INTRODUCTION 1. In Mic 6:6-8, the prophet Micah raises and answers a question... a. What does the Lord require of you? b. To do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God 2. In this lesson, I would like to rephrase and answer the question... a. What does Jesus require of you? b. Letting the words of Jesus Himself to answer [Beginning with Jesus’ words in Lk 24:46-47, one can rightly say that Jesus requires you...] I. TO REPENT OF SIN A. THE COMMAND TO REPENT OF SIN... 1. Was proclaimed by Jesus during His ministry - Mt 4:17; Lk 13:3,5 2. Was preached by His apostles as they fulfilled His commission - Ac 3:19; 17:30-31 -- Jesus clearly requires people to repent! B. WHAT IT MEANS TO REPENT... 1. Repent: primarily, to change one’s mind - BDAG 2. To change one’s way of life as the result of a complete change of thought and attitude with regard to sin and righteousness - Louw Nida 3. A decision prompted by godly sorrow for one’s sins - 2Co 7:9-10 4. A decision demonstrated by fervent change in conduct - 2Co 7:11 -- Have you expressed godly sorrow for your sin, with a fervent desire to change? [Turning to Mark’s account of the Great Commission in Mk 16:15-16, one can rightly say that Jesus requires you...] II. TO BELIEVE AND BE BAPTIZED A. THE COMMAND TO BELIEVE AND BE BAPTIZED... 1. The command to believe is foundational to the gospel message - Jn 3:16; 8:24; 20:30-31 2. Likewise the command to be baptized - Ac 2:38; 10:48; 22:16 -- Jesus clearly requires people to believe and be baptized! B. WHAT IT MEANS TO BELIEVE AND BE BAPTIZED... 1. To place your faith in Jesus, that He died for your sins - Jn 1:29 2. To place your faith in God, that in baptism He will raise you together with Christ, having forgiven you of your sins - Col 2:11-13; Ro 6:3-7 3. Consider the example of the Ethiopian eunuch - Ac 8:35-38 -- Have you placed your trust in Jesus, dying with Him to sin in baptism and rising with Him from baptism to a new life? [From Matthew’s account of the Great Commission in Mt 28:18-20, we learn that Jesus requires you...] III. TO BECOME HIS DISCIPLE A. THE COMMAND TO BECOME HIS DISCIPLE... 1. Was expressed earlier as a tender invitation - Mt 11:28-30 2. Begins with the act of baptism mentioned before - Mt 28:19 -- Jesus clearly requires people to become His disciples! B. WHAT IT MEANS TO BE HIS DISCIPLE... 1. Disciple: one who engages in learning through instruction from another, pupil, apprentice - BDAG 2. A disciple fully trained will be like his teacher - Lk 6:40 3. It requires abiding in Jesus’ words, loving one another, bearing fruit - Jn 8:31; 13:35; 15:8 4. It requires denying self, forsaking all - Lk 14:26,33 -- Have you made the commitment to follow and learn from Jesus as His disciple? [Turning now to the words of Jesus to the seven churches in Asia (cf. Re 2:10), we learn that Jesus requires you...] IV. TO BE FAITHFUL UNTIL DEATH A. THE COMMAND TO BE FAITHFUL UNTIL DEATH... 1. Is necessary because Jesus knew some would fall away - Lk 8:13-14 2. Is necessary because one can develop a heart of unbelief - He 3:12-14 -- Jesus clearly requires people to remain faithful as His disciples! B. WHAT IT MEANS TO REMAIN FAITHFUL... 1. To retain our "first love" - Re 2:4 2. To reject all false doctrines - Re 2:14-15 3. To maintain our zeal for the Lord - Re 3:15-16 -- Have you maintained that initial love and zeal you had when you became a Christian? [Finally, again from the words of Jesus to the seven churches of Asia, we learn that Jesus requires you...] V. TO REPENT IF NECESSARY A. THE NEED TO REPENT AS CHRISTIANS... 1. Repeated by Jesus time and again - Re 2:5,16; 3:3,19 2. Expressed by Paul writing to the church at Corinth - 2Co 12:20-21 -- Jesus clearly requires His disciples to repent when necessary! B. WHAT IT MEANS TO REPENT... 1. What we said before: a decision prompted by godly sorrow, demonstrated by fervent change 2. For the Christian it includes prayer, confessing one’s sin - Ac 8:22; 1Jn 1:9 -- If your faith and service ever wavered, have you repented with fervent zeal? CONCLUSION 1. In our lesson we have come full circle (repent-repent)... a. Jesus wants every lost soul to repent and obey the gospel in faith and baptism b. Jesus wants every wayward disciple to repent and be zealous in their service to Him 2. Have you done what Jesus requires of you...? a. If you need to repent and obey the gospel, let us assist you! b. If you need to repent and return to the Lord, let us pray with you! Surely the salvation of your soul and committed discipleship is what Jesus requires of you today...!
Monday 5 January 2015
What does Jesus Require of You?
