Overcoming and Enduring Faith

Hebrews 11:32-38

It’s easy when reading through Hebrews 11 to see the individuals portrayed there as larger-than-life, heroes and heroines of truly Biblical proportions who accomplished amazing things of which we can only dream or read about. After all, which of us will ever lead a 300-man strong special forces unit against an occupying army numbering in the tens of thousands? Or head the charge of poorly armed men against a force of 900 tanks, er, chariots? Or capture 300 foxes, tie their tails together in pairs with lit torches, and send them through a corn field? Pretty tough acts to follow, aren’t they?

Even the current day experience of Maryam Rustampoor and Marzieh Amirizadeh will likely not be ours to endure -VOMarticle.

Yet we must recognize some things about these and the other individuals identified in our text this morning. The Holy Spirit did not provide Hebrews 11 to intimidate or discourage us; rather, quite the opposite. Chapter 12 of Hebrews begins with an exhortation to persevere – “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”ESV

So what are some of the things God would have us learn from the example of these faithful saints of another time?

Ordinary people accomplish extraordinary things by faith

Gideon – born to an obscure idol-worshipping family of farmers; threshed his wheat in a winepress so the Midianites wouldn’t take it away from himJudges 6:11,25

Samson and Samuel – both given by God in response to the prayers of barren women and devoted to God’s service from before birthJudges 13:2;1 Samuel 1:9-11

Jephthah – unknown until he appears on the scene as the son of a prostitute, driven from the family home by his half-brothers, then called upon by residents of Gilead to to deliver them from the AmmonitesJudges 11:1-6

David – the youngest son of Jesse, a shepherd by occupation; not of the apparent royal line1 Samuel 16:11-13

Similarly, little is known about a number of the prophets apart from their ministry and the barest minimum of details included in their written record.

Joel, the son of PethuelJoel 1:1
Amos, one of the sheepbreeders of TekoaAmos 1:1
Jonah, the son of AmittaiJonah 1:1
Micah of MoreshethMicah 1:1
Nahum the ElkoshiteNahum 1:1

Obscure men from obscure backgrounds who appeared on the world stage with an enduring message from God as their only legacy

Like every other man or woman, boy or girl born since the beginning, each of these men of faith had their sin issues for which they needed God’s forgiveness.

Gideon’s making of the ephod out of the spoils of the Midianites cannot be excused, and is condemned by the Holy Ghost,Judges 8:27. Jephthah’s rash vow, and (as is supposed) more rash accomplishment of it, enrols him among sinners,Judges 11. Samson’s taking a wife of the PhilistinesJudges 14:2, then keeping company with a harlotJudges 16:1, were sins of a high provocation, not to mention the killing of himself at the close of allJudges 16:29-30, for which he seems to have had a divine warrant. And it is known what great sins David himself fell into.Owenbesides Samuel’s great lack of good judgment regarding his sons1 Samuel 8:1-5and the necessity of Deborah to prod Barak into actionJudges 4:8-9.

Yet each of these individualsby faithaccomplished great things in the service of the King of kings. They were God’s instruments for the deliverance and guidance of his people and they serve the church still by their example recorded in Holy Writ. The message of God through his prophets preserved for centuries and given to us in our own language inspires generation after generation to wait in confident hope for God to bring about the next great action in his plan.

Faith that overcomes and endures is nourished by a gracious God

God does not expect his people to maintain a strong faith in a vacuum. He provides resources to strengthen and nourish their faith, to provide hope when it all seems hopeless. Each message given added more light, more information and more encouragement about what God had purposed to do. As the initial recipients of the word from God the prophets themselves were the first ones strengthened in their faith by a gracious God.

Then by virtue of their office, those faithful men of God in turn encouraged the faith of others, a ministry that continues even in our day. Men like Isaiah not only saw God, they recorded spine-tingling details about the Promised One whom God would send, the one who would bring hope to a world in darkness. Even more remarkable is the fact that the hope offered to those who would believe transcends this present world – hope of deliverance not only from oppression and injustice but more importantly from slavery to sin and death.

Listen again to the incredible description of the Promised One given by the prophet Isaiah:

a Child is born – a virgin shall conceive

a Son is given – and shall call his name Immanuel

the government will be upon his shoulder – the Son of David, rightful heir to the throne

His name (character) shall be called:

Wonderful Counselor- one who in his very being and person is a Wonder, a worker of miracles

Mighty God- a Child who is God over all gods – the mystery of the incarnation

Everlasting Father- one who is eternally a Father to his people – in relationship with them in this lifeandthe next, guarding and nourishing and providing for the needs of those who are his

Prince of Peace- the one who will restore peace to the world and rule in peace; requires overcoming the enemy at the root of all conflict (between God and men, between man and man) – sin and its embodiment Satan

a government universal in its extent and prosperity

characterized by perfect justice and righteousness

Desperate times whether under the government of an ungodly king or president requires a supernatural Deliverer. The prophets were looking strictly forward to their hope represented in two advents. We understand that our Deliverer has already come and is yet to come again; we live in that time of tension between his comings, experiencing a partial fulfillment of the Promise and awaiting its consummation on the last day.

Overcoming enduring faith is grounded on the zeal of an omnipotent God

Jealous and exclusive love of an all-powerful God who will permit no opposing force to thwart his purpose

For our faith to enable us to endure whatever the world throws our way without caving in and losing hope requires the right object for that faith – one that has the ability to prevail and overcome all obstacles. One that is able to overcome the greatest enemies of all – sin and death.

Only the Sovereign God of the universe is not limited by means or circumstances and has already triumphed over sin at the cross and death at the empty tomb. For God to accomplish that on man’s behalf required that he be born of a virgin, assume a human nature and form, and live a life of perfect obedience in full view of his heavenly Father. Then he must offer himself as the only acceptable substitute, the God-man who sacrificed himself on behalf of his people.

It’s during time of greatest darkness that individual faith shines brightest

Consider what they suffered: mocking, flogging, chains, imprisonment, stoning, sawing in two, death by the sword, destitution, affliction, mistreatment. Despicable treatment to be sure.

But consider what all this means about those who were inflicting such treatment on God’s prophets. The sort of culture, society, in which this kind of thing could occur. When those who should be held in the highest regard because they are the emissaries of the Most High God are despised.

It was because of the proliferation of evil and disobedience that God sent prophets with his message of repentance and hope. Those who were wallowing in rebellion needed to hear the truth that they were headed for certain disaster unless they repented of their sin and turned to God in faith. At the same time the faithful needed reassurance that God had not forgotten them, that he was surely moving toward his determined goal of providing a Saviour to the world.

It is against this backdrop of pervasive evil that the heroes of faith are especially noteworthy, those in the minority who publicly stand virtually alone against overwhelming wickedness. Much of the time it’s the ones who appear most unlikely who shine the brightest, those who are “made strong out of weakness”:

CNN reports that a Pakistani school is revering their Christian janitor as a hero after he died preventing a suicide bomber into the girls’ school cafeteria. On Oct. 20, two suicide bomber’s tried to enter Islamabad’s International Islamic University, but the one targeting the women’s side of campus met Pervaiz Masih, the school’s new janitor. Masih stopped the bomber after he shot the guard on duty, arguing with the bomber when he tried to proceed. The bomber then self-detonated, killing himself, Masih, and three girls – far fewer than intended. “Between 300 to 400 girls were sitting in there,” said Professor Fateh Muhammad Malik, the rector of the university. “Despite being a Christian, [Pervez Masih] sacrificed his life to save the Muslim girls.” Masih’s family, who depended on his $60 a month job, had to borrow money to bury him.Religion Today Summaries, 11/24/09

According to estimates by the Network for Strategic Missions and the US Center for World Mission, the percentage of Christians in the world has remained relatively constant over the last 100 years at about 30%. But we must remember two additional details – the total world population has more than tripled (from 1.7 bil. to over 6.1 bil.) in that same period.Andit is estimated that only one-third of those who claim to be Christian, that amounts to about 10% of the world’s population, are “[t]rue Christians, available as a work force, through discipleship and equipping”.

