Eastside Baptist Church, Winfield, Alabama

“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.

“Our True Net Worth” (James 1:9–11)

“Our True Net Worth” (James 1:9–11)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, June 7, 2015James 1:9–11 (NIV) 9 Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. 10 But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. 11 For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business. 1.    Less money does not mean less status in the family of God (v. 9).52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.  53 He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. (Lk. 1:52-53, NIV) He mocks proud mockers but shows favor to the humble and oppressed. (Prov. 3:34, NIV)The lowly he sets on high, and those who mourn are lifted to safety. (Job 5:11, NIV)You save the humble but bring low those whose eyes are haughty. (Psalm 18:27, NIV)"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. (Matt. 5:3, NIV)Looking at his disciples, he said: "Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. (Lk. 6:20, NIV)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? (Jas. 2:5, NIV)23 This is what the LORD says: "Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches,  24 but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight," declares the LORD. (Jer. 9:23-24, NIV)2.    More money does not equal more status in the family of God (vv. 10–11).23 This is what the LORD says: "Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches,  24 but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the LORD, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight," declares the LORD. (Jer. 9:23-24, NIV)17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.  18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.  19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. (1 Timothy 6:17-19, NIV)6 A voice says, "Cry out." And I said, "What shall I cry?" "All people are like grass, and all their faithfulness is like the flowers of the field.  7 The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the LORD blows on them. Surely the people are grass.  8 The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever." (Isa. 40:6-8, NIV)15 The life of mortals is like grass, they flourish like a flower of the field;  16 the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. (Psalm 103:15-16, NIV)16 Do not be overawed when others grow rich, when the splendor of their houses increases;  17 for they will take nothing with them when they die, their splendor will not descend with them.  (Psalm 49:16-17, NIV) Main Idea: Both the poor and the rich need to view themselves as God does, not as the world does. Our true status in life is not determined by how much is in our bank account.We need to view ourselves as God does, not as the world does.

“Last Words” (1 Timothy 6:11–21)

“Last Words” (1 Timothy 6:11–21) Cameron JungelsEastside Baptist ChurchWednesday PM, June 3, 2015
1 Timothy 6:6–21 (NIV)

6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

Final Charge to Timothy

11 But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 13 In the sight of God, who gives life to everything, and of Christ Jesus, who while testifying before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you 14 to keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 which God will bring about in his own time—God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, 16 who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen.

17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

20 Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from godless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, 21 which some have professed and in so doing have departed from the faith.

Grace be with you all.
1.    The highest pursuit in life is God’s eternal kingdom and righteousness (vv. 11–16).a.    Pursuing God means running away from lesser pursuits and running after God’s righteousness (v. 11).b.    The pursuit of God’s righteousness involves spiritual warfare and diligent effort (vv. 11–12).c.    The faithful pursuit of God is a continual reaching forward to grasp eternal life, not resting on a one time confession of faith (v. 12). The genuineness of our past confession is measured by our enduring loyalty to it throughout our lives.d.    The pursuit of God is a Christlike blameless holiness until his return (vv. 13–14).e.    We pursue God and his righteousness because he is the highest and greatest being, who is worthy of all of our love, devotion, and worship (vv. 15–16).2.    Material wealth can be used for good in our pursuit of God’s kingdom, but it also presents many dangers (vv. 17–19).a.    The danger of pride, countered by humility (v. 17).b.    The danger of self-provision and false security, countered by trust in God’s provision (v. 17).c.    The danger of the closed fist, countered by good works and generosity (v. 18)d.    The danger of missing eternal life (v. 19), countered by seeking God’s kingdom first (v. 19; Matt 6:33).3.    The pursuit of God’s kingdom involves our utmost care and diligence for all of life (vv. 20–21).a.    We have a responsibility to guard the gospel, to which our faith is anchored (v. 20).b.    We must resist error, which seeks to undermine the gospel (v. 20).c.    We must be aware of the consequences of losing the gospel (v. 21).