What can kill a Church
INTRODUCTION 1. In Re 3:1, the church at Sardis was described as a "dead" church... 2. This reveals that churches can die - and they often do... a. Where are the congregations we read of in the New Testament? b. At some point in their history, they died 3. There are at least two ways a church may die... a. It may cease to exist b. It may die inwardly, even while it still lives outwardly 4. What can kill a church? a. Are we aware of the different weapons Satan can use to destroy us? b. Are there things that threaten our very existence even now? [In this lesson, "What Can Kill A Church", we will examine four things that can jeopardize any congregation of God's people. The first is perhaps a rather obvious one...] I. PERSECUTION A. SATAN HAS OFTEN RESORTED TO PHYSICAL PERSECUTION... 1. E.g., against the church at Smyrna - Re 2:9,10 2. Indeed, he did so against many churches in the first century - 1Pe 5:8-9 -- We should not be surprised if he does so today - 1Pe 4:12 B. PEOPLE RESPOND TO PERSECUTION DIFFERENTLY... 1. Some are silenced by it - cf. Jn 12:42-43 2. Others rejoice in it - Ac 5:41-42; Ro 5:1-5; Jm 1:2-3 C. HOW WE REACT WILL DETERMINE OUR FUTURE AS A CHURCH... 1. A church that is silenced by persecution will soon die 2. A church that rejoices in persecution will not go unnoticed by the Lord - Mt 5:11-12 a. As the Lord took note of the church in Pergamos - Re 2:13 b. As the Lord took note of those in Philadelphia - Re 3:8 [But persecution is not the only weapon in Satan's arsenal; when a congregation resists persecution, he will often seek to kill it through another means...] II. FALSE TEACHING A. SATAN HAS USED THIS TACTIC TO THREATEN MANY CHURCHES... 1. It threatened the church at Ephesus, but they had overcome - Re 2:2,6 2. It threatened the church at Pergamos, who while handling persecution faithfully, they were floundering with error in their midst - Re 2:13-15 -- Both Paul and Peter warned of the danger of error - Ac 20: 29-30; 2Pe 2:1-2 B. TWO THINGS ARE NECESSARY IN GUARDING AGAINST ERROR... 1. We must not turn away from sound doctrine - 2Ti 4:3-4 a. Sound doctrine involves preaching the word, which includes both negative ("rebuke") and positive ("exhort") elements - 2Ti 4:1-2 b. We must beware of "pop" preaching which simply entertains rather than instructs 2. We must not support those who teach contrary to the doctrine of Christ - 2Jn 9-11 [When a church stands strong against persecution and false doctrine, that is certainly a good sign; but that does not mean Satan cannot yet kill it. Many "sound" churches have been destroyed by one of two more tools used by Satan. The first of these is...] III. WORLDLINESS A. WORLDLINESS INCLUDES IMMORALITY AND MATERIALISM... 1. Immorality is the lust of the flesh 2. Materialism involves the lust of the eyes -- Both are included in "the love of the world"- 1Jn 2:15-17 B. SATAN USES WORLDLINESS TO DESTROY CHURCHES... 1. E.g., the church at Thyatira was threatened by the influence of Jezebel - Re 2:20-23 2. Immorality has made havoc of many churches today 3. Materialism has drawn many Christians away from their service to the Lord -- Churches are hindered when their members are rendered fruitless by worldliness - cf. Lk 8:14 C. TO WARD OFF WORLDLINESS... 1. We must have "the love of the Father" - 1Jn 2:15-17; cf. Jm 4:4 2. We must not be conformed to this world, but transformed by the renewing of our minds - Ro 12:1-2 3. We must "watch and pray" - cf. Lk 21:34-36 [A church that is "sound" on certain issues can still be a dead or dying church if worldliness is allowed to infect its members. A similar spiritual malady that Satan can use to destroy churches is...] IV. INDIFFERENCE A. A SUBTLE, YET EFFECTIVE WEAPON USED BY SATAN... 1. It jeopardized the standing of the church at Ephesus, who had left their "first love" - Re 2:4 2. It characterized the church at Laodicea, making it almost repulsive to Christ - Re 3:15-17 -- We do not have to oppose the church to kill it, just be slothful and indifferent! - cf. Pr 18:9; Mt 12:30 B. SYMPTOMS OF INDIFFERENCE... 1. Irregular attendance of services 2. Lack of participation in the services (worship, Bible classes) 3. Consistently arriving late to services 4. Waning efforts to win souls to Christ 5. No personal and private devotions (Bible study and prayers) C. FERVENT SERVICE IS THE ONLY ANTIDOTE TO INDIFFERENCE... 1. We must not grow weary in doing good - Ga 6:9 2. We must be diligent, and not become sluggish - He 6:11-12 3. We must hold fast the hope we confess by encouraging one another - He 10:24-25 CONCLUSION 1. While there might be more ways to kill a church, these four are certainly effective: a. Persecution b. False teaching c. Worldliness d. Indifference 2. What about this congregation? Is Satan making any progress in killing us? a. We might be free from physical persecution, and be known as a "sound" church b. But is worldliness and indifference taking its toll? 3. To be forewarned is to be forearmed... a. We need to be honest with ourselves - are we vulnerable in some areas? b. Don't let the Great Deceiver succeed in deceiving us! May we each do our part in bolstering our defenses against the one who seeks to destroy us! As Paul wrote: "lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices." (2Co 2:11)
Should we be concerned about the Poor?
INTRODUCTION 1. The early Christians demonstrated great liberality toward the poor, especially brethren... a. The church at Jerusalem - Ac 2:44-45; 4:34-37 b. The church at Antioch - Ac 11:27-30 c. The churches of Macedonia - 2Co 8:1-4 2. Paul in particular was engaged in helping poor Christians... a. He was asked to remember the poor - Ga 2:9-10 b. He instructed churches on how to take up a collection - 1Co 16: 1-4 c. He accompanied such a collection to the needy saints in Jerusalem - Ro 15:25-26 -- It can truly be said that the early church did "remember the poor" 3. Today, some are more likely to revile the poor than remember them... a. If someone is poor asking for help, they are assumed to be lazy b. If inclined to help, the poor are expected to earn what they are given 4. Yet God has chosen to bless the poor... a. In the words of Jesus - Lk 6:20 b. In the words of James - Jm 2:5 [Therefore a Biblical study on the subject of the poor and poverty can be beneficial, lest we fall short in our duty to "remember the poor". Let's start with...] I. UNDERSTANDING THE POOR AND POVERTY A. THOSE WHO ARE POOR... 1. Includes those who may have absolutely nothing, or very little - cf. Mk 12:41-44 2. Also those who have enough to offer meager sacrifices - cf. Lev 14:21-22 -- One does not have to be completely destitute to be considered 'poor' B. CAUSES OF POVERTY... 