“The Prayer of Faith” (James 5:13–20)

“The Prayer of Faith” (James 5:13–20)Pastor Cameron JungelsEastside Baptist ChurchSunday AM, August 23, 2015          13 Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.  14 Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord.  15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.  16 Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.  17 Elijah was a human being, even as we are. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years.  18 Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops.            19 My brothers and sisters, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring that person back,  20 remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins. (James 5:13-20, NIV)1.    Christians should pray at all times in all circumstances (v. 13).2.    Christians should pray for one another in times of need (vv. 14–18).3.    Christians should confess our sins to one another (v. 16).4.    Christians should seek to restore wayward brothers and sisters (vv. 19–20).Main Idea: Christians should be known by their concern for one another in the faith through prayer, confession, and restoration.

“Giving and Receiving Mercy” (Matthew 5:7)

“Giving and Receiving Mercy” (Matthew 5:7)Cameron JungelsEastside Baptist ChurchSunday PM, August 16, 2015Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. (Matthew 5:7)1.    Our God Is Merciful and full of Compassion.5 Then the LORD came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed his name, the LORD.  6 And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, "The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness,  7 maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation."  (Exodus 34:5-7, NIV) 16  "But they, our ancestors, became arrogant and stiff-necked, and they did not obey your commands.  17 They refused to listen and failed to remember the miracles you performed among them. They became stiff-necked and in their rebellion appointed a leader in order to return to their slavery. But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love. Therefore you did not desert them, (Neh. 9:16-17, NIV) 15 But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness. (Psalm 86:15, NIV)7 Let the wicked forsake their ways and the unrighteous their thoughts. Let them turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on them, and to our God, for he will freely pardon. (Isa. 55:7, NIV)For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. (Heb. 2:17, NIV)4 But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy,  5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions-- it is by grace you have been saved. (Eph. 2:4-5, NIV)3  Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,  4 and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you,  5 who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.  (1 Pet. 1:3-5, NIV)2.    Christians are to reflect the character of our God by being merciful as he is.25  "If you lend money to one of my people among you who is needy, do not treat it like a business deal; charge no interest.  26 If you take your neighbor's cloak as a pledge, return it by sunset,  27 because that cloak is the only covering your neighbor has. What else can they sleep in? When they cry out to me, I will hear, for I am compassionate.  (Exodus 22:25-27, NIV)For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings. (Hos. 6:6, NIV)6 With what shall I come before the LORD and bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old?  7 Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of olive oil? Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?  8 He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. (Mic. 6:6-8, NIV)9 "This is what the LORD Almighty said: 'Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another.  10 Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the foreigner or the poor. Do not plot evil against each other.'  (Zech. 7:9-10, NIV)36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. (Lk. 6:36, NIV)32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Eph. 4:32, NIV)13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. (Colossians 3:13, NIV)17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.  18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.  (James 3:17-18, NIV)3.    Mercy is a primary attribute of Christlikeness; a person who is not merciful cannot expect to receive mercy at the judgment.The merciful man does himself good, But the cruel man does himself harm. (Prov. 11:17, NASB)And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. (Matt. 6:12, NIV)14 For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  15 But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins. (Matt. 6:14-15, NIV)36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.  37  "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.  (Lk. 6:36-37, NIV)3 So watch yourselves. "If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them.  4 Even if they sin against you seven times in a day and seven times come back to you saying 'I repent,' you must forgive them." (Lk. 17:3-4, NIV)32 "Then the master called the servant in. 'You wicked servant,' he said, 'I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to.  33 Shouldn't you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?'  34 In anger his master handed him over to the jailers to be tortured, until he should pay back all he owed.  35 "This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart."   (Matt. 18:32-35, NIV)12 Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom,  13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment. (James 2:12-13, NIV)4.    The blessing of mercy and eternal life is promised to Christ’s followers who are merciful to others.Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. (Matt. 5:7)What are the areas in which we might display a lack of mercy?⦁    Impatient with the faults/mistakes/forgetfulness of others.⦁    Unwillingness to forgive the sins of others when they ask for forgiveness.⦁    A pride that looks down on those who in our eyes are not as good as we are.⦁    Not observant of the needs of others or an unwillingness to help when we see someone with a need.What are ways that we can show mercy?⦁    Remembering that all that we have is by grace and that we have been shown mercy.⦁    A humility that has a right estimation of ourselves and others as all being made in the image of God and all standing in need of God’s mercy.⦁    A willingness to forgive those who have wronged us and let it go without continuing to bring it up or hold it over them.⦁    A patience with the mistakes and imperfections of others.⦁    Being observant to the physical, financial, emotional, and spiritual needs of others.⦁    A willingness to actually help those in need.⦁    A non-judgmental spirit toward others, regardless of their social status.Main Idea: We need to remember how much mercy we have been shown. When we do, we will reflect the character of our merciful God and show mercy to others.

