11/8/14

From Mark Copeland... The Kingdom Of Great Value (Matthew 13:44-46) 

                        "THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW"

                 The Kingdom Of Great Value (13:44-46)

INTRODUCTION

1. During His earthly ministry, the key theme of His preaching and 
   teaching was "the kingdom of heaven"...
   a. He began His ministry proclaiming it was at hand - Mt 4:17,23
   b. He sent His apostles on the limited commission to proclaim the
      same message - Mt 10:7

2. He taught many parables to illustrate great truths about this 
   kingdom...
   a. Through which He revealed many things that had previously been
      secret - Mt 13:34-35
   b. Like the parables of the hidden treasure and the pearl of great
      price - Mt 13:44-46

3. In these two parables, Jesus illustrated the kingdom to be one of
   great value...
   a. So great that one who stumbles upon it sells all to obtain it
   b. So great that one searching for it sells all to buy it

4. In this lesson, I wish to address several questions that come to 
   mind...
   a. What is this "kingdom"?  
   b. Why is it considered to be of such great value?  
   c. Is it really worth it?
   d. What will it cost us?  

[Let's begin, then, with the first question...]

I. WHAT IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN?

   A. IT INVOLVES FOUR INTER-RELATED IDEAS...
      1. God's kingship, rule, or recognized sovereignty
         a. The term "kingdom" as used by the Jews often stressed the
            abstract idea of rule or dominion, not a geographical area
            surrounded by physical boundaries
         b. It is used this way by Jesus in Mt 6:10 - "Your KINGDOM 
            come; Your WILL be done..." (note the connection between 
            kingdom and will)
            -- Thus, the "kingdom of heaven" would involve the rule of
               heaven in the hearts of men
      2. This rule of heaven is spiritual in nature
         a. It is not a physical kingdom - cf. Jn 18:36
         b. But one that is spiritual - cf. Ro 14:17
      3. Its visible manifestation today is in the form of the Lord's
         church
         a. For the church is that community of souls in whose hearts
            God is recognized as Sovereign
         b. That the church constitutes the kingdom of God on earth, 
            consider:
            1) How the term "church" and "kingdom" were used 
               interchangeably - Mt 16:18
            2) Comments made to those who were in the church - Col 1:13;
               1Th 2:12
            3) The description of those in the churches of Asia - Re 1:
               4,6,9
      4  It has a future element as well as a present one
         a. Its future aspect is spoken of by Jesus, Paul, Peter 
            - Mt 25:34; 1Co 15:50; 2Ti 4:18; 2Pe 1:10-11
         b. Peter described the coming of its future state in 2Pe 3:
            10-13

   B. THE KINGDOM IS THEREFORE BOTH PRESENT AND FUTURE...
      1. In the present sense...
         a. It is found wherever the sovereignty of God is accepted in
            the hearts of men
         b. It is a spiritual kingdom, for God rules in the hearts of
            men
         c. Its outward manifestation today is the Lord's church
         d. This rule or kingdom of God was "inaugurated" on the Day of
            Pentecost (Ac 2)
      2. In the future sense...
         a. The rule or kingdom of God will be "culminated" with the 
            coming of the Lord
         b. It will involve that "news heaven and a new earth in which
            righteousness dwells", described by Peter and John - 2 Pe 3; Re 21-22
         c. It will be experienced only by those in the church who are
            submitting to God's will today! - cf. Mt 7:21-23; 2Pe 3:
            13-14

[Submitting to the rule of God so that we become part of His church is
how one enters the kingdom of heaven, both present and future.  This 
leads to our second question...]

II. WHAT IS THE GREAT VALUE OF THIS KINGDOM?

   A. IT IS A REFUGE FROM THE POWERS OF DARKNESS - Col 1:13
      1. Outside the kingdom, one is in the kingdom of Satan! - Ep 2:
         1-3
         a. Under his influence
         b. Trapped in various sins
      2. In the kingdom of Christ, we find deliverance and refuge
         a. Set free from sin to serve God - Ro 6:17-18
         b. God will not allow us to be tempted beyond our ability to
            bear - 1Co 10:12-13

   B. IT IS A DOMAIN OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE AND JOY - Ro 14:17
      1. Righteousness which comes through faith in Christ - Php 3:8-9
      2. Peace from God through prayer which surpasses understanding 
         - Php 4:6-7
      3. Abiding joy in the Lord, no matter the circumstances - Php 4:4;
         2:17-19

   C. IT IS AN UNSHAKABLE KINGDOM - He 12:25-29
      1. It will never be destroyed - Dan 2:44
      2. Of this kingdom there will be no end - Lk 1:33
      3. It is truly an everlasting kingdom - 2Pe 1:10-11

   D. IT WILL BE PRESENTED TO GOD WHEN CHRIST RETURNS - 1Co 15:21-26
      1. At that time, those who are now "sons of the kingdom" will
         "shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father" 
         - Mt 13:41-43
      2. From then on, those in this kingdom will dwell in the presence
         of God - Re 21:1-7

[The value of this kingdom can be seen further as we consider our third
question...]