1. Sometimes it is due to sinful actions on the part of the individual a. Laziness - Pr 6:6-11 b. Refusing to heed correction - Pr 13:18 c. Pleasure seeking - Pr 21:17 d. Drunkenness, gluttony - Pr 23:21 2. Other times it is due to sinful actions of other men a. Usury and extortion - Pr 28:8 b. Greed - Isa 3:14-15 c. Unfair labor practices - Jer 22:13 d. Oppression - Am 4:1 e. Persecution - 2Co 8:1-2; He 10:32-34 3. It can also be due to natural disasters a. Plague, economic depression, war b. Hurricane, earthquake, tsunami 4. It may be due to God's chastisement a. As was the case in Haggai's day - Hag 1:5-11 b. Again in the days of Malachi - Mal 3:8-12 5. It can be due to voluntary choice a. As in the case of Jesus - Lk 9:57-58 b. As in the case of His apostles - Mk 10:28; 2Co 6:10 -- One cannot assume that poverty is due to laziness or wickedness [Poverty has many causes, and both Moses and Jesus taught the poor would be with us (Deut 15:11; Mt 26:11). God hears the cries of the poor (Psa 69:33), and it is interesting to note how He made provision for them in both the Old and New Testament...] II. PROVISION FOR THE POOR IN THE LAW A. AS CHARGED BY MOSES... 1. The poor were not to be charged interest - Exo 22:25; Lev 25: 35-38 2. The fruit of fallow ground during the seventh year was for the poor - Exo 23:10-11 3. They were allowed to glean the fields after the harvest - Lev 19:9-10; Deut 24:19-22 4. They could satisfy their hunger in the vineyards and grain fields- Deut 23:24-25; Lk 6:1 5. The tithe for the third year was reserved for special groups of the poor - Deut 14:28-29 6. Debts were to be canceled every seven years - Deut 15:1-4 7. Hebrew slaves had to be set free after six years - Deut 15:12-15 -- Israel was charged to be careful in their attitude toward the poor - Deut 15:7-11 B. AS COUNSELED BY SOLOMON... 1. Happy is the one who shows mercy to the poor - Pr 14:21 2. He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker - Pr 14:31 3. He who mocks the poor reproaches his Maker - Pr 17:5 4. He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord who will pay him back - Pr 19:17 5. Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor, will cry and not be heard - Pr 21:13 6. The person with a generous eye will be blessed, having given to the poor - Pr 22:9 7. He who gives to the poor will not lack, But he who hides his eyes will have many curses - Pr 28:27 8. The virtuous woman extends her hand to the poor, and reaches her hands out to the needy - Pr 31:20 -- Such concern for the poor is a mark of righteousness and wisdom - Pr 29:7 [If the Law of Moses displayed such concern and provision for the poor, we should not be surprised to find a similar concern and provision in the gospel of Christ...] III. PROVISION FOR THE POOR IN THE GOSPEL A. AS COMMANDED BY JESUS... 1. In His sermon on the mount - Mt 5:42 2. In His sermon on the plain - Lk 6:34-36 3. In His words to one who invited Him into his home - Lk 14:12-14 -- Jesus taught we should be willing to help the poor B. AS CHARGED BY HIS APOSTLES AND PROPHETS... 1. Paul, in several of his epistles - Ro 12:13; 1Ti 6:17-19 2. The writer of the epistle to the Hebrews - He 13:16 3. James, in describing pure and undefiled religion before God - Jm 1:27 4. John, in describing the love of God, exemplified by Jesus - 1Jn 3:16-19 5. For needy Christians, churches were charged how to provide aid a. With a weekly collection, as one prospers - 1Co 16:1-2 b. With thoughtful purpose, and a cheerful heart - 2Co 9:1,7 6. Yet the local church most not be burdened (for its mission is spiritual, not social)... a. Individuals are to fulfill their familial duties - 1Ti 5:16 b. Individuals have their duty to be a 'good Samaritan' - cf. Lk 10:29-37 -- As we have opportunity, we have the duty to do good unto all men - Ga 6:10 CONCLUSION 1. Can we not see why the early Christians were so diligent to help the poor...? a. They were not only obeying the commandments of Jesus and His apostles b. They were also displaying compassion that has always characterized the people of God 2. There are certainly good reasons to "remember the poor"... a. Those who do are blessed by the Lord - Ps 41:1-3 b. God has chosen the poor to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom - Jm 2:5 3. What can we do to remember the poor...? a. Give liberally to the church, for the benefit of needy Christians b. Give liberally to charitable organizations, to help others who may be in need Let's honor God and glorify Christ by remembering the poor... "Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith." - Gal 6:10
The Virtue of Punctuality
INTRODUCTION
1. A longtime concern of mine has been the lack of appreciation
regarding punctuality...
a. "the quality or habit of adhering to an appointed time"
b. "strict observance in keeping engagements, promptness; antonym:
tardiness"
2. Especially as it relates to arriving on time for services of the
church...
a. Not the occasional lateness due to unforeseen circumstances
b. But the habitual practice of being late due to a lack of concern
of being on time
3. Is there a need for concern regarding the lack of punctuality...?
a. Evidently not in the mind of many Christians
b. Yet I believe it has an adverse effect on the spiritual growth and
health of a congregation
[To appreciate the basis for my concern, let's first consider some...]
I. VOICES ON POSSESSING PUNCTUALITY
A. SOME DO NOT TAKE IT SERIOUSLY...
1. "The trouble with being punctual is that nobody's there to
appreciate it." - Franklin Jones
2. "I am a believer in punctuality though it makes me very
lonely." - E. V. Verrall
3. "Laugh and the world laughs with you, be prompt and you dine
alone." - Gerald Barzan
B. YET OTHERS VALUE IT HIGHLY...
1. "Promptitude is not only a duty, but is also a part of good
manners; it is favorable to fortune, reputation, influence,
and usefulness; a little attention and energy will form the
habit, so as to make it easy and delightful." - Charles Simmons
2. "I give it as my deliberate and solemn conviction that the
individual who is habitually tardy in meeting an appointment,
will never be respected or successful in life." - W. Fisk
3. "Punctuality is the soul of business." - Thomas C. Haliburton
4. "Punctuality is one of the cardinal business virtues: always
insist on it in your subordinates." - Don Marquis
5. "I owe all my success in life to having been always a quarter
of an hour before my time." - Lord Nelson
6. "Punctuality is the politeness of kings." - Louis XVIII
[One might wonder whether punctuality is really all that important. How
about for the Christian, is it a sin to be habitually late for one's
appointments? Consider some of the...]
II. VICES OF LACKING PUNCTUALITY
A. MISTREATMENT OF OTHERS...
1. Lack of punctuality is a theft of someone else's time
a. Especially as an employee who is late for work
b. But even as friends (or brethren), where we have agreed to
meet at a set time
1) "If I have made an appointment with you, I owe you
punctuality, I have no right to throw away your time, if
I do my own." - Richard Cecil
2) "Unfaithfulness in the keeping of an appointment is an
act of clear dishonesty. You may as well borrow a
person's money as his time." - Horace Mann
2. Lack of punctuality is a lack of respect for others
a. E.g., our brethren whom we are to honor - Ro 12:10; Php 2:3
b. Including our Lord, Who honors us with His presence - cf. Mt
18:20
c. Most would be unlikely to be late for an appointment with
someone whom they want to honor (e., the President, or a
boss at work)
d. If we honor others better than ourselves, we will make it a
point to be on time when meeting with them
e. "Few things tend more to alienate friendship than a want of
punctuality in our engagements. I have known the breach of a
promise to dine or sup to break up more than one intimacy."
