase of a 23 or 36 passenger bus. It was reported that the liability of using a 15-passenger van has gotten to be too great and that the pressure from the Government to do away with their use has gotten stronger. The deacons will be looking at what will be the best option, a 23 or 36-passenger bus.
The Church had talked about installing new high-tech video monitors and computers but it was decided to wait on this phase until after the purchase of the Bus.
Dewayne Sanders under went Laparoscopic surgery on Monday, August 14,2006. The doctors were able to remove the cancer from his colon along with several lymph nodes associated with the tumors. Dewayne will have to go back for more surgery in about 4 to 8 weeks to remove a spot on his liver. Continue to pray for him and his family as they fight this battle they are in. We know that we serve a God of Healing and He will prevail in this situation. It was a blessing to see Dewayne in Church Sunday morning.
The New Beginning Sunday Sunday_School Class has adopted Curt and Conner Sanders, the infant twin sons of Dewayne and Christie, as a mission project while Dewayne recovers from his treatments. Everyone is encouraged to pick up a few items as they shop during the week. Jars of baby food, diapers, cereal etc.will be a great help since Dewayne will not be able to return to work for some time; if you need more information on ways to help e-mail me at rickworthy@bellsouth.net. Please make a note help for Dewayne in the subject line.
The Youthful Defenders (Youth of Calvary) will have a movie/pizza party Friday night August 25. They will meet at Calvary at 6:00 P.M. and after the movie they will have a lock-in at Brother Tom’s house on the lake. On Saturday afternoon they will be going to Verbena, Al. to a Third Day Concert. This is a full weekend of fun so don’t miss it.
Mrs. Pam Parker announced Sunday morning that on some Wednesday nights the kids would be going to McDonalds for treats and study time. This is for kids Nursery-6 grade.
Rick and Wilma will be starting the Puppet Ministry for kids grades k-6 on September 3,2006 at 5:30 PM
We have many things going on at Calvary Baptist Church. God is blessing in a mighty way. Come join us and see just what He is doing and can do in your life.
Check out our web site: calvarybaptist1.blogspot.com
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
HOMECOMING 66
Calvary Baptist Church Homecoming 66 was truly one to remember. The church was almost packed, extra tables had to be brought out to hold all the southern style cooking, and the best Gospel singing abound.
Mrs. Tawana Greer Lowery and her two daughters, Jarilyn and Jordan, from First Baptist Church, Alexander City opened the Morning Service with The Lord’s Prayer sang acappella. Tawana is the daughter of Rev. Martin and Mrs. Elizabeth Greer long time members of Calvary Baptist Church.
Harlan Burton began his concert with One Day AT A Time dedicated to Dewayne Sanders who has been diagnosed with colon cancer. Dewayne under went surgery in B’ham to remove the tumors from his colon Monday. Dewayne is Rev. Tom Pemberton, Pastor of Calvary, son-in-law.
Called to sing ... Those are the words that best describe Harlan Burton. Harlan has established himself in southern Gospel music with his smooth vocals, sincere delivery and caring personality. A couple of Harlan's favorite songs are "Learning To Lean" and "One Day AT A Time." Harlan has learned, through a few crises in his life, to turn his life completely over to Jesus Christ. He has learned that if he lives life one day at a time, the Lord will use His Holy Spirit to teach him, guide him and strengthen him in times of need. Harlan has also learned to praise God no matter what comes his way in life.
Mrs. Tawana Greer Lowery and her two daughters, Jarilyn and Jordan, from First Baptist Church, Alexander City opened the Morning Service with The Lord’s Prayer sang acappella. Tawana is the daughter of Rev. Martin and Mrs. Elizabeth Greer long time members of Calvary Baptist Church.
Harlan Burton began his concert with One Day AT A Time dedicated to Dewayne Sanders who has been diagnosed with colon cancer. Dewayne under went surgery in B’ham to remove the tumors from his colon Monday. Dewayne is Rev. Tom Pemberton, Pastor of Calvary, son-in-law.
Called to sing ... Those are the words that best describe Harlan Burton. Harlan has established himself in southern Gospel music with his smooth vocals, sincere delivery and caring personality. A couple of Harlan's favorite songs are "Learning To Lean" and "One Day AT A Time." Harlan has learned, through a few crises in his life, to turn his life completely over to Jesus Christ. He has learned that if he lives life one day at a time, the Lord will use His Holy Spirit to teach him, guide him and strengthen him in times of need. Harlan has also learned to praise God no matter what comes his way in life.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
HOW TO RECOGNIZE A GOOD PLACE
Wednesday Night Study August 16,2006
Matthew 17:1-8
Matthew 17:1-8
Rick Worthy,DM
1 And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, 2 And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. 3 And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. 4 Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. 5 While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. 6 And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. 7 And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. 8 And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.
Introduction
This is one of the most precious passages in the Bible. Here the Lord Jesus gives His disciples a snapshot of the coming kingdom. It is helpful to understand what is happening in these verses, if you take the time to look backward into chapter 16. There, Jesus has just told His men that He is on the way to the cross to die for their sins, Matt. 16:19. Peter rebukes him, but goes on to tell the disciples that not only will He die on the cross, but also He will return to this earth in glory someday. Then, Jesus makes a very strange statement. In Matt. 16:28, He tells the disciples that some of them will not die before they “see the Son of man coming in His kingdom.”
“After six days,” Jesus takes Peter, James and John into a “high mountain,” Mark 9:2. There, Jesus was “transfigured” in their presence. Those three men were allowed to witness a little bit of what we will see a whole lot of in heaven. They were given an honor that none of them ever got over as long as they lived. You will notice that the very first word of verse 1 is “and.” This ties the events of chapter 17 back to those of chapter 16. What we see here then, is a small picture of the glory Jesus will have when He comes in power to reign over the earth.
By the way, I thank God today that I know Who Jesus is! I am glad that I do not have any trouble believing in His virgin birth, His vicarious death or His victorious resurrection. I am also glad that I have been given faith to believe in His visible return some glorious day!
But tonight I want to draw our attention to what Peter says in verse 4, “Lord, it is good for us to be here!” When Peter saw all that was happening around him, he didn’t understand all that was happening, but he knew enough to know that he was in a good place!
As you and I travel through this life, we find ourselves in all kinds of places. Some are okay and some are definitely not okay. There are valley times and mountaintop times and times that fall everywhere between the two extremes. Tonight, I want to try and help you out a little bit on your journey toward glory. I want to help you know a good place in life when you see it. I believe you can be in a good place and not even recognize it! You might be in the valley, but that valley might just be a good place! You might be in a time of physical pain, emotional trouble, financial turmoil, or any of 10,000 other kinds of trials, but you still might be in a good place. I would like for us to examine this passage together for a moment tonight. I want to show you How To Recognize A Good Place.
You know you are in a good place when:
I. v. 1-2 YOU CAN EXAMINE HIS GLORY
A. A Special People –
Verse 1 tells us that Jesus only took three of His men with Him. These three were Peter, James and John. It would appear that these men were the Lord’s “inner circle.” In fact, this is not the only time Jesus selected these men for a time of special ministry. It was these three men that were with Jesus when He raised Jairus’ daughter from the dead, Mark 5:37. These three were also with Jesus when He “went a little deeper” into Gethsemane to pray, Mark 14:33.
While it is true that God “has no respect of persons,” Rom. 2:11, it is also true that some people are closer to Him than are others. This does not mean that He loves some more than He loves others. It does mean that some people are more responsive to His love than others. In reality, you are as close to God as you want to be, James 4:8! Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
By the way, those who are open to all that God has for them are more likely to see Him move in glory and power than those who tend to stay farther away from the Lord. I don’t know about you, but I want to be as close to Him as John was at the Last Supper. He was close enough to Jesus to lay his head over on His breast and could no doubt feel the breath of God on his head. He was close enough to talk to Jesus and close enough to hear Jesus speak to Him, John 13:23-26. John was able to get in on a few divine secrets because he made the effort of get close to Jesus!
B. A Special Place
We are told that these three men are on the mountaintop with Jesus. In verse 1 it is called a “high mountain.” Later, when Peter wrote about what he had seen that day referred to it as a “holy mount,” 2 Pet. 1:16-18. For Peter, that high place became a holy place. Even John referred to this event in his later years in 1 John 1:1-3. Peter wanted to settle down and stay right there, verse 4.
After this event, these men came down off that mountain with Jesus. When they arrived back in the valley, they were hit square in the face with the pressures and burdens of life, Ill. Matt. 17:14-27. They have to deal with a demonic spirit and they have to pay their taxes. But, they carried the events of the mountain within their hearts, Mark 9:10.
Here’s the point, if you really know the Lord, there will be some mountain top times with Him. There will be times when His presence is real and His glory is clear to see. When you are in one of those times, enjoy it for all it is worth, because you will soon be back in the valley. But, the experiences of the mountaintop will sustain you through many long and difficult valleys!
C. A Special Presentation –
The Bible tells us in verse 2 that Jesus was “transfigured.” This word is translated from the same word that gives us “metamorphosis.” Nearly anyone who has ever taken biology knows what metamorphosis is. This is a compound word; “meta,” which means “to change,” and “morph,” which means, “form.” Therefore, a metamorphosis is a “change of form or appearance.”
This term is used to refer to what happens to transform a caterpillar into a butterfly. That ugly caterpillar encloses itself within a cocoon and goes through a metamorphosis. It goes in a worm and comes out a butterfly. It goes in having to crawl; it comes out able to fly! It goes in a thing that is ugly and despised and it reappears as a thing of wonderful beauty.