III. IS IT REALLY WORTH IT?

   A. IF I COULD HAVE SOME "SPECIAL GUESTS"...
      1. I would ask Stephen to say if he thought it was worth it 
         - cf. Ac 7:54-60
      2. I would ask the early Christians who joyfully accepted the
         plundering of their goods and eventually received the promise
         - Ac 8:1-4; He 10:32-36
      3. I would ask the apostle Paul - 2Ti 3:10-13; 4:6-8,18
      4. I would ask one of your loved ones, a friend or relative, who
         died in Christ
      -- I am confident that they would all say forcefully, "Yes! It is
         worth giving up all!"

   B. IF I COULD, I WOULD HAVE JESUS...
      1. Who gave up all to die on the cross - Php 2:5-8
      2. Who became "poor" that we might become "rich" - 2Co 8:9
      -- I am persuaded that as He showed you His pierced hands and
         feet, He would say with love and great urgency, "Yes! My 
         kingdom is worth giving up all!"

[But what exactly must we give up?  To put it another way...]

IV. WHAT WILL THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN COST US?

   A. WE MUST PAY THE PRICE...
      1. Of repentance - cf. Mk 1:15
      2. Of being born again - cf. Jn 3:3-5
         a. Involving both outward and inward submission to the will of
            Christ
         b. A submission that will affect our whole life
      3. Of putting the kingdom first - Mt 6:33
         a. Before our riches - Mk 10:23-25
         b. Before our families - Mk 10:28-31
         c. Before ourselves - Lk 9:23-26

   B. ARE WE WILLING TO PAY THE PRICE...
      1. Consider the parable of the dinner - Lk 14:15-24
      2. Are we guilty of the same?
         a. Putting financial concerns first?
         b. Putting family first?
      3. Our actions demonstrate whether we are willing to pay the 
         price; for example:
         a. Our devotion to the Word of God and prayer
         b. Our devotion to others in the church (kingdom) - He 10:
            24-25; Ro 15:1-3
         c. Our devotion to the lost - Col 1:28-29

CONCLUSION

1. The kingdom is truly one of great value...
   a. It was established through its purchase by the blood of Christ 
      - Ac 20:28
   b. Can we expect the Lord to accept anything less than our utmost
      devotion for the privilege of being in His eternal kingdom?
      1) We are admonished to walk in a manner worthy of the kingdom
         - 1Th 2:10-12
      2) But it may cost us greatly to be considered worthy - cf. 2 Th 1:4-5

2. Our actions will demonstrate whether we value the greatness of this
   kingdom...
   a. By whether or not we obey the gospel!
   b. By whether or not we remain zealous and faithful in our service
      to the God!

3. I hope that in some way I have persuaded you that any price we pay
   is worthy of "The Kingdom Of Great Value"

If you are convinced that it is, and desire assistance in becoming or
remaining a faithful "citizen" of the kingdom, then let us know...

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... The Family Of Jesus (12:46-50) 

                        "THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW"

                     The Family Of Jesus (12:46-50)

INTRODUCTION

1. A wonderful blessing is that of having a family...
   a. A source of love and acceptance
   b. A stronghold of support and encouragement

2. But we are not limited to the blessings of a physical family...
   a. Jesus hinted at the existence of an extended family - Mk 10:28-30
      1) A benefit of leaving all to follow Him
      2) Even if it meant leaving one's physical family
   b. He used another opportunity to describe that family - Mt 12:46-50
      1) As His physical family sought to speak to Him
      2) He described those who made up His "spiritual" family

3. In this study, I would like for us to...
   a. Review what we know about "The Family Of Jesus" (both physical
      and spiritual)
   b. Remind ourselves of the wonderful family we have in Jesus Christ

[Let's start by reviewing what we know about...]

I. HIS PHYSICAL FAMILY

   A. HIS MOTHER, MARY...
      1. A woman worthy of high esteem
         a. As praised by the angel Gabriel:
            1) "highly favored one...blessed are you among women" 
                - Lk 1:28
            2) "you have found favor with God" - Lk 1:30
         b. As praised by her cousin Elizabeth:
            1) "blessed are you among women" - Lk 1:42
            2) "Blessed is she who believed" - Lk 1:45
         c. As she came to realize herself:  "...henceforth all 
            generations will call me blessed." - Lk 1:48
      2. A mother of several children
         a. As implied in Mt 1:25
            1) Joseph did not "know" (a euphemism for sexual relations)
               with her "until" the birth of Jesus
            2) Jesus was her "firstborn Son", the term firstborn 
               implying there were more
         b. As explicitly stated in Mt 12:46-47; 13:54-56
            1) He had "brothers" and "sisters", the brothers being 
               named
            2) There is no indication in Scripture that these were 
               cousins, or children of Joseph by a previous marriage
      3. A mother who respected her Son
         a. She treasured His sayings in her heart - Lk 2:48-51
         b. She respected His authority - Jn 2:5
         c. She followed Him to the cross - Jn 19:25
         d. She continued with the disciples after His ascension 
            - Ac 1:14 (the last time she is mentioned in the Bible)
      -- She was the "only" person who really knew the identity of 
         Jesus; that she let her Son die on the cross is evidence that
         He was truly the Son of God!