- William Hazlitt
3. Lack of punctuality is a violation of the Golden Rule
a. We are treat others as we would want to be treated - Mt 7:12
b. Are you not bothered when others are late in meeting you?
c. Suppose you were teaching a class, and half the class was
consistently late?
1) How would that make you feel about your efforts?
2) Not only during class, but the time spent in preparation?
4. Lack of punctuality is a violation of the Greatest Commandment
a. We are to love God with all our heart, soul, mind and
strength - Mk 12:30
b. "...when we are late for these meetings to worship God or to
learn of God, it may be indicative God is not really as
important as whatever causes us to be late, be it our bodily
rest, our meals, our recreation, our chores, etc. We are, of
course, not saying that all lateness for the appointed means
would fall into this sin. But if we are habitually late for
the means, we must really examine our attitude towards the
Lord. One who is generally on time for other appointments
but is usually late for worship or prayer is probably
experiencing severe backsliding. One who is generally late
for all appointments is probably also suffering some form of
tardiness in the soul. No one who genuinely loves Christ can
be late for an appointment with Him without feeling shame
and embarrassment." - Pilgrim Covenant Church web site
B. MISSED OPPORTUNITIES...
1. What others have said in this regard
a. "Tardiness often robs us opportunity, and the dispatch of
our forces." - Niccolo Machiavelli
b. "The best-laid plans, the most important affairs, the
fortunes of individuals, the weal of nations, honor, life
itself, are daily sacrificed because somebody is 'behind
time.' There are men who always fail in whatever they
undertake simply because they are 'behind time.' There are
others who put off reformation year by year, till death
seizes them; and they perish unrepentant, because for ever
'behind time.' Five minutes in a crisis is worth years. It
is but a little period, yet it has often saved a fortune or
redeemed a people. If there is one virtue that should be
cultivated more than another by him who would succeed in
life, it is punctuality; if there is one error that should
be avoided, it is being 'behind time.'" - Freeman Hunt
2. Think of the missed opportunities when we are late to services
of the church
a. The opportunity to visit with brethren and visitors (more on
this below)
b. The opportunity to be of service should there be a last
minute need
c. The opportunity to hear some point, some truth, that was
presented prior to arriving late
[Have we squandered opportunities due to our lack of punctuality? Let's
take a look at the...]
III. VALUE IN PRACTICING PUNCTUALITY
A. THE IMPACT ON OUR VISITORS...
1. Who often arrive early themselves
a. It being their first time, they often allow more time to
find the location
b. It being an opportunity for us to welcome them and briefly
visit with them
c. OTOH, what must they think when there are no teachers to
welcome their children, or when classes or services start
and half the congregation is absent?
2. After services have begun
a. There will not be the distraction of others arriving 5-10-15
minutes late
b. They will observe the participation of the entire
congregation
3. When the services are over
a. The visitors will likely leave quickly
b. Often the only time we have to visit with them is before the
services
B. THE IMPACT ON OURSELVES...
1. It will make us better persons
a. "I have always been a quarter of an hour before my time, and
it has made a man of me." - Lord Nelson
b. "I could never think well of a man's intellectual or moral
character, if he was habitually unfaithful to his
appointments." - Nathaniel Emmons
2. It will make us better servants
a. Providing service to our visitors through meeting them
before as well as after
b. Providing service to our brethren by edifying them through
your prompt presence
c. Providing service to our Lord by honoring Him with your
punctual arrival
CONCLUSION
1. I hope that I have encouraged you to appreciate "The Virtue Of
Punctuality"...
a. "Better three hours too soon than a minute too late." - William
Shakespeare
b. As someone else said: "Better late than never, but better never
late!"
2. How to be on time, one may ask? It really quite simple...
a. Plan to be early, and start out early
b. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before services begin
"Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all
things." - cf. 2Ti 2:7
The Value of the Secret prayer
INTRODUCTION 1. In His sermon on the mount, Jesus taught His disciples the value of secret prayer... a. As opposed to prayer done to be seen of men - Mt 6:5 b. To ensure that the Father in heaven hears and responds to our prayers - Mt 6:6 2. In this study, we shall examine more fully the value of secret prayer... a. To consider other advantages of this form of spiritual devotion b. To encourage its adoption in our daily walk with God [The value of secret prayer can be seen in that it...] I. CULTIVATES OUR SPIRITUAL NATURE A. THROUGH REGULAR EXERCISE... 1. Our bodies are developed through regular physical exercise 2. The spirit of man also benefits through regular spiritual or godly exercise - 1Ti 4:7-8 3. The practice of prayer is a form of spiritual exercise a. "Prayer is the spiritual gymnasium in which we exercise and practice godliness." - V. L. Crawford b. "...Prayer is educative. The man who prays grows; and the muscles of the soul swell from this whipcord to iron bands." - Frederick B. Meyer 4. The opposite is also true: "Seven days without prayer makes one weak." - Allan E. Bartlette B. THROUGH FREEDOM FROM DISTRACTION... 1. Where else but in the privacy of one's closet or room... a. Can one fully concentrate his efforts in communion with God? b. Can one engage in prayer without outside distractions? 2. Even in the assembly of the church it is easy to be distracted a. By noise or movements from others as we try to listen to others pray b. By concern of how we sound as others listen to us pray C. THROUGH EMPHASIS ON PERSONAL CONCERNS... 1. Public prayer by its nature rarely addresses the specific needs of the individual 2. Private prayer provides opportunity pour out one's soul to God [The cultivation of our spiritual nature is greatly enhanced by secret prayer because it also...] II. FORMS A HABIT OF CLOSE COMMUNION WITH GOD A. CONSIDER THE LAW OF HABIT... 1. Man is a creature of habit, we cannot help but form habits 2. Habits can be bad or good a. One who allows himself to engage in a sinful practice over time finds himself enslaved by force of habit to sin - cf. Jn 8:34 b. For one who engages in a regular godly practice, the formation of habits can be a good thing B. THE HABIT OF SECRET PRAYER IS NO EXCEPTION... 1. Regular practice of secret prayer soon forms a habit that lends itself to the development of close communion and fellowship with God 2. Once the habit of close fellowship with God has been formed, one cannot help but be influenced by the constant presence of God - cf. Pr 13:20 [With the help of habitual close communion with God, secret prayer also...] III. PRESERVES US FROM MANY EVILS A. THE SOURCE OF OUR WORST EVILS... 