“The Rich and the Oppressed” (James 5:1–12)

“The Rich and the Oppressed” (James 5:1–12)Pastor Cameron JungelsEastside Baptist ChurchSunday AM, August 16, 2015
James 5:1–12 (NIV)

Warning to Rich Oppressors

5 Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you. 2 Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. 4 Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. 5 You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.  6 You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.

Patience in Suffering

7 Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. 8 You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord’s coming is near. 9 Don’t grumble against one another, brothers and sisters, or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!

10 Brothers and sisters, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.

12 Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. All you need to say is a simple “Yes” or “No.” Otherwise you will be condemned.
1.    Those who oppress others through their power and wealth will come to judgment in God’s time; so Christians should not seek their own revenge (1–6).a.    The unbelieving rich oppressors should lament because God’s judgment is soon coming (1).b.    Their trust in their vast wealth will not save them on the Day of Judgment (2–3a).c.    In fact, their wealth will be evidence against them on the Day of Judgment (3b).d.    The charges against them are read:i.    They are guilty of hoarding wealth, keeping it from others in need (3c).ii.    They are guilty of withholding the wages of their day laborers (4).iii.    They are guilty of living in selfish luxury (5).iv.    Their abuse of wealth has led to oppression, injustice, and even violence against the poor (6).e.    The solution for oppressed believers is not to seek to take vengeance… 2.    Instead, Christians should patiently endure oppression and suffering in hope of the Lord’s return when he will righteously judge (7–11).a.    Patiently endure oppression and suffering because the Lord is coming (7).b.    Patient endurance is not passive, but an active, faithful, obedient endurance in hope of Christ’s coming (8).c.     In the midst of suffering, we must not complain or criticize others (9).d.    We must speak the truth on behalf of God in the midst of suffering (10).e.    We must trust God’s sovereign hand and wait in hope for his mercy (11).3.    Christians should not seek to avoid oppression by making promises that they cannot keep (12).a.    Christians in oppressive situations might have been tempted to enter into oaths or promise agreements to incur debt, knowing that there was slim hope of paying it back.i.    Christians should not make promises that they know they can’t keep (12a).ii.    Christians should be characterized by complete integrity, including their words (12b).Main Idea: As believers, we need to patiently endure the mistreatment and oppression of unbelievers, confident that Jesus is coming again and will make everything right. In the meantime, let us be people of unfailing integrity and patient hopefulness.

“Hungry and Thirsty” (Matthew 5:6)

“Hungry and Thirsty” (Matthew 5:6)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday PM, August 9, 2015Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled. (Matt 5:6, NIV)1.    Hungry and Thirstya.    A metaphorical hunger and thirst – from the imagery of physical hunger/thirst.b.    A hunger/thirst that arises from deep deprivation.c.    An insatiable hunger/thirst that does not rest until it is filled/satisfied.d.    A perpetual hunger/thirst that is not content with a one-time filling but remains hungry/thirsty for our lives until glory when it is finally and fully filled.e.    A hunger/thirst that can only be satisfied by God alone.2.    Righteousnessa.    Not Social Justice in the Kingdomb.    Not Imputed Righteousness of Justificationc.    Rather, it is personal piety/sanctification in the life of the individual believer.d.    It is a desire of a person to live out their faith in a manner that accords with righteousness. Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. (Matt 5:48, NIV)e.    It is a hunger for God himself3.    Being Filleda.    We cannot of our own effort fill ourselves.b.    God must fill us by his grace.c.    Not only are we justified (imputed with righteous standing) by grace; we are also sanctified (made holy and righteous in practice) by grace.d.    This filling with righteousness is a perpetual filling/growth in the here and now in this life.e.    It will ultimately be fulfilled when we are fully made righteous in glorification in the kingdom of God.4.    Junk Fooda.    Our biggest problem in remaining perpetually hungry and thirsty for the righteousness of God is the junk food of the pleasures of this world. b.    The more we feed on the junk food of this world’s sinful pleasures, the less we long for the truly soul-satisfying food of God and his righteousness.c.    If we are to develop and nurture a hunger for righteousness, then we need to at the same time declare a fast from the junk food of the world.Main Idea: Disciples of Jesus will never be satisfied with the junk food of this world’s pleasures; instead, they will be perpetually hungering and seeking to live a life of righteousness in the power of God’s grace. And one day that hunger will be fully and forever satisfied in the future kingdom of God.