This is what happened to the Lord Jesus on that mountaintop that day. Up until that moment, He had appeared to be just another Jew who did some pretty remarkable things, Isa. 53:2-3. But, on that mountain, the glory that was concealed inside His human body burst forth! You see this was not the first time Jesus had experienced a metamorphosis. The first time was when He was placed within the womb of a virgin named Mary and was born into this world. You do know that Jesus existed before Bethlehem don’t you? In fact, He is eternal! He has always been! When He was born in Bethlehem, He merely concealed His heavenly fame within and earthly frame, Phil. 2:5-8. Well, on that mountaintop that day, the glory on the inside was visible on the outside and Peter decided that seeing Jesus in His glory was a good thing!
Every now and then as we pass through this life, we are privileged to catch a glimpse of His glory. I have never seen His back parts like Moses did, Ex. 33:23. I have never heard Him speak in an audible voice like Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Elijah and others did. I have never been within the veil in the Holy of Holies and been enveloped in His glory cloud. But, I have seen a time or two when Heaven brushed up next to the earth and things got a little foggy! There have been times when He pulled back the veil and let me catch just a little glimpse of Him in His glory! When that happens, it is a good place to be!
You know you are in a good place when:
II. v. 3-5 YOU CAN EXALT HIS GREATNESS
A. The Heavenly Visitors –
We are told that when Jesus was transfigured, two famous Old Testament characters visited him: Moses and Elijah. The appearance of these two men is a marvelous miracle, which has many lessons to teach you and I. For instance, Moses had been dead over 1,500 years when this event took place, but here he is! He is moving, talking and recognizable. He is very much alive. This just serves to remind us that the redeemed who die do not go to the grave to wait for the resurrection, but they pass on to glory to be with the Lord, 2 Cor. 5:8; Phil. 1:23.
Another thought is this: Moses died on a mountain in the embrace of God. God conducted his funeral and carried his spirit home to glory. Moses represents those believers who die in faith. Elijah did not die, but was carried off to heaven on a chariot of fire. He represents those saints of God who will one day be gathered up in the Rapture and taken to glory.
What were these two famous men doing when they met Jesus on that mountain? Luke 9:31 tells us that they were talking with Jesus about His “decease.” They were discussing His upcoming death on the cross. How would you like to have heard that conversation. By the way, the word “decease” means “exodus.” These three were talking about the day when Jesus would make His exodus out of this human life.
You see, Moses represented the Law and Elijah represented the Prophets. The Law and every sacrifice prescribed in it pointed ahead to Jesus, the perfect fulfillment of the Law. The Prophets spoke of One Who was to come as a perfect sacrifice and redeemer. The bottom line here is that Moses and Elijah came to exalt the greatness of Jesus and to reveal to the disciples that He was Who He claimed to be!
B. The Heavenly Voice –
When this happens, Peter, James and John are fast asleep, Luke 9:32. When they woke up and saw what was going on, Peter, as usual just had to say something! Mark 9:6 says that “they wist not what to say.” Peter had the same problem that many of us have. Every time he opened his mouth it was just to change feet. He put his mouth in motion before he got his brain in gear.
(Ill. Just for the record, there are times when it is better to say nothing than something! Just to talk for the sake of talking is dangerous at best, especially when we stop to remember that we will give account of all our idle words, Matt. 12:36.)
When Peter does speak, he wants to build three booths or lean-tos on that mountain. He wants to build one for Jesus, one for Moses and one for Elijah. On the surface, this seems fine, but when Peter’s statement is examined it is clear that he is placing Jesus on the same level as Moses and Elijah. When this happens, a seventh Person shows up on the mountain! When God hears His Son being compared to Moses and Elijah, God reminds everyone on the mountain that Jesus is far greater than Moses and the Law; that He is far greater than Elijah and the Prophets. In truth, He is the fulfillment of both and He alone is worthy of praise, glory and worship! When Jesus came out of the private years at His baptism, God was heard to express His pleasure in Jesus, Matt. 3:17. Here, in the midst of the public ministry of Jesus, God again declares His pleasure in His Son. I wonder if there was a time in Heaven, when Jesus returned with the blood of His cross as the perfect offering for sin, and God said for the third time, “This is my beloved Son in Whom I am well pleased”?
(Note: You are in a good location in your life when you have arrived at the place where nothing and no one but Jesus has your attention. You see, far too many are worshiping the Bible, the church, the doctrines, and their religion. What has your worship today? Who or what do you exalt? If it is anything but Jesus then you have some changes that need to be made in your life!
However, when you come to the place in your life where you find yourself worshiping Jesus and finding ways to glorify Him, you have arrived at a good place. This thing is all about Him and His glory! God help us to get so caught up in His glory that nothing else matters to us!)
You know you are in a good place when:
III. v. 6-8 YOU CAN EXPERIENCE HIS GRACE
A. The Grace Of His Peace –
When these men heard the voice of God and realized the scope of what was happening on that mountaintop, they fell down in fear before the Lord. Jesus, as was His custom, walked over to them, touched them and spoke peace to them.
Friend, you are in a good place in life when you can feel the Master’s touch! Whether He touches you through peace in the heart, or whether you can hear that still small voice from time to time, it is a great day when you are a partaker of the grace and peace of the Lord.
Thank God for those times when His touch becomes real! It can drive away the icy fingers of fear and replace them with the warmth of His peace, Phil. 4:6-7. His touch can sever the tendrils of doubt that wrap themselves around the soul from time to time. His touch can unlock the bars of worry and liberate the troubled soul! Thank God for grace sufficient for me in every need of life, 2 Cor. 12:9. You know you are in a good place when Jesus blesses you with the grace of His priceless, matchless, incomprehensible peace. It is too glorious for words!
B. The Grace Of His Presence –
When the disciples looked up, everyone but Jesus was gone! Moses wasn’t there and Elijah wasn’t there, but Jesus was still there, just as He had been before all the excitement started. For a short time, Jesus had become lost in all that excitement, now He is the center of attention once again. They had His presence, and after all they had seen I am sure He was more precious to them than ever!
As we move through the valleys and over the mountains of life, there is one constant that we can always count on. Regardless of what else changes in life, Jesus Christ will never change, Heb. 13:8, and He will never leave, Heb. 13:5; Matt. 28:20. He will always be there! Thank God for the times in life when Jesus has manifested His presence in your life and mine! You know you are in a good place when Jesus comes by and lets you experience the grace of His presence!
(Ill. Since that is true, we must be careful about getting caught up in trying to keep the Law. We must be careful about getting lost in the future events of prophecy. We need to be very careful that Jesus doesn’t become just another part of our lives. We need to be sure that we are ever in a place where we can sense His presence and where He is the centerpiece of life. What has your attention today?)
Conclusion
Peter missed a few things along the way, but he got one thing right: they were in a good place! Are you in that “good place” today? Here is how to tell:
1. Are you in a place where you can Examine His Glory?
2. Are you in a place where you can Exalt His Greatness?
3. Are you in a place where you can Experience His Grace?
If the answer to each of these questions is “Yes,” then you are in a good place in your life. But, if you are missing out on even on of these great blessings, I challenge you to get yourself to Jesus today and get the help you need to get in a good place today.
You may be lost. If so, you can be saved today. You may be out of God’s will. If so, you can come home today. If there are burdens, they can be lifted. If there are needs, they can be met. The solution to all your issues lies in you getting to Him today. If He is calling, then you come!
Saturday, August 12, 2006
HOMECOMING 66
Called to sing ... Those are the words that best describe Harlan Burton. Harlan has established himself in southern Gospel music with his smooth vocals, sincere delivery and caring personality. A couple of Harlan's favorite songs are "Learning To Lean" and "One Day AT A Time." Harlan has learned, through a few crisis in his life, to turn his life completely over to Jesus Christ. He has learned that if he lives life one day at a time, the Lord will use His Holy Spirit to teach him, guide him and strengthen him in times of need. Harlan has also learned to praise God no matter what comes his way in life.Tomorrow, August 13,2006 you can experience first hand this great singer. Come to Calvary Baptist Church, Dadeville, Al for Homecoming 66. Sunday School starts at 10:00 and Morning Worship at 11:00. Dinner will follow the Morning Service.
IN CONCERT
The Reggie Saddler Family will be in concert at Victory Baptist Church ,Alexander City Alabama. The time is Sunday August 13 at 10:00 AM, 11:00 Am and 6:00 PM and on Monday, August 14 at 7:00 PM. Everyone is invited to attend. Fro more information call 256-234-2089
Calvary Baptist Church, Dadeville,Al will be taking the Church Van for the Sunday Evening Concert. You can get more information on when it will be leaving at the Morning Worship Service.
UP DATE
Several from Calvary went Sunday night and then went back again Monday night. Tim and I went on Monday night and received a great blessing. Reggie can and did whole you captive the entire time you were there. He and his family are truly blessed of God.
Calvary Baptist Church, Dadeville,Al will be taking the Church Van for the Sunday Evening Concert. You can get more information on when it will be leaving at the Morning Worship Service.
UP DATE
Several from Calvary went Sunday night and then went back again Monday night. Tim and I went on Monday night and received a great blessing. Reggie can and did whole you captive the entire time you were there. He and his family are truly blessed of God.
Annie Pemberton Celebrates 92 Years
Annie Pemberton, mother of Rev. Tom Pemberton celebrates her 92nd birthday with friends and family at Red's Catfish. There was around 40 in attendance. We wish Mrs. Pemberton a very happy birthday and many more.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
REIGN SONG REIGNED (ECHOS FROM CALVARY)
RICKY T. GOES HORSEBACK RIDING
Wednesday, August 9,2006, Ricky T had a wonderful time visiting the Stables at Shiloh Farms owned by Teresa and Greg Tice. Ricky T. rode the 5-year-old hunter-gelding Fender owned by Robert Peterson of Lake Bluff Ill. Jim Williams, Fender’s Trainer and Sara Netherton from Auburn University aided him. The Stables of Shiloh Farms has 16 horses from all over the country; many are champions in events across the country and abroad.
Rick and Ricky T once again entertained the kids and adults alike in the morning service Sunday, August 06. Ricky T (a two foot dummy) gave no one any slack. Starting in September Doctor Rick and Mrs. Wilma Worthy will be teaching the kids (grades k-6) about puppets, how to make sock-puppets, etc. The class will be each Sunday evening from 5:30 till 6:00.