   B. HIS BROTHERS AND SISTERS...
      1. Mentioned in Mt 13:55-56
         a. His brothers were James, Joses, Simon and Judas
         b. He had at least two sisters
      2. His brothers (and likely His sisters) did not believe in Him
         at first
         a. They even challenged Him on one occasion - Jn 7:2-5
         b. They thought Him crazy on another occasion - cf. Mk 3:21
      3. Yet after His resurrection they came to believe
         a. He appeared to James - 1Co 15:7
         b. They continued with the disciples - Ac 1:14
         c. His brother James:
            1) Became a prominent leader of the church in Jerusalem 
               - Ga 1:19; 2:9; Ac 15:6-21; 21:18-25
            2) Is likely the author of The Epistle of James
            3) Is said to have been martyred by being thrown off the
               pinnacle of the temple
         d. His brother Judas is considered by many as the author of
            The Epistle of Jude
         e. His brothers evidently were married and traveled about
            teaching - cf. 1Co 9:5
      -- The conversion of His physical brothers who were at first 
         skeptical is additional evidence supporting the claim of Jesus
         as the Son of God

[It must have been a wonderful privilege to be part of Jesus' physical
family, especially after they came to believe in Him.  But according to
our text (Mt 12:46-50), anyone can become a part of that family which
meant the most to Jesus...]

II. HIS SPIRITUAL FAMILY

   A. HIS DISCIPLES...
      1. Jesus used this opportunity to identify the disciples as His
         true family - Mt 12:48-49
      2. He then described anyone who "does the will of My Father in
         heaven" as His brother, sister, and mother - Mt 12:50
      3. Why would Jesus identify His disciples as His true family?
         a. Our physical families are only temporary
            1) Begun at birth, ending at death
            2) Just as death ends the marriage bond (cf. Ro 7:2-3), so
               it ends the familial tie
            -- Emotionally we might resist this notion, but the fact
               remains the same
         b. Physical unions do not always mean spiritual ones
            1) At the time Jesus spoke, His brothers did not believe in
               Him
            2) As often happens, family members do not always have the
               same interests, the same concerns
            3) Jesus taught that physical relatives might not accept
               the truth - Mt 10:34-37
   -- Thus the true "Family Of Jesus" are those who do His Father's
      Will

   B. THE CHURCH TODAY...
      1. Jesus told Peter that His disciples would have "a hundredfold"
         brothers, sisters, and mothers in this lifetime - Mk 10:28-30
      2. This is an allusion to the church, which is now "the household
         (family) of God" - 1Ti 3:15
      3. Jesus therefore offers those willing to "do My Father's will"
         the opportunity...
         a. To be born into the family of God - cf. 1Pe 1:22-23
         b. To enjoy God as our Father, Jesus as our "Elder Brother" 
            - cf. He 2:11-12
         c. To have countless thousands as brothers, sisters, mothers,
            fathers - cf. 1Ti 5:1-2
         d. To join a "family ring" which shall never be broken!
      4. But the key is to "do the Father's will"!
         a. Not only to become a member of the family of Jesus
         b. But to enter the kingdom of heaven in its future glory 
            - Mt 7:21-23
      5. For it is serving God that ties us together in Christ...
         a. Bind us together in love
         b. Uniting us with the same purpose, goals, desires
      -- The church of Jesus Christ, then, is the true "Family Of
         Jesus" today, and forever!

CONCLUSION

1. Who is our true family today?
   a. If it is only our physical family, we are setting ourselves up
      for a great disappointment
   b. If we want a family that will last for eternity, make sure that
      our bond is a spiritual one
      1) Joined together by a mutual faith in Christ
      2) Working together as we do the will of our Father in heaven
      -- Perhaps we can have the best of both worlds, where your
         physical family is also part of your spiritual family!

2. What have you done for your true family lately?
   a. Have you gotten to know your brothers and sisters in Christ?
   b. Are you growing in your love for them?
   c. Are you encouraging them to do the Father's will?
   -- May the teaching of Jesus in our text remind you who is truly
      your family!

Are you in the family of Jesus?  No matter what kind of physical family
you may have been born into, you have the opportunity by God's grace to
be born into the wonderful family of God...!

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... The Danger Of An Empty Home (Matthew 12:43-45) 

                        "THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW"

                 The Danger Of An Empty Home (12:43-45)

INTRODUCTION

1. In the text for our study (Mt 12:43-45), Jesus was describing the
   spiritual condition of the generation of His day...
   a. One already described as "evil and adulterous" - cf. Mt 12:38-39
   b. One that would be condemned by the Ninevites and the Queen of
      Sheba in the day of judgment - cf. Mt 12:41-42
   c. One He now described as "this wicked generation" - Mt 12:45

2. Using the example of demon possession, Jesus warned it is not enough
   to go through an initial period of repentance and removal of sin
   a. Unless reformation continues and something positive is put in
      place...
   b. The end might prove worse than the beginning!