“Humility before a Sovereign God” (James 4:13­–17)

“Humility before a Sovereign God” (James 4:13­–17)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, August 9, 2015
James 4:13–17 (NIV)

Boasting About Tomorrow

13 Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” 14 Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. 15 Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” 16 As it is, you boast in your arrogant schemes. All such boasting is evil. 17 If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.
1.    Planning for the future is necessary and wise and reflects the image of God in us.2.    Planning for the future should be done in humility, not in proud presumption.a.    Because our lives our short and full of uncertainty, and then they are soon gone (the frailty of our lives).b.    Because we don’t know or control the future; our Sovereign God does (the limits of our knowledge).Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring. (Prov. 27:1, NIV)We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps. (Prov. 16:9, NLT)c.    Because to plan in presumption is to take for granted God’s good providence.3.    While humbly planning for the future that is in God’s hands, we should seize every opportunity to do good in the present.a.    Do good today, because you don’t know what tomorrow holds.b.    Do good today, because you may not have a tomorrow.c.    Do good today, because to put it off for another day is to proudly presume on the future that you do not control.Main Idea: Remembering that our God is ultimately sovereign, we should humbly plan for the future while at the same time making the most of every opportunity today.

“Friends of God and Each Other” (James 4:1–12)

“Friends of God and Each Other” (James 4:1–12)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM/August 2, 2015
James 4:1–12 (NIV)

Submit Yourselves to God

4 What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? 2 You desire but do not have, so you kill. You covet but you cannot get what you want, so you quarrel and fight. You do not have because you do not ask God. 3 When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.

4 You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore, anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. 5 Or do you think Scripture says without reason that he jealously longs for the spirit he has caused to dwell in us? 6 But he gives us more grace. That is why Scripture says:

“God opposes the proud

but shows favor to the humble.” 

7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9 Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.

11 Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. 12 There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?
1.    Our own selfish desires are often the culprit of broken relationships and unanswered prayers (vv. 1–3).2.    Our own selfish desires display a friendship with the world that is opposed to our friendship with God (vv. 4–6).3.    Our own selfish desires are displayed in our hurtful speech and judgmental attitudes toward others (vv. 11–12).4.    The solution to our broken relationships, hurtful speech, judgmental attitudes, and worldliness is humble repentance that draws us near to God (vv. 7–10).Main Idea: Humility makes us friends of God and each other.⦁    The humility of repentance draws us near to God in friendship⦁    The humility of selfless deference draws us near to others in friendship.

“Meekness Is Not Weakness” (Matthew 5:5)

