Category: Freedom - Dupree Baptist Church

Absolute Truth

6/26/2022

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."
2 Timothy 3:16-17

We live in the post-truth society -- now what matters is how people feel. Even science is no longer based on absolute truth -- We need to get back to absolute truth. Start with

#1 The bible. It has never been disproven. In fact, the more that is found the more it is proven.
We, in this country, are reaping what we have sown. But we can still turn back to God.

#2 Jesus Christ.

He was and is. Not a question that He existed. And He left no room for us to just think him as a teacher or a moral person. We either accept Him as the Son of God or not.

No one comes to the Father except through Jesus Christ.

#3 Follow His Commands.

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." Matthew 5:11-12

We will get persecuted. We won't be popular.

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16

We need to let our lights shine!

"But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?" Matthew 5:44-46

We need to love our enemies -- love everyone.

When the crowds heard this, they were astonished at his teaching.

"34 Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. 35 One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: 36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’[a] 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[b] 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.'" Matthew 22:33-40

Start with loving God and then loving people.

Finish Strong

3/20/2022

"Paul was at the end of his life when he wrote 2 Timothy.

"6 For I am already being poured out like a drink offering, and the time for my departure is near. 7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." 2 Timotht 4:6-8

A drink offering -- once it is poured out it is gone.

In the above passage, Paul mentions three things: Fight the good fight; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith.

1. Fight the Good Fight
In a fight, the minute you drop your guard you lose your offensive position and go on the defensive.
The minute you surrender you lose.
You can't quit fighting.

Discipline and Disciple are from the same root word.

Grab hold of Jesus and continue to fight. Survival isn't enough.

"24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. 25 Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. 26 Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. 27 No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize." 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Not a "losing salvation" passage. A non-fruit kind of life when you don't run right.

2. The Good Fight of Faith
"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. 2 This is what the ancients were commended for. 3 By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible." Hebrews 11:1-3

We fight based on faith. Our faith is something we can't see. You have to hold onto that faith. The finish line is not a funeral. Finish line is eternity. We each have a different fight. We have to be passionate about the role God has given us. Passionately follow Jesus!

"35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? 36 As it is written:
“For your sake we face death all day long;
we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”[a]
37 No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." Romans 8:35-37

Beat that fear down with faith and grab hold and walk the faith; run the faith.

The Fight is Worth the Struggle

" No man who is really a man ever could enjoy the easy task. There is no enjoyment in the game that is easily won. It is that in which you have strained every muscle and sinew to achieve victory that provides real joy."
Eric Lidell, olympic gold metalist

Finish the Race Strong
"13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14

Philippians was the last letter Paul wrote.

Run with Perseverance

"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:1-2

He ran all the way so we could finish strong.

The Father's will is the completion of His purposes; for each of us to finish strong; to have that final kick.

Victory -- stand steadfast and immoveable

Consistency!

"57 But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." 1 Corinthians 15:57-58

We try the hardest when we work toward the goal. Stick to that goal -- give yourselves fully to the completion of God's will for you.

Keep the Faith

"6 And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, 7 in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- 9 not by works, so that no one can boast. 10 For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:6-10

What we do with it. Continue established and firm.

"20 and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross. 21 Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of[a] your evil behavior. 22 But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation-- 23 if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant." Colossians 1:20-23

You have to finish.

The Lord is Faithful

"As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. 2 And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 4 We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance." 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5

God knows I can't do it -- But He can!
God knows I don't have the will -- But He does!
God knows I don't have the strength -- But He does.

Don't coast. Sometimes it will be hard, but God is there. Just stay with Him. "Go ahead and puke. Just don't quit."

No matter what -- even if you stumble -- keep going.

As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. 2 And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 4 We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.

"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever." Hebrews 13:8

Are you?

One on One

11/7/2021

Relationships are all that matter -- one on one.

36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’[a] 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[b] 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” Matthew 22:36-40

One on One with Jesus

He didn't need us but we need Him.

23 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them." John 14:23

You can't do this collectively. You have to meet Jesus yourself and have a relationship with Him.

Are you looking to get to know Jesus better than you do?

