Jude: Sermon 1

Why Preach Through Jude?

Text:  Jude 1:1-4

04-15-07 am

Jude is one of the shortest books in the Bible.  There are only 25 verses.  The Lord laid this book on my heart to preach through a few weeks back.  When He did, I asked the same question.  Why would I spend time researching and studying, preparing and preaching a few thoughts from such a small book?

There are some, who even doubt that Jude should be a part of the canon of Scripture.  However, it is well documented why God put this book in our Bible.

The Book takes about 3 minutes and 30 seconds to read at pulpit speed.  What would Jude be telling us in the final days before the appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ? 

There is very little written about this Epistle.  There have been very few recorded sermons about this book.  The most common verse preached from is verse 3.  The most common phrase used by Independent, Fundamental, Baptist preachers is the phrase- earnestly contend for the faith.

Why, then, would we consider more than one or two sermons from these 25 verses of Holy Writ?  I believe that the key to this series of messages is not found in Jude- just yet.  The key to this book is found in Acts 20.  (Read Acts 20:22-36)

In this portion of Scripture, Paul is leaving his post.  He has been here nearly 3 years getting this church established and grounded.  In verses 20 and 21 he reminds them that he had taught them publicly and  from house to house.  He preached repentance toward God and faith in Christ.  This message was preached to both the Jews and Gentiles. 

But, as he fixes to pull up stakes, there are three reminders that he gives them.  The same reminders or reasons we will preach through the book of Jude.

Matthew Henry said this:  Preaching is not designed to teach us something new in every sermon; but to put us in remembrance, to call to mind things forgotten.  Though you know these things, you still need to know them better.

Paul reminded them:

I.  To Preach the Counsel of God (Acts 2:27)

     The counsel of God is the key to this passage.

Adam Clark: All that God has determined and revealed concerning the salvation of man-the whole doctrine of Christ crucified, with repentance towards God, and faith in Jesus as the

Messiah and great atoning Priest.

Albert Barnes:  It means here the will or purpose of God, as revealed in regard to the salvation of men. Paul had made a full statement of that plan--of the guilt of men, of the claims of the law, of the need of a Saviour, of the provisions of mercy, and of the state of future rewards and punishments. Ministers ought to declare all that counsel, because God commands it; because it is needful for the salvation of men; and because the message is not theirs, but God's, and they have no right to change, to disguise, or to withhold it

When Paul mentions the counsel of God, he is not only speaking specifically of salvation, but also all matters of faith and practice. 

A.    I must preach salvation.

1.      Man must be confronted with the fact that he is a sinner.

2.      Man must understand that because he is a sinner, he will die and spend eternity in Hell.

3.      Man must be presented with the truth that Jesus Christ “became sin for us, who knew no sin (II Cor 5:21)” and paid the wages of our sin.

4.      Man must then understand he must come to God in repentance and faith in Jesus Christ accepting this free gift called grace.

B.     I must preach serious theology.  (II Timothy 4:1-4)

1.      I must preach the judgment of the unsaved. (v 1)

2.      I must preach the judgment of the saved (v 1; I Cor 3)

3.      I must preach to reprove (v 2)

Reprove- To charge with a fault to the face. To convince of a fault.

4.      I must preach to rebuke (v 2)

Rebuke- To check or restrain, to chasten, to silence, to heal, to restrain as to calm.

5.      I must preach to exhort (v 2)

Exhort- To advise, to warn, to caution, to incite or stimulate to exertion.

a.        Longsuffering- forbearance, fortitude, patience.  The idea of going over the same tings again and again with patience.

b.        Doctrine- Instruction that would stay true to the Scripture.

II.  To promote a concern for the proper condition in the church.  (v 28)

Paul stated in I Timothy 3:15 - But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.

In order to be the pillar and ground of truth- this is deep so hang on- truth must always be presented. 