“Meekness Is Not Weakness” (Matthew 5:5)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday PM, July 26, 2015“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” (Matt. 5:5, NIV)1.    Meekness Is Not…a.    Physical, emotional, or spiritual weaknessb.    An inability or unwillingness to help the oppressed or stand up for truth or justicec.    A passive or quiet personality2.    Meekness Is…    a.    Poor, Lowly, or oppressed in adverse circumstancesBut those who suffer he delivers in their suffering; he speaks to them in their affliction. (Job 36:15, NIV)I will glory in the LORD; let the afflicted hear and rejoice. (Psalm 34:2, NIV)when you, God, rose up to judge, to save all the afflicted of the land. (Psalm 76:9, NIV)Feet trample it down-- the feet of the oppressed, the footsteps of the poor. (Isa. 26:6, NIV)b.    Patient, gentle spirit willing to wait on God’s justice instead of seeking immediate vengeance 7 Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when people succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes.  8 Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret-- it leads only to evil.  9 For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land.  10 A little while, and the wicked will be no more; though you look for them, they will not be found.  11 But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity. (Psalm 37:7-11, NIV)18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.  19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord.  20 On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."  21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.   (Romans 12:18-21, NIV)c.    Willing, Humble and Gentle Disposition, willing to defer to others – the opposite of a proud, self-willed, assertive dispositionHe guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way. (Psalm 25:9, NIV)The LORD sustains the humble but casts the wicked to the ground. (Psalm 147:6, NIV)3 Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes.  4 Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight. (1 Pet. 3:3-4, NIV)d.    A description of the character of Moses(Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.) (Num. 12:3, NIV)e.    A description of the character of our Savior, Jesus ChristRejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your king comes to you, righteous and victorious, lowly and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. (Zech. 9:9, NIV, cf. Matt 21:5)Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matt. 11:29, NIV)3.    The Meek Will Be Rewarded With….a.    The Land Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. (Psalm 37:3, NIV)For those who are evil will be destroyed, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land. (Psalm 37:9, NIV)But the meek will inherit the land and enjoy peace and prosperity. (Psalm 37:11, NIV)those the LORD blesses will inherit the land, but those he curses will be destroyed. (Psalm 37:22, NIV)Turn from evil and do good; then you will dwell in the land forever. (Psalm 37:27, NIV)The righteous will inherit the land and dwell in it forever. (Psalm 37:29, NIV)Hope in the LORD and keep his way. He will exalt you to inherit the land; when the wicked are destroyed, you will see it. (Psalm 37:34, NIV)11 On that day you, Jerusalem, will not be put to shame for all the wrongs you have done to me, because I will remove from you your arrogant boasters. Never again will you be haughty on my holy hill.  12 But I will leave within you the meek and humble. The remnant of Israel will trust in the name of the LORD. (Zeph. 3:11-12, NIV)b.    Prophetically extended to refer to the whole world, including the final consummated kingdom of Christ in the new heavens/new earth (Rev 21:7)Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. (Matt. 5:5, NIV)Those who are victorious will inherit all this [new heavens/earth], and I will be their God and they will be my children. (Rev. 21:7, NIV)It was not through the law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith. (Romans 4:13, NIV)Instead, they were longing for a better country-- a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them. (Heb. 11:16, NIV)Main Idea: Meekness is not inherent weakness, but a willing disposition to humble oneself before others in a gentle spirit. It is an attribute of Christ, and his followers who exhibit it will share in the worldwide kingdom of their Savior.

“Heavenly Wisdom” (James 3:13–18)

“Heavenly Wisdom” (James 3:13–18)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, July 26, 2015James 3:13–18 (NIV) Two Kinds of Wisdom        13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.        17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness. 1.    Wisdom is displayed in one’s life and conduct (13).2.    Christians should reject this world’s “wisdom” (14–16).3.    Christians should embrace heavenly wisdom (17–18).Main Idea: True, heavenly wisdom is displayed in real life in our good deeds, peace, humility, and love.

“Sorrow Now, Comfort Later” (Matthew 5:4)

“Sorrow Now, Comfort Later” (Matthew 5:4)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday PM, July 19, 2015Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. (Matthew 5:4 NIV)1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, 2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, 3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion-- to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor. (Isaiah 61:1-3 NIV)1.    Who are the blessed ones?2.    How are they blessed?3.    Why are they mourning?Streams of tears flow from my eyes, for your law is not obeyed. (Psalm 119:136 NIV)You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. (Psalm 51:16-17 NIV)Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up. (James 4:8-10 NIV)Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh. (Luke 6:21 NIV) Woe to you who are well fed now, for you will go hungry. Woe to you who laugh now, for you will mourn and weep. (Luke 6:25 NIV)4.    How and when will they be comforted?

"Watching Our Words" (James 3:1-12)

“Watching Our Words” (James 3:1–12)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, July 19, 2015
James 3:1–12 (NIV)

Taming the Tongue

3 Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2 We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.

3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4 Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5 Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.

9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
 1.    Our words are incredibly powerful, so teachers should pay special care to what they say (1–2a).2.    Our words are powerful and can be used for good purposes (2b–5a).3.    Our words are powerful and can be terribly destructive (5b–8).4.    Our words often reveal our inconsistency and hypocrisy (9–12).Main Idea: All believers (and especially teachers) must watch their words carefully, because our words are incredibly powerful for good and bad—and they often reveal the hypocrisy of our hearts.

"Poor in Spirit" (Matthew 5:3)

“Poor in Spirit” (Matthew 5:3)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday PMMatthew 5:1–16 (NIV)

Introduction to the Sermon on the Mount

5 Now when Jesus saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2 and he began to teach them.

The Beatitudes


He said:

3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 Blessed are those who mourn,

for they will be comforted.

5 Blessed are the meek,

for they will inherit the earth.

6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled.

7 Blessed are the merciful,

for they will be shown mercy.