If we are to have this sort of faith, it begins with a recognition of our need, our utter helplessness and unworthiness before a holy God. We must acknowledge our need for a Savior, this Promised One, the hope of Israel, who took on the form of a man that he might go to the Cross on our behalf. It is only by faith in Jesus that we can have victory over sin, that we can like the saints of old overcome obstacles and endure the trials of this life, and share with our Savior the ultimate victory over death. This is the message we must bring to 90% of the world who live outside the walls of this sanctuary, that they, too, can have victory in Jesus because He has gained the victory over sin on their behalf.

Give Thanks to the Lord

Psalm 136

Hymn Come, Ye Thankful People #111

Prayer of Invocation

Reading of Historic Thanksgiving Proclamations

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The First Thanksgiving Proclamation – June 20, 1676

On June 20, 1676, the governing council of Charlestown, Massachusetts, held a meeting to determine how best to express thanks to God, for the good fortune that had seen their community securely established. By unanimous vote they instructed Edward Rawson, the clerk, to proclaim June 29 as a day of thanksgiving, our first. That proclamation is reproduced here in the same language and spelling as the original.

“The Holy God having by a long and Continual Series of his Afflictive dispensations in and by the present Warr with the Heathen Natives of this land, written and brought to pass bitter things against his own Covenant people in this wilderness, yet so that we evidently discern that in the midst of his judgements he hath remembered mercy, having remembered his Footstool in the day of his sore displeasure against us for our sins, with many singular Intimations of his Fatherly Compassion, and regard…”

The Council has thought meet to appoint and set apart the 29th day of this instant June, as a day of Solemn Thanksgiving and praise to God for such his Goodness and Favour, many Particulars of which mercy might be Instanced, but we doubt not those who are sensible of God’s Afflictions, have been as diligent to espy him returning to us; and that the Lord may behold us as a People offering Praise and thereby glorifying Him; the Council doth commend it to the Respective Ministers, Elders and people of this Jurisdiction; Solemnly and seriously to keep the same Beseeching that being perswaded by the mercies of God we may all, even this whole people offer up our bodies and soulds as a living and acceptable Service unto God by Jesus Christ.”

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Thanksgiving Proclamation

[New York, 3 October 1789]

By the President of the United States of America, a Proclamation.

Whereas it is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor– and whereas both Houses of Congress have by their joint Committee requested me to recommend to the People of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many signal favors of Almighty God especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.

Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be– That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks–for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country…

George Washington

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Proclamation Establishing Thanksgiving Day

October 3, 1863

The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies.  To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God….

No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things.  They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.

It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American people.  I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.   And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.

Abraham Lincoln

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…this verb (yadah)was predominantly employed to express one’s public proclamation or declaration (confession) of God’s attributes and his works. This concept is at the heart of the meaning of praise. Praise is a confession or declaration of who God is and what he does. This term is most often translated “to thank” in English versions, but such is not really a proper rendering. …it is clear that the O.T. does not have our independent concept of thanks. The expression of thanks to God is included in praise, it is a way of praising. …Thanksgiving follows praise, for when one declares God’s attributes and works, he cannot help but be thankful for these. Praise leads regularly to thanksgiving.TWOT, 847

Scripture and PraisePsalm 136:1-3

Praise God for who he is

good

sovereign ruler

providential governor

Scripture and PraisePsalm 136:4-9

Praise God for what he can do and has done

the ONLY true miracle-worker

the Lord’s incomparability and uniqueness in his exclusive claim to deity as seen in his extraordinary worksTWOT

what is explainable only by God

creator

gracious governor – day and night (work and rest)

Hymn Praise to the Lord, the Almighty #3

Scripture and PraisePsalm 136:23-25

Praise God for his grace in times of calamity

remembered us when we were down – personal mercies

Our state was once so low as to be at hell’s mouth; since then it has been low in poverty, bereavement, despondency, sickness, and heart-sorrow, and we fear, also, sinfully low in faith, and love, and every other grace; and yet the Lord has not forgotten usCHS

rescued us from enemies

redeemed from sin by the blood of Christ

Satan by the power of Christ

and the world by the Spirit of Christ

universal goodness of God in feeding all his creatures -Let All Things Now Living

if He cares for all, he will especially care for us, his family

proof of the providence, wisdom and goodness of God

Hymn He’s Got the whole World in His Hands #328

Scripture and PraisePsalm 136:26

Praise him that he is the God of heaven

He rules heaven and rules earth from heaven

His mercy in providing heaven for his people is more than all the rest. -John Trapp

If God will but continue to be merciful to me, will a poor soul say, I have enough. …Hath God pardoned thee hitherto? but hast thou sinned again? Can he stretch his goodness and mercy a little further? Why, he will stretch them out unto eternity, unto everlasting; and if oneeverlastingbe not enough, there are twenty-six everlastings in this one Psalm.Thomas Goodwin.

Thanksgiving Meditation1 Corinthians 4:7

We are indebted to God for everything:

The air we breathe, the world we dwell upon, our food, clothing, and shelter, our “prosperity” as we fondly call it, — these things are lent to us by God. So also our powers — yea, our very existence is not of ourselves, but of God. If we were to have taken away from ourselves all that we have received through the free benevolence of God, what would be left? Our salvation, our spiritual joys, our glad prospects, are also of him.E. Hurndall, Pulpit Commentary

Remembering that will:

curb pride

if it’s a gift, we owe God the thanks and not self

if we are to boast, then boast in what God has done for us

encourage responsible stewardship

we should desire to use well what is entrusted to us

not “I earned it, it’s mine, I can do with it as I please”

but “It’s a gift from God, how would he have me use it?”

inspire gratitude

God is our father, not employer

we have because God loved us, not because we worked for it or earned it

his provision is abundant, we should be thankful

increase faith

God has promised to take care of us

He has a perfect track record

He is unchanging, we have nothing to fear or doubt

Hymn We Give Thee But Thine Own #435

Prayer of Benediction

 

Why Family Matters

Proverbs 1:8-19

Two ways: that of the wise man and that of the fool. Remember parable of Jesus (Matt. 7:24-27)

Two principles:1st commandmentand1st commandment with promise- love God, honor mom and dad (Matt. 22:36-38&Eph. 6:2).

Ideal training ground: vv. 8-9

home with both dad and mom where the Bible rules.