Calvary Baptist Church Homecoming 66 was truly one to remember. The church was almost packed, extra tables had to be brought out to hold all the southern style cooking, and the best Gospel singing abound. Mrs. Tawana Greer Lowery and her two daughters, Jarilyn and Jordan, from First Baptist Church, Alexander City opened the Morning Service with The Lord’s Prayer sang acappella. Tawana is the daughter of Rev. Martin and Mrs. Elizabeth Greer long time members of Calvary Baptist Church.
Harlan Burton began his concert with One Day AT A Time dedicated to Dewayne Sanders who has been diagnosed with colon cancer. Dewayne under went surgery in B’ham to remove the tumors from his colon Monday. Dewayne is Rev. Tom Pemberton, Pastor of Calvary, son-in-law.
Called to sing ... Those are the words that best describe Harlan Burton. Harlan has established himself in southern Gospel music with his smooth vocals, sincere delivery and caring personality. A couple of Harlan's favorite songs are "Learning To Lean" and "One Day AT A Time." Harlan has learned, through a few crises in his life, to turn his life completely over to Jesus Christ. He has learned that if he lives life one day at a time, the Lord will use His Holy Spirit to teach him, guide him and strengthen him in times of need. Harlan has also learned to praise God no matter what comes his way in life.
The Group Reign Song from Chattanooga, Tennessee reigned at Calvary Baptist Church Sunday night,August 06. Stacy and Gina Cooper and Courtney Elliott are such a blessing to hear. It seems Stacy, Gina and Courtney come on stage, they leave and God takes over! Their mission is simple---to offer encouragement to the redeemed and to spread the saving desire of Christ to the lost. That they did as most of those present gathered around the altar to pray for a healing touch from God. Lee and Ruth Burns of Perfect Peace Ministries - Alexander City, Al sang a couple of songs that had everyone on their feet. You could feel the Spirit of God all around.
Leigh Davis spent the weekend taking her grandmother in-law to church so Tim’s aunt Betty could go see her grandson be baptized. Tim’s grandmother lives in Andalusia, Al.
Tim, Leigh, Tad and Amber Davis spent Saturday, August 05 canoeing down the Coosa River. Tim loved it but Leigh only endured the day. You really have to have a love for white water. They made it back in one peace having only lost one paddle.
Susan Owens has spent the last several weeks visiting her father, Clee Moreman at his church, Sardis United Methodist.
The New Beginning Sunday Class met at Wilder Healthcare Home this past Sunday, August 6,2006. We were blessed to be able to meet with several of the residents, Jean Knight, Nancy Ledbetter, Mattie Carol, Eunice Denise, Irean Rhodes, Frances Welcher, Gi Gi Paul, and June Kinnard made up a very fine group from Wilder. We go there the first Sunday of each month.
Doctor Rick Worthy has the new church web site almost completed. It is a collection of blog sites for the many different ministries of Calvary Baptist. You must visit it. calvarybaptist1.blogspot.com
SAM (Senior Adult Ministries) fellowship met this past Thursday at 5:30 pm in the Church Fellowship Hall. This was one that you did not want to miss according to the reports I got. There was enough food (good food I may add) to feed a small army. Baptist Seniors know how to cook and can really get down when it comes time to eat. There were 24 present at this month gathering. It seems that a birdhouse, an urn, and a safety pin bead basket was the things to take home anyway you could (beg, borrow or steal). These guys just don't play bingo the old way! Everyone had a great time. They meet once each month and anyone 50 and above are welcome to come.
Wednesday, August 9,2006, Ricky T had a wonderful time visiting the Stables at Shiloh Farms owned by Teresa and Greg Tice. Ricky T. rode the 5-year-old hunter-gelding Fender owned by Robert Peterson of Lake Bluff Ill. Jim Williams, Fender’s Trainer and Sara Netherton from Auburn University aided him. The Stables of Shiloh Farms has 16 horses from all over the country; many are champions in events across the country and abroad.
Rick and Ricky T once again entertained the kids and adults alike in the morning service Sunday, August 06. Ricky T (a two foot dummy) gave no one any slack. Starting in September Doctor Rick and Mrs. Wilma Worthy will be teaching the kids (grades k-6) about puppets, how to make sock-puppets, etc. The class will be each Sunday evening from 5:30 till 6:00.
Calvary Baptist Church Homecoming 66 was truly one to remember. The church was almost packed, extra tables had to be brought out to hold all the southern style cooking, and the best Gospel singing abound. Mrs. Tawana Greer Lowery and her two daughters, Jarilyn and Jordan, from First Baptist Church, Alexander City opened the Morning Service with The Lord’s Prayer sang acappella. Tawana is the daughter of Rev. Martin and Mrs. Elizabeth Greer long time members of Calvary Baptist Church.
Harlan Burton began his concert with One Day AT A Time dedicated to Dewayne Sanders who has been diagnosed with colon cancer. Dewayne under went surgery in B’ham to remove the tumors from his colon Monday. Dewayne is Rev. Tom Pemberton, Pastor of Calvary, son-in-law.
Called to sing ... Those are the words that best describe Harlan Burton. Harlan has established himself in southern Gospel music with his smooth vocals, sincere delivery and caring personality. A couple of Harlan's favorite songs are "Learning To Lean" and "One Day AT A Time." Harlan has learned, through a few crises in his life, to turn his life completely over to Jesus Christ. He has learned that if he lives life one day at a time, the Lord will use His Holy Spirit to teach him, guide him and strengthen him in times of need. Harlan has also learned to praise God no matter what comes his way in life.
The Group Reign Song from Chattanooga, Tennessee reigned at Calvary Baptist Church Sunday night,August 06. Stacy and Gina Cooper and Courtney Elliott are such a blessing to hear. It seems Stacy, Gina and Courtney come on stage, they leave and God takes over! Their mission is simple---to offer encouragement to the redeemed and to spread the saving desire of Christ to the lost. That they did as most of those present gathered around the altar to pray for a healing touch from God. Lee and Ruth Burns of Perfect Peace Ministries - Alexander City, Al sang a couple of songs that had everyone on their feet. You could feel the Spirit of God all around.
Leigh Davis spent the weekend taking her grandmother in-law to church so Tim’s aunt Betty could go see her grandson be baptized. Tim’s grandmother lives in Andalusia, Al.
Tim, Leigh, Tad and Amber Davis spent Saturday, August 05 canoeing down the Coosa River. Tim loved it but Leigh only endured the day. You really have to have a love for white water. They made it back in one peace having only lost one paddle.
Susan Owens has spent the last several weeks visiting her father, Clee Moreman at his church, Sardis United Methodist.
The New Beginning Sunday Class met at Wilder Healthcare Home this past Sunday, August 6,2006. We were blessed to be able to meet with several of the residents, Jean Knight, Nancy Ledbetter, Mattie Carol, Eunice Denise, Irean Rhodes, Frances Welcher, Gi Gi Paul, and June Kinnard made up a very fine group from Wilder. We go there the first Sunday of each month.
Doctor Rick Worthy has the new church web site almost completed. It is a collection of blog sites for the many different ministries of Calvary Baptist. You must visit it. calvarybaptist1.blogspot.com
SAM (Senior Adult Ministries) fellowship met this past Thursday at 5:30 pm in the Church Fellowship Hall. This was one that you did not want to miss according to the reports I got. There was enough food (good food I may add) to feed a small army. Baptist Seniors know how to cook and can really get down when it comes time to eat. There were 24 present at this month gathering. It seems that a birdhouse, an urn, and a safety pin bead basket was the things to take home anyway you could (beg, borrow or steal). These guys just don't play bingo the old way! Everyone had a great time. They meet once each month and anyone 50 and above are welcome to come.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
NEED FOR SACRIFICE
WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY August 2
THE NEED FOR SACRIFICE
Matthew 16:21-28
21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. 22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. 23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.and admonishes those who will follow Him to be ready to bear the cross24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. 26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. 28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.
THE CONSTANT NEED FOR SACRIFICE
To be great at anything, in any sphere, one must be willing to sacrifice. Athletes must sacrifice to excel. Distance runners need to spend hours and hours on the road. Runners sacrifice when they get sore or tired, but they connect to the outside world. They feel the sun on their face, their heart and lungs grow strong, and their bodies are lean and healthy. Runners pay a price, but they also reap a blessing.In our passage, Jesus looks ahead to his sacrifice on the cross. He speaks of it more clearly than ever before and asks us to look to the cross, too. He says that just as he bore his cross for us, so we ought to be willing to bear our cross, to suffer, for him. The sacrifice he asks is great, but as he explains our sacrifice, we see that it is rather like running. It is a real sacrifice, but a sacrifice that interacts with this world in ways that guarantee that we will reap a blessing. To see clearly, we begin by setting the context for the Lord's teaching.
A TEMPORARY NEED FOR SILENCE.
Just before this passage, Peter confessed that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. This short, inspired confession is a concentrated description of the person and the work of Jesus. Peter says who Jesus is - the unique Son of God, who has the same character, the same powers, the same rights as God the Father. Peter also declares what Jesus did. He is the Messiah, appointed and anointed by God to deliver his people from their sins.Somewhat surprisingly, Jesus immediately told the disciples to tell no one who he is. The reasons for the call to silence are clear enough.First, the term Messiah had political overtones. If the Jews heard that Jesus is the Messiah, they would expect him to come in glory and to conquer, leading armies and shedding Roman blood. Better to keep this error by keeping quiet.Second, we see that the disciples, even Peter, hardly follow Jesus. He must explain himself much more fully and the Spirit must quicken their minds before they understand enough to teach others.