8 Blessed are the pure in heart,

for they will see God.

9 Blessed are the peacemakers,

for they will be called children of God.

10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 “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.

Salt and Light

13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
1.    Who doesn’t want the good life?2.    Jesus’ path to the good life runs in the opposite direction of the world’s path.For this is what the high and exalted One says-- he who lives forever, whose name is holy: "I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite. (Isaiah 57:15 NIV)Has not my hand made all these things, and so they came into being?" declares the LORD. "These are the ones I look on with favor: those who are humble and contrite in spirit, and who tremble at my word. (Isaiah 66:2 NIV)The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, (Isaiah 61:1 NIV)3.    Some aspects of the good life may come to us in the here and now.4.    The ultimate fulfillment of the good life is in the life to come.

“A Living Faith” (James 2:14–26)

“A Living Faith” (James 2:14–26)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, July 12, 2015
James 2:14–26 (NIV)

Faith and Deeds

14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

18 But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.”

Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. 19 You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.

20 You foolish person, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? 21 Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. 23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,”  and he was called God’s friend. 24 You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone.

25 In the same way, was not even Rahab the prostitute considered righteous for what she did when she gave lodging to the spies and sent them off in a different direction? 26 As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.
1.    A professed faith is not necessarily a real faith.2.    A real faith is a living faith.3.    A living faith is a working faith.Main Idea: The faith that justifies and will vindicate us before God at the judgment is a real, living, working faith.

“The Epilogue” (Revelation 22:12-21)

“The Epilogue” (Revelation 22:12-21)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday PM, July 5, 2015
Revelation 22:12–21 (NIV)

12 “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.

14 “Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city. 15 Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.

16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.”

17 The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.

18 I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. 19 And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll.

20 He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.”

Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

21 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen.
1.    Christ, the Alpha and the Omega, will bring both salvation and judgment at his coming (vv. 12-16).a.    Salvation: The reward for Christ’s people at his coming (vv. 12-14)See, the Sovereign LORD comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. (Isa. 40:10, NIV)b.    Judgment: The exclusion from paradise for the wicked (v. 15).2.    In light of Christ’s coming, we are provided with a joyous invitation and a solemn warning (vv. 17-19).a.    A joyous invitation: come and drink the water of life (v. 17)b.    A solemn warning: don’t tamper with Christ’s message, but obey it (vv. 18-19).Now, Israel, hear the decrees and laws I am about to teach you. Follow them so that you may live and may go in and take possession of the land the LORD, the God of your ancestors, is giving you.  2 Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the LORD your God that I give you. (Deut. 4:1-2, NIV)20 The LORD will never be willing to forgive them; his wrath and zeal will burn against them. All the curses written in this book will fall on them, and the LORD will blot out their names from under heaven.  21 The LORD will single them out from all the tribes of Israel for disaster, according to all the curses of the covenant written in this Book of the Law. (Deut. 29:20-21, NIV)3.    John’s final benediction (vv. 20-21).a.    Jesus’ testimony: “I am coming soon”b.    John’s amen: “Come, Lord Jesus.”c.    John’s benediction: “The Lord’s grace to God’s people.”Main Idea: In light of Christ’s soon coming, may we accept his invitation to find eternal life and heed his warning so that we may be partakers of his grace.

“No Favoritism” (James 2:1-13)

“No Favoritism” (James 2:1-13)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, July 5, 2015James 2:1–13 (NIV)

Favoritism Forbidden

2 My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. 2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. 3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” 4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?

5 Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6 But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?

8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,”  you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. 11 For he who said, “You shall not commit adultery,”  also said, “You shall not murder.”  If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker.