“The Bible is the basic textbook in the home. It was once the basic textbook in the educational system, but even if that were still true, the Bible in the school can’t replace the Bible in the home. I note that many modern parents sacrifice time and money to help their children excel in music, sports, and social activities; I trust they’re even more concerned that their children excel in knowing and obeying the Word of God.”Wiersbe, Be Skillful

God puts children with parents for good reason

if it takes two to make ‘em, it takes two to raise ‘em

children are untaught and gullible

young people are over-confident in their own abilities and judgment

Parents are better equipped

more experience

more wisdom

more openness to counselors

Parents, don’t abdicate your God-given responsibility

to school/government

to church

to peers

Enticements of the fool’s way: vv. 10-14

the seduction of sin – it promises to satisfy

gratuitous violence – adrenaline rush vv. 11-12

satisfy penchant forcruelty

natural consequence of fallen nature

cf. Lamech – rap song -Genesis 4:23-24

but children aren’t like that – Simeon and the Chipmunks

quick reward v. 13

satisfycovetousness

1st (creation ordinance) command: get to work

sin: rebellion against God and his commands

result: desire to get rich quick without having to work

evidence: incessant push for casinos

happy family – sense of belonging v. 14

satisfy need forcommunity

God is relational – man bears God’s image – man is relational

It is not good for man to be alone -Gen. 2:18

most people will find a group to belong to, healthy or not

evidence: gangs are the greatest problem where there are fewest dads in the home (concentrated area)

Wisdom’s counsel: vv. 15-19

Just say NO! v. 15

can’t end there but MUST begin with refusal to participate

wisdom is the key – what it leads to – a life lived in the fear of the Lord

must result in saying YES to right choices

Don’t fall for the seduction. v. 16

it’s not a duck, it is a deception

regardless of how it’s presented the end is murder, not fun

it truly is criminal and comes with a cost, not a benefit

Infatuation with sin clouds one’s judgment. v. 17

birds have more sense than to fly into a trap they saw you set

the one enthralled with pleasures of sin fails to see its inherent danger

even stupid crooks don’t expect to get caught

Sinful living is self-destructive vv. 18-19

exhibit A – Ahab and Jezebel (Naboth); Haman (Mordecai); Judas (Jesus)

Bernie Madoff and associates – justice eventually wins

Choose carefully

friends

those you spend significant time with

heroes

those who influence you

for the young person: primary influence should be family

It’s About Influence

those within your immediate “care”

in the home

in the church

in the workplace

within your circle of influence

extended family

community/organization friends

other opportunities God provides

Cub Scouts

friends of the grandkids

people in need & open to suggestion

the basic message

God’s rules and principles apply

without regard to age or station in life

family matters

it’s God’s design for a healthy world

Faith Outside the Family

Hebrews 11:31Joshua 2:1-21

A bit of context is in order: God had an attitude toward the residents of Canaan. In his own mind, God had written them off, consigning them to utter destruction at the hands of the Israelites. How harsh and unloving; that’s not fair, God couldn’t be like that. But wait – seeDeut. 7:1-5In fact, God had put up with their idolatry and rebellion against him for more than 4 centuries. They had the witness and example of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, all of which they had thoroughly rejected. Instead they made altars and places of worship with carved images to try to take the place of the true God. The one holy and righteous God was justified in being provoked with them for their arrogant rebellion, wasn’t he!

God was so concerned not only with his own holiness but also that of the Israelites that he forbade them to have any kind of relationship with the Canaanites. He reminded them that they were objects of his attention and special care simply because he loved them and kept his promises – seeDeut. 7:6-8God had given his special people a deliverer in the man Moses; he gave them explicit instructions how he should be obeyed and worshiped. After Moses, he raised up Joshua to lead them in conquest over the land he promised to them.

Yet even in this black and white picture of two families – the family of idol-worshippers and the family who followed Yahweh – we see God’s wonderful grace and mercy extended to underserving sinners right alongside those who wilfully hardened themselves against him. There in the midst of determined enemies of God was one whom he had singled out as his own – one from outside his family who he determined to make one of his own.

A. Rahab’s

Life

Gentile – Amorite – prostitute – poor choice even for a pagan

nothing to commend her as one who deserved God’s special favor

Action

that she had faith we see first by her actions

risked life with no guarantees (they came later) v. 4a, 6

deceptive diversion vv. 4b-5, 7

Confession

God has given you the land, has done miracles on your behalf vv. 9-10

your God is the only God v. 11

total rejection of Canaanite idols

Conviction

convinced her future and that of her family depended on God alone and his covenant faithfulness vv. 12-13

B. God’s

Providence

“they came into the house of a prostitute” v. 1b

it was the one combination that would bring about God’s determined purpose

no other place of safety for the spies

only God-fearer in the entire town

all the rest were in abject terror of the Israelites, would have done anything to hinder their progress

required a place with access to the wall for the spies to escape

no other source of deliverance for Rahab

no one inside the city could guarantee her safety

there was no assurance of safety should she and her family try to escape through the wall

they would have been “shot” as traitors by the militia in Jericho or as spies by guards around the Israelite encampment

no one outside the city could know of her faith unless God orchestrated a meeting

Forgiveness

lifestyle

all sin is an offense against God, but…

immorality is in a class of a different significance:

1 Cor. 6:18Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body.

lying

all but the first statement Rahab made was false

God nowhere justifies her use of falsehood to protect his servants; in fact, Calvin says that those who would hold lying to be excusable “do not sufficiently consider how precious truth is in the sight of God.”

Grace

same reports converted Rahab, hardened the rest of Jericho

remember Rahab’s lifestyle choices – all that distinguished her from her neighbors was God’s grace

crosses boundaries – God in heaven above and in earth below, God over all

a God who loves all the world, not just the Jewish people

Colossians 3:11where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised nor uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave nor free, but Christ is all and in all.

identified as ancestor of Jesus – both sides (legal and maternal)Matt. 1:5;Luke 3:32

Our Savior by his very heritage shows his salvation graciously overcomes all obstacles

C. Our

Recognition

there but for the grace of God…

our sinfulness may have/had a different label

it’s no less offensive to God

God’s grace extends to people from all stations and walks of life

1 John 2:2And He Himself is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the whole world.

Rev. 7:9-10After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!”

Remembering

Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners (1 Tim. 1:15) – he loves sinners and delivers them from slavery to sin.

Also – those outside our “family” can be genuine converts. The question: do they demonstrate the evidence of genuine saving faith? If so, we must accept them as brothers and sisters.

even if they worship differently from us

even if they express their faith differently from us

Finally, not a single one of us is a natural-born member of the family of God.

we’ve all been graciously adopted

we had no right, no access to the privileges granted to a child of God

we were made a member of the family by God himself, a gift of grace not reward for works

From God’s view we don’t look like family members until he begins the process of making us to resemble Jesus.

Response = Risk

take the Gospel to the outcasts (from society, family, church)

funny-colored hair; metal in strange places; a sign “help me, I’m homeless”

different-colored skin; strange clothing and customs

language different from ours – odd-sounding; sign language

lifestyle choices we find repulsive

demonstrate the love of Christ

a cup of cold water – hospitality

a word of encouragement

a helping hand

welcome brothers and sisters into the family

it’s a safe place, a good place

For us to be able to welcome them as brothers and sisters they first need to hear and respond to the Gospel message. We must bring Christ to the world so that we can bring the world to Christ.

Faith to Conquer

Hebrews 11:30 Joshua 6:1-21

People of God were given a commission – go and possess the land owned by God and given to them (Deut. 1:19ff). Sent 12 scouts to reconnoiter, bring back information from which to develop a strategy.

Two came back – “God is giving us a good thing; let’s do it!”

Ten said – “You don’t understand; this is impossible.

there are more of them than us;

they’re bigger than we are;

their cities are too large and well defended;

we even saw GIANTS there.”

The people listened to the ten who focused on circumstances and obstacles, not the two plus Moses who emphasized God’s promise.

God’s consequence for unbelief: only the two will enter that land ( Deut. 1:35-36); not even Moses could more than see the land. Forty years, a year for each day they spied out the land ( Num 14:34) they would wander in the wilderness.

A full generation later – mantle of leadership passed from Moses to Joshua. New leader, same God,same commission, same promise.

Get up, cross the river, possess the land; everywhere you step I (God) have given you. Josh. 1:1-5

Same obstacles: people, walls, giants. Different response to the commission.

With the river behind them, the land before them, Joshua reminded he is under the authority of the Commander-in-Chief ( Josh 5:13-15). God then reminds Joshua of his appointed task, the means God intends to use, and the result He has promised.