“Making Everything New” (Revelation 21:1–8)

“Making Everything New” (Revelation 21:1–8)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday PM, May 31, 2015
Revelation 21:1–8 (NIV)

A New Heaven and a New Earth

21 Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,”  for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’  or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

5 He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

6 He said to me: “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. 7 Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. 8 But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death.”
1.    Heaven comes to earth (vv. 1–2).2.    God dwells with his people in joy (vv. 3–4).3.    The eternal, almighty God finishes his eternal plan by restoring all things (vv. 5–6).4.    God grants eternally life giving water and a glorious inheritance to those who overcome in faith to the end (vv. 6–7).5.    Only God’s people will inherit the new heaven and new earth; all others will receive their justly deserved eternal punishment (v. 8).

“Wisdom from God” (James 1:5–8)

“Wisdom from God” (James 1:5–8)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, May 31, 20155 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.  6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind.  7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.  8 Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.  (James 1:5–8, NIV) 1.    We all lack wisdom; none of us have completely arrived (verse 5).2.    The only source of true wisdom is God, so we should ask Him in prayer (verse 5).a.    The All-wise Godb.    The Generous Godc.    The Gracious God 3.    Our prayer must be a single-minded, God-devoted prayer of faith, not a half-hearted seeking after the wisdom of God (verses 6–8).a.    We must believe that God can and will answer our prayer for wisdom.b.    We must have God and his wisdom as the supreme focus of our search, not the wisdom or pleasures of this world.4.    God may very well use trials to provide the wisdom we lack in order to make us complete in Christ (see verse 4).

"False Teachers and the Love of Money" (1 Timothy 6:3-10)

1 Timothy 6:1–10 (NIV)

All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching may not be slandered. 2 Those who have believing masters should not show them disrespect just because they are fellow believers. Instead, they should serve them even better because their masters are dear to them as fellow believers and are devoted to the welfare of their slaves.

False Teachers and the Love of Money

These are the things you are to teach and insist on. 3 If anyone teaches otherwise and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching, 4 they are conceited and understand nothing. They have an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions 5 and constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.

6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

“Joy in the Midst of Suffering” (James 1:1–4)

“Joy in the Midst of Suffering” (James 1:1–4)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, May 24, 2015“James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Greetings. Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:1–4, NIV) 1.    The Reality of Trials (v. 2)a.    Trials come to believers.b.    Trials are both certain and uncertain. c.    Trials come in all shapes and sizes.d.    Trials just happen.e.    Trials are not outside the providential guidance of God.2.    The Response to Trials (v. 2).a.    The response of a believer to the trials and difficulties of this life is joy.3.    The Reason for Joy (vv. 3–4).a.    Trials test our faith. b.    Trials strengthen our faith by causing us to endure/persevere.c.    Our faith strengthened by endurance produces a complete, mature Christian character.Main Idea: We must respond to the difficulties of life with joy and endurance, because it brings Christian maturity.May God give us grace to respond to trials this way, knowing that God has our ultimate good in mind—and that ultimate good is that we be patterned after the character of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:28–29).

"Slaves and Masters" (1 Timothy 6:1-2)

1
Timothy 6:1-2:
1All
who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full
respect, so that God's name and our teaching may not be slandered.  2
Those who have believing masters should not show them disrespect just because
they are fellow believers. Instead, they should serve them even better because
their masters are dear to them as fellow believers and are devoted to the
welfare of their slaves. These are the things you are to teach and insist
on. 

“God’s Gospel Call before the Flood” (Genesis 6:5–8)

“God’s Gospel Call before the Flood” (Genesis 6:5–8)Jordan Atkinson/Eastside Baptist Church/Sunday AM, May 17, 2015“The Lord saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intention of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the Lord regretted that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart. So the Lord said, “I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the land, man and animals and creeping things and birds of the heavens, for I am sorry that I have made them.” But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.” (Genesis 6:5–8, ESV)  1.    We should repent because God sees human wickedness (v. 5).2.    We should repent because God grieves over human wickedness (v. 6).3.    We should repent because God judges human wickedness (v. 7).4.    We should repent because God shows grace to sinners in spite of our wickedness (v. 8).