3. Such had been the case with the Jews of Jesus' day...
   a. Many had repented at the preaching of John the Baptist - Mt 3:5-6
   b. Yet they eventually rejected Jesus and called for His crucifixion
      - Mt 27:20-26
   -- For them "the last state" was truly "worse than the first" - Mt 12:45

[There is an important lesson to be gleaned that applies to Christians
as well.  From what we learn here and elsewhere in the Scriptures, we
need to be aware of...]

I. THE DANGER OF AN EMPTY HOME

   A. OUR HEART IS LIKE A HOME...
      1. In it can reside things that produce much harm - cf. Mt 15:19
      2. But it can also be the source for much good - cf. Mt 12:35a

   B. WHEN WE COME TO CHRIST, OUR HOME IS CLEANSED...
      1. For our heart is cleansed - cf. He 10:22; Ac 15:8-9
      2. Our conscience is purged from dead works to serve God - He 9:
         14

   C. WE ARE EXPECTED TO "FILL" OUR HOME...
      1. Indeed, God gives us His Spirit to dwell in our hearts - Ga 4:6
      2. Through faith Christ Himself is to dwell in our hearts - cf. 
         Ep 3:17
      3. God's peace and grace are to fill our hearts - Col 3:15-16
      4. Even God's law is to be written in our hearts - He 8:10

   D. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE DO NOT "FILL" OUR HOME...
      1. Remember the maxim:  "Nature abhors a vacuum"
         a. If we do not make the effort to fill our home with good 
            things
         b. Then evil things are likely to return, and with a 
            vengeance!
      2. Consider the example of the Corinthians
         a. They had been washed, sanctified, and justified - 1Co 6:11
         b. Yet later they were engaged in sinful conduct once again 
            - 2Co 12:20-21
      3. Consider the example of the false teachers mentioned by 
         Peter...
         a. They had been bought by the Lord, and escaped the 
            pollutions of the world through Jesus Christ - 2Pe 2:1,20
         b. But they had become entangled again - 2Pe 2:20
         c. For them, "the latter end is worse for them than the 
            beginning" - 2Pe 2:20-22

   E. HOW THINGS CAN BECOME WORSE THAN AT THE FIRST...
      1. In the case of the false teachers, they had...
         a. Forsaken the right way - 2Pe 2:15
         b. Eyes full of adultery, hearts trained in covetousness 
            - 2Pe 2:14
         c. Become "cursed children", "brute beasts" - 2Pe 2:14,13
         d. Even denied the Lord who bought them - 2Pe 2:1
      2. In our case...
         a. Our hearts can become "hardened" - cf. He 3:12-13
            1) Before, the gospel had touched our hearts, moving us to
               repentance
            2) But once hardened, our hearts might not be willing to
               listen - cf. Mt 13:15
         b. We can become so hardened through willful sin that we...
            1) Trample the Son of God underfoot
            2) Count the blood of the covenant a common thing
            3) Insult the Spirit of grace - cf. He 10:26-29
         c. We can even reach the point...
            1) Where it become impossible to be renewed again to 
               repentance
            2) Where we are crucifying again the Son of God and putting
               Him to open shame - cf. He 6:4-6
         -- In such a case, how true the statement: "The last state of
            that man is worse than the first"!

[How important it is, then, that we do not let the home of our heart
remain empty and thus invite worldly things to take up residence.  To 
avoid this, here are some thoughts on...]

II. FILLING THE HOME OF YOUR HEART

   A. IN PRINCIPLE...
      1. Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts - 1Pe 3:15
         a. The word "sanctify" means to "set apart"
         b. Set a special place in your heart for God as the Ruler of
            your life
      2. Be selective as to what goes into your mind
         a. Set your mind on things above - Col 3:1-2
         b. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly - Col 3:16
         c. Follow the example of David - cf. Ps 101:3-4
         d. Think upon things that are good and wholesome - Php 4:8
      -- Remember, transformation of character begins with renewing the
         mind - Ro 12:1-2

   B. IN PRACTICE...
      1. Utilize every opportunity to study God's word - cf. 1Pe 2:1-2
         a. Attend all services of the church
         b. Participate in the Bible study programs that are offered
         c. Read your Bible daily - Ps 1:1-6
      2. Fill your heart with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs...
         a. For this is how you:
            1) Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly - Col 3:16
            2) Allow yourself to be filled with the Spirit - Ep 5:18-19
         b. Sing at church, at home, in the car; sing alone and with
            others
      3. Let your mind dwell on things that are worthy of praise and
         virtue - cf. Php 4:8
         a. Be selective about what you watch on television and in the
            movies
         b. Choose your books, periodicals, magazines, etc., carefully
      4. Choose your friends carefully - cf. 1Co 15:33
         a. They will either help you to be strong or hinder your 
            efforts - Pr 13:20
         b. We cannot have communion with darkness and expect the light
            of God to dwell in us! - cf. 2Co 6:14-7:1

CONCLUSION

1. What is the condition of your "home" (heart)?
   a. Are you are filling your "home" things that are good?
   b. If not, then your heart becomes an abode for every evil thing
   ...and the condition of your heart may become seven times worse than
      before!