A. God’s Appointed

task v. 2

conquer Jericho, its king and its warriors

not make an alliance or peace treaty or non-aggression pact

not attempt to marginalize or go around it

compromise is never God’s appointed task

man is the one who changed at the Fall

God and his standard are unchanging

as Sovereign Ruler, God subdues his enemies, makes peace on his own terms with his children

means vv. 3-5a

marching, trumpeting, shouting in the appointed sequence

warriors

priests with trumpets

ark of the covenant

rear guard (unarmed Israelites) behind

no weapons or tactics of war in use – siege engines, trebuchets, battering rams, ramps

only trumpets and voices

inseparably connected to both task and result

God-given task often has God-appointed means associated with it

result is conditional – dependent on use of means

designed to make it obvious who really gained the victory

remember the “odd” response to Joshua’s question – “are you on our side or theirs?”

God’s intent in giving the land to the Israelites – also bring glory to himself

same with our salvation – given heavenly Promised Land by grace so we cannot boast in ourselves but only in Christ ( 2 Cor 10:17“Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”)

result v. 5b

obstacles and opposition eliminated

wall will collapse (fall in its place)

man’s best efforts at defense cannot frustrate God’s purpose

God will bring about his appointed result at the appointed time

B. Israel’s

obedience to the task vv. 6-11

Joshua communicated God’s command to the people

verse 8: just as Joshua commanded, or when Joshua had spoken, …they advanced

didn’t argue, second guess, develop plan B just in case

maintained faith in God’s promise to use appointed means

faithfulness to the means vv. 12-19

marched once around daily for 6 days

7 times around on the 7th day

priests blowing trumpets, people silent, until…

victory the result vv. 20-21

the wall fell flat

no obstacle to hinder direct advance into the city

complete lockdown ineffective

C. Our Appointed

taskMatt. 28:18-20

conquer the world

meansMatt. 16:15-19 & 1 Cor. 1:18-21

on the foundational Rock of this exclusive message: salvation is found in Christ and only in Christ

foolish message spread through the foolishness of public proclamation

resultRev. 15:1-4Psa 72:8-11, 17-19

even the gates of hell cannot withstand the power of the Gospel

all people of all nations will worship the true God

Satan’s lockdown of the world and man’s contribution to that effort will be just as ineffective as that of Jericho

responsibility

corporate

obedience to the command of Christ to proclaim a true Gospel that gives genuine hope to lost sinners

faithfulness to use the means God has appointed

and not get innovative

not falling into the trap that a good end justifies means of our own making

remembering that God’s blessing accompanies the use of his means

individual

obedience to the command of Christ to live out the Gospel

using every means at our disposal to bring others to hear the Gospel, to sit under the means of grace

faith He will bring about the promised result

Christ through his church will have dominion over all things – all authority has been given him and he will exercise it

if we have faith Christ will keep his promise and are faithful to fulfill our responsibilities, we will experience God’s blessing on our lives individually and as a church family

The Fear of the Lord

Proverbs 1:7

Following the introduction, the author sets the stage for all that follows. A theme found repeatedly in Proverbs is that of “the fear of the LORD”, fourteen times in all. This is the ruling thought under which all the principles found in Proverbs are to be understood. It is interesting to also note Solomon’s summary statement at the end of Ecclesiastes, capsulizing both the book and his search for meaning:

“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is the whole duty of man.”Eccl. 12:13

A. Definition

awe and reverence; reverent worship; obedience

The phenomenon of “fear” in both the Old and New Testaments reflects common emphases as far as attitudes to God are concerned — whether one is talking about the terror of God or worshipful reverence. The Old Testament, however, places a greater emphasis on the terror of God as a consequence of divine punishment because of the dominant theme of retribution for violation of covenant obligation. In the old covenant, the fear of Yahweh resulted from the onset of physical catastrophes such as military defeat, disease, invasion, and slaughter from enemy forces — experiences that were often repeated many times over. The New Testament, however, focuses on the ultimate punishment of eternal separation from God, which by definition is a non-repeatable phenomenon. This theme is highlighted in the book of Revelation and in certain parts of Jesus’ teaching in the Gospels — both by explicit mention of the terms for “fear” as well as by implication from the contexts.Renn

reverent regard for their God, tempered with awe and fear of the punishment of disobedience.ISBE

The fear of God, which is one with true reverence for God, includes : 1) right knowledge of God ; 2) a genuine standing in fear before God; 3) faith, or the believing consecration to God, which distinguishes this fear from all servile dread, and fleeing from God ; 4) the worship of God which aids to a true reconciliation with Him, a well ordered and assured control of the whole life. Therefore the fear of God is not merely beginning it is quite the sum of all wisdom, the right manager of all our counsels in prosperity and adversity.MELANCHTHON

in other words, complete devotion to God.

B. Relational

LORD – YHWH – self-existent covenant-keeping God

his character as revealed by his glory to Moses:Ex. 34:5-8

⁵The LORD descended in the cloud and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the LORD.⁶The LORD passed before him and proclaimed, “The LORD, the LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness,⁷keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children and the children’s children, to the third and the fourth generation.”⁸And Moses quickly bowed his head toward the earth and worshiped.

consider how many of those descriptive words and phrases are relational

mercy

grace

patience (longsuffering, slow to anger)

steadfast love

forgiveness

pardon

proper fear of God

God is relational – think Trinity; man is made in God’s image, therefore relational. Fear (as in worship and reverence in the biblical sense) is a relational concept. To properly fear God:

requires context of right relationship

requires knowledge of God AND love for him

true knowledge of the world and how to live (applied knowledge = wisdom) requires knowledge of God

proper use of knowledge and wisdom require love for God

C. Is Foundational

Prov 1:7The fear of the LORD is thebeginningof knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.ESV

the first step in acquiring moral knowledge

All heathen wisdom is but folly. Of all knowledge the knowledge of God is the principal. There is no true knowledge without godliness.Bridges

Prov 9:10The fear of the LORD is thebeginningof wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.ESV

the foundation on which to apply the knowledge of God, to build a life of godliness

Prov 15:33The fear of the LORD isinstructionin wisdom, and humility comes before honor.ESV

it leads to the discipline of wisdom

1. It is the beginning of wisdom.

2. It is also the beginning of knowledge.

3. It is the instruction of wisdom. Wisdom derives its most important lessons from the fear of God. He who fears God much, is well taught.Adam Clarke

If the goal of Proverbs is to instruct God’s people in how to structure and order their lives in ways pleasing to him, a right starting or foundational principle is required – to be equipped to understand the book, to succeed in reaching the goal. The principle – the fear of the LORD.

D. Has a Reward

Prov 10:27The fear of the LORDprolongs life, but the years of the wicked will be short.ESV

practically, because the righteous avoid behaviors and choices that are harmful

spiritually, because God blesses and protects the righteous

(It’s a proverb; that means it is a general principle that is usually true. God still has the right to give a scoundrel a long life and take a saint home at a young age.)

Prov 14:27The fear of the LORD isa fountain of life, that one may turn away from the snares of death.ESV

compareJohn 4:14: “But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”

the grace which comes from God to those who fear him results in everlasting life

Prov 19:23The fear of the LORD leads tolife, and whoever has itrests satisfied; he will not be visited by harm.ESV

can sleep easy and untroubled; clear conscience

those committed to a life of godliness usually experience good rest. Hard day’s work, fresh air, go to bed a good kind of tired, sleep like a baby.

Prov 22:4The reward for humility and fear of the LORD isrichesandhonorandlife.ESV

practically, because the righteous possess true wisdom to make decisions that lead to profitable use of resources; wisdom is recognized and honored by others who possess it

spiritually, eternal riches and honor are added to eternal life for the righteous

God still reserves the right to do as he pleases in the lives of particular individuals; this is no warrant for a prosperity gospel.