12 Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
Main Idea: As those who have received undeserved grace, favoritism is not compatible with true Christian faith.1.    Christians must not show favoritism (1-4).a.    The imperative: Don’t show favoritism (1).b.    The illustration: Favoring the rich over the poor by the consideration they receive in public worship gatherings (2-3).c.    The implication: Our actions toward different classes of people reveal our hearts and show us to be inconsistent and prejudicial (4).d.    Further illustrations: Prejudice/Favoritism based on any number of external indicators favored by the world:i.    Raceii.    Wealthiii.    Fame/Popularityiv.    Accomplishmentsv.    Appearance – good lookingvi.    Educational Attainmentvii.    Types of Employment2.    Favoritism is incompatible with the character of God’s grace (5-7).a.    It is in God’s gracious nature to show kindness to the poor and oppressed (5).b.    Showing favoritism to the rich is acting contrary to God’s grace (5).c.    Showing favoritism to the rich is acting contrary to their own interests, who were being mistreated by the rich (6-7).3.    Favoritism is out of harmony with the law of love (8-11).a.    All of our obligations toward other people can be summed up in the command to love our neighbor as ourselves (v. 8; Lev 19:18; Matt 22:39)"'Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD. (Lev. 19:18, NIV)"'Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly. (Lev. 19:15, NIV)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.'  38 This is the first and greatest commandment.  39 And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'  40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." (Matt. 22:36-40, NIV)b.    Breaking one aspect of the law of Christ, makes us a lawbreaker worthy of judgment (9-11)4.    Favoritism is inconsistent with the mercy that we have been shown (12-13).a.    Judgment comes to those who do not show mercy (12-13)b.    Mercy comes to those who show mercy (13).35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.  36 Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.  37 "Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.  (Lk. 6:35-37, NIV)Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. (Matt. 5:7, NIV)Main Idea: As those who have received undeserved grace, favoritism is not compatible with true Christian faith.

“John and the Angel” (Revelation 22:6–11)

“John and the Angel” (Revelation 22:6–11)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday PM, June 28, 2015Revelation 22:6–11 (NIV)  6 The angel said to me, “These words are trustworthy and true. The Lord, the God who inspires the prophets, sent his angel to show his servants the things that must soon take place.” 7 “Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll.” 8 I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things. And when I had heard and seen them, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel who had been showing them to me. 9 But he said to me, “Don’t do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your fellow prophets and with all who keep the words of this scroll. Worship God!” 10 Then he told me, “Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this scroll, because the time is near. 11 Let the one who does wrong continue to do wrong; let the vile person continue to be vile; let the one who does right continue to do right; and let the holy person continue to be holy.” 1.    An Affirmation of Truth (vv. 6, 8).6 The angel said to me, "These words are trustworthy and true. The Lord, the God who inspires the prophets, sent his angel to show his servants the things that must soon take place." (Rev. 22:6, NIV)8 I, John, am the one who heard and saw these things.  (Rev. 22:8, NIV)2.    A Blessing for Obedience (v. 7).7 "Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll." (Rev. 22:7, NIV)3.    A Partnership in Worship (vv. 8–9)."Don't do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your fellow prophets and with all who keep the words of this scroll. Worship God!" (Rev. 22:9, NIV)4.    A Declaration of Imminence (v. 10).7 "Look, I am coming soon!  (Rev. 22:7, NIV)10 Then he told me, "Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this scroll, because the time is near. (Rev. 22:10, NIV)26 "The vision of the evenings and mornings that has been given you is true, but seal up the vision, for it concerns the distant future." (Dan. 8:26, NIV)4 But you, Daniel, roll up and seal the words of the scroll until the time of the end. Many will go here and there to increase knowledge." (Dan. 12:4, NIV)9 He replied, "Go your way, Daniel, because the words are rolled up and sealed until the time of the end. (Dan. 12:9, NIV)5.    A Warning to Pay Attention to the Message (v. 11).Let the one who does wrong continue to do wrong; let the vile person continue to be vile; let the one who does right continue to do right; and let the holy person continue to be holy." (Rev. 22:11, NIV)27 But when I speak to you, I will open your mouth and you shall say to them, 'This is what the Sovereign LORD says.' Whoever will listen let them listen, and whoever will refuse let them refuse; for they are a rebellious people.   (Ezek. 3:27, NIV)9 He replied, "Go your way, Daniel, because the words are rolled up and sealed until the time of the end.  10 Many will be purified, made spotless and refined, but the wicked will continue to be wicked. None of the wicked will understand, but those who are wise will understand. (Dan. 12:9-10, NIV)Main Idea: We who worship God need to listen to and obey his Word of Truth, remain faithful to the end, and look forward in hope to our eternal blessing.

“Putting the Word into Practice” (James 1:19–27)

“Putting the Word into Practice” (James 1:19–27)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, June 28, 2015
James 1:19–27 (NIV)

Listening and Doing

19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. 21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.

26 Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. 27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.
1.    Christians control their anger.2.    Christians conform their behavior to the Word of God.3.    Christians control their tongues.4.    Christians take compassion on those in need.5.    Christians cleanse themselves from the corrupting influences of the world.