Paul knew he was presenting truth.  He knew he was preaching the counsel of God.  However, he was concerned that the condition of the church would change with his departure.  How then did Paul promote this proper concern?

A.    Take heed to yourselves and to all the flock. (v 28)

Paul is speaking to a group of preachers.  He is stating a truth before a Missouri man ever stepped foot in the White House- The buck stops here.

He is saying pay attention to your self and the church as to your manner of living.  There is a certain way that Christians must live.  There is a standard of separation that must be maintained.  There are certain things a child of God should not involve himself. 

B.     Take the responsibility serious. (v 28)

Paul states the Holy Ghost hath made you an overseer.  He is stating to these men of God that the Holy Ghost had called them to position they held.  Because He had done so, the responsibility is great.  I will one day stand before God and give an account of the time that I have spent as your Pastor.

C.     Take the place of the Shepherd (v 28)

The words are “feed the church of God.”  The word feed has two meanings.

1.        Feed-  Leading the sheep to the pasture to feed.  A shepherd that is concerned about the flock will make sure they have the right diet.

2.        Rule- As the shepherd leads and guards, as he protects the lives of the innocent sheep, so the Pastor is to be the shepherd over the flock.

III. To practice preventative procedures  (v 31)

Verse 31 starts out therefore.  Remember when we see a therefore we must ask what it is there for.  Look back at 29 and 30.  There were wolves that were going to attack the flock.  There was going to be an uprising in the house of God.

Because of this, watch.  This word translated “watch” means to keep awake or to be vigilant.  It is the same thought that is presented in the book of Ezekiel 3:17-21 and 33:1-9.  The watchman on the wall had a serious job.  He had to stay awake and alert so to notice any activity that would compromise the city.

My calling, as Pastor, is to be the preacher that preaches the counsel of God.  It is to be the shepherd that promotes a concern for the proper condition of the church.  In addition, the calling of the preacher is to practice preventative procedures by being a watchman.

Paul uses this thought of a watchman and watching in four different contexts.

A.    Watch- be vigilant- in the faith  (I Corinthians 16:13)

To watch or be vigilant in the faith we must know what we believe, why we believe it and where we found it.  There must be grounding in the word of God- a taking of theology seriously.

B.     Watch- be vigilant- with thanksgiving  (Colossians 4:2)

Rejoicing in what we believe.  Rejoicing in what God has done.  Hebrews 13:15 - By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

C.     Watch – be vigilant- in anticipating the return of Christ.  (I Thess 5:6)

We are to be excited about, anticipating the return of our Saviour.  The rapture of the church is the next event we should anticipate.

D.    Watch- be vigilant- in preaching the Word.  (II Timothy 4:5)

Paul reminds young Timothy that people will not endure sound doctrine.  They will turn away from the preaching of the Word.  But, Timothy, just because the crowd changes their mind, you must still watch.  You must still preach salvation and still preach serious theology.

So, how do we conclude this morning?  The book of Jude, as we will see, will preach salvation and serious theology.  The book of Jude will promote a proper concern for the condition of the church.  The book of Jude will help us practice preventative procedures.  I am excited about what God is going to teach us through this small book.

But as Pastor of New Testament Baptist Church, I am concerned about the condition of our church.  I am not just concerned about the building.  My sole concern does not lie in the disarray of the property.  My chief concern is the people that make up this called out assembly.

1. Are you saved?  Do you know, that you know, that you know, that you are born again.  Are you 100% for sure you are on your way to heaven? 
2. Are you serious about the things of God?  Not just coming to church and hearing, but living for God tomorrow morning.
3. Are you watching- being vigilant- to stay right with God?

Jude: Sermon 2

The Background of a Special Baptist Preacher

Text:  Jude 1:1-4

04-15-07 pm

This morning we saw the importance of preaching through Jude.  We do so to preach the counsel of God.  We do so to promote a concern for the proper condition of the church.  Then, finally, we do so to practice preventative maintenance. 