"3 Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."
John 17:3

If you know Jesus, you know the Father.

"6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
John 14:6

"15 I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you." John 15:15

Read the Word, listen and let the Spirit guide you.

One on One with Christian brothers and sisters
We need to get involved and engaged with each other.

"11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."
1 Thessalonians 5:11

"A friend loves at all times,
and a brother is born for a time of adversity." Proverbs 17:17

"Though one may be overpowered,
two can defend themselves.
A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Ecclesiastes 4:12

There will be suffering. The world will overcome us if we don't have Jesus. With Jesus we can overcome the world.

One on One with the Lost

"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:2-3

Look at Jesus's example with: Zacchaeus, the paralytic, the woman at the well and Peter.

And Jesus physically touched people when he didn't have to: Peter's mother, the lepers, the blind -- The untouchables were touched by Jesus.
34 “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35 By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35

"12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father." John 14:12

Follow the steps of Jesus
"21 To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps." 1 Peter 2:21

"15 But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect," 1 Peter 3:15

Do life as Jesus does. If you have received, give. If you received give it. How much did Jesus give for me? Sacrifice yourself for others always. Be last.

"Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." Philippians 2:1-4

Freedom and Slavery

7/4/2021

The early Church had to learn how to live in Christ's freedom too. They all lived in the Roman Empire and also prior to accepting Christ either lived by Jewish Law or pagan rituals (if they were pagan). Freedom in Christ is a completely different way to live. We too need to choose freedom over rule keeping.

"11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. 12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us. 13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, 14 or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15 For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people. 16 Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17 Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor." 1 Peter 2:11-1

Peter was talking to the Church as a whole.

HOW DO WE LIVE IN THE WORLD, BUT NOT OF IT?

"14 I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world." John 17:14

This world is full of sin and darkness. It has no hope. It is perishing. We need to be the light.

"11 Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. 12 Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us." 1 Peter 2:11-12

Be different. Don't be like the world. People should see the difference. Live in the truth, in kindness, compassion, joy, peace.

YOU ARE A CHILD OF GOD SO LIVE LIKE IT.

"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him." 1 John 3:1

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship." Romans 12:1

We are meant to live lives that honor the Father all the time.

WHAT DOES FREEDOM LOOK LIKE?

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16

There are still people fighting to get here (America) so it must be better than where they are from. So too, we are citizens of Heaven -- our home is much better than hell. So live like your home is in heaven. Let people see the different. Jesus's way -- loving, kind, joyful, peaceful, not in a hurry; patient, good, long-suffering, self-controlled.

"7 In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness 8 and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us." Titus 2:7-8

God's holding us to a high standard. Be an example for those who don't have Jesus yet.

WHAT ABOUT AUTHORITIES?

"13 Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority: whether to the emperor, as the supreme authority, 14 or to governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. 15 For it is God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish people."
1 Peter 2:13-15

Remember, the Roman Empire, where these Believers lived, was a cruel, violent empire. Lots of people were killed by the government. It killed Christians. It would eventually kill Peter.

"25 He said to them, “Then give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”" Luke 20:25

If the authority tells you to go against God, then don't do that. Otherwise go with the government. But always respect authority no matter how the person acts. We always can be kind and respectful. We should exercise our right to vote and however else God is leading you to take part in politics. But we aren't to be beligerant ever. We should be living to make our world better.

"7 Also, seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.”" Jeremiah 29:7

Pray for peace and prosperity where you live.

"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people-- 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."
1 Timothy 2:1-2

LIVE OUR LIVES HAS VOLUNTARY BONDSLAVES TO GOD.

"16 Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves. 17 Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor." 1 Peter 2:16-17

Doulos=bondslave

A slave who was bought and paid for; released but chooses to stay with the Master voluntarily. I want to stay with my master, he or she says.

THE PRODIGAL SON

"17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father.
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him." Luke 15:17-20

We were bought at a great price.