“The Father Who Gives Good Gifts” (James 1:17­–18)

“The Father Who Gives Good Gifts” (James 1:17­–18)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, June 21, 2015James 1:17–18 (NIV) 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. 1.    Our Heavenly Father Gives Good Gifts (v. 17).a.    God’s gifts may not always seem good from our limited perspective.9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live!  10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness.  11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.  (Heb. 12:9-11, NIV)b.    God’s gifts may not always be exactly what we ask for.9 "Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone?  10 Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?  11 If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!  (Matt. 7:9-11, NIV)c.    But all of God’s gifts, including trials and difficulties that enter our lives, are good and perfect gifts that flow from his wisdom.28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.  29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. (Romans 8:28-29, NIV)2.    Our Heavenly Father is Faithful (v. 17)a.    God is not like the false deities worshiped by polythestic ancient cultures.i.    These gods were thought of as capricious and demanding, tumultuous and unpredictable.ii.    Our Father in Heaven is not tumultuous and unpredictable. He is steady and sure. iii.    He is fundamentally unchanging and faithful to his nature.He is faithful to his promises and faithful to his word.3.    Our Heavenly Father is Gracious (v. 18)a.    Our status as God’s children does not flow from us.b.    Our status as God’s children flows from God’s gracious choice.c.    Though we were unworthy, God chose to give us new birth through the gospel (and his regenerating Holy Spirit).d.    New birth always comes through the Word (and the Spirit).The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit." (John 3:8, NIV)For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. (1 Pet. 1:23, NIV)e.    We are now a part of the family of God.See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!  (1 John 3:1, NIV)4.    Our Heavenly Father Loves Us and Desires our Ultimate Good (v. 18).25 Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her  26 to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word,  27 and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless. (Eph. 5:25-27, NIV)28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.  29 For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. (Romans 8:28-29, NIV)Main Idea: We have a faithful, gracious, loving Heavenly Father who desires our ultimate good and gifts good gifts to his children.

“Paradise Regained” (Revelation 22:1–5)

“Paradise Regained” (Revelation 22:1–5)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday PM, June 14, 2015
Revelation 22:1–5 (NIV)

22 Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. 3 No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. 4 They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. 5 There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever.
1.    The New Jerusalem is a New Eden, a restoration of all that was lost in the Fall.2.    The New Jerusalem is characterized first and foremost by the unmediated presence of God and the Lamb, Jesus Christ. 3.    The New Jerusalem is a place of unending life, joy, peace, and sustenance (symbolized by the life giving water and the life giving fruit of the tree(s) of life).
“On that day living water will flow out from Jerusalem, half of it east to the Dead Sea and half of it west to the Mediterranean Sea, in summer and in winter. The Lord will be king over the whole earth. On that day there will be one Lord, and his name the only name.” (Zechariah 14:8–9, NIV)

“The man brought me back to the entrance to the temple, and I saw water coming out from under the threshold of the temple toward the east (for the temple faced east). The water was coming down from under the south side of the temple, south of the altar. He then brought me out through the north gate and led me around the outside to the outer gate facing east, and the water was trickling from the south side. As the man went eastward with a measuring line in his hand, he measured off a thousand cubits and then led me through water that was ankle-deep. He measured off another thousand cubits and led me through water that was knee-deep. He measured off another thousand and led me through water that was up to the waist. He measured off another thousand, but now it was a river that I could not cross, because the water had risen and was deep enough to swim in—a river that no one could cross. He asked me, “Son of man, do you see this?” Then he led me back to the bank of the river. When I arrived there, I saw a great number of trees on each side of the river. He said to me, “This water flows toward the eastern region and goes down into the Arabah, where it enters the Dead Sea. When it empties into the sea, the salty water there becomes fresh. Swarms of living creatures will live wherever the river flows. There will be large numbers of fish, because this water flows there and makes the salt water fresh; so where the river flows everything will live. Fishermen will stand along the shore; from En Gedi to En Eglaim there will be places for spreading nets. The fish will be of many kinds—like the fish of the Mediterranean Sea. But the swamps and marshes will not become fresh; they will be left for salt. Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear fruit, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing.”” (Ezekiel 47:1–12, NIV)
““In that day the mountains will drip new wine, and the hills will flow with milk; all the ravines of Judah will run with water. A fountain will flow out of the Lord’s house and will water the valley of acacias.” (Joel 3:18, NIV)
“A river watering the garden flowed from Eden; from there it was separated into four headwaters.” (Genesis 2:10, NIV)
4.    In the New Jerusalem, all of God’s people, from Israel and all the nations, who have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb will reign with God forever as an eternal kingdom of priests.
“Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.”” (Exodus 19:5–6, NIV)