Before we continue through this book, I must give you a fair warning.  This book is a tough, precise approach to keeping the church pure from within.  Jude was writing this book as a climax to what had been prophesied concerning the end times. 

In I Timothy 4:1-5, Paul told Timothy the day was coming.  In II Timothy 3:1-7, Paul gets even bolder as to write a declaration that the coming trouble in the church would be from a specific group of people.  He described this group in verse 5, 6, and 7. 

1.      They would be religious.

They would be involved in religious ritual.  They would be accepted into the church house.  They would be looked upon as “good people.”  But they would know nothing of the power of God.  Their lives would be destitute of God’s working.  They would be religious but unregenerate.

2.      They would gather themselves women to promote their practices and purposes. (Barnes)

Women are verily easily persuaded.  Salesmen have understood that if the woman can be convinced, she can probably convince the man.  (The serpent convinced Eve.  Eve convinced Adam.)  This practice has been seen played out by the Catholics.  More recently we have seen this operation played out by the charismatic crowd. 

Woman are easily swayed by religious leaders.  Most preachers who have affairs or leave with the church secretary have done so because of the power they have been able to grow through women. 

This word silly is not derogatory.  It simply means weak or foolish.

3.      They would always be learning but never coming to the truth.

They learn systems.  They learn ideologies.  They learn kindnesses.  But they will die and go to Hell because they did not grasp the truth of the gospel.

Paul warned of the arrival of these apostates in approximately 61 AD when he wrote I Timothy.  He reiterated this warning in a much more stern fashion 4 years later when he penned II Timothy.  Peter in the same year (65 AD) cried forth in II Peter 2:1-3 that they were just around the corner. 

Jude, who some think was written between 70 and 90 AD, states emphatically in verse 4- “For there are certain men crept in unawares.

What Paul said was coming.  Peter said was hovering nearby.  Jude announces it has happened.  The apostates had now crept into good apostolic churches.  Churches that were able to trace their beginnings to the Lord Jesus Christ and the Apostles were no longer Apostolic but apostate.  Jude, who was unable to write a hallelujah book about salvation (Jude means praise or thanksgiving), was now, under direction of the Holy Spirit, warning that churches were in trouble.

Specifically, Jude was warning of a group called the Gnostics.  Throughout these messages we will make reference to this group.  A group that has continued through the time we now live in. 

Gnosticism attacks creation.  It is a belief that there is a distinction between matter (which is evil) and spirit (which is good).  This belief caused folks to think that Jesus’ body was not a real body.  It was only an illusion.  They maintain that had it been real, Jesus would have been evil.

This teaching brought about 2 thoughts that have carried on through today.  The first is that of self mutilation.  In order to gain a greater spiritual relationship one must abuse their body.  Because the body is evil it must be tortured.  We see this carried out by people crawling up many sets of steps to worship.  We see this in the Philippines where people have themselves nailed to a cross.  In Spain it is the running of the bulls.  In our current culture it is seen through piercings and tattooing. 

The second result is called antinomianism.  The prefix anti- against.  The root word nomi- meaning law.  (We see this in the word Deuteronomy.)  Antinomianism is against moral law.  The teaching is that man is under no obligation to any moral law.  We see this doctrine being taught in many churches today. 

It is taught in this fashion; Because a Christian is living under grace, he can live any way he wants to.  He is under no obligation to follow any standard or morality because God’s grace forgives all things.  Since God’s grace covers all, there is no consequence for sin.  This is the background of what Jude is all about.

Tonight, I would like us to spend the remainder of our time looking at the background of a special Baptist preacher.  There are three words that describe Jude.

I.  Servant.  (1.1)

Jude refers to himself as his brother James and the Apostle Paul referred to themselves.  He simply says, Jude the servant of Jesus Christ.

The word servant is the Greek word “doulus” meaning bondservant.  A bondservant was someone that willingly chose to be under the authority of another.