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." Galatians 5:1

"You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh[a]; rather, serve one another humbly in love." Galatians 5:13

FIGHT THE DEVIL TO PRESERVE YOUR FREEDOM

"But now that you know God—or rather are known by God—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable forces[a]? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again?" Galatians 4:9

Don't go back to what God took you from.
13 You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh[a]; rather, serve one another humbly in love.

The Name Above All Names

5/30/2021

"5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
6 Who, being in very nature[a] God,
    did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
7 rather, he made himself nothing
    by taking the very nature[b] of a servant,
    being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
    he humbled himself
    by becoming obedient to death--
        even death on a cross!
9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
    and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
    in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
    to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:5-11

Of course there are things we shouldn't say in public, but political correctness has been a great destroyer. The name of Jesus is beeped out of shows like The View.

Why are we afraid to say "Jesus?"

The name of Jesus has Power behind it. Stifling the name of Jesus is nothing new.

"40 His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name." Acts 5:40-41

For the Name, in the Name....here is the power.

What is the big deal about saying the name of Jesus? Are we as a church afraid to say Jesus?

Every miracle in the New Testament was done by Jesus or in His Name.

"4 Peter looked straight at him, as did John. Then Peter said, “Look at us!” 5 So the man gave them his attention, expecting to get something from them. 6 Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” 7 Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong." Acts 3:4-7

The Name of Jesus is the only way to Salvation.

"12 Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12

"38 Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Acts 2:38

You have have the ability to change someone's eternal destination if you speak the name of Jesus to them!

Jesus is present with us when we gather in His name.

"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20

"36 He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, 37 “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.” Mark 9:36-37

Persecution will come because of His Name.

12 “But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. They will hand you over to synagogues and put you in prison, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name." Luke 21:12

His name was outlawed (and very likely one day it will be in America...).

"20 Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’[a] If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. 21 They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me." John 15:20-21

We are called to preach in the name of Jesus.

"45 Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. 46 He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, 47 and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." Luke 24:45-47

If we aren't using His name, we are powerless.

We are called to heal in the name of Jesus.

"17 And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”" Mark 16:17-18

Worried what others will think, political correctness and nonbelief keep us from seeing people healed.

Why is there power in the name of Jesus?

It represents all Jesus is and all He stands for.

43 All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.” Acts 10:43

If Christ is in us, we can speak His name and we are not alone!

34 “Aeneas,” Peter said to him, “Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and roll up your mat.” Immediately Aeneas got up." Acts 9:34

The power of the name of Jesus over hell.

17 The seventy-two returned with joy and said, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name.” Luke 10:17

Only if we believe...

"13 Some Jews who went around driving out evil spirits tried to invoke the name of the Lord Jesus over those who were demon-possessed. They would say, “In the name of the Jesus whom Paul preaches, I command you to come out.” 14 Seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, were doing this. 15 One day the evil spirit answered them, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know about, but who are you?” 16 Then the man who had the evil spirit jumped on them and overpowered them all. He gave them such a beating that they ran out of the house naked and bleeding." Acts 19:13-16

Jesus is not a magic word. You must believe.

We have been given Power of Attorney in the name of Jesus.

Use the name of Jesus to light the fire!

The church is supposed to be a place and people of power!

Abraham and Isaac and the wood and the fire. They needed the lamb.

Today's church has the lamb and the wood. We don't always have the fire.

SPEAK HIS NAME -- JESUS!

What fear?

4/25/2021

"6 For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ." 2 Corinthians 4:6

21 Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided," Exodus 14:21

Don't need to fear the night! God works in the night. God banishes all darkness.

"Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the Lord drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided," John 8:12

No need to fear snakes or spiders:

"I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you." Luke 10:19

"Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up,[a] 15 that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.”[b]" John 3:14-15

And many people fear Death:No need!

"Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,[a]
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me." Psalm 23:4

Death has no power here!

4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’[a] or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” Revelation 21:4

It's painful and we mourn but for Believers death means heaven! Being with Jesus!

6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9 Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:6-9

We are going to have struggles, but we can conquer any fear.

How to conquer Fear:

1. Be honest about the fear/challenge you have. Talk to God about it. Say, "I'm scared...."
2. Find the positive -- look into God's word
3. Act, confront the fear head on. Step out. Don't stay frozen and unable to move.
4. Live in God's will.