JESUS DECLARES THE NECESSITY OF HIS SACRIFICE
Matthew 16:21 says, "From that time, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things."Every phrase counts. First, "from that time" marks a change in policy. Now that the disciples know Jesus is the Messiah, he can begin to explain how he will save his people.Matthew says Jesus "began to show his disciples" because he is only starting his instruction. He will have to repeat himself. As we know, most Jews, disciples included, believed the Messiah would swiftly achieve a majestic reign over the land. Yes, they thought he might face some light, fleeting opposition. But for Jesus, "Suffering was the essence of Messiahship".
1 He needs to explain why this is so.Jesus says "he must go to Jerusalem."
He does not say he "will go." He is predicting his death, but it is more than a forecast. He is not simply examining some trends that predict a social storm leading to his death. Jesus will die because he must die. His death and resurrection are essential to God's design, from all eternity. At the empty tomb, an angel reminded the disciples of Jesus' words, that he "must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again" (Luke 24:7).This "must" reflects the eternal plan of the triune God, Father, Son and Spirit. The Father planned, the Son achieved, and the Spirit empowered Jesus. Hebrews says, "Through the eternal Spirit" Jesus Christ "offered himself unblemished to God." By his blood, he cleansed "our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God" (Heb 9:14).On the first Pentecost Peter proclaimed Jesus "a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signsÂ… as you yourselves know. This man was handed over to you by GodÂ’s set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the deadÂ… because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him" (Acts 2:22-24).Jesus says he "must go to Jerusalem." Later, he says "No prophet can die outside Jerusalem" (Luke 13:33). Jesus' most hostile and tenacious foes were religious leaders and they lived in Jerusalem, the home of the temple, the sacrifices and the teaching of God's word. How could this be? Good spiritual leaders love, serve, teach, and pray for their people in their needs. Yet spiritual leaders are prone to every temptation that is common to humanity. Spiritual leaders can use religion to gain respect and praise for themselves. They can use religion to gain power and glory for themselves. Spiritual leaders can be proud, since they believe they know the way to God. (Matt 23:12, Rev 13).Of course, we should never listen to anyone who entices us to worship Baal, Budda, Zeus. But it also teaches us to be wary of the false prophets and heartless priests within Israel. Jesus suffered and died "at the hands of the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law" (16:21). The religious leaders of Israel, stationed in Jerusalem, killed Jesus.Why Jerusalem?Revelation says this world opposes God's people in three ways.
The foes of God have three styles and each has its city
or country. They are Sodom, Egypt, and Jerusalem.
We see them together in Revelation 11:8. It declares that two of God's witnesses will be killed. "Their bodies will lie in the street of the great city, which is figuratively called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified." Each city has a symbolic meaning:
• Sodom represents sensuality, wantonness, and perverse self-indulgence.
• Egypt represents enslavement, oppression and injustice, especially toward Israel.
• The "great city", where the Lord was crucified is Jerusalem. It represents external religion that masks moral and spiritual decay.
Today, some of the greatest dangers to believers still come from Jerusalem – from dead religion. We know we must shun the teaching of other religions, but believers must also beware of false teaching within the church, in all its branches. Both Protestant and Catholic churches can lead us astray.On any Sunday, liberal Protestants leaders will deny almost every fundamental tenet of the faith. They will disavow the deity of Christ, his substitutionary death, his resurrection, and his status as the one Savmankind Catholicstholics do not deny the fundamentals as some Protestants do, but they often obscure the doctrines of grace. For example, the doctrine of purgatory declares that after death a great many believers must go, possibly for a very long time, to a place where their sins are burned away after their death. In essence, this purging of sin is necessary because the Catholic system doubts that the work of Christ alone, grasped by faith alone, is sufficient.Some of the finest people God has placed on earth are Christian leaders. Still, Jesus was right: the religious leaders of Israel, the priests, elders, and teachers on the ruling council (Sanhedrin) killed him.Today, his gospel often suffers at the hands of church leaders. Therefore, we must test all teachings against Scripture. We cannot afford blind trust. Yet even if we are deceived, no one can thwart the cause of Christ. The Father raised Jesus to life after Jews and Romans killed him and the Spirit still applies the gospel to our hearts today, to bring us to faith.
2. A disciple denies the need for sacrifice 16:22-23
When Jesus said he had to die, Peter reacted at once. Peter was always quick to speak, but perhaps he had even more confidence since Jesus had commended him for his good confession. Perhaps Peter gently took Jesus by the arm and as he led him aside (16:22a). He rightly called Jesus "Lord." But he quickly began to rebuke Jesus, to correct, admonish, scold. Peter knows! In the strongest language, Peter tells Jesus this must never happen. "May God show you mercy" – to spare you and to correct such ideas. This Will Never be. It seemed unthinkable that Jesus should suffer death at the hands of his own people. Yet sometimes what seems impossible happens. Sometimes the unthinkable is true.Peter is not just wrong. He is the spokesman for the twelve, who listen as he announces that Jesus is wrong. Jesus does what he must. He rebukes Peter in the strongest terms.
Jesus commands "Go away" (Greek hupago) or "Get behind me" - to an insignificant place, where I will ignore you.Jesus says "Get behind me, Satan." It is a stark rebuke. Further, Peter had just spoken with divine insight when he said "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." But in this thought he takes the position of Satan. When Satan tempted Jesus, he said what Peter now tells Jesus: Forget about the cross. Lay hold of glory without enduring any suffering.Peter is a stumbling block to Jesus. The term may either mean a stone in a path over which we stumble. Or it can mean the stick that springs a trap or snare. Either way, Peter's words serve to tempt or trap Jesus. How quickly Peter fell – one moment speaking for the Lord, the next speaking for Satan. What can we learn from this?First, see how passion, ignorance, and false confidence lead to arrogance. Peter sincerely believed he knew better than Jesus!We can be exactly right one moment and terribly wrong the next. To avoid similar errors we should take care not to speak in heat and haste. We should be "quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry" (Jas 1:19). We should be teachable and set our minds on "the things of God" (16:23).
The cross of Christ is the centerpiece of "the things of God." There is no Christianity without the cross and the empty tomb. Christians differ on many points such as baptism, church government, and styles of worship. Some are matters of taste; in some one party is right and another wrong. "Errors on many points is only like a skin disease; error about Christ is a disease Jesus had to tell the disciples about the cross over and over. Even after the death and resurrection, they could hardly understand it (Luke 24:13-35). But eventually Peter did understand the cross; how he preached it once he did! He said "He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed" (1 Pet 2:24). He saw that the cross is our salvation first and our example second, "Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps" (1 Pet 2:21).
3. Disciples of Jesus must sacrifice 16:25-28
THE NEED FOR SACRIFICE
Matthew 16:21-28
21 From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day. 22 Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee. 23 But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.and admonishes those who will follow Him to be ready to bear the cross24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. 26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 27 For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. 28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.
THE CONSTANT NEED FOR SACRIFICE
To be great at anything, in any sphere, one must be willing to sacrifice. Athletes must sacrifice to excel. Distance runners need to spend hours and hours on the road. Runners sacrifice when they get sore or tired, but they connect to the outside world. They feel the sun on their face, their heart and lungs grow strong, and their bodies are lean and healthy. Runners pay a price, but they also reap a blessing.In our passage, Jesus looks ahead to his sacrifice on the cross. He speaks of it more clearly than ever before and asks us to look to the cross, too. He says that just as he bore his cross for us, so we ought to be willing to bear our cross, to suffer, for him. The sacrifice he asks is great, but as he explains our sacrifice, we see that it is rather like running. It is a real sacrifice, but a sacrifice that interacts with this world in ways that guarantee that we will reap a blessing. To see clearly, we begin by setting the context for the Lord's teaching.
A TEMPORARY NEED FOR SILENCE.
Just before this passage, Peter confessed that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God. This short, inspired confession is a concentrated description of the person and the work of Jesus. Peter says who Jesus is - the unique Son of God, who has the same character, the same powers, the same rights as God the Father. Peter also declares what Jesus did. He is the Messiah, appointed and anointed by God to deliver his people from their sins.Somewhat surprisingly, Jesus immediately told the disciples to tell no one who he is. The reasons for the call to silence are clear enough.First, the term Messiah had political overtones. If the Jews heard that Jesus is the Messiah, they would expect him to come in glory and to conquer, leading armies and shedding Roman blood. Better to keep this error by keeping quiet.Second, we see that the disciples, even Peter, hardly follow Jesus. He must explain himself much more fully and the Spirit must quicken their minds before they understand enough to teach others.
JESUS DECLARES THE NECESSITY OF HIS SACRIFICE
Matthew 16:21 says, "From that time, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things."Every phrase counts. First, "from that time" marks a change in policy. Now that the disciples know Jesus is the Messiah, he can begin to explain how he will save his people.Matthew says Jesus "began to show his disciples" because he is only starting his instruction. He will have to repeat himself. As we know, most Jews, disciples included, believed the Messiah would swiftly achieve a majestic reign over the land. Yes, they thought he might face some light, fleeting opposition. But for Jesus, "Suffering was the essence of Messiahship".
1 He needs to explain why this is so.Jesus says "he must go to Jerusalem."
He does not say he "will go." He is predicting his death, but it is more than a forecast. He is not simply examining some trends that predict a social storm leading to his death. Jesus will die because he must die. His death and resurrection are essential to God's design, from all eternity. At the empty tomb, an angel reminded the disciples of Jesus' words, that he "must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again" (Luke 24:7).This "must" reflects the eternal plan of the triune God, Father, Son and Spirit. The Father planned, the Son achieved, and the Spirit empowered Jesus. Hebrews says, "Through the eternal Spirit" Jesus Christ "offered himself unblemished to God." By his blood, he cleansed "our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God" (Heb 9:14).On the first Pentecost Peter proclaimed Jesus "a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signsÂ… as you yourselves know. This man was handed over to you by GodÂ’s set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross. But God raised him from the deadÂ… because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on him" (Acts 2:22-24).Jesus says he "must go to Jerusalem." Later, he says "No prophet can die outside Jerusalem" (Luke 13:33). Jesus' most hostile and tenacious foes were religious leaders and they lived in Jerusalem, the home of the temple, the sacrifices and the teaching of God's word. How could this be? Good spiritual leaders love, serve, teach, and pray for their people in their needs. Yet spiritual leaders are prone to every temptation that is common to humanity. Spiritual leaders can use religion to gain respect and praise for themselves. They can use religion to gain power and glory for themselves. Spiritual leaders can be proud, since they believe they know the way to God. (Matt 23:12, Rev 13).Of course, we should never listen to anyone who entices us to worship Baal, Budda, Zeus. But it also teaches us to be wary of the false prophets and heartless priests within Israel. Jesus suffered and died "at the hands of the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law" (16:21). The religious leaders of Israel, stationed in Jerusalem, killed Jesus.Why Jerusalem?Revelation says this world opposes God's people in three ways.