Prov 31:30Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to bepraised.ESV

a life lived in the fear of the LORD will result in the praise of God and those who love him

Prov 2:1-5My son,ifyoureceivemy words andtreasureup my commandments with you,^2:2making your earattentiveto wisdom andincliningyour heart to understanding;^2:3yes,ifyoucall outfor insight andraise your voicefor understanding,^2:4ifyouseekit like silver andsearchfor it as for hidden treasures,^2:5thenyou will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.ESV

the reward comes only as the result of diligent effort

no positive action, no reward

E. Results in an Attitude

Prov 8:13The fear of the LORD ishatred of evil. Pride and arrogance and the way of evil and perverted speech I hate.ESV

Prov 16:6By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the LORD oneturns away from evil.ESV

fearing the LORD = hating evil = rejection of sin, having nothing to do with it

carefully abstaining from all sin out of a true dislike of it; prior attraction to sin has been replaced by an attraction to God. God and evil are mutually exclusive – “no one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other.“Matt. 6:24

Prov 14:26In the fear of the LORD one hasstrong confidence, and his children will havea refuge.ESV

The fear of the LORD— such is the Christian paradox — emboldens. Its child-like spirit shuts out all terrors of conscience, all forebodings of eternity.Confidence — strong confidence— issues out of it. Abraham sacrificed his son inthe fear of God;yet fullyconfident, “that God was able to raise him up from the dead.” (Gen 22:12,withHeb 11:17-19.)The fear of Godled the Babylonish captives with unshakenconfidenceinto the fiery furnace. (Dan 3:16-18.) And thus does the child of God, while walking in godlyfear, rejoice inconfidence, even in the most frowning dispensation.Charles Bridges

F. Conclusion

Not all that claims to be true is true.

Not everything that is claimed to be God’s truth is so.

The one who would please God in all his ways

must be able to discern truth from error.

must be able to discern God’s truth from other truth; key: God’s truth is always true, is absolute, and can be found in Scripture.

must be able wisely choose the right course of action.

Most important, our striving to please God must be motivated by a heart captivated by love for Christ.

Faith in the Right Object

Hebrews 11:29 Exodus 14:10-31

Thinking of the ocean, many images come to mind: varying colors that depend on weather and location; breakers on the rocks at the base of a lighthouse; children playing on a sandy beach; cruise ships ferrying a small town’s worth of people from place to place. But there are less pleasant images also: The Perfect Storm (10/31/1991), Hurricane Katrina and New Orleans, the Great Tsunami (12/24/2004) and smaller ones in September on American Samoa, speculation about rising sea levels resulting from climate change.

Now consider your emotional response to these contrasting sets of images: everything is fine when we are on the sea while it is “behaving” or beside the sea at a safe distance. When we are in it, especially if it is turbulent or angry, our response is much different. We immediately recognize its incredible power, its immensity and our tiny frailness, our utter helplessness in the face of its overwhelming force.

God is the one who asked Job the rhetorical question:

“who shut in the sea with doors when it burst out from the womb, when I made clouds its garment and thick darkness its swaddling band, and prescribed limits for it and set bars and doors, and said, ‘Thus far shall you come, and no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stayed’?” Job 38:8-11

Yet to a few hundred thousand people traveling on foot, the sea shut them in effectively, closing an impenetrable door to their progress, setting them up for utter destruction by the Egyptian army. Or so they each thought. But something happened to change their minds – God worked through the leader he had appointed to guide his people. In fact, he worked through the faith of Moses to encourage faith in the Israelites and cause the faith of the Egyptians to end in disaster. The remarkable thing is that God received the glory in this entire scenario, showing his sovereign power and authority over the sea, the Israelites and the Egyptians.

A. faith of Israelites

Moses

convinced God would indeed save His people – see vv. 13-14

faith confirmed by God’s summary description of what he was about to do – vv. 16-18

instructions indicating Moses’ part in the means of God’s provision

as required to do before when God was poised to do something miraculous, “lift up your rod, stretch out your hand”

knew his rod, his hand could never accomplish what was needed

had faith that the result of his obedience would be what God promised

as before, his faith encouraged the faith of the Israelites

demonstrated his faith to his brothers

first by holding up his rod as directed

then by leading the Israelites across the path of deliverance

the people

severely faltering faith

sufficient to take them away from home on a field trip

not adequate to enable them to persevere through conflict – see vv. 11-12

still walking more by sight than by faith

could not yet trust God “sight unseen” to provide for their deliverance

they could trust some when the path was plain

they would follow God’s appointed leader

trusted they wouldn’t:

sink out of sight into the mud

be overwhelmed by the walls of water on each side

Don’t be too hard on them! Remember what they actually did - see verse 22

walked out into the Red Sea, walls of water on each side (same word to refer to Jericho)

did so in an orderly fashion – no pushing, shoving, trampling

risked EVERYTHING to follow Moses who was following God

B. faith of Egyptians

like the Israelites they had faith, but in different objects

numbers

skill – trained army

equipment – horses, chariots, weapons

gods

If they didn’t trust in their own gods, what then? Trust in the one God who had humiliated their gods, the God who persisted in blessing the people they despised and were intent on destroying? They just couldn’t bring themselves to do that.

was a strong faith, one that impelled to action

just like Israelites, they risked EVERYTHING to follow their leader into the sea between the same walls of water where God’s people had passed safely.

C. God over all

So what was the difference? One group of people walked into the sea and came out the other side unscathed. The other group of people walked into the same sea and were destroyed in it.

Remember what God told Moses? “The people of Israel shall go through the sea on dry ground.” “I will get glory over Pharaoh…”

Despite how it may have appeared to the people involved in this event God was in complete and sovereign control over it all. He had determined the course of action – his people would be delivered, the Egyptian army would be destroyed. Only faith in the right object, the God who was sovereignly ruling the affairs of men, would result in deliverance. The Israelites placed their confidence in the right object and God saved them; the Egyptians trusted in false gods and were destroyed.

D. Application

Israelites and Egyptians both had faith, both moving forward. Church and world both have faith, both moving forward. Different object of faith resulted in different outcome – deliverance or destruction. In both outcomes God will be glorified – his grace and mercy in the deliverance of his people, his justice in the destruction of his enemies.

What is the object of your faith?

yourself?

I’m a pretty good person. I’ve never ….

a god of your own making?

My god is a god of love. My god would never send anyone to hell. My god ….

the belief (or hope) that this life is all there is?

He who dies with the most toys wins. Life stinks and then you die.

Remember the words of Paul the apostle in Acts 17:30-31 :

“The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed; and of this he has given assurance to all by raising him from the dead.”

Is the object of your faith leading you to deliverance or destruction?

Only one object of faith has the power to deliver from sin and the wrath to come ( 1 Thess. 1:9-10 ) – the Lord Jesus Himself.

For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.

I trust you can sing our closing hymn today with honesty and confidence, that your faith truly has found its resting place in the Everliving One who died for you. If Jesus is not the object of your faith today, turn from your idols to the true God, to serve him and wait for his Son from heaven.

Proverbs, Why?