“Honor and Discipline of Elders” (1 Timothy 5:17–25)

“Honor and Discipline of Elders” (1 Timothy 5:17–25)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist Church/May 13, 2015, Wednesday PM“As I urged you when I went into Macedonia, stay there in Ephesus so that you may command certain people not to teach false doctrines any longer or to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work—which is by faith.” (1 Timothy 1:3–4, NIV) “They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm. We know that the law is good if one uses it properly.” (1 Timothy 1:7–8, NIV) “The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons. Such teachings come through hypocritical liars, whose consciences have been seared as with a hot iron. They forbid people to marry and order them to abstain from certain foods, which God created to be received with thanksgiving by those who believe and who know the truth. For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.” (1 Timothy 4:1–5, NIV)
1 Timothy 5:17–25 (NIV)

17 The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. 18 For Scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,”  and “The worker deserves his wages.”  19 Do not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. 20 But those elders who are sinning you are to reprove before everyone, so that the others may take warning. 21 I charge you, in the sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism.

22 Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure.

23 Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.

24 The sins of some are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them; the sins of others trail behind them. 25 In the same way, good deeds are obvious, and even those that are not obvious cannot remain hidden forever.
 1.    Pastors are to be paid for their ministry of preaching and teaching (vv. 17–18)2.    Purposeful care should be exercised in the discipline of pastors in the church (vv. 19–21).a.    A pastor should only be disciplined when there is proper substantiating evidence (v. 19).b.    When there is evidence to substantiate an accusation, then the pastor must be disciplined before the entire congregation so as to promote holiness (v. 20).c.    Discipline of pastors needs to be handled fairly and without partiality (v. 21).3.    Churches must exercise care in the ordination and selection of pastors (5:22–25).Main Idea: If the church is going to be holy, then it must also have holy leadership.

“Hannah’s Prayer” (1 Samuel 1:1–2:10)

“Hannah’s Prayer” (1 Samuel 1:1–2:10)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist/May 10, 2015 Sunday AM
1 Samuel 1:1–2:10 (NIV)

The Birth of Samuel

1 There was a certain man from Ramathaim, a Zuphite  from the hill country of Ephraim, whose name was Elkanah son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephraimite. 2 He had two wives; one was called Hannah and the other Peninnah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah had none.

3 Year after year this man went up from his town to worship and sacrifice to the Lord Almighty at Shiloh, where Hophni and Phinehas, the two sons of Eli, were priests of the Lord. 4 Whenever the day came for Elkanah to sacrifice, he would give portions of the meat to his wife Peninnah and to all her sons and daughters. 5 But to Hannah he gave a double portion because he loved her, and the Lord had closed her womb. 6 Because the Lord had closed Hannah’s womb, her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her. 7 This went on year after year. Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the Lord, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat. 8 Her husband Elkanah would say to her, “Hannah, why are you weeping? Why don’t you eat? Why are you downhearted? Don’t I mean more to you than ten sons?”

9 Once when they had finished eating and drinking in Shiloh, Hannah stood up. Now Eli the priest was sitting on his chair by the doorpost of the Lord’s house. 10 In her deep anguish Hannah prayed to the Lord, weeping bitterly. 11 And she made a vow, saying, “Lord Almighty, if you will only look on your servant’s misery and remember me, and not forget your servant but give her a son, then I will give him to the Lord for all the days of his life, and no razor will ever be used on his head.”

12 As she kept on praying to the Lord, Eli observed her mouth. 13 Hannah was praying in her heart, and her lips were moving but her voice was not heard. Eli thought she was drunk 14 and said to her, “How long are you going to stay drunk? Put away your wine.”

15 “Not so, my lord,” Hannah replied, “I am a woman who is deeply troubled. I have not been drinking wine or beer; I was pouring out my soul to the Lord. 16 Do not take your servant for a wicked woman; I have been praying here out of my great anguish and grief.”

17 Eli answered, “Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him.”

18 She said, “May your servant find favor in your eyes.” Then she went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast.

19 Early the next morning they arose and worshiped before the Lord and then went back to their home at Ramah. Elkanah made love to his wife Hannah, and the Lord remembered her. 20 So in the course of time Hannah became pregnant and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel,  saying, “Because I asked the Lord for him.”

Hannah Dedicates Samuel

21 When her husband Elkanah went up with all his family to offer the annual sacrifice to the Lord and to fulfill his vow, 22 Hannah did not go. She said to her husband, “After the boy is weaned, I will take him and present him before the Lord, and he will live there always.”

23 “Do what seems best to you,” her husband Elkanah told her. “Stay here until you have weaned him; only may the Lord make good his word.” So the woman stayed at home and nursed her son until she had weaned him.