2. Have you experienced the initial cleansing of your "home" (heart)?
   a. Have you been cleansed by the blood of Jesus, so that you are 
      washed, justified, and sanctified?
   b. If so, wonderful; but don't be deceived into thinking that you do
      not need to be concerned about filling that dwelling with the 
      presence of God and all that is good!
   ...or it may one day be said of you: "the last state of that man is
      worse than the first"

If you have never been cleansed by the blood of Christ, then may these
words spoken to Paul at his conversion move you to respond:

   "And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash
   away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord." (Ac 22:16)

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Condemned By Others (Matthew 12:41-42) 

                        "THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW"

                     Condemned By Others (12:41-42)

INTRODUCTION

1. On the day of Judgment, we will all be judged by Jesus Christ...
   a. It is before Him that we must appear - 2Co 5:10
   b. It is by His words that we shall be condemned - Jn 12:48

2. But Jesus also spoke of some rising at the judgment and condemning 
   others...
   a. The men of Nineveh condemning the generation of Jews in Jesus' 
      day - Mt 12:41
   b. Likewise the Queen of the South - Mt 12:42

3. This makes me wonder...
   a. Will there be some who will rise at the judgment to condemn us?
   b. What would the men of Nineveh and the Queen of the South say
      about us?

[Perhaps from Jesus' words in Mt 12:41-42 we can glean some points that
ought to make us think soberly about our service to God, and whether we
too will be "Condemned By Others".

Let's first notice what is said about...]

I. THE GENERATION OF JESUS' DAY

   A. TO BE CONDEMNED BY THE MEN OF NINEVEH...
      1. This refers to the Ninevites in Jonah's day - Mt 12:41
         a. To whom Jonah was sent with a message of destruction 
            - Jonah 3:1-4
         b. Who were quick to repent at the preaching of Jonah - Jonah 3:5-10
      2. They will rise to condemn the Jews of Jesus' day
         a. Because the Ninevites repented....
            1) And they were only given 40 days
            2) While the Jews were given about 40 years (before the
               destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70)
         b. Because the Jews had one greater than Jonah preach to 
            them...
            1) Jonah was a reluctant prophet, who became angry when God
               relented of the destruction to come upon Nineveh - Jonah 1:1-3; 3:10-4:3
            2) Jesus was a compassionate prophet, who lamented over His
               people Israel - cf. Mt 23:37-38; Lk 19:41-44

   B. TO BE CONDEMNED BY THE QUEEN OF THE SOUTH...
      1. This refers to the Queen of Sheba - Mt 12:42
         a. Who traveled great distances ("from the ends of the earth")
            to see Solomon - 1Ki 10:1
         b. She brought a great caravan of spices, gold, and precious
            stones - 1Ki 10:2
         c. Who praised God for the wisdom given to Solomon - 1Ki 10:
            3-9
         d. Who honored Solomon with great gifts - 1Ki 10:10
      2. She will rise to condemn the Jews of Jesus' day
         a. Because the Queen was willing to travel...
            1) A great distance to see Solomon
            2) While many Jews were unwilling to follow Jesus
         b. Because the Jews had one greater than Solomon teach them...
            1) Solomon certainly was the wisest man of his day - 1 Kin 4:29-34
            2) But Jesus possessed "all the treasures of wisdom and 
               knowledge" - Col 2:3

[The Ninevites and the Queen of Sheba will judge the Jews of Jesus' day
because they showed less interest and willingness to heed even though
they had a much greater opportunity.  Again, this makes me wonder...]

II. HOW ABOUT OUR GENERATION TODAY?

   A. WILL THE MEN OF NINEVEH CONDEMN US?
      1. They were quick to repent after hearing the one message of
         Jonah...
         a. How many sermons have we heard, yet failed to repent?
         b. They were given but forty days, how many years has God
            given us to repent?
      2. They repented when all they had was a simple message...
         a. We have God's full and final revelation, written and 
            preserved for us
         b. We have God's word, revealed through His Son and His 
            apostles
         c. We have likely had the blessing of parents, teachers, 
            preachers, and many other Christians encouraging us to live
            for God
      -- If we do not heed the message of Jesus Christ, don't you think
         the Ninevites will consider us foolish on the day of judgment?