Proverbs 1:1-6

Remember the words of 2 Tim. 3:15-17: “and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” NKJV

Possibly some would rather have desired the preservation of his discourses on Natural History than on Practical Wisdom. But this Sovereign discrimination shows the real intent of the Scriptures not to teach philosophy, but religion; not to make men of science, but men of sound godliness. Bridges

CHRISTOPHER WORDSWORTH (nephew of William Wordsworth) (Introd. to Proverbs, pp. ix., x.) says: “The Book of Proverbs is an inspired book adapted to the circumstances of the times of Solomon.” “The Holy Spirit, in inspiring Solomon to write the Book of Proverbs, supplied an antidote to the poison of those influences (temptations attending the splendor and prosperity of the times), and has given to the world a moral and spiritual manual, which, has its special uses for those who dwell in populous towns and cities, and who are busily engaged in worldly traffic, and are exposed to such temptations as are rife in an age and country like our own, distinguished by commercial enterprise and mechanical skill, and by the production of great works of human industry, in Art, Literature and Science, and also by religious activity, especially of that kind which aims to give to Religion external dignity and beauty, such as reached its highest pitch in the Temple of Solomon.” Quoted in Lange

A. What

proverbs

The simplest form of the Maschal, or the technical form of poetry among the Hebrews, is a verse consisting of two short symmetrically constructed clauses:

synonymous distichs, in which the second line repeats the meaning of the first in a form but slightly changed, for the sake of giving as clear and exhaustive a presentation as possible of the thought involved

antithetic distichs, in which the second illustrates by its opposite the truth presented in the first

synthetic distichs, the two halves of which express truths of different yet kindred import

integral distichs, in which the proposition commenced in the first half is brought to completion only by the second,

parabolic distichs, i. e., maxims which in some form or other exhibit comparisons between a moral idea and an object in nature or common life

definition

A comparison, an object lesson, a simple illustration or a parable which exposes a fundamental reality about life. Newheiser

a large amount of wisdom wrapped up in the fewest possible words. W. Harris

an object lesson setting out courses of action [which] helps to choose the course of action to follow or avoid NET Bible

B. Who

Solomon – 10:1-22:16

anonymous collections – 22:17-24:22 and 24:23-34

Hezekiah’s men – 25:1-29:27 (written by Solomon, collected by Hezekiah’s men)

Agur – 30:1-33

Lemuel – 31:1-9

C. Why

in general: v. 2-3

to gain wisdom v. 2a

Wisdom is the skill of living. It is a practical knowledge that helps one know how to act and how to speak in different situations. Wisdom entails the ability to avoid problems, and the skill to handle them when they present themselves. Tremper Longman

to learn how to distinguish truth from falsehood, to recognize God’s truth v. 2b

to have a life characterized by wisdom and so leave a legacy of lasting value v. 3

“to receive moral instruction in [prudent] living” NET Bible (compare Abigail and Nabal)

that is evidenced by:

righteousness – conduct conforming to a right (God’s) standard

justice – making right and just decisions

equity – walking a (morally) straight path

specific groups/classes v. 4-6

the naive

open-minded: receptive to any influence, easily misled, gullible; inexperienced

in need of wisdom and prudence

Wisdom applied to practice. Prudence implies caution in deliberating and consulting on the most suitable means to accomplish valuable purposes, and the exercise of sagacity [separating truth from falsehood] in discerning and selecting them. Webster, 1828

“wise as serpents, innocent [harmless] as doves” Matthew 10:16 (Jesus sending out the twelve)

the young

ability to

choose a right goal

make right plans,

select a right course of action

the wise

become wiser

the discerning

gain guidance, the ability to steer a right course

the wise and discerning

become more skilled and better equipped as leaders

increase their ability to pass along wisdom and counsel to others

The simple and the young, the wise and discerning, regardless of station or stage in life, men and women, boys and girls need the wisdom found in Proverbs.

The Holy Scripture is the only sufficient, certain, and infallible rule of all saving Knowledge, Faith and Obedience. LBCF I.1

D. How

“But the question has been often asked and that not in a cavilling [to raise frivolous objections], but in an anxiously enquiring, spirit, “How can I read this Book profitably?” Not unfrequently the confession has been added, “My mind and soul do not get food from it. I think I am less interested in this, than in any other, part of Scripture. I acknowledge the wisdom of its sayings. I am fully persuaded, that being the Word of God it was not written in vain. The fault therefore must be in myself. Still the question returns How am I to read it with profit?”

…The first and chief direction that which gives life to every other that which applies to every page and every verse of the Bible is Begin with prayer: “Cry – lift up thy voice.” Then combine a pondering mind with a praying heart. Actively apply thyself to “seek and search for the hid treasures.” The riches lie not on the surface. Only those therefore, that dig into the bowels of the earth not the readers, but “the searchers of the Scriptures” are enriched. If the surface be barren, the mine beneath is inexhaustible.” Charles Bridges

Faith That Is Nourished

Hebrews 11:28 Exodus 12:1-20

God is so good to us. He knows us, how we learn, how quickly we forget, how prone we are to wander away from the truth and lose heart. He not only knows us, he loves us and does much to help us remain faithful to him. Here at the Lord’s Table we have one of God’s wonderful gifts to his people, a treasure entrusted to the church from the night on which Christ was betrayed until the day on which he returns

A sacrament is a symbol of a Christian mystery: baptism, of the mystery of regeneration; the Lord’s Supper, of the mystery of substitutionary atonement. Baptism is the sacrament of initiation, the Lord’s Supper the sacrament of nourishment and growth for the faithful in Christ. In baptism, washing with water symbolizes God’s cleansing the believer from sin. In the Lord’s Supper, the bread and wine are both symbols of the body of Christ which was given for our salvation. There are further aspects to the symbolism contained in the Supper, but more of that later.

The work of the sacraments is the same as the Word of God, to offer and present Christ to us, and the spiritual treasures of grace which can be found only in him. The Lord’s Supper represents the promise of God portrayed in a picture, in tangible form which we can experience with our senses, teaching and confirming spiritual truths with visible emblems. The presence of Christ in the soul of the believer accompanied by the believer’s perception of the spiritual truth symbolized makes the Supper a means of grace, an activity within the life of the church by which the Holy Spirit works to convey spiritual blessings to the believer.

The Lord’s Supper is not the original institution; another observance came before, one which similarly had a two-fold significance looking both to the past and future. As you remember, it was at the close of the Passover meal (Matt. 26:17-19) that Jesus gave example and instruction to his disciples as he instituted the Lord’s Supper. It will greatly help our understanding of the Supper to become familiar with that prior meal, the Passover. What was represented and signified by the sacrifice of a lamb, the sprinkling of its blood, and the eating of the Passover meal? What are some of the connections between the Passover and the Lord’s Supper?

A. Sacrifice

selection and sacrifice of the substitute Ex. 12:3-6

perfect male

sacrificed and roasted whole – presented on the table appearing as a lamb, not generic meat

prepared and eaten with unleavened bread and bitter herbs Ex. 12:8

The bread that the Jews used contained no leaven (yeast), which made it like a cracker rather than cake in its consistency. Constable

herbs perhaps endive or chicory, to remind them of bitterness of life in Egypt

eaten in haste, garbed as pilgrims Ex. 12:11

no time for the bread to rise, for the leaven to work

perhaps, since they were not to be a mixed multitude, God’s people mingled with others but rather distinct, so the bread was not to be mingled with leaven

B. Sprinkling

of the blood Ex. 12:7

with hyssop on the doorposts and lintel

not on the threshold to be trampled

represents the life of the substitute

the “merit” of a sinless substitute

accepted by God

signified purification

an act of cleansing

doorway represented the entire house

an act of faith

The application of the blood as directed was a demonstration of the Israelites’ faith in God’s promise that He would pass over them. Constable

had to look beyond the “simple” act to see any significance

how could an animal’s blood on the doorposts protect from the God who had sent 9 other plagues?

only because that God had made a promise

C. Salvation

from death of the firstborn Ex. 12:12-13

God, coming in judgment on the Egyptians and their gods

could this be considered God’s justice for Pharaoh requiring the life of Hebrew newborns 80 years before?