The foes of God have three styles and each has its city
or country. They are Sodom, Egypt, and Jerusalem.
We see them together in Revelation 11:8. It declares that two of God's witnesses will be killed. "Their bodies will lie in the street of the great city, which is figuratively called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified." Each city has a symbolic meaning:
• Sodom represents sensuality, wantonness, and perverse self-indulgence.
• Egypt represents enslavement, oppression and injustice, especially toward Israel.
• The "great city", where the Lord was crucified is Jerusalem. It represents external religion that masks moral and spiritual decay.
Today, some of the greatest dangers to believers still come from Jerusalem – from dead religion. We know we must shun the teaching of other religions, but believers must also beware of false teaching within the church, in all its branches. Both Protestant and Catholic churches can lead us astray.On any Sunday, liberal Protestants leaders will deny almost every fundamental tenet of the faith. They will disavow the deity of Christ, his substitutionary death, his resurrection, and his status as the one Savmankind Catholicstholics do not deny the fundamentals as some Protestants do, but they often obscure the doctrines of grace. For example, the doctrine of purgatory declares that after death a great many believers must go, possibly for a very long time, to a place where their sins are burned away after their death. In essence, this purging of sin is necessary because the Catholic system doubts that the work of Christ alone, grasped by faith alone, is sufficient.Some of the finest people God has placed on earth are Christian leaders. Still, Jesus was right: the religious leaders of Israel, the priests, elders, and teachers on the ruling council (Sanhedrin) killed him.Today, his gospel often suffers at the hands of church leaders. Therefore, we must test all teachings against Scripture. We cannot afford blind trust. Yet even if we are deceived, no one can thwart the cause of Christ. The Father raised Jesus to life after Jews and Romans killed him and the Spirit still applies the gospel to our hearts today, to bring us to faith.
2. A disciple denies the need for sacrifice 16:22-23
When Jesus said he had to die, Peter reacted at once. Peter was always quick to speak, but perhaps he had even more confidence since Jesus had commended him for his good confession. Perhaps Peter gently took Jesus by the arm and as he led him aside (16:22a). He rightly called Jesus "Lord." But he quickly began to rebuke Jesus, to correct, admonish, scold. Peter knows! In the strongest language, Peter tells Jesus this must never happen. "May God show you mercy" – to spare you and to correct such ideas. This Will Never be. It seemed unthinkable that Jesus should suffer death at the hands of his own people. Yet sometimes what seems impossible happens. Sometimes the unthinkable is true.Peter is not just wrong. He is the spokesman for the twelve, who listen as he announces that Jesus is wrong. Jesus does what he must. He rebukes Peter in the strongest terms.
Jesus commands "Go away" (Greek hupago) or "Get behind me" - to an insignificant place, where I will ignore you.Jesus says "Get behind me, Satan." It is a stark rebuke. Further, Peter had just spoken with divine insight when he said "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God." But in this thought he takes the position of Satan. When Satan tempted Jesus, he said what Peter now tells Jesus: Forget about the cross. Lay hold of glory without enduring any suffering.Peter is a stumbling block to Jesus. The term may either mean a stone in a path over which we stumble. Or it can mean the stick that springs a trap or snare. Either way, Peter's words serve to tempt or trap Jesus. How quickly Peter fell – one moment speaking for the Lord, the next speaking for Satan. What can we learn from this?First, see how passion, ignorance, and false confidence lead to arrogance. Peter sincerely believed he knew better than Jesus!We can be exactly right one moment and terribly wrong the next. To avoid similar errors we should take care not to speak in heat and haste. We should be "quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry" (Jas 1:19). We should be teachable and set our minds on "the things of God" (16:23).
The cross of Christ is the centerpiece of "the things of God." There is no Christianity without the cross and the empty tomb. Christians differ on many points such as baptism, church government, and styles of worship. Some are matters of taste; in some one party is right and another wrong. "Errors on many points is only like a skin disease; error about Christ is a disease Jesus had to tell the disciples about the cross over and over. Even after the death and resurrection, they could hardly understand it (Luke 24:13-35). But eventually Peter did understand the cross; how he preached it once he did! He said "He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed" (1 Pet 2:24). He saw that the cross is our salvation first and our example second, "Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps" (1 Pet 2:21).
3. Disciples of Jesus must sacrifice 16:25-28
The cross is offensive to so many people.
- To the Greek, a crucified man was humiliated.
- To the Roman, a crucified man was evil and powerless.
- To the Jew, a crucified man was cursed by God.
- But in Jesus' eyes the cross is a sign of loving sacrifice and discipleship. He said, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me" (16:24).
Jesus does not call us to die to atone for sin; he did that once and for all. He does call us to live for others daily, just as he did, daily (Luke 9:23). Jesus gives three commands in 16:24. Each is in the present tense, which means we must perform them continually.
- Deny yourself. The Bible says Jesus bought us with his blood, so that we are not our own; we belong to God (1 Cor 6:19-20). The grace of Christ, who redeemed us, teaches us to say no to our passions and lusts and to live for him (Tit 2:12-14).
- Take up your cross. Some Christians call any chronic problem – a chronic illness –their cross. But to bear the cross is to take action, not to suffer passively. We bear the cross when we care for the sick, comfort the afflicted, give sacrificially to the poor or share Christ with someone who may laugh at us. To bare the cross is to suffer loss of what is most precious to you: your money, your time.Are you busy? Do you never have time to rest? Then when you give up your time to help someone, you bear the cross. When we do these things, we follow Jesus.We retreat from self-denial.
- Church people will heed a call to activity and to obedience. We love to hear of prosperity and comfort and joy. But who wants to bare an instrument of torture and death, as Jesus did? We give thanks that Jesus died in our place and recoil from doing the same. Yet there is no Christianity without the cross.Besides the natural inclination to avoid sacrifice, our culture invites us to avoid sacrifice another way. A large church can hire pastors and staff to do the work. When we grow weary of service, it is all to easy to look to the pastors and ministry coordinators and say "We have a wonderful staff. Trained professionals. Let them do it." But it is possible for a church to be healthier even if its staff is weak. A "wonderful staff" can entice us to sloth.Know this: the pastors are the staff, but you are the staff too - the main staff. Unpaid, as Jesus was unpaid. Without official recognition, as Jesus had no official recognition. Yet Jesus served as long as he lived and commands us to do the same.In a way, self-denial is a universal principle. To master cross country running or the game of chess, we must sacrifice. We must deny the desire to dabble in this and that if we want to be great or even nearly great at anything. Yet the self-denial of practice requires that we give up one thing to gain a greater thing for ourselves. Jesus asks for self-denial that does not bring personal benefit – at least not in the short run. Clearly the cost of following Jesus is high. But is it a bad investment? Does Jesus ask us to suffer for no reason? Will God be indebted to us? Notice that Jesus gives four reasons for us to deny ourselves.
4. Four reasons to sacrifice joyfully
First, whoever wants to save his life will lose it (16:25). We will lose our life if we live to gratify ourselves, if we live to get all that we can from this physical life, if we live for our pleasure, our happiness, and our longevity. To live for wine-tasting or exotic vacations, for golf or for mastery of video games, is ultimately self-defeating. Such things may make life pleasant, but do not make it rich.Life becomes rich when we lose it (16:25b) by serving others, by loving them and being loved by them. On the other hand, if we deny ourselves now, we save our lives forever.
Second, what is the benefit if a man "gains the whole world and loses his soul" (16:26)? The world has its attractions. Even simple things. Ice cream. To sit under a shade tree on an early summer day. And there are far greater pleasures than these. But the soul – eternal life - is worth far more than these things. What can a person trade for his soul? The whole idea of commerce is misguided.
Third, Jesus is coming and when he does, "he will reward each person according to what he has done" (16:27). No kind word, no good deed will be forgotten. No sacrifice will lack its reward.Listen: God never forgets anything we do. He remembers better than we do, he cares more than we do and his reward never ends. We do not serve to get a reward. We follow Jesus and the reward is a bonus. That is true of everything we do.
Fourth, the Lord is coming again in glory. The disciples tasted this during their lifetime. They saw it at the transfiguration. They saw it again at Pentecost, but one day we will all see the fullness of Jesus' glory. When this world and its sacrifices end, we will dwell with him in his glory forever.Let me close with a question.
What kind of a Christian are you? There are several kinds: cultural Christians, convenient Christians, committed Christians.
Let's consider two kinds:
The convenient Christian is a disciple whenever it's easy, whenever nothing gets in the way. There was a man from Maryland who attended church faithfully from December to early March. The rest of the year, he faithfully attended when it rained. Otherwise not. Why? Because the rest of the year, he played golf on sunny Sunday mornings. His church attendance was a perfect diagnostic of his spiritual health. He had one tiny area of service, one tiny area of generosity and a bite-sized time slot for church. We have to wonder if work and golf were his true gods.
The committed Christian does not live for pleasure but for the Lord. Of course, service to Christ often pays off quickly. If you help your brother in time of need, he may help you in yours. It's a blessing. But the true disciple is willing to follow Jesus wherever he goes. To suffer, as Christ did, and later to glory, as Jesus did.