24 After he was weaned, she took the boy with her, young as he was, along with a three-year-old bull,  an ephah of flour and a skin of wine, and brought him to the house of the Lord at Shiloh. 25 When the bull had been sacrificed, they brought the boy to Eli, 26 and she said to him, “Pardon me, my lord. As surely as you live, I am the woman who stood here beside you praying to the Lord. 27 I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. 28 So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord.” And he worshiped the Lord there.

Hannah’s Prayer

2 Then Hannah prayed and said:

“My heart rejoices in the Lord;

in the Lord my horn  is lifted high.

My mouth boasts over my enemies,

for I delight in your deliverance.

2 “There is no one holy like the Lord;

there is no one besides you;

there is no Rock like our God.

3 “Do not keep talking so proudly

or let your mouth speak such arrogance,

for the Lord is a God who knows,

and by him deeds are weighed.

4 “The bows of the warriors are broken,

but those who stumbled are armed with strength.

5 Those who were full hire themselves out for food,

but those who were hungry are hungry no more.

She who was barren has borne seven children,

but she who has had many sons pines away.

6 “The Lord brings death and makes alive;

he brings down to the grave and raises up.

7 The Lord sends poverty and wealth;

he humbles and he exalts.

8 He raises the poor from the dust

and lifts the needy from the ash heap;

he seats them with princes

and has them inherit a throne of honor.

“For the foundations of the earth are the Lord’s;

on them he has set the world.

9 He will guard the feet of his faithful servants,

but the wicked will be silenced in the place of darkness.

“It is not by strength that one prevails;

10 those who oppose the Lord will be broken.

The Most High will thunder from heaven;

the Lord will judge the ends of the earth.

“He will give strength to his king

and exalt the horn of his anointed.”
1.    Hannah was an oppressed woman.2.    Hannah was a hurting woman.3.    Hannah was a misunderstood woman.4.    Hannah was a faithful, worshiping woman.5.    Hannah was a praying woman.6.    Hannah was a vindicated woman.7.    Hannah was a blessed woman.Main Idea: God comes to the aid of his faithful, worshiping people and vindicates them in their time of need. He remembers his covenant promises to Abraham and provides divinely appointed leadership (Samuel) to guide them into faithfulness to his will.

“Protecting the Church’s Resources and Reputation” (1 Timothy 5:9–16)

“Protecting the Church’s Resources and Reputation” (1 Timothy 5:9–16)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist/Wed PM/May 6, 2015“if I am delayed, you will know how people ought to conduct themselves in God’s household, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth.” (1 Timothy 3:15, NIV) “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” (Galatians 6:10, NIV)  “No widow may be put on the list of widows unless she is over sixty, has been faithful to her husband, and is well known for her good deeds, such as bringing up children, showing hospitality, washing the feet of the Lord’s people, helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds. As for younger widows, do not put them on such a list. For when their sensual desires overcome their dedication to Christ, they want to marry. Thus they bring judgment on themselves, because they have broken their first pledge. Besides, they get into the habit of being idle and going about from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also busybodies who talk nonsense, saying things they ought not to. So I counsel younger widows to marry, to have children, to manage their homes and to give the enemy no opportunity for slander. Some have in fact already turned away to follow Satan. If any woman who is a believer has widows in her care, she should continue to help them and not let the church be burdened with them, so that the church can help those widows who are really in need.” (1 Timothy 5:9–16, NIV)  Lessons:⦁    Use God’s resources wisely⦁    Maintain the reputation of the church⦁    Maintain a consistent Christian character⦁    Serve others as we have opportunity⦁    Use our time and our words wiselyMain Idea: We need to be Christians whose lives match our professions.