1. Is it not our own lusts and passions? - cf. Jm 1:14,15; 4:1-3 2. The lusts of the flesh wage war against what the Spirit desires - cf. Ga 5:16-17 3. Controlling the self is a difficult challenge - cf. Pr 16:32 B. PRIVATE PRAYER CAN HELP... 1. The problem of pride can be treated with humbling oneself in prayer, confessing one's own sins and inadequacies before Almighty God 2. The problem of revenge can be addressed when imploring forgiveness from God who says, "Vengeance is mine; I will repay, says the Lord" 3. How can the problem of anger, wrath, malice... a. Harbor in the heart of one who often prays with the help of the Spirit? - cf. Ro 8:26 b. That same Spirit whose fruit is "love, joy, peace, longsuffering..."? - cf. Ga 5:22,23 [Yes, private prayer can be instrumental in controlling the flesh while at the same time cultivating the godly virtues of the soul! Consider also that secret prayer...] IV. SECURES FOR US MUCH GOOD A. PRAYER IS MORE THAN PSYCHOLOGICAL... 1. Yes, it does help one in a subjective or reflective way 2. But it also reaches out to God, who hears prayer - cf. Ps 65:2 a. He will reward one openly - Mt 6:6 b. Especially when we ask according to His Will - 1Jn 5:14-15 B. PRAYER HAS BEEN KNOWN TO CHANGE GOD'S PLANS... 1. The prayer of Hezekiah gave him 15 more years - 2Ki 20:1-6 2. The prayer of the Ninevites spared them and their city - Jon 3: 1-10 C. PRAYER IS TAUGHT AS EFFICACIOUS... 1. For receiving our daily food - Mt 6:11 2. For overcoming temptation - Mt 26:42 3. For escaping the wrath to come - Lk 21:36 [Since the God who hears prayer is our Father in heaven who delights in those who pray in secret, dare we neglect that which secures so much good for ourselves? Finally, we note that secret prayer...] V. ENABLES US TO PROMOTE GOOD AND HAPPINESS FOR OTHERS A. THROUGH SECURING GOD'S FAVOR IN THEIR BEHALF... 1. The prayers of Abraham did more to save Lot than any riches 2. The intercession of Moses saved the nation of Israel 3. We too can secure much good for others through intercession for them a. We can bless our nation by praying for our leaders - 1Ti 2: 1-3 b. We can bless our preachers' efforts by praying for them - 2Th 3:1 c. We can bless our sick brethren by praying for them - Jm 5:16 B. THROUGH THE EFFECT SUCH PRAYING HAS ON US... 1. The iceberg never promotes the growth of vegetation 2. The frosts of winter do not cause the bud and tender flowers to spring forth 3. The heart filled with envy, jealousy, and revenge has no power to win souls to Christ 4. But the soul of a man who through secret prayer... a. Has subdued his evil passions b. Has cultivated his spiritual virtues c. Can be a lasting influence for good, a living illustration of the saving power of the gospel to transform souls! CONCLUSION 1. Why do many not engage often in the practice of secret prayer...? a. Perhaps they do not believe in the power of prayer b. Perhaps they do not believe in the power of God who answers prayer 2. But we have seen "The Value Of Secret Prayer" which... a. Cultivates our spiritual nature b. Forms a habit of close communion with God c. Preserves us from many evils d. Secures for us much good e. Enables us to promote good and happiness for others If we desire to be good and do good, let us make secret prayer a habit in our lives. Then our Father who sees in secret will surely reward us openly...!
Three Types of Love of the Deciple of Jesus
INTRODUCTION 1. In the Great Commission, Jesus wanted His apostles to make disciples... - Mt 28:19-20 a. A disciple is a learner, a follower, an adherent b. Jesus wants us to learn from Him - cf. Mt 11:28-30 2. What does Jesus expect of us...? a. Discipleship involves many things b. But especially that we love - cf. 2Pe 1:5-8 3. But one might ask... a. What are we to love? b. How can we best manifest our love? [In this lesson, "The Three Loves Of A Disciple", I hope to help answer such questions. Beginning with...] I. THE THREE LOVES DEFINED A. LOVES THE LORD... 1. Jesus taught we should love God - Mt 22:37 2. His disciple John wrote that loving God must also mean loving His Son - 1Jn 5:1 3. Jesus expressed the same thought as John, but conversely - Jn 15:23 -- A disciple of Jesus is one who loves both the Father and the Son B. LOVES THE BRETHREN... 1. Jesus made this love a mark of true discipleship - Jn 13:34-35 2. John made it a sign of spiritual life - 1Jn 3:14; cf. 1Jn 2:9-11 -- A disciple of Jesus is one who loves his fellow disciples C. LOVES THE LOST... 1. God the Father certainly loved the lost - Jn 3:16 2. Jesus likewise had compassion for the lost - Mt 9:35-38 3. Paul had great concern for the lost - Ro 10:1; cf. 1Co 9:19-22 -- A disciple of Jesus is one loves those who are lost in sin [Disciples also love their families, even their enemies, but such can be included in either the category of brethren or the lost. Knowing who we are to love, how can we manifest such love? Some thoughts on..] II. THE THREE LOVES DEMONSTRATED A. THROUGH WORSHIP... 1. This is how we can best demonstrate our love for God 2. Assuming that our worship is in harmony with what Jesus revealed a. That it is in Spirit and truth - Jn 4:23-24 b. That it includes keeping His commandments - Jn 14:15,21,23; 15:10 3. We are to worship God in two ways: a. Through our public assemblies - He 10:24-25 b. Through our private devotions - e.g., Mt 6:6 -- Disciples demonstrate love for God through public worship and private devotion B. THROUGH FELLOWSHIP... 1. This is how we can best demonstrate our love for the brethren 2. By not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together - He 10: 24-25 3. We are to fellowship with one another in two ways: a. By coming together as a church, for the Lord's Supper and other means of edification - cf. Ac 20:7; 1Co 14:26 b. By extending hospitality to one another - cf. 1Pe 4:8-9 -- Disciples demonstrate love for brethren through fellowship in church and home C. THROUGH EVANGELISM... 1. There is no better way to show love for the lost 2. Jesus manifested His compassion in this way a. By teaching the lost - Mt 9:35-36 b. By calling for prayer in behalf of the lost - Mt 9:37-38 c. By developing and sending forth laborers - Mt 10:1,5-7 3. We can show our concern for the lost in similar ways a. Through personal evangelism - e.g., 1Pe 3:15; Jn 1:45-46 b. Through supporting foreign evangelists - cf. Ro 10:14-15 -- Disciples demonstrate love for the lost by engaging in both local and foreign evangelism CONCLUSION 1. We go a long way to becoming true disciples of Jesus by... a. Loving the Lord b. Loving the brethren c. Loving the lost 2. We go a long way in demonstrating such love through... a. Public worship and private devotion b. Fellowship with one another in both church and home c. Engaging in both local and foreign evangelism 3. Many Christians love only partially... a. They worship God in public, but not in private b. They fellowship with brethren at church, but not in their homes c. They evangelize at home, but do nothing to support evangelism abroad No matter how much we love as disciples of Christ, we can always improve... And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, - Php 1:9 Perhaps this study, "The Three Loves Of A Disciple," can provide direction for improving our love...