certainly God’s just wrath poured out on the sins of the Egyptians

for their disobedience

for their idolatry

when I see the blood, I will pass over you

evidence of faith in God’s promise – the substitute was killed

life of the firstborn spared in exchange for the life of the sacrifice

from slavery in Egypt Ex. 12:17

deliverence from death accompanied by deliverance from slavery

hence the need for eating in haste (see v. 11)

not to linger in the land of bondage

to follow God’s leading as soon as deliverance was made apparent

to be observed from day of deliverance until animal sacrifice was no longer required

D. Sacrament

symbolism Ex. 12:13

nothing magical about the lamb, the blood, or the ritual followed

just as the rainbow was a sign to Noah and his descendants (Gen. 9:12-17) so, too, the blood of the lamb

life of an animal could never by itself satisfy God’s just wrath toward man (Heb. 10:4) – it had to point toward a greater reality

identified by Jesus at the last Supper with his disciples – “this is my body”; “this is my blood” Matt. 26:26-28

John the Baptist – “behold the Lamb of God” John 1:29

the apostle Paul – “Christ our Passover has been sacrificed” 1 Cor. 5:7

It is the Lamb of God who delivers us from the penalty of death, the curse of God’s just wrath against our sin.

It is the Lamb of God by the power of the Holy Spirit who delivers us from bondage to sin, making us slaves to him instead of slaves to sin Rom. 6:18

Although it is the Holy Spirit accompanying the elements that makes them effectual means of grace, to the degree we are able our practice in observing the ordinance should follow that of Christ as closely as possible

sustenance Ex. 12:14

Just as the lamb nourished the bodies of the Hebrew children, so Christ nourishes the faith of true believers. When we are reminded of who we are in Christ and what he as promised us, our faith is confirmed and strengthened. As our bodies need a continuous source of sustenance, so do our souls. As Christ and his treasures of grace are presented to us in the elements of the Lord’s Table, when we partake in faith believing our souls are nourished, our faith revives and grows.

the use of this sacrament was twofold, both to exercise the people in the recollection of their past deliverance, and to nourish in them the hope of future redemption; and therefore the passover not only reminded them of what God had already done for His people, but also of what they were hereafter to expect from Him. Calvin

The Sacraments, however, have also these ends: — to be marks and tokens of Christian profession and (Christian) association, or brotherhood; to incite gratitude (thanksgiving), and to be exercises of faith and a pious life, in short, bonds (sealed contracts) making these things obligatory. But among other ends this one is chief, that by these Sacraments God attests, presents anew, and seals to us His grace. For while they indeed signify nothing more than is declared in the word itself, yet it is no small matter that they are presented to our eyes as lively symbols which better affect our feeling, leading us to the reality, while they recall to memory Christ’s death and all the benefits thereof, in order that faith may have more vigorous exercise; and finally, it is of no little moment that what was proclaimed to us by the mouth of God, is confirmed and sanctioned by seals. Calvin, Consensus Tigurinus

 

Faith That Is Nourished

Hebrews 11:28 Exodus 12:1-20

God is so good to us. He knows us, how we learn, how quickly we forget, how prone we are to wander away from the truth and lose heart. He not only knows us, he loves us and does much to help us remain faithful to him. Here at the Lord’s Table we have one of God’s wonderful gifts to his people, a treasure entrusted to the church from the night on which Christ was betrayed until the day on which he returns

A sacrament is a symbol of a Christian mystery: baptism, of the mystery of regeneration; the Lord’s Supper, of the mystery of substitutionary atonement. Baptism is the sacrament of initiation, the Lord’s Supper the sacrament of nourishment and growth for the faithful in Christ. In baptism, washing with water symbolizes God’s cleansing the believer from sin. In the Lord’s Supper, the bread and wine are both symbols of the body of Christ which was given for our salvation. There are further aspects to the symbolism contained in the Supper, but more of that later.

The work of the sacraments is the same as the Word of God, to offer and present Christ to us, and the spiritual treasures of grace which can be found only in him. The Lord’s Supper represents the promise of God portrayed in a picture, in tangible form which we can experience with our senses, teaching and confirming spiritual truths with visible emblems. The presence of Christ in the soul of the believer accompanied by the believer’s perception of the spiritual truth symbolized makes the Supper a means of grace, an activity within the life of the church by which the Holy Spirit works to convey spiritual blessings to the believer.

The Lord’s Supper is not the original institution; another observance came before, one which similarly had a two-fold significance looking both to the past and future. As you remember, it was at the close of the Passover meal (Matt. 26:17-19) that Jesus gave example and instruction to his disciples as he instituted the Lord’s Supper. It will greatly help our understanding of the Supper to become familiar with that prior meal, the Passover. What was represented and signified by the sacrifice of a lamb, the sprinkling of its blood, and the eating of the Passover meal? What are some of the connections between the Passover and the Lord’s Supper?

A. Sacrifice

selection and sacrifice of the substitute Ex. 12:3-6

perfect male

sacrificed and roasted whole – presented on the table appearing as a lamb, not generic meat

prepared and eaten with unleavened bread and bitter herbs Ex. 12:8

The bread that the Jews used contained no leaven (yeast), which made it like a cracker rather than cake in its consistency. Constable

herbs perhaps endive or chicory, to remind them of bitterness of life in Egypt

eaten in haste, garbed as pilgrims Ex. 12:11

no time for the bread to rise, for the leaven to work

perhaps, since they were not to be a mixed multitude, God’s people mingled with others but rather distinct, so the bread was not to be mingled with leaven

B. Sprinkling

of the blood Ex. 12:7

with hyssop on the doorposts and lintel

not on the threshold to be trampled

represents the life of the substitute

the “merit” of a sinless substitute

accepted by God

signified purification

an act of cleansing

doorway represented the entire house

an act of faith

The application of the blood as directed was a demonstration of the Israelites’ faith in God’s promise that He would pass over them. Constable

had to look beyond the “simple” act to see any significance

how could an animal’s blood on the doorposts protect from the God who had sent 9 other plagues?

only because that God had made a promise

C. Salvation

from death of the firstborn Ex. 12:12-13

God, coming in judgment on the Egyptians and their gods

could this be considered God’s justice for Pharaoh requiring the life of Hebrew newborns 80 years before?

certainly God’s just wrath poured out on the sins of the Egyptians

for their disobedience

for their idolatry

when I see the blood, I will pass over you

evidence of faith in God’s promise – the substitute was killed

life of the firstborn spared in exchange for the life of the sacrifice

from slavery in Egypt Ex. 12:17

deliverence from death accompanied by deliverance from slavery

hence the need for eating in haste (see v. 11)

not to linger in the land of bondage

to follow God’s leading as soon as deliverance was made apparent

to be observed from day of deliverance until animal sacrifice was no longer required

D. Sacrament

symbolism Ex. 12:13

nothing magical about the lamb, the blood, or the ritual followed

just as the rainbow was a sign to Noah and his descendants (Gen. 9:12-17) so, too, the blood of the lamb

life of an animal could never by itself satisfy God’s just wrath toward man (Heb. 10:4) – it had to point toward a greater reality

identified by Jesus at the last Supper with his disciples – “this is my body”; “this is my blood” Matt. 26:26-28

John the Baptist – “behold the Lamb of God” John 1:29

the apostle Paul – “Christ our Passover has been sacrificed” 1 Cor. 5:7

It is the Lamb of God who delivers us from the penalty of death, the curse of God’s just wrath against our sin.