“you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 2:5, NIV)

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” (1 Peter 2:9–10, NIV)
“and from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, the firstborn from the dead, and the ruler of the kings of the earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.” (Revelation 1:5–6, NIV)
“And they sang a new song, saying: “You are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because you were slain, and with your blood you purchased for God persons from every tribe and language and people and nation. You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth.”” (Revelation 5:9–10, NIV)
Main Idea: One day, God will dwell with his redeemed, victorious people in a New Edenic Paradise, and we will reign as kings and priests forever with him.

“Trials and Temptations” (James 1:12­–18)

“Trials and Temptations” (James 1:12­–18)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, June 14, 2015James 1:12–18 (NIV)        12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.        13 When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; 14 but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. 15 Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.        16 Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. 17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. 18 He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created. 1.    Trials require faith inspired endurance, which leads to God’s blessing (v. 12).a.    Endurance in the midst of trials is an expression of joy (vv. 2–4)b.    Endurance in the midst of trials requires wisdom (v. 5)c.    Endurance in the midst of trials must be fueled by unwavering faith (vv. 6–8).d.    Endurance in the midst of trials is an expression of our love for God (v. 12).e.    Endurance in the midst of trials brings blessing in this life and in the life to come (v. 12).2.    Trials enter our lives within God’s providence, but God always intends those trials for our good, never as a temptation to sin (vv. 13–18).a.    Testing can become a temptation to sin, but this is never God’s intention or design.b.    God is holy and is completely set apart from sin.i.    He cannot be tempted with sin.ii.    He never tempts anyone to sin.c.    Trials become temptations when they come up against our own sinful desires.d.    The power of temptation is internal not external.e.    When temptation is acted upon it becomes sin, and sin leads to death.f.    God is a good God who gives good gifts to his children.i.    God is faithful and unchanging in his holy, righteous, loving character.ii.    Trials are a part of God’s good gifts and are never intended for evil—only for good to make us holy.iii.    God has given us new birth, by his grace through the gospel. His intention is to make us his own special, treasured possession, modeled after the holiness of Christ.Main Idea: Trials are providential opportunities for us to receive God’s blessings; he never intends them to serve as a temptation to sin. Therefore, we have a responsibility to respond to trials with faith, joy, love, and endurance, not giving any opportunity to our sinful, selfish desires to lead us to sin.

“The New Jerusalem, the Bride of the Lamb” (Revelation 21:9–27)

“The New Jerusalem, the Bride of the Lamb” (Revelation 21:9–27)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday PM, June 7, 2015Revelation 21:9–27 (NIV)

The New Jerusalem, the Bride of the Lamb

9 One of the seven angels who had the seven bowls full of the seven last plagues came and said to me, “Come, I will show you the bride, the wife of the Lamb.” 10 And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. 11 It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. 12 It had a great, high wall with twelve gates, and with twelve angels at the gates. On the gates were written the names of the twelve tribes of Israel. 13 There were three gates on the east, three on the north, three on the south and three on the west. 14 The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

15 The angel who talked with me had a measuring rod of gold to measure the city, its gates and its walls. 16 The city was laid out like a square, as long as it was wide. He measured the city with the rod and found it to be 12,000 stadia in length, and as wide and high as it is long. 17 The angel measured the wall using human measurement, and it was 144 cubits thick. 18 The wall was made of jasper, and the city of pure gold, as pure as glass. 19 The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, 20 the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. 21 The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass.

22 I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23 The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. 24 The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. 25 On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. 26 The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. 27 Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.
1.    The New Jerusalem in the new earth is the fulfillment of all Old Testament prophetic expectation for the restoration of Israel and Jerusalem (cf. Ezek 40–48).2.    The New Jerusalem is the Bride of Christ the Lamb. 3.    God’s eternal dwelling place with his redeemed and glorified people will be a terrestrial one, not a heavenly one. 4.    All the people of God from both Old and New Covenants share a common essential unity and a common destiny as the New Jerusalem, the bride of the Lamb.5.    All the people of God, everyone whose name is in the book of life, will enjoy direct access to God’s glorious presence as the high priest did under the Old Covenant. Main Idea: Everyone redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ and recorded in his book of life may look forward with great anticipation to the time when we will enjoy direct and unbroken fellowship with our glorious God.