“The Last Judgment” (Revelation 20:11–15)

“The Last Judgment” (Revelation 20:11–15)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist/Sun PM/May 3, 2015“Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:11–15, NIV) 9 When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained.  10 They called out in a loud voice, "How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?"  11 Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers and sisters, were killed just as they had been. (Rev. 6:9-11, NIV)1.    The Awesome Presence of God (v. 11)25 In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands.  26 They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. Like clothing you will change them and they will be discarded.  27 But you remain the same, and your years will never end.  (Psalm 102:25-27, NIV)12 I watched as he opened the sixth seal. There was a great earthquake. The sun turned black like sackcloth made of goat hair, the whole moon turned blood red,  13 and the stars in the sky fell to earth, as figs drop from a fig tree when shaken by a strong wind.  14 The heavens receded like a scroll being rolled up, and every mountain and island was removed from its place.  15 Then the kings of the earth, the princes, the generals, the rich, the mighty, and everyone else, both slave and free, hid in caves and among the rocks of the mountains.  16 They called to the mountains and the rocks, "Fall on us and hide us from the face of him who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb!  17 For the great day of their wrath has come, and who can withstand it?" (Rev. 6:12-17, NIV)2.    The Resurrection of All the Dead (v. 12)"At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people-- everyone whose name is found written in the book-- will be delivered.  2 Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt.  3 Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. (Dan. 12:1-3, NIV)3.    The Triumph of True Justice (v. 12–13)10 A river of fire was flowing, coming out from before him. Thousands upon thousands attended him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him. The court was seated, and the books were opened. (Dan. 7:10, NIV)7 Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.  8 Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear." (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God's holy people.)  (Rev. 19:7-8, NIV)31 "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne.  32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.  33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.  34 "Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.  35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,  36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'  37 "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?  38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?  39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'  40 "The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.' (Matt. 25:31-40, NIV)4.    The End of Death and the Grave (v. 14)5.    The Final Punishment of the Wicked (v. 15)Main Idea: The holy God will finally judge sinners and justly punish them for eternity for their rebellion against their Creator.Response of an unbeliever to this passage:⦁    Fear and trembling before a holy God who judges sinners⦁    Acknowledgement of personal sin and rebellion⦁    Repentance and plea for mercy from God through Christ now before the judgment⦁    Refusal to delay repentance for the sake of fleeting pleasuresResponse of a believer to this passage:⦁    Awe and fear before our holy God⦁    Praise for the justice of God⦁    Gratitude for the mercy of God that has placed our names in the book of life through Christ’s blood shed for us⦁    Hope in the future mercy of God that spares repentant sinners from this awful fate⦁    Loving concern for those who will likely be condemned to this fate without responding to the gospel

“My Light and Salvation” (Psalm 27)

“My Light and Salvation” (Psalm 27)Cameron Jungels/Eastside Baptist/Sun AM/May 3, 2015Psalm 27:1–14 (NIV)

1 The Lord is my light and my salvation—

whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the stronghold of my life—

of whom shall I be afraid?

2 When the wicked advance against me

to devour me,

it is my enemies and my foes

who will stumble and fall.

3 Though an army besiege me,

my heart will not fear;

though war break out against me,

even then I will be confident.

4 One thing I ask from the Lord,

this only do I seek:

that I may dwell in the house of the Lord

all the days of my life,

to gaze on the beauty of the Lord

and to seek him in his temple.

5 For in the day of trouble

he will keep me safe in his dwelling;

he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent

and set me high upon a rock.

6 Then my head will be exalted

above the enemies who surround me;

at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts of joy;

I will sing and make music to the Lord.

7 Hear my voice when I call, Lord;

be merciful to me and answer me.

8 My heart says of you, “Seek his face!”

Your face, Lord, I will seek.

9 Do not hide your face from me,

do not turn your servant away in anger;

you have been my helper.

Do not reject me or forsake me,

God my Savior.

10 Though my father and mother forsake me,

the Lord will receive me.

11 Teach me your way, Lord;

lead me in a straight path

because of my oppressors.

12 Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes,

for false witnesses rise up against me,

spouting malicious accusations.

13 I remain confident of this:

I will see the goodness of the Lord

in the land of the living.

14 Wait for the Lord;

be strong and take heart

and wait for the Lord.
1.    Where do you seek your strength? (vv. 1–3)10 The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. (Prov. 18:10, NIV)2.    What do you desire? (vv. 4–6)9 For we are co-workers in God's service; you are God's field, God's building. (1 Co. 3:9, NIV)16 Don't you know that you yourselves are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in your midst? (1 Co. 3:16, NIV)3.    What do you pray?Notice how David prays in this particular situation:a.    He comes humbly.b.    He asks God to hear him and answer his prayer.c.    He asks God for wisdom.d.    He asks for protection.4.    What do you do?Main Idea: In order to properly respond to trials, we must believe in God’s strength and in his wisdom.