   B. WILL THE QUEEN OF THE SOUTH CONDEMN US?
      1. She was willing to travel a great distance to hear Solomon...
         a. Have we been unwilling to travel a short distance to hear
            the words of Christ proclaimed?
         b. She traveled on camels through desert for months at great
            risk, yet some won't travel in air-conditioned cars for an
            hour or less when there is only minimal risk
      2. She highly valued Solomon's wisdom, giving great gifts to 
         him...
         a. Do we value the wisdom of the Son of God?
         b. Are we willing to offer the gifts of our time and energy to
            learn the wisdom of Christ as revealed in His word?
      -- If we are unwilling to learn the will of Christ for us today,
         will not the Queen of Sheba consider us foolish on the day of
         judgment?

   C. WILL EVEN MORE RECENT GENERATIONS CONDEMN US?
      1. Think of those in the nineteenth century...
         a. Who often traveled by wagon or horseback for hours to hear
            God's word
         b. Who sat on logs, in brush arbors or under tents
      2. Think of those in the first half of the twentieth century...
         a. Who sat in hot, un-airconditioned buildings
         b. Who went to protracted meetings every night, often for
            three or more weeks
      3. Think of those who struggled to come out of Denominationalism
         a. Studying God's Word carefully to learn the simplicity of
            New Testament Christianity
         b. Often making the difficult decision to leave family and 
            friends to follow the way of Christ
      -- If we balk at attending services regularly, taking advantages
         of gospel meetings and Bible studies offered in nice, 
         comfortable buildings, will not those who preceded us think us
         foolish on the day of judgment?

CONCLUSION

1. As Jesus said to His disciples on another occasion: "But blessed are
   your eyes for they see, and your ears for they hear; for assuredly,
   I say to you that many prophets and righteous men desired to see
   what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and
   did not hear it." (Mt 13:17)

2. Indeed, we are richly blessed...
   a. We have the message of salvation offered by One greater than
      Jonah
   b. We have the wisdom of God taught by One greater than Solomon
   -- Don't you think that the Ninevites and the Queen of the South
      would have loved to have what we enjoy today?

3. Don't forget the maxim: "For everyone to whom much is given, from
   him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of
   him they will ask the more." (Lk 12:48)

Unless we wish to be "Condemned By Others" on the day of judgment, let
us utilize the blessings given to us through Christ, and expend 
whatever effort necessary to learn and heed His wonderful message!

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... Every Idle Word (Matthew 12:36-37) 

                        "THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW"

                       Every Idle Word (12:36-37)

INTRODUCTION

1. The standards of God are much different than those of the world
   - cf. Isa 55:8,9

2. A striking example of this difference pertains to one's speech...
   a. The world thinks lightly of certain kinds of speech (e.g., 
      allowing profane speech in the name of free speech)
   b. Whereas Jesus taught us to take all speech seriously - Mt 12:
      36-37

3. Speech is important, for it reveals the heart of man...
   a. Out of the abundance of heart the mouth speaks - Mt 12:34
   b. Thus speech reveals the sort of treasure stored in the heart of
      man - Mt 12:35

4. For this reason...
   a. Our very words will be taken into account on the day of judgment!
   b. We ought to give careful thought concerning the words we use
   c. It is imperative that our speech be in keeping with God's
      standard and not the world's!

[In this lesson, we shall review what the Bible teaches concerning 
acceptable and unacceptable speech.  We begin by cataloging some types
of speech that are condemned in the Scriptures...]

I. IDLE WORDS FOR WHICH WE SHALL BE JUDGED

   A. SOME OBVIOUS EXAMPLES OF UNACCEPTABLE SPEECH...
      1. Using the Lord's name in vain - Exo 20:7
         a. That is, without an attitude of sincere reverence
         b. One can be guilty of this in two ways:
            1) Using the Lord's name in swearing or cursing
            2) Using vain repetitions of His name
         c. Applies also to the name of Jesus, for His name is to be
            held in honor - Php 2:9-11
      2. Words that are evil - cf. 1Pe 3:10
         a. Lying words, or those that cause trouble among brethren 
            - Pr 6:16-19
         b. Deceitful words - Ro 16:18
         c. Filthy language - Ep 5:4

   B. OTHER EXAMPLES OF UNACCEPTABLE SPEECH...
      1. The overuse of words - Jm 1:26; Pr 10:19; 13:3
      2. Words spoken in haste - Pr 29:20; cf. Jm 1:19
      3. Speaking evil of others
         a. Of those in authority - Exo 22:28; Jude 8
         b. Of those around us - Mt 5:21-22
         -- Such speech is known as reviling, and is clearly condemned
            - 1Co 6:9-10
      4. Flattery - Ps 12:1-4; cf. Ro 16:18
      5. Rash oaths - Mt 5:33-37; Jm 5:12
      6. Any unwholesome word - cf. Ep 4:29
         a. Including some euphemisms (An inoffensive expression 
            substituted for one considered offensive)
         b. Some examples of euphemisms (darn, shoot, gosh, gee)
         c. What is wrong with such expressions?
            1) They mean the same thing as the more offensive words
            2) It is the same wrongful emotions behind the euphemism or
               its equivalent
            3) They reflect an attitude of heart contrary to the proper
               spirit of Christian conduct - cf. Ep 4:31-32; Col 3:8-15

[Often our speech is one of habit...but such habits reflect "the
abundance of the heart", i.e., what has been allowed to reside in the
heart and reveal the true nature of our hearts when so used.  As we
attempt to store up "good treasure" in our heart (cf. Mt 12:35), here
are...]