Why Do we go to Church? to Seek or to Serve?
INTRODUCTION
1. Why do you go to church...?
a. Some seek to be entertained
b. Others seek to encounter God
2. A news article suggest many young people are interested in the
latter, but are often disappointed. Some excerpts from the article:
a. It's not that they don't care. In a study, 80 percent of people in
their 20s said their faith is very important in their lives.
Nearly 60 percent claimed to have made a commitment to Jesus
Christ. Three-fourths told the Barna Research Group of Ventura,
Calif., that they prayed during the past seven days."
b. But in a typical week, just three out of 10 of them attend church.
Only 30 percent of adults in their 20s donated something to a
church during the past year; the same percentage holds for those
who have read the Bible during any given week.
c. "One of the trends we're noticing is people are looking for
something that's real," said Charlie Granade, singles pastor at
Dayspring Baptist Church in Mobile.
d. "College students are looking for a worship service where there's
nothing fancy," Granade said, adding that his church offers such
an experience during its 'Unplugged' service on Monday nights.
e. Sally Morganthaler addressed such desires in her book Worship
Evangelism: Inviting Unbelievers Into the Presence of God. "Young
people want to encounter the 'other' at church, but they are not
finding it there," she said. "They're finding programs, they're
finding games, they're finding cute things to do, but they're not
finding an experience with the 'other' they assume is there
somewhere in the world."
-- Young Adults Believe In God, Aren't So Crazy About Church, By
Kristen Campbell, Religion News Service, January 3, 2004
3. My feelings were mixed as I read the article...
a. I am encouraged that people want to find God, and not be
entertained in church
b. Yet I wonder if they realize there is more to church services than
"seeking God"
[So I ask again, "Why do you go to church?" To be entertained? To seek
God? Or is there another reason, one that might be as important as
seeking God? First let me say that..]
I. TO SEEK GOD IS GOOD
A. ONE SHOULD CERTAINLY SEEK THE LORD...
1. He is the source of sustenance and strength - Ps 34:10; 105:4
2. He is the source of wisdom and understanding - Pr 28:5
3. God wants us to seek Him - Ac 17:26-27
4. Jesus wants us to seek first His kingdom and righteousness - Mt
6:33
B. ONE WOULD HOPE TO FIND GOD IN CHURCH...
1. Paul wrote about possible reactions by visitors - cf. 1Co 14:
23-25
2. We should hope that our services draw people nearer to God, not
away from Him!
C. YET GOD IS FOUND IN OBEDIENCE, NOT ATTENDANCE...
1. The Father and the Son abide with us as we keep Jesus'
commandments - Jn 14:21,23
a. This is how we truly know Jesus and the Father - cf. 1Jn 2:
3-5,24
b. Abide in the doctrine of Christ, and we have both the Father
and the Son - 2Jn 9
2. God (and Jesus) are found when we obey Their commands
a. Such as the command to believe - He 11:6; cf. Jn 8:24
b. Such as the command to repent - Ac 17:30-31
c. Such as the command to confess - Ro 10:9-10
d. Such as the command to be baptized - Mk 16:16; Ac 2:38
1) In which we are united with Christ - Ro 6:3-4
2) In which we put on Christ - Ga 3:27
3. When we are saved, the Lord adds us to His church (i.e., we
have found God!) - cf. Ac 2:41,47
D. THEN GOD CAN BE FOUND ANYWHERE, ANYTIME...
1. Even in one's room, through prayer - Mt 6:6; cf. He 4:13-16
2. Even when forsaken by all others - 2Ti 4:16-17
[To seek God is good. But one will not find Him by just going to
church. One must obey the Gospel, and abide in His Word. Then one can
find God anywhere. Then why go to church? Because...]
II. TO SERVE GOD IS BETTER
A. FINDING GOD, WE MUST SERVE HIM...
1. For this reason we were cleansed by the blood of Jesus - cf. He
9:14
2. For this reason we are receiving an unshakable kingdom - cf. He
12:28
3. We will continue to serve God in eternity - cf. Re 7:15; 22:3
-- What good is it to find God, if we do not serve Him?
B. WE HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO SERVE IN CHURCH...
1. As we offer the sacrifices of praise through song and prayer
a. We are spiritual priests, ordained to offer spiritual
sacrifices - 1Pe 2:5
b. We do so through the fruit of our lips - He 13:15
2. As we edify one another through our assembling and praise
a. We exhort one another by not forsaking our assembling
together - He 10:24-25
b. We teach and edify one another in the songs we sing - Co
3:16
3. As we make intercession for others through praying
a. As Paul exhorted Timothy to do - 1Ti 2:1-3
b. If the prayer of one righteous man avails much, more so the
prayers of many righteous - cf. Jm 5:16
4. As we partake of the Lord's Supper on the first day of the week
a. In which we proclaim the Lord's death - 1Co 11:23-26
b. In which we display our unity in the one body - cf. 1Co 10:
16-17
5. As we lay by in store on the first day of the week
a. We minister to the needs of others through the collection
- cf. 1Co 16:1-2
b. We encourage others to give thanks to God - cf. 2Co 9:12-13
-- Even if not a single sermon is preached, all of us have the
opportunity to serve God every time we come to church!