The Resurrected Life!

4/11/2021

"What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? 2 By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? 3 Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? 4 We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. 5 For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his. 6 For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with,[a] that we should no longer be slaves to sin-- 7 because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.8 Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. 9 For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. 10 The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God.11 In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. 12 Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. 13 Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness." Romans 6:1-13

What do we do now? The Resurrection is part of us. What does that mean for our daily life? We are new in Christ, but habits and lifestyles are hard to break.

Amazing Grace -- we were lost, now we are found.

"Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned—" Romans 5:12

Jesus stayed on earth for 40 days after He was resurrected. Then He went to be with God in heaven. We are meant to be living with God.

"The sin in the world leads to separation, feeling lost, abandoned, disappointed, alone, unloved, despair, purposeless, wandering lost...

For us there is a better way -- we have hope. We should be the shining light in the darkness every day! Through the resurrection of Christ, we are not improved, we are reborn!

"As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, 2 in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. 3 All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh[a] and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath." Ephesians 2:1-3

It's not on us. We are reborn children of God. We don't make the transformation happen. The Spirit does.

"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. 2 Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears,[a] we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is." 1 John 3:1-2

Our bodies don't stop decaying. We still have bills. But our Spirits are transformed! Don't be influenced by the world. Be influenced by Jesus. We are immune to the death and sin of the world. Our lives have returned to the ownership of the Creator. I live like tomorrow is hope. Anticipation of seeing Jesus gets me excited. And He asks for you! Yes, you the one reading this!

God loves us the way we are, but He loves us too much to leave us this way. It's a brand new life.

"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14

Go toward Jesus. Go forward. Your life will get brighter and brighter "until the full day!!"

"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." Romans 8:37

Heaven is our home. Life is not elevated, it is dead. Leave it at at the Cross.

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation." 2 Corinthians 5:17-19

We are receivers and givers of grace and the Good News. The need for Jesus is everywhere!!

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." Galatians 2:20

Don't live like you're dying.

Pick up your cross daily...

Understand that you are loved this much! Walk forward means children of God -- boldly proclaiming His love. Share the love that you have received.

"It ain't dying I'm talking about, Woodrow, it's living!"

This isn't religion and rules. It is relationship. We are new -- here and now through Resurrection.

Are you living a new life, a life of Resurrection right now? If not, what do you need to do?

True Freedom

2/7/2021

26 They sailed to the region of the Gerasenes,[b] which is across the lake from Galilee. 27 When Jesus stepped ashore, he was met by a demon-possessed man from the town. For a long time this man had not worn clothes or lived in a house, but had lived in the tombs. 28 When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell at his feet, shouting at the top of his voice, “What do you want with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, don’t torture me!” 29 For Jesus had commanded the impure spirit to come out of the man. Many times it had seized him, and though he was chained hand and foot and kept under guard, he had broken his chains and had been driven by the demon into solitary places. 30 Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” “Legion,” he replied, because many demons had gone into him. 31 And they begged Jesus repeatedly not to order them to go into the Abyss. 32 A large herd of pigs was feeding there on the hillside. The demons begged Jesus to let them go into the pigs, and he gave them permission. 33 When the demons came out of the man, they went into the pigs, and the herd rushed down the steep bank into the lake and was drowned. 34 When those tending the pigs saw what had happened, they ran off and reported this in the town and countryside, 35 and the people went out to see what had happened. When they came to Jesus, they found the man from whom the demons had gone out, sitting at Jesus’ feet, dressed and in his right mind; and they were afraid. 36 Those who had seen it told the people how the demon-possessed man had been cured. 37 Then all the people of the region of the Gerasenes asked Jesus to leave them, because they were overcome with fear. So he got into the boat and left. 38 The man from whom the demons had gone out begged to go with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, 39 “Return home and tell how much God has done for you.” So the man went away and told all over town how much Jesus had done for him." Luke 8:26-39

This was a man bound spiritually and emotionally. We don't know what he was before. A father? A husband? Then, Jesus freed him. Like him, true freedom is what God intends for all of us. Adam had it but he gave it up. Freedom or Bondage. Freedom or slavery. Any choice other than Jesus will put you in slavery to someone or something. Only through Jesus Christ can we experience true freedom.