Monday, August 07, 2006
PERFECT PEACE
Perfect Peace joined Reign Song for a couple of songs during the Evening Service.
Lee and Ruth Burns from Alexander City brought the house down with I Believe In Jesus
REIGN SONG and PERFECT PEACE
Reign Song takes center stage with the opening song "When I Lay My Burdens Down."
Stacy and Gina Cooper and Courtney Elliott blessed our hearts and ministried to our souls.
Stacy and Gina Cooper and Courtney Elliott blessed our hearts and ministried to our souls.
Sunday, August 06, 2006
WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY JULY 19
Seeking a sign (Matthew 16:1-4)
1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. 3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.
1 The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. 2 He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. 3 And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowering. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? 4 A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.
As soon as Jesus returns to Israel's territory, opposition from Jewish leaders resurfaces. The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven.. The Pharisees and Saducees were rival groups of leaders, so this is an unusual grouping. Here they operate together (Greek: one article governs both groups), for two reasons. First, they are the two main groups of the Sanhedrin, the ruling Jewish council (Acts 23:6). Second, they are united by a common opposition to Jesus: the enemy of my enemy is my friend (Luke 23:12). 12 And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity between themselves. The leaders quest for a sign is misguided, even foolish. Matthew indicates that the request for a sign is insincere. Matthew says they are testing or tempting Jesus. At best, they seek some marvel that transcends the healings that they know so well, something so spectacular and public that God must be the source. Yet Jesus has already performed an abundance of signs and they never believed. Third, Jesus regards them as hostile, for as soon as their conversation ends, He leaves Israel again, traveling far north, to Caesarea Philippi (16:5, 13). But before Jesus departs, he commends the Pharisees and Saducees for their ability to read the signs of the weather: a red sky in the evening signified good weather; in the morning a red sky meant just the opposite. How sad then that they could read the weather but could not read the signs of great events taking place in their times (16:2-3). As religious leaders, they, above all others, should know that God had visited his people, had sent the long-expected Jesus. A wicked generation cannot read the signs. The proof that they cannot interpret the signs is that they ask for a sign immediately after Jesus gives a sign! Their spiritual blindness keeps them from seeing Jesus. And as long as they refuse to see Jesus they will stay blind. As Jesus says in Luke 13:34-35: O Jerusalem, Jerusalem…how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing… I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.' Jesus compares himself to Jonah. Jonah did not perform signs, he was the sign. Thrown overboard in a raging sea, swallowed by a great fish, spat out on dry ground, then preaching to great effect to the Gentiles, Jonah himself was the sign. So too with Jesus. The leaders do not need signs by Jesus, they needed to see Jesus. His presence, his life, is God's greatest sign, then and now. The Jewish leaders needed to add faith to the words and deeds of Jesus (cf. Heb 4:2). 2 For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. Then they would perceive. So it is to this day. The quest for signs is wise if we are willing to see and to believe. But when we see, we must also discern God's work. We must be willing to discern the voice of God and the nature of the times. The desire for signs, then and now People are always looking for signs that may guide them. They seek the truth, they seek personal direction in an hour of decision. In the ancient near east, people sought guidance in some unusual places, In hepatoscopy, ancient pagans believed memory and intelligence resided in the liver. Much as 19th century phrenologists studied the shape of the cranium to discover unveil mental traits, the ancients carefully examined the livers of animals such as sheep in order to discern the future. In rhabdomancy, (Rhabdomancy is a type of divination in which a hazel rod is used to trace the presence of minerals or metals underground) the ancients tossed up arrows and interpreted the pattern they took upon falling. In hydromancy, (Hydromancy (from Greek 'hydro', water, and 'manteia', divination) is the art of divination by means of water, including the color, ebb and flow, or ripples produced by pebbles dropped in a pool.) they tried to interpret the water left over in a cup. They also kept idols in their homes to represent the gods and ask their direction or aid. They also tried to consult with spirits. They also studied the stars for guidance. Astronomy studies the stars scientifically. Astrology studies the influence of stars on earthly events. It has an appealing premise: there is a harmony in the universe, so that the movements of planets and stars affect events on earth. But as astronomers study the universe and its vast expanse, it has become impossible to believe that objects that are trillions of miles away could directly influence on earthly events. Or has it? Curiously, a survey of university students showed that 45% believed that there was something to astrology. Amazingly, 37% of students in the hard sciences believed the same thing. We no longer consult livers and arrows, but we are not so different from ancient people. Millions of people still read palms, tea leaves, and cards. We flip coins. Some Christians flip open the Bible at random and expect to encounter a verse that will guide them. We seek mentors and counselors, which ordinarily makes great sense. But we also expect mentors, pastors and counselors to hear a three minute summary of our life story and then dispense golden oracles. If we live as disciples, most choices will be between one good thing and another. You may need counsel to decide between sales, finance, and management, but all three are basically good. Still, it is good to discern the signs of our times. Let me offer a few observations… Signs of our times A. Ever changing forms of self-destructive behavior First, Remember, the kingdom of God is like a seed. God plants it and it grows steadily until it reaches full maturity. Evil also grows, but the Bible does not teach us to expect society to disintegrate. Rather, the world gets worse in some ways and better in other ways. As for evil, I believe the forms of evil change continually so that we must ever be watchful. For example, we are most grateful that democracy is taking hold in Afghanistan and that the Taliban have been ousted from power. The Taliban were, all sources indicate good at one thing – cutting the poppy/opium trade in Afghanistan. Sadly, when the Taliban left, many poppy growers and opium merchants returned. We should also expect personal forms of sin and self-destructive behavior to shift without necessarily getting better or worse overall (Statistics from the National Institutes for Health, the Center for Disease Control and the U.S. Census Bureau). Consider: The incidence of cigarette smoking has virtually been cut in half over the last four decades. In 1965, 42% of all adults aged 18 and over smoked cigarettes. Today, 21 or 22% smoke. This is good news, since cigarettes, when used according to directions (insert in mouth, set on fire, inhale), kill one third of their users. Or take drug and alcohol abuse. Abuse has remained relatively constant over the last decades, but the forms keep changing. In 1980, 34% of high school seniors admitted to trying marijuana. In 1990, it was 14%. In 2000, it was 22%. Use of cocaine, heroin, and abuse of alcohol experience wide swings too. In recent years, cocaine use appears to be rising again. In 2003, 42% of young adults, age 18-25, admitted to binge drinking in the past year. Then there is gambling. Small caliber gambling is on the rise with the current poker rage. But "problem gambling" is too. Problem gambling entails "a progressive… preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, "chasing" losses, and loss of control manifested by continuation of the gambling behavior in spite of mounting consequences. (National Council on Problem Gambling) The truth The third sign of the times that I will mention is the most serious. Americans are very scientific and very religious. We are confident in the methods we use to pursue scientific truth. Physicists say the laws or principles of physics are the same for all people in all places and times. Other scientists say the same; they strive to begin and end with objective reality and truth. But our pursuit of ethical and spiritual truth is quite the opposite. The point of reference is the perceiving subject rather than the world perceived. Americans are very religious, but perhaps our single-minded pursuit of material wealth creates an emotional vacuum that draw us to religion. If religion comforts us in our emptiness, then whatever offers comfort is true . If our religion springs from nothing but our own mind, then the quest for religious truth has suffered quite a blow. But Christianity claims to be objectively true. These are our times. We must know them; we must know the signs of the times. Yet above all, we must know Jesus who gave the most important signs. His signs showed his compassion, his generosity, His love for all people. In our time, let us be faithful to Him personally and let us faithfully strive to convey His truth to our age.