CONCLUSION
1. Regarding the reasons one may go to church, may I suggest that as
Christians...
a. It is not be entertained, against which Paul warned - cf. 2Ti 4:
3-4
b. It is not even to seek God or experience the 'other' (for we are
already His children)
2. We assemble together as the church for the opportunity to serve...
a. To serve God through our acts of devotion
b. To serve His children through the same means
3. With this attitude, it will not matter whether we assemble with 10
people or 10,000...
a. We still offer our service to our Lord and Creator
b. We still encourage those who are present
4. When we assemble with an attitude and readiness to serve God and our
brethren...
a. We will get more out of any service we attend
b. For the more one puts into something, the more they get out of it
c. And as Jesus said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive"
- cf. Ac 20:35
Have you found God through faith and obedience to His Son? If so, are
you willing to serve God and His children both in and out of the
assemblies of the church...?
Take Time to be Holy
INTRODUCTION 1. Our songs in worship are designed to instruct as well as praise... a. For in them we teach and admonish one another - Col 3:16 b. By them the Word of Christ can dwell in us richly - Col 3:16 2. A familiar song with an important message is "Take Time To Be Holy"... a. Words written by W. D. Longstaff b. Music composed by George C. Stebbins -- In "Hymns For Worship", it is song #118 3. Certainly the children of God are to be holy... a. We are to be holy in our conduct - 1Pe 1:15 b. Even as our Father who calls us is holy - 1Pe 1:15-16 -- Indeed, holiness is to be pursued, for without it one will not see the Lord - He 12:14 [In this lesson, we will let the words of this song serve as the basis for our study. Note first that the song assumes...] I. THE NEED TO TAKE TIME A. THE WORLD RUSHES ON... 1. As expressed in the beginning of the second verse 2. Our lives are certainly hectic and fast-paced 3. Filled with activities that consume our time 4. And our lives are but a vapor - cf. Jm 4:13-14 -- Before we know it, time will have slipped by B. IT TAKES TIME TO BE HOLY... 1. The key presumption upon which this song is based 2. Holiness must be pursued - He 12:14 3. Holiness is the fruit of service to God - cf. Ro 6:22 4. Holiness must be perfected - 2Co 7:1 -- If we are not careful, time to develop holiness will be gone [So we must "Take Time To Be Holy." It needs to be a priority in our lives. How does one take time...?] II. THE WAY TO TAKE TIME A. SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD... 1. The song encourages us to: a. "Abide in Him always" b. "Spend much time in secret with Jesus alone" 2. The means to do so involve: a. Prayer, as suggested by the song 1) "Speak oft with thy Lord" 2) "Forgetting in nothing His blessings to seek" b. The Word of God ("Feed on His Word") 3. Do we take time to be with the Lord? a. Through prayer, where the Lord is ready to intercede? - cf. He 4:14-16; 7:25 b. Through the Word, which testifies of our gracious Lord? - cf. Jn 5:39; 1Pe 2:2-3 -- We cannot overestimate the importance of finding time to be with the Lord alone through prayer and the Word! B. SPEND TIME WITH OTHERS... 1. This includes fellowship with other Christians ("Make friends of God's children") a. Which the early Christians continued in steadfastly - Ac 2:42 b. Which helps to ensure faithfulness and steadfastness - He 3:12-14 c. Which includes the idea of frequent assembling - He 10:24-25 2. This includes service to our fellowman ("Help those who are weak") a. A duty enjoined upon Christians - 1Th 5:14-15; Ac 20:35 b. Service toward all, but especially our brethren - Ga 6:10 c. Ministering our abilities to one another - 1Pe 4:10-11 -- We must not be so busy that we don't have time to be with brethren and to help others as we have opportunity! [As one takes time to be with the Lord, His people, and in service to them and others, a transformation slowly takes place...] III. THE BENEFITS OF TAKING TIME A. YOU WILL BE BLESSED... 1. With inner peace and happiness ("Be calm in thy soul") a. Through frequent prayer - cf. Php 4:6-7 b. Through frequent meditation upon the Word - cf. Ps 1:1-3; 119:165 2. With renewed strength ("Each thought and each motive beneath His control") a. Through your relationship with Christ - Php 4:13 b. Through the indwelling of the Spirit - Ro 8:12-13; Ep 3:16, 20-21 3. With increasing realization of God's love ("Led by His Spirit to fountains of love") a. A manifestation of the Spirit in our lives - Ro 5:5 b. Whose fruit produces love - Ga 5:22 -- Is this not sufficient motivation to "take time to be holy"? B. YOU WILL BE MORE CHRIST-LIKE... 1. The ultimate goal of discipleship ("Like Him thou shalt be") a. As explained by Jesus - Lk 6:40 b. As foreordained by God - Ro 8:29 2. A transformation noticed by others ("Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see") a. The result of spending time with Jesus - e.g., Peter and John, Ac 4:13 b. The result of giving yourself to such things - e.g., Timothy, 1Ti 4:15 3. Prepared for greater service ("Thou soon shall be fitted for service above") a. For we will serve God in heaven, and in the new Jerusalem - Re 7:15; 22:3 b. Indeed, we will reign with Christ and God forever! - Re 22:5; 2Ti 2:12 -- Is this not even more motivation to "take time to be holy"? CONCLUSION 1. Remember the need to take time... a. The world rushes on, and would carry us along with it b. Our time in this life is short, we must have our priorities straight 2. Are you taking time, indeed, making time...? a. To spend time alone with God, in prayer and the Word? b. To spend time with others, in fellowship and service? 3. We must take time, if we desire to... a. Experience the blessed life Jesus offers b. Become more Christ-like in our conduct May this song ("Take Time To Be Holy") always remind us of the need to slow down, and to do those things so crucial to our spiritual growth and happiness! Have you taken the time to respond to the gospel of Christ...? - cf. Mk 16:15-16; Ac 2:38
Support your local Church
INTRODUCTION
1. The title for our lesson was adapted from that of a movie starring
James Garner ("Support Your Local Sheriff!") made in 1969...