There are three things that Hinder our Freedom in Christ:

#1 The influence of Satan: he will affect us if we let him. He is a threat because he gets into our thoughts and tells us lies.

"The one who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil’s work." 1 John 3:8

But we don't have to allow this to happen.

"Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." James 4:7

God tells us to resist the devil. Through Jesus Christ we don't have to fall for any of Satan's lies.

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." John 10:10

All satan does is steal, kill and destroy.

“He has blinded their eyes
    and hardened their hearts,
so they can neither see with their eyes,
    nor understand with their hearts,
    nor turn—and I would heal them.”[a] John 12:40

If you allow satan to affect you, that is your choice. That is the choice of bondage and slavery. Instead, acknowledge he exists, but actively fight against him. Use the weapons God has given you. Use the sword of the Spirit (the Word of God).

"Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes." Ephesians 6:11

Satan makes you look back. God wants us to look forward.

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me,
    because he has anointed me
    to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
    and recovery of sight for the blind,
to set the oppressed free," Luke 4:18

#2. Love of Darkness:

People love living in darkness; doing their deeds where they think they are hidden.

"16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. 19 This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. 20 Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed." John 3:16-20

People don't want to be exposed. This is putting ourselves back into captivity. People enjoy the darkness. They have their pride and their Self and their way there. So many want anarchy. They don't want anyone telling them what to do.

"For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in[a] Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 6:23

"For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves," Colossians 1:13

This is what God does for us. This is true freedom!

God is a "chain-breaker."

#3 Fear:

Fear is based on our own limitations.
Fear of the unseen, the unexplainable, the power of God.
Rejection of faith because of our own fear of loss (or because of love of Self and pride).

We fear the loss of control of our Self. God doesn't want fearful followers. He wants us to come to Him in Love. We don't need to fear the future. The blessings will increase the more you are tormented by the world.

"There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love." 1 John 4:18

Come to God first. Don't wait until you are "fixed." Jesus didn't come to condemn people but to receive them.

"The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship.[a] And by him we cry, “Abba,[b] Father.”" Romans 8:15

Fear will keep us from God's blessings and the promised land for us.

True freedom. Turn away from self-imposed slavery. Turn away from self to Jesus. Turn away from fear to freedom.

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." Galatians 5:1

Freedom isn't free, but Jesus paid our price. A free gift from Him. He took our pain; our sin; our condemnation. Why fall back into slavery? When we don't live as Jesus calls us to live, we become slaves to Self.

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:1-2

Choose to be free!

If My People, Who are Called by My Name . . .

11/1/2020

"if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."
2 Chronicles 7:14

Declaration of Independence and The Preamble to the Constitution acknowledge God. But our country has slipped away from these founding principles.

We have lost our way.

"Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God." Romans 13:1

Judgment may be coming. God doesn't want to bring down judgment.

"Do not move an ancient boundary stone
    set up by your ancestors." Proverbs 22:28

We have moved the ancient boundaries that our founding fathers set up.

The Guttmancher Institute of 2014 found out that the women who had abortions were:

24% Catholic
17% mainline protestant
13% Evangelical protestant.

54% of the abortions performed in this country were on self-proclaiming Christians.

We the church have let our country down. This is not what God wants for us.

"Say to them, ‘As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, people of Israel?" Ezekiel 33:11

God doesn't want to pass judgment.

Judgment is not on civil government. The judgment mentioned in Revelation 2 and 3 is on the churches, not the world. Let him who has ears let him hear is the statement Jesus says to Believers.

The Future depends on the church.

Lukewarm -- no power, spit out of the mouth of God.

On Fire -- full of the power of God and combat all

During the spring when churches went virtual, 49% of church people said they didn't even attend virtual church (the ones that could). They just let it slide.

"if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14

There should be no surprise if we get judged.

Who is our fight with?

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 6:12

Satan is having a field day in our country! He is playing ball big time. We let satan run amok. God says He has given us the ability to change our land.