Rick Worthy,DM
Rick Worthy,DM
WEDNESDAY NIGHT BIBLE STUDY JULY 26
Matthew 16:13-19
5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. 6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. 7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. 8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? 9 Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 10 Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? 12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. The people's opinion of Christ 13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? 14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
The variety of responses to Jesus that Matthew has described from chapter 11 on have prepared for one of the pivotal passages of his gospel. Matthew 15:21-28 with the story of the Canaanite woman is an important part of the background. Jesus’ claim that his ministry was only to the "lost sheep of the house of Israel" raises an important question about his identity. The following verses that portray him extending his ministry into Gentile territory makes the question even more important. "Who is this Jesus? Where does he fit in the range of Jewish teachers?" Matthew 16:1-12 and the warning about the leaven of the Sadducees and Pharisees makes it clear that Jesus was not part of the religious establishment of his times. But who was he? To answering that question Matthew now turns. The Caesarea Philippi Confession - Matthew 16:13-20 The scene shifts again in Matthew 16:13. The last geographical reference found in Matthew 15:39 had been that Jesus was in the area of Magaden. The location of that city or village is unknown. Matthew 16:5 states that they crossed the Sea of Galilee and verse 13 places them in Caesarea Philippi. Caesarea Philippi was about 25 miles north of the Sea of Galilee at the foot of Mount Hermon. Springs fed by the melting snow from Mount Hermon formed the headwaters of the Jordan River. The site was beautiful and lush compared to the dryness of much of the surrounding countryside. The name Caesarea Philippi derived from the rebuilding of the city by Herod Philip in honor of the emperor, Caesar Tiberias. Formerly the area had been called Paneas in honor of the Greek god, Pan. This is also Gentile territory. It is not clear whether Jesus brought the disciples to this place because of its background or simply because it was a beautiful location for a retreat. The question of Jesus’ identity is raised immediately in Matthew’s text in verse 13, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" The meaning of the phrase, "Son of Man," has received considerable discussion by modern scholars. Almost all the times this title appears in the New Testament (over 80 times) it appears on Jesus’ own lips or is spoken by someone in response to Jesus’ use of the title. It appears to have been Jesus’ favorite term to describe himself. It is frequently used as a substitute for the word "I" and that appears to be its usage here. (The parallel passage in Mark 8:27 reads, "Who do people say that I am?"). The most common opinion is that Jesus drew the phrase from Daniel 7:13 where it refers to a heavenly figure who is coming in the future. Jesus appeared to prefer the title "Son of Man" since it was not widely used or understood in Judaism. That enabled him to define his identity in his own way. What is clear is that "Son of Man" is not a reference to Jesus’ humanity in contrast to his deity. This has been a popular view for many years, but there is no basis for it in the pattern of Jesus’ usage. Here in Matthew 16:13 "Son of Man" is simply a substitute for "I." Jesus is asking who people think him to be. The disciples report a variety of answers. The idea that Jesus was John the Baptist has already been mentioned by Herod in Matthew 14:2. The mention of Elijah is understandable for several reasons. John the Baptist had been identified as Elijah or an Elijah-type figure. Elijah had also been noted for miracles. The mention of Jeremiah is unique to Matthew’s gospel at this location. There is some evidence (though it is not clear) of Jeremiah being regarded (like Elijah) as a forerunner of the Messiah. There were also several parallels between the message of Jeremiah and the message of Jesus. The key phrase is that which follows, "or one of the prophets." What John the Baptist, Elijah, and Jeremiah had in common was that they were prophets. The people who had seen and heard of Jesus’ ministry were describing him as a prophet. The New Testament is clear that Jesus’ ministry shared the characteristics of the ministry of many of the prophets. "Prophet" was a common title to describe Jesus. The New Testament is equally clear that "prophet" was not an adequate title for Jesus. However, Jesus’ concern was not the opinions of people in general. His concern was the understanding of the disciples and so he redirects the question, "Who do you all say that I am?" Though the question was directed to all the disciples, as often happened Peter spoke their response, "You are the Christ, the son of the living God." At this point, three of the major titles for Jesus are brought together: Son of Man, Messiah (the Christ), and Son of God. The process of translation, both at the time the New Testament was written and now into modern languages, makes it difficult for us keep track of references to the Messiah. The English word "Christ" is the English form of the Greek word christos which was the Greek translation of the Hebrew word for Messiah. Technically, it would be possible to replace the name "Christ" with the title "Messiah" everywhere in the New Testament. However, one of the results of bringing gentiles into the church is that often christos became another personal name for Jesus instead of a title meaning "Messiah." The problem for us in modern times is knowing when! When is Christ simply another name for Jesus and when does it mean Messiah? Scholars do not always agree. However, the evidence for Matthew 16:16 indicates that Messiah is what Peter was calling Jesus. This is the first time in Matthew’s gospel that the Messiahship of Jesus has been confessed directly. Several times Matthew writing editorially has indicated that Jesus was Messiah (Matthew 1:1, 16, 17; 2:4; 11:2) but this is the first time it appears on the lips of a character in the story. The fact that Peter, as the representative disciple, makes this confession is important. For Matthew it is important for his readers then (and now) to know that Jesus was the expected Jewish Messiah. There were varieties of opinions in Judaism at that time about what the Messiah would be like. Nevertheless, it is important both for Jews in Jesus’ time and for gentiles now to now that Jesus was the long-expected Jewish messiah. As messiah, Jesus was the fulfillment of Jewish hopes and he was the culmination of God’s involvement in human history to bring us salvation. Peter also confessed Jesus to be "the Son of the Living God." This exact phrase is found only in Matthew’s account of the retreat at Caesarea Philippi. Mark 8:29 has only, "You are the Christ (or the Messiah)" and Luke 9:20 states Peter’s confession as, "You are the Christ (or Messiah) of God." Perhaps it was his Jewish audience that made it important for Matthew to clarify that Jesus was much more than simply the Jewish messiah. The theme of Jesus’ divine sonship has been important throughout Matthew. The voice from heaven announced it at Jesus’ baptism. Satan tempted Jesus at that point in the temptations. The disciples had confessed in Matthew 14:33 after Jesus (and Peter) had walked on the water. Now it is combined with the titles Messiah and Son of Man to provide the most complete identification of Jesus to yet appear in this gospel. Verses 17-19 have no parallel in the other gospels. Several important themes are revealed in these verses. First, Jesus pronounces a blessing on Peter and gives him a commission. The blessing is an effective word of grace. Peter’s confession does not win Jesus’ compliment for it was not Peter’s wisdom or insight that produced the confession. It was God the Father himself at work through the Holy Spirit revealing the truth of Jesus’ identity to Peter that enabled him to proclaim that truth. This is an important Christian principle. No human achievements are simply human achievements. They are gifts given by God to the people he will use in the appearance of his Kingdom. As James 1:17 states, "Every good and perfect gift is from above." Peter’s blessing is also a commission and promise that Christ will make him a foundational stone for the building of the church. This suggests that the idea of the church being built with living stones, beginning with the apostles and prophets, was first taught by Jesus himself. First Corinthians 3:11ff, Ephesians 2:20-22, and 1 Peter 2:4-7 all develop this idea in slightly different ways. A second important theme is that of the victory of the church. Jesus states that he will build the church. As well-intentioned as many followers of Christ are and as skilled as they are in various forms of ministry, the church is not built by people but by Christ. It is for this reason that the church will endure and triumph. Human achievements come and go; the church grows - sometimes rapidly and sometimes slowly - depending on the building block Christ selects and uses to build his church. The promise of verse 18 is the gates of Hades would not prevail against the church. This is often interpreted as if hell were attacking the church and we must desperately hang on until Jesus comes. Such a view is opposite the promise of verse 18. The gates of Hades are portrayed as on the defensive. The church charges into the very gates of death rescuing the perishing and offering the opportunity for people to pass from death unto life. Rick Worthy,DM
5 And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. 6 Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. 7 And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. 8 Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread? 9 Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 10 Neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 11 How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? 12 Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. The people's opinion of Christ 13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? 14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. 15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. 18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. 19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
The variety of responses to Jesus that Matthew has described from chapter 11 on have prepared for one of the pivotal passages of his gospel. Matthew 15:21-28 with the story of the Canaanite woman is an important part of the background. Jesus’ claim that his ministry was only to the "lost sheep of the house of Israel" raises an important question about his identity. The following verses that portray him extending his ministry into Gentile territory makes the question even more important. "Who is this Jesus? Where does he fit in the range of Jewish teachers?" Matthew 16:1-12 and the warning about the leaven of the Sadducees and Pharisees makes it clear that Jesus was not part of the religious establishment of his times. But who was he? To answering that question Matthew now turns. The Caesarea Philippi Confession - Matthew 16:13-20 The scene shifts again in Matthew 16:13. The last geographical reference found in Matthew 15:39 had been that Jesus was in the area of Magaden. The location of that city or village is unknown. Matthew 16:5 states that they crossed the Sea of Galilee and verse 13 places them in Caesarea Philippi. Caesarea Philippi was about 25 miles north of the Sea of Galilee at the foot of Mount Hermon. Springs fed by the melting snow from Mount Hermon formed the headwaters of the Jordan River. The site was beautiful and lush compared to the dryness of much of the surrounding countryside. The name Caesarea Philippi derived from the rebuilding of the city by Herod Philip in honor of the emperor, Caesar Tiberias. Formerly the area had been called Paneas in honor of the Greek god, Pan. This is also Gentile territory. It is not clear whether Jesus brought the disciples to this place because of its background or simply because it was a beautiful location for a retreat. The question of Jesus’ identity is raised immediately in Matthew’s text in verse 13, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" The meaning of the phrase, "Son of Man," has received considerable discussion by modern scholars. Almost all the times this title appears in the New Testament (over 80 times) it appears on Jesus’ own lips or is spoken by someone in response to Jesus’ use of the title. It appears to have been Jesus’ favorite term to describe himself. It is frequently used as a substitute for the word "I" and that appears to be its usage here. (The parallel passage in Mark 8:27 reads, "Who do people say that I am?"). The most common opinion is that Jesus drew the phrase from Daniel 7:13 where it refers to a heavenly figure who is coming in the future. Jesus appeared to prefer the title "Son of Man" since it was not widely used or understood in Judaism. That enabled him to define his identity in his own way. What is clear is that "Son of Man" is not a reference to Jesus’ humanity in contrast to his deity. This has