II. SOME PRINCIPLES OF ACCEPTABLE SPEECH

   A. TWO BASIC GUIDELINES...
      1. Our speech should lead to edification  - Ep 4:29
         a. That which encourages and builds up 
         b. That which extends grace to others - cf. Col 4:6
            1) E.g., words which cool down heated conversations - Pro 15:1
            2) E.g., words that are a delight to those who hear - Pro 15:4,23; 25:11
      2. Our speech should be characterized with thankfulness - Ep 5:
         3-4
         a. An attitude becoming of saints - cf. Col 1:12; 2:7; 3:15,17;
            4:2
         b. While murmuring and complaining is not becoming - cf. Php 2:14-15

   B. SUCH SPEECH REQUIRES FORETHOUGHT...
      1. The righteous will give careful thought to his speech - Pro 15:28
      2. The righteous will be concerned about what comes out of his
         mouth
         a. For he knows that his speech reflects the true condition of
            the heart - Mt 12:34-35; 15:17-20
         b. And he looks to God for help, even accepting the rebuke of
            others - Ps 141:3-5

CONCLUSION

1. It has been my purpose...
   a. To remind us of Jesus' words in Mt 12:36-37
   b. To raise our awareness of how easy it is to sin in our speech
   c. To remind us of the graceful speech that should proceed from our
      mouths

2. I hope I have stimulated your thinking to give careful consideration
   to God's standard; may each of us possess the same desire as that 
   expressed in the prayer of the Psalmist:

   "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
      Be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer."
                                                        (Ps 19:14)

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Mark Copeland... The Savior's Tender Invitation (Matthew 11:28-30) 

                        "THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW"

               The Savior's Tender Invitation (11:28-30)

INTRODUCTION

1. In the text for our study today, we find a wonderful invitation 
   extended by Jesus...

   "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give
   you rest.  Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle
   and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My
   yoke is easy and My burden is light." (Matthew 11:28-30)

2. From heaven Jesus still offers this tender invitation; but do we 
   really understand and appreciate...
   a. To whom Jesus extends this invitation?
   b. What He offers to those who will accept it?
   c. What He expects from those who desire to respond?
   d. The true ease of accepting this invitation?

[These are some of the questions we shall consider as we examine what
has been called "The Savior's Tender Invitation"...]

I. TO WHOM DOES JESUS EXTEND THIS INVITATION?

   A. "ALL YOU WHO LABOR AND ARE HEAVY LADEN..."
      1. To those who are burdened by sin
         a. A burden which separates one from God - cf. Isa 59:1-2
         b. A burden with terrible side effects
            1) A lack of inner peace - Isa 48:22
            2) Instead, one is burdened with anxiety, depression, fear
               and doubt
            3) And rightly so, in view of the ultimate consequence of
               sin (spiritual death) - Ro 6:23a
      2. This invitation, then, is really for everyone!
         a. For all are sinners! - Ro 3:23,10
         b. And as such are in bondage to sin and its heavy burden 
            - Jn 8:34

   B. SADLY, MANY ARE TOO PROUD TO ADMIT THEIR BURDEN...
      1. That they are sinners
      2. That they are enslaved by sin and its burden
      3. That they need Divine help to freed from the burden of sin

[If you are not too proud to face the fact that you are a sinner and
need Divine help, then "The Savior's Tender Invitation" is especially
designed for you!  But perhaps you wonder...]

II. WHAT IS JESUS OFFERING?

   A. "I WILL GIVE YOU REST...YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS"
      1. Jesus is offering rest for our souls!
      2. Souls which have been burdened by:
         a. The guilt of sin, which separates from God (i.e., legal 
            guilt)
         b. The side effects of sin, such as anxiety, depression, fear
            and doubt (i.e., emotional guilt)