2. In most congregations, there are varying degrees of commitment among
the members...
a. The faithful few who can always be counted on to do whatever is
needed
b. The fairly faithful who attend somewhat regularly, but are not as
dependable
c. The C&E group who attend only on Christmas, Easter, and other
special days
d. Then there is the FPO group (using a church for funeral purposes
only)
3. Membership in the body of Christ has many blessings...
a. A relationship with Jesus Christ and all that entails
b. But there are also responsibilities incumbent upon the members
- e.g., Ep 4:25
[What are our responsibilities as members of the body of Christ? In
particular, what are our duties to one another as members of a local
church? Let's first review the concept of...]
I. MEMBERSHIP IN THE CHURCH
A. THE CHURCH UNIVERSAL...
1. That is, the body of Christ, made up all the saved
2. The church of which Jesus spoke in Mt 16:18
3. One is added by the Lord to the church universal when they are
saved - cf. Ac 2:41,47
-- Membership in the universal church is automatic upon one's
conversion
B. THE CHURCH LOCAL...
1. That is, a local group of Christians who function together as a
congregation
2. We read of such churches in the New Testament - cf. 1Co 1:2;
Ro 16:16
3. One joins a local church when they seek to work with other
Christians - cf. Ac 9:26-28
-- Membership in the local church is by mutual agreement among
Christians
C. IS LOCAL CHURCH MEMBERSHIP NECESSARY...?
1. Can one just have a "floating membership" without joining a
particular congregation?
2. The mere provision of local churches in God's Word implies...
a. A divine purpose for the local church
b. A corresponding responsibility of Christians to avail
themselves of it
-- The idea of becoming a Christian and never a part of a local
congregation is foreign to the Scriptures
[Membership in the church universal comes with responsibilities toward
other Christians. Let's now consider our...]
II. RESPONSIBILITIES TO THE CHURCH
A. ATTITUDES TO MAINTAIN...
1. Concern for one another - 1Co 12:25-26
2. Humility, lowliness of mind - Php 2:3
3. A peaceable spirit - Ro 14:17-19
4. Appreciation for others and their work - e.g., 1Th 1:2-3
5. Willingness to cooperate, work together - 1Co 12:21
a. "It marks a big step in a man's development when he comes to
realize that other men can be called on to help him do a
better job than he can do alone." - Andrew Carnegie
b. "Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is
progress, working together is success." - ibid.
6. Friendliness, warmth - cf. Phm 1:7
7. Gentleness, meekness - Ga 6:1
8. Forbearance, longsuffering, patience - Col 3:12-13
9. Forgiveness - Col 3:13
10. Love - Jn 13:34-35
-- Such attitudes will insure that involvement in a local church
will be a great blessing!
B. ACTION STEPS TO TAKE...
1. Seek to join oneself with a faithful congregation (place
membership) - cf. Ac 9:26
a. Drifters, "floating members", "members at large", are
missing an important aspect of what it means to be a
Christian
b. The same goes for passive "spectators", those "just along
for the ride", "permanent visitors"
c. One places membership with the intent of being an actual,
functioning member - not a mere appendage to the body
d. It involves making real commitments to the group to work and
serve
2. Attend and participate in the assemblies of the congregation
- cf. He 10:24-25
a. The Christian enjoys and benefits from private and family
worship, but must not neglect God's provision for
collective, congregational worship and Bible study
b. Every aspect of our assemblies is vital to the Christian
1) The Lord's Supper - Ac 2:42; 20:7; 1Co 11:17-34
2) Praying - Ac 2:42; 4:23-31; 12:12
3) Singing - Ep 5:19; Col 3:16
4) Preaching and teaching - Ac 20:7
5) Giving as we have been prospered - 1Co 16:1-2; 2Co 8,9
c. Our assemblies provide opportunities for three different
levels of involvement:
1) Providing for the assembly - cleaning the building,
preparing the communion trays, leading in the service,
etc.
2) Attendance at the assembly - attending every service is
critical to the overall growth and health of the
congregation (let alone self!)
3) Participation in the assembly - to the extent of one's
ability
a) Worship is not a spectator activity
b) The crucial question is not "How did the preacher or
song leader do?", but "How did I do?"
c) If one can do no more than listen, then listen in a
manner that shows reverence and respect to God's Word!
- cf. Ac 17:11
d. Assembling together is not merely a routine to perform, but
a God-given provision for our spiritual good
1) Quibbles and questions about whether we have to,
complaints, neglects, etc., reveal an attitude of taking
lightly the opportunity for Christians to be together
2) God wants to give us something in our assemblies - our
involvement or lack thereof reveals much about whether we
desire to accept what God has for us!
3) To minimize this aspect of Christianity jeopardizes not
only one's own soul, but the souls of others!
3. Engage personally and directly in the work of the congregation
a. Evangelism - e.g., Ac 8:4
b. Edification - Ro 14:19
c. Benevolence - Ac 2:44-45; 4:34-35
4. Contribute financially to the work of the congregation - 1Co
16:1-2, 2Co 9:6-7
5. Pray for other Christians, especially those of one's own
congregation - e.g., Col 4:12
6. Help maintain unity in the congregation - 1Co 1:10; Ro 15:5-7;
Ep 4:1-3
7. Participate in the discipline of the congregation, both
instructive as well as corrective - 1Co 5:1-13; Ga 6:1-2; 2 Th
3:6-15
8. Extend courtesy and hospitality - Ro 12:13; 1Pe 4:9
9. Find an individual role and fill it - Col 4:17; 2Ti 4:5
10. Submit to the congregation's elders - 1Th 5:12,13; He 13:7,17
-- Such action steps will greatly increase one's level of
involvement in a local church
CONCLUSION
1. Too often, churches are like football games...
a. The players on the field could use a rest from their exertion
b. The spectators in the stands need to exercise more
2. Churches likewise have "players" and "spectators"...
a. The players are active members, faithfully supporting their local
church
b. The spectators are members who benefit while expecting others to
carry the load
3. Do we really love and appreciate the church of our Lord...?
a. For which He shed His blood? - cf. Ac 20:28
b. Then let us fulfill our responsibilities to the church, both
universal and local!
Support your local church by being an active and involved member. Not
only will you bless others in doing so, but you will be richly blessed
in return...!
"For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which
you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the
saints, and do minister."
- He 6:10
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