been a popular view for many years, but there is no basis for it in the pattern of Jesus’ usage. Here in Matthew 16:13 "Son of Man" is simply a substitute for "I." Jesus is asking who people think him to be. The disciples report a variety of answers. The idea that Jesus was John the Baptist has already been mentioned by Herod in Matthew 14:2. The mention of Elijah is understandable for several reasons. John the Baptist had been identified as Elijah or an Elijah-type figure. Elijah had also been noted for miracles. The mention of Jeremiah is unique to Matthew’s gospel at this location. There is some evidence (though it is not clear) of Jeremiah being regarded (like Elijah) as a forerunner of the Messiah. There were also several parallels between the message of Jeremiah and the message of Jesus. The key phrase is that which follows, "or one of the prophets." What John the Baptist, Elijah, and Jeremiah had in common was that they were prophets. The people who had seen and heard of Jesus’ ministry were describing him as a prophet. The New Testament is clear that Jesus’ ministry shared the characteristics of the ministry of many of the prophets. "Prophet" was a common title to describe Jesus. The New Testament is equally clear that "prophet" was not an adequate title for Jesus. However, Jesus’ concern was not the opinions of people in general. His concern was the understanding of the disciples and so he redirects the question, "Who do you all say that I am?" Though the question was directed to all the disciples, as often happened Peter spoke their response, "You are the Christ, the son of the living God." At this point, three of the major titles for Jesus are brought together: Son of Man, Messiah (the Christ), and Son of God. The process of translation, both at the time the New Testament was written and now into modern languages, makes it difficult for us keep track of references to the Messiah. The English word "Christ" is the English form of the Greek word christos which was the Greek translation of the Hebrew word for Messiah. Technically, it would be possible to replace the name "Christ" with the title "Messiah" everywhere in the New Testament. However, one of the results of bringing gentiles into the church is that often christos became another personal name for Jesus instead of a title meaning "Messiah." The problem for us in modern times is knowing when! When is Christ simply another name for Jesus and when does it mean Messiah? Scholars do not always agree. However, the evidence for Matthew 16:16 indicates that Messiah is what Peter was calling Jesus. This is the first time in Matthew’s gospel that the Messiahship of Jesus has been confessed directly. Several times Matthew writing editorially has indicated that Jesus was Messiah (Matthew 1:1, 16, 17; 2:4; 11:2) but this is the first time it appears on the lips of a character in the story. The fact that Peter, as the representative disciple, makes this confession is important. For Matthew it is important for his readers then (and now) to know that Jesus was the expected Jewish Messiah. There were varieties of opinions in Judaism at that time about what the Messiah would be like. Nevertheless, it is important both for Jews in Jesus’ time and for gentiles now to now that Jesus was the long-expected Jewish messiah. As messiah, Jesus was the fulfillment of Jewish hopes and he was the culmination of God’s involvement in human history to bring us salvation. Peter also confessed Jesus to be "the Son of the Living God." This exact phrase is found only in Matthew’s account of the retreat at Caesarea Philippi. Mark 8:29 has only, "You are the Christ (or the Messiah)" and Luke 9:20 states Peter’s confession as, "You are the Christ (or Messiah) of God." Perhaps it was his Jewish audience that made it important for Matthew to clarify that Jesus was much more than simply the Jewish messiah. The theme of Jesus’ divine sonship has been important throughout Matthew. The voice from heaven announced it at Jesus’ baptism. Satan tempted Jesus at that point in the temptations. The disciples had confessed in Matthew 14:33 after Jesus (and Peter) had walked on the water. Now it is combined with the titles Messiah and Son of Man to provide the most complete identification of Jesus to yet appear in this gospel. Verses 17-19 have no parallel in the other gospels. Several important themes are revealed in these verses. First, Jesus pronounces a blessing on Peter and gives him a commission. The blessing is an effective word of grace. Peter’s confession does not win Jesus’ compliment for it was not Peter’s wisdom or insight that produced the confession. It was God the Father himself at work through the Holy Spirit revealing the truth of Jesus’ identity to Peter that enabled him to proclaim that truth. This is an important Christian principle. No human achievements are simply human achievements. They are gifts given by God to the people he will use in the appearance of his Kingdom. As James 1:17 states, "Every good and perfect gift is from above." Peter’s blessing is also a commission and promise that Christ will make him a foundational stone for the building of the church. This suggests that the idea of the church being built with living stones, beginning with the apostles and prophets, was first taught by Jesus himself. First Corinthians 3:11ff, Ephesians 2:20-22, and 1 Peter 2:4-7 all develop this idea in slightly different ways. A second important theme is that of the victory of the church. Jesus states that he will build the church. As well-intentioned as many followers of Christ are and as skilled as they are in various forms of ministry, the church is not built by people but by Christ. It is for this reason that the church will endure and triumph. Human achievements come and go; the church grows - sometimes rapidly and sometimes slowly - depending on the building block Christ selects and uses to build his church. The promise of verse 18 is the gates of Hades would not prevail against the church. This is often interpreted as if hell were attacking the church and we must desperately hang on until Jesus comes. Such a view is opposite the promise of verse 18. The gates of Hades are portrayed as on the defensive. The church charges into the very gates of death rescuing the perishing and offering the opportunity for people to pass from death unto life. Rick Worthy,DM
Saturday, August 05, 2006
FEELING RUN DOWN
- Feeling run down,
- tired,
- no energy by week's end?
- You really want to do what is right but just can't quite get it right.
WHAT YOU NEED IS A GOOD DOSE OF Christian Vitamin B1. You can get yours free at Sunday School. There is a class for you starting at 9:45 each Sunday.
92nd BIRTHDAY PARTY
Annie Pemberton will celebrate her 92nd birthday with a party at Red's Catfish on Saturday August 12 at 3 pm. Everyone is invited to go.
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD
Operation Christmas Child brings joy and hope to children in desperate situations around the world through gift-filled shoe boxes and the Good News of God’s love. This program of Samaritan’s Purse provides an opportunity for people of all ages to be involved in a simple, hands-on missions project while focusing on the true meaning of Christmas—Jesus Christ, God’s greatest gift. Along with shoe box gifts, millions of children are given Gospel booklets in their own language. Last year, we collected over 7.6 million shoe box gifts worldwide and distributed them to children in 95 countries.A group from Calvary will join Union Meth. Church
and go to Atlanta in December to sort the shoeboxes. We will be taking the Church Van. If you would like to be part of this grministryisty you must sign-up no later than Sunday July 30th.
and go to Atlanta in December to sort the shoeboxes. We will be taking the Church Van. If you would like to be part of this grministryisty you must sign-up no later than Sunday July 30th.
REIGN SONG
THE GROUP REIGN SONG WILL BE OUR GUEST ON SUNDAY NIGHT AUGUST 6th AT 6PM
A unique mixed trio with a tight family harmony, based out of Dalton, GA. Encouraging The Redeemed & spreading the saving desire of Christ to the lost.
A unique mixed trio with a tight family harmony, based out of Dalton, GA. Encouraging The Redeemed & spreading the saving desire of Christ to the lost.
ECHOES FROM CALVARY (News)
God loves you and so do we at Calvary Baptist Church in Dadeville. We are grateful to continue to see Sandra Pemberton, our first Lady at Calvary, at home although it is reported that she is still fighting infection in her body. Continue to pray for her and Brother Tom.
It is a joy to see Jean Williamson back in church, keep her very close to your heart as she copes with the loss of Brother Donnie.
Brother Tom gave both the youth and adults a challenge Wednesday, July 19, 2006 to bring someone with them to Bible Study on Wednesday night. The youth have taken that challenge to heart by more than doubling their attendance.
Rick and Wilma Worthy will be starting a childrenÂ’s ministry, grades k-6. Ricky T.Willl be a guest speaker. We will be having a children sermon each Sunday during Morning Worship.
The youth of Calvary had a wonderful time visiting Brother Tom Goldston’s home on Lake Martin, Saturday the 15th. They also went to the”Mini”Big God Conference on the 16th at the Union Community Center and the Derry Berry Concert on Saturday 21. Tasha plans on going parasailing in Bulf Springs in a couple of weeks. Tad, the party animal, went to, not one, but three sweet sixteen parties after the concert Saturday night.
Ted and Manda Greer visited Poplar Springs Methodist for homecoming on Sunday. Manda enjoyed visiting with her dad, Gene Knight.
Ricky and Vickie PrattÂ’s son Josh has orders for a tour in Iraq. Keep him in your prayers. He will be leaving very soon.
Terry Greer has just returned from a 3 week assignment with the 214th Military Police Unit. They went to Vicenza, Italy to relieve the regular army for field duty and R and R time. Brother Tom called Terry on his cell phone during the Morning Worship Service on July 9th and talked to him in Vicenza, Italy. We are really glad to have him back home safely. Terry received the Combat Action Badge for his participation in Operation Iraqi Freedom along with each of the other members of his unit during a special ceremony on July 22th.
The preteen Sunday School enjoyed Lindsey and Melanie as visitors. The class studied the parting of the Red sea. Each of the students wrote something in class with their toes.
There will be a group from Calvary joining Union Methodist going to Atlanta on November 25th to help sort shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child. If you want to be part of this great ministry you must sign-up no later than July 30. We will be going in the Church vans.
The menÂ’s adult class has started a study in the book of Revelation. Brother Martin Greer is the Study leader.
Calvary has a new web blog. You can reach us at www.calvarybaptist1.blogspot.com .
It is a joy to see Jean Williamson back in church, keep her very close to your heart as she copes with the loss of Brother Donnie.
Brother Tom gave both the youth and adults a challenge Wednesday, July 19, 2006 to bring someone with them to Bible Study on Wednesday night. The youth have taken that challenge to heart by more than doubling their attendance.
Rick and Wilma Worthy will be starting a childrenÂ’s ministry, grades k-6. Ricky T.Willl be a guest speaker. We will be having a children sermon each Sunday during Morning Worship.
The youth of Calvary had a wonderful time visiting Brother Tom Goldston’s home on Lake Martin, Saturday the 15th. They also went to the”Mini”Big God Conference on the 16th at the Union Community Center and the Derry Berry Concert on Saturday 21. Tasha plans on going parasailing in Bulf Springs in a couple of weeks. Tad, the party animal, went to, not one, but three sweet sixteen parties after the concert Saturday night.
Ted and Manda Greer visited Poplar Springs Methodist for homecoming on Sunday. Manda enjoyed visiting with her dad, Gene Knight.
Ricky and Vickie PrattÂ’s son Josh has orders for a tour in Iraq. Keep him in your prayers. He will be leaving very soon.
Terry Greer has just returned from a 3 week assignment with the 214th Military Police Unit. They went to Vicenza, Italy to relieve the regular army for field duty and R and R time. Brother Tom called Terry on his cell phone during the Morning Worship Service on July 9th and talked to him in Vicenza, Italy. We are really glad to have him back home safely. Terry received the Combat Action Badge for his participation in Operation Iraqi Freedom along with each of the other members of his unit during a special ceremony on July 22th.
The preteen Sunday School enjoyed Lindsey and Melanie as visitors. The class studied the parting of the Red sea. Each of the students wrote something in class with their toes.
There will be a group from Calvary joining Union Methodist going to Atlanta on November 25th to help sort shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child. If you want to be part of this great ministry you must sign-up no later than July 30. We will be going in the Church vans.
The menÂ’s adult class has started a study in the book of Revelation. Brother Martin Greer is the Study leader.
Calvary has a new web blog. You can reach us at www.calvarybaptist1.blogspot.com .
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