What can we do today?

He is telling us Believers to:

1. Humble ourselves. We are responsible.
2. Pray (pray for our country). Pray that it returns, that we the church become what we need to be.
3. Seek God's face -- see what God wants us to do.
4. Turn from our wicked ways.

What can we do to change ourselves?

Examples for today

"These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come." 1 Corinthians 10:11

We are the culmination of the ages.

"The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call.”" Acts 2:39

This is a promise forever! What is the promise?

"And everyone who calls
    on the name of the Lord will be saved." Acts 2:21

Two Examples:

Sodom and Gomorrah vs. Ninevah. Which country will we be?

"Then he said, “May the Lord not be angry, but let me speak just once more. What if only ten can be found there?”" Genesis 18:32

10 righteous people were not found in Sodom and Gomorrah so they were destroyed! God couldn't find 10 people who lived for Him. God doesn't want to bring judgment. God can't tolerate sin -- He has done all He can for us. He sent Jesus! If we choose wickedness, we will get judgment.

"When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened." Jonah 3:10

Ninevah on the other hand, chose to repent! And they were saved.

If we as a country do not change we are going to crash and burn. We will be under the judgment of God. It is up to the Believers to bring our country to repentance.

7" If at any time I announce that a nation or kingdom is to be uprooted, torn down and destroyed, 8 and if that nation I warned repents of its evil, then I will relent and not inflict on it the disaster I had planned. 9 And if at another time I announce that a nation or kingdom is to be built up and planted, 10 and if it does evil in my sight and does not obey me, then I will reconsider the good I had intended to do for it." Jeremiah 17:7-10

God is whispering the possibility of judgment in our ears. Will we listen? Will we Believers do what we need to do? We have been blessed. Will we choose blessing or judgment? We need to turn back to God.

The mantle falls on us

17" For it is time for judgment to begin with God’s household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God?" 1 Peter 4:17

"But everything exposed by the light becomes visible—and everything that is illuminated becomes a light. 14 This is why it is said:
“Wake up, sleeper,
    rise from the dead,
    and Christ will shine on you.”
15 Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is." Ephesians 5:13-17

Therefore do not be foolish....

This is the Day: Living in the Present

9/27/2020

Detachment from reality might look funny in pictures, but it is no joke in real life.

"This is what I have observed to be good: that it is appropriate for a person to eat, to drink and to find satisfaction in their toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life God has given them—for this is their lot. 19 Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God. 20 They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart." Ecclesiastes 5:18-20

Past -- Present -- Future

Where is your focus?

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:18-19

Living in the past is miserable! Reliving past mistakes. Reliving hurts.

What should the past look like?
"Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast, and repent. But if you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know at what time I will come to you" Revelation 3:3

“All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you" John 14:25-26

Benefits of looking at the past:

Look back with gratefulness at what God has done.

"Remember the wonders he has done,
his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced" Psalm 105:5

"Remember those earlier days after you had received the light, when you endured in a great conflict full of suffering. 33 Sometimes you were publicly exposed to insult and persecution; at other times you stood side by side with those who were so treated. 34 You suffered along with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions. 35 So do not throw away your confidence; it will be richly rewarded." Hebrews 10:32-35

Living in the Present:

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:2

"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things."
Philippians 4:6-8

What is the future worth?

Galatians 6: 9
"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" Galatians 6:9

"But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells" 2 Peter 3:13

"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect" 1 Peter 3:15

What a difference living in the present would bring:

"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 6 Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone" Colossians 4:5-6

"Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." Ephesians 5:15-16

A present filled with hope for the future:

"Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus" 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

"And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:17

"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone" Romans 12:18

We are meant to live eye-to-eye face-to-face with the world. God is trying to lead us somewhere. If I get distrasted I possibly will not follow His lead. Focus on what is now. Thing about what you do have. Thing about all the blessings. What good are we when we wander from God's path?

No matter what God's timing is His promises will be fulfilled.

Don't categorize people. Everyone is loved by Jesus! Jesus leaves the door open to everyone until their very last breath here on earth. Live today to the fullest.