It is the Lamb of God by the power of the Holy Spirit who delivers us from bondage to sin, making us slaves to him instead of slaves to sin Rom. 6:18

Although it is the Holy Spirit accompanying the elements that makes them effectual means of grace, to the degree we are able our practice in observing the ordinance should follow that of Christ as closely as possible

sustenance Ex. 12:14

Just as the lamb nourished the bodies of the Hebrew children, so Christ nourishes the faith of true believers. When we are reminded of who we are in Christ and what he as promised us, our faith is confirmed and strengthened. As our bodies need a continuous source of sustenance, so do our souls. As Christ and his treasures of grace are presented to us in the elements of the Lord’s Table, when we partake in faith believing our souls are nourished, our faith revives and grows.

the use of this sacrament was twofold, both to exercise the people in the recollection of their past deliverance, and to nourish in them the hope of future redemption; and therefore the passover not only reminded them of what God had already done for His people, but also of what they were hereafter to expect from Him. Calvin

The Sacraments, however, have also these ends: — to be marks and tokens of Christian profession and (Christian) association, or brotherhood; to incite gratitude (thanksgiving), and to be exercises of faith and a pious life, in short, bonds (sealed contracts) making these things obligatory. But among other ends this one is chief, that by these Sacraments God attests, presents anew, and seals to us His grace. For while they indeed signify nothing more than is declared in the word itself, yet it is no small matter that they are presented to our eyes as lively symbols which better affect our feeling, leading us to the reality, while they recall to memory Christ’s death and all the benefits thereof, in order that faith may have more vigorous exercise; and finally, it is of no little moment that what was proclaimed to us by the mouth of God, is confirmed and sanctioned by seals. Calvin, Consensus Tigurinus

Recovering the Faith Delivered to the Saints

Jude 1:3-4 Romans 1:9-17

On the authority of Scripture alone, salvation is by grace alone through faith alone because of Christ alone for the glory of God alone.

A. Sola Scriptura

God’s written Word is the ultimate authority.

It is the only sufficient and infallible rule of faith and practice. 2 Tim. 3:15-17

It is the only sufficient, infallible and authoritative source of all saving knowledge. Gal. 1:8-9

The authority of Scripture is wholly dependent on God, its Author, and not on any other. 2 Pet. 1:19-21

B. Sola Gratia

God bestows His grace freely and sovereignly on those whom He chooses.

He is not obligated to grant men anything. Rom. 9:10-16

If grace were required, it would instead be an act of justice. Rom. 4:4

If grace were earned it would instead be merit. Rom. 11:6; 4:5

C. Sola Fide

God declares us righteous on the basis solely of our faith in Christ and His righteousness being imputed to us. Rom. 3:20-28; 2 Cor. 5:17-21

We are justified by our faith alone but not by faith that is alone. Gal. 2:16

Genuine faith will be accompanied by the fruit of good works. Jam. 2:14-18

D. Solo Christo

Christ alone has fully satisfied God’s just penalty for the sins of His people. Heb. 10:14

No work or merit of our own is worthy of God’s consideration with regard to salvation. Isa. 64:6 Rom. 8:3

No work or merit of our own is necessary for our salvation. Gal. 3:13 1 Cor. 1:31 Phil. 3:9

E. Soli Deo Gloria

Salvation is for God’s glory alone and not our own.

God saves His people to magnify the glory of His own Name. Isa. 43:7 Eph. 3:20-21

He saves them to have a people who would live in a way that reflects His character. Gal. 5:22-23

Since we did not and can not contribute anything to our salvation, God alone receives glory. Jonah 2:9

God says in His Word: “I sovereignly and freely choose (Eph. 1:4-5) to save you; I give you faith in my Son, the Lord Jesus (Eph. 2:8-10); on the basis of your faith in Jesus’ righteousness and not your own, I declare you righteous (Rom. 3:26); I give you My Spirit (Rom. 5:5 1 John 3:23; 4:13) Who will make His presence known in you (Rom. 8:16) and through you (Gal. 5:22-23); I do this for My own glory (Isa. 43:7 Eph. 3:20-21).”

Luther, born the son of a miner in 1483 in Eisleben, Germany, trained to be a lawyer but changed course to become a priest in 1505 and was ordained in 1507. In 1508 he began to lecture in the University of Wittenberg, earned his doctorate in 1512, and was granted a permanent lecture chair that year.

As Luther studied the Scriptures, he began to articulate the major doctrines of justification by grace through faith, sola scriptura, and the priesthood of all believers. Luther increasingly saw the inability of the doctrine of penance to deal with real guilt and his need of forgiveness and it drove him nearly to despair – regardless of how much he confessed or the penance he did, he was never convinced that he was forgiven. In the midst of this he came on Romans 1 and its treatment of the “righteousness of God”; his misunderstanding of the doctrine had brought him to hate it since he could never achieve it by his own actions. As he pondered on the passage Luther began to see that righteousness is a gift to be received from God and not something to be earned by works. He then went on to discover that his mentor, Augustine, held the same view, that man was in bondage to sin and not able not to sin but needing salvation as a gift from God.

The hawking of indulgences by Tetzel (When a coin into the coffer rings, a soul from purgatory springs) prompted Luther’s posting of ninety-five theses challenging academics to debate the doctrine. On October 31, 1517 (All Saints’ Eve) he placed his ninety-five theses on the chapel door as a way to begin an informal debate on the subject of indulgences, particularly the abuses of the doctrine as practiced by Tetzel for fund-raising purposes. Instead of a debate with academics only, the controversy spread across Germany, eventually bringing Luther to the point of declaring against the infallibility of the Pope and church councils.

Luther was first concerned with the doctrine of penance, the teaching that an individual had to become purified by works of meritorious obedience before they would gain entrance to heaven. For most medieval Christians that satisfaction would occur for them in purgatory since they lacked the ability to pay off their debt during life. Indulgences are actual written documents which could be purchased from the church and were guaranteed to remit all or part of the debt owed to God and were based on withdrawals from the treasury of merit.

Luther came to see that the sale of indulgences was unwarranted by Scripture and encouraged people to turn away from God and his law as well as from Christ and his forgiveness. Luther desired that the church reform its practice by making true repentance a requirement, view only the work of Christ as meritorious and recognize that the church’s real treasure is the Gospel. As a result of Luther’s debates in Heidelberg and Augsburg, he was required to appear before the Diet of Worms.

There he was challenged by Cardinal Johann Eck, “Martin, you have not sufficiently distinguished your works. The earlier were bad and the latter worse. Your plea to be heard from Scripture is the one always made by heretics. You do nothing but renew the errors of Wyclif and Hus. How will the Jews, how will the Turks, exult to hear Christians discussing whether they have been wrong all these years! Martin, how can you assume that you are the only one to understand the sense of Scripture? Would you put your judgment above that of so many famous men and claim that you know more than they all? You have no right to call into question the most holy orthodox faith, instituted by Christ the perfect lawgiver, proclaimed throughout the world by the apostles, sealed by the red blood of the martyrs, confirmed by the sacred councils, defined by the Church in which all our fathers believed until death and gave to us as an inheritance, and which now we are forbidden by the pope and the emperor to discuss lest there be no end of debate. I ask you, Martin answer candidly and without horns do you or do you not repudiate your books and the errors which they contain?”

Luther replied, “Since then Your Majesty and your lordships desire a simple reply, I will answer without horns and without teeth. Unless I am convicted by Scripture and plain reason I do not accept the authority of popes and councils, for they have contradicted each other. My conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and I will not recant anything, for to go against conscience is neither right nor safe. God help me. Amen.”

The earliest printed version added the words: “Here I stand, I cannot do otherwise.” The words, though not recorded on the spot, may nevertheless be genuine, because the listeners at the moment may have been too moved to write.