   B. JESUS OFFERS REST...
      1. Which includes a removal of the guilt of sin!
         a. For by God's own love and grace, forgiveness of sin is now
            possible through Jesus - cf. Ro 5:8-9; 1Jn 4:10; Ep 1:7
         b. Through His own blood, Jesus frees us from the condemnation
            of sin - Ro 8:1
      2. Which includes a removal of the side effects of sin!
         a. To have true rest for our souls, we need more than just
            forgiveness
            1) For even those forgiven may be plagued by the side 
               effects of sin 
            2) Having lived so long under the burden of sin, it may not
               be easy to lay aside those feelings which often 
               accompany sin (e.g., anxiety, fear, doubt)
         b. Jesus certainly provides what our souls need...
            1) To remove anxiety, Jesus offers peace to calm the
               troubled heart
               a) A peace unlike any that the world might give - Jn 14:
                  27
               b) A peace stronger than any tribulation the world might
                  bring - Jn 16:33
               c) A peace which guards our hearts and minds, and 
                  "surpasses all understanding" - Php 4:7
            2) To remove depression, Jesus offers joy to lift our
               spirits
               a) The same joy Jesus Himself had - Jn 15:11
               b) A joy later described as "inexpressible" - 1Pe 1:8
            3) To remove fear, Jesus offers love which casts out fear
               - 1Jn 4:18
               a) The same love which exists between the Father and the
                  Son - Jn 15:9
               b) A love which "passes knowledge" - Ep 3:19
            4) To remove doubt, Jesus offers hope for facing the future
               a) By assuring us of eternal life - Jn 11:25
               b) By promising eternal rest to those who die in the 
                  Lord - Re 14:13

[I have not exhausted all that pertains to the wonderful rest Jesus
offers, but it is...

   * A rest from the burden of sin's guilt, and a rest from the burden
     of sin's side effects!

   * A rest for our burdened souls now, and eternal rest for our souls
     when we die!

Incidentally, even physical burdens are made lighter by coming to 
Jesus, because the soul is made stronger to bear them!  This sounds 
wonderful, but...]

III. WHAT DOES JESUS EXPECT OF THOSE WHO WISH TO RESPOND?

   A. "COME TO ME..."
      1. This is easy, even though Jesus is "King of kings and Lord of
         lords"
      2. For as He says, "I am gentle and lowly in heart"
         a. He is so gentle, children felt comfortable in His presence
            (cf. Mt 18:2)
         b. He is so lowly in heart, the common people heard Him gladly
            (cf. Mk 12:37)
      -- As prophesied, Jesus would be tender and sensitive to our 
         needs ("A bruised reed He will not break, and smoking flax He
         will not quench" - Isa 42:3; Mt 12:20)

   B. "TAKE MY YOKE UPON YOU..."
      1. "In Jewish literature a 'yoke' represents the sum-total of
         obligations which, according to the teaching of the rabbis,
         a person must take upon himself." - William Hendriksen
         (Matthew, New Testament Commentary)
      2. Jesus is therefore expecting those who desire the rest He 
         offers to:
         a. Accept His teachings
         b. Accept whatever obligations He would lay upon you

   C. "...AND LEARN FROM ME"
      1. This is how we learn what obligations He would place upon us
      2. We must be willing to listen to Him, and do whatever He says
         - cf. Lk 6:46-49

[In essence, "The Savior's Tender Invitation" is a call to 
discipleship:  to commit your life as a disciple of Jesus, committed to
learning from Him and accepting the obligations He places upon you 
(i.e., "His yoke").  This might prompt one to ask...]

IV. HOW DIFFICULT IS IT TO ACCEPT THIS INVITATION?

   A. AS JESUS TAUGHT ELSEWHERE, IT DOES REQUIRE...
      1. That we observe all that He commanded - Mt 28:19-20
      2. That we abide in His doctrine (teaching) - Jn 8:31

   B. BUT AS STATED HERE, "MY YOKE IS EASY AND MY BURDEN IS LIGHT"
      1. John, who was a disciple for over fifty years, said:  "His
         commandments are not grievous" - 1Jn 5:3
      2. What helps lighten our burden is the strength Jesus Himself
         gives - Php 2:12-13; 4:13
      -- Certainly the burden Jesus places upon us is lighter than the
         burden sin lays upon us!

CONCLUSION

1. Do you desire the rest for your soul that is offered by "The 
   Savior's Tender Invitation"?
   a. Then come to Jesus in full obedience to His gospel
   b. Commit to becoming His disciple, learning from Him all that He
      commanded

2. As suggested in Mt 28:19-20, this life of discipleship begins with
   baptism...
   a. For in baptism we put on Christ - Ga 3:27
   b. For in baptism we rise to walk in newness of life - Ro 6:3-4

As one rises from the watery grave of baptism, they are freed from the
burden of sin through the precious blood of Christ.  As they continue
to observe all that He commanded, their burden becomes even lighter as
they apply to their lives the wisdom Jesus taught.  

Have you accepted the yoke of Jesus?  Are you living under that yoke?

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Gary... One of my favorites...
























I imagine that most of us have our favorite books of the Bible; I do!!!  And the book of Esther is in my top ten. Why? Well, I just like the story.  Especially this verse from chapter 4. Again, Why? Because of Esther's commitment to the will of God.  How can I be like her?  Read on...

2 Corinthians 8:5 (WEB)
5 This was not as we had hoped, but first they gave their own selves to the Lord, and to us through the will of God.

Sounds almost too simplistic, doesn't it?  But, not everything HAS to be complicated, intricate or confusing!!!  To want to please God because you love HIM- and to be willing to do as HE would want you to, that sums being a Christian, doesn't it?  Great concept; now- JUST DO IT, Gary!!!  Think about it, all this COULD apply to you as well!!!
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