The first reference in Scripture to this was in Exodus 21:5,6.  The man or woman, that after his debt was paid, decided to stay on with his master, would go to the door of the house and have their ear bored through with an aul. 

A.    We are servants (I Cor 7:21-23)

1.      We are bought with a price.

A servant is first bought and paid for.  We are owned by the Master.

2.      We are the Lord’s servant.

His precious blood paid the price and purchased us.

B.     We are bond servants (Deut 15:12-17)

1.      We became a servant because we had a debt we could not pay.  (The debt of sin was beyond our ability to pay.)

2.      We fell in love with our Master because he paid the debt. 

3.      We chose to serve Him the rest of our lives, because of what He did.  (Liberty of Conscience)

Too many Christians forget that all we are are servants- bond slaves to the Master.  Jesus said in Mark 10:45 - For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

C.     Servants serve.

1.      Servants do not give orders.  They follow them.

2.      Servants do things the way the Master wants them accomplished.

II. Sibling (1.1)

Jude not only mentions that he is the brother of James, but he is the half brother of Jesus.

A.     Jude is listed as a member of the family.  (Matthew 13:53-58)

B.      James, the brother, was the Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Jerusalem. (This James also wrote the Epistle bearing his name.)  (Acts 21:18; Gal 2:9,12)

III. Saved

The only way to become a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ is to be saved.  Jude was a saved man.

A.      Jude was not saved because he was related to Jesus.  (John 7:5)

B.      Jude was not saved because of the miracles he had seen performed.

C.      Jude was saved because he accepted what Christ did on Calvary.

Just like any other human being who has ever been saved. 

1.      This took place after the resurrection.

Only six months between John 7:5 and the Jude being mentioned in Acts 1:14.

2.      The brothers of Jesus (half brothers) were known by the church at Corinth.  (I Corinthians 9:5)

3.      James (Jude’s brother) had seen the resurrected Saviour.  (I Corinthians 15:7)

a.       The other James (brother of John) had been killed by Herod in Acts 12:1.

b.      The church at Corinth would recognize James as the Pastor at the First Baptist Church of Jerusalem- thus no designation would be needed. 

Jude seems thankful for his heritage. 

Tonight, I ask, are you saved?  Salvation comes as a  result of our agreement with God that we can not save ourselves.  Jesus did it all, because we needed someone to pay the price for our sins.

Let me ask a second question.  What kind of servant are you?  There is nothing worse than a person that will not do their share of the work.  Are you a bondservant or a bad slacker?  

Jude: Sermon 3

To Whom Is Jude Written?

Text:  Jude 1:1-4

04-22-07 am

We have met Jude the servant- the bond servant.  He is the half brother of Jesus and the brother of James the Pastor of the First Baptist Church in Jerusalem.  James is also the author of the book which bears his name.  We also have been introduced to the group of people that Jude is warning against. 

But just whom is Jude addressing himself too?  Who is it that should heed the warning that is being sounded forth?

Jude is what we call a general epistle.  Some have teased that an epistle is an apostle that never grew up.  In your Bible there are eight books that are included in this group.  They are Hebrews, James, I and II Peter, I, II, III John and Jude.  The reason they are called general epistles is because they are not addressed to a specific locality- Paul wrote the church at Corinth, the Church at Galatia, the Church at Ephesus, or the Church at Philippi.  He specifically wrote to Timothy, Titus and Philemon. 

An epistle is also a writing that condemns, approves, or directs the conduct of the church. 

Although Jude is not presenting this treatise to any particular local congregation, we may safely assume that God preserved these 25 verses for instruction to the New Testament Baptist Church.  We are to heed the directives that are given in this book.

Preacher, how do you know this?  There are three words in verse 1 that will help us make this determination.  Jude states in verse 1- sanctified by God the Father, preserved in Jesus Christ, and called.

I have alliterated these thoughts to help us in understanding the thought expressed this morning.

I.  Sanctified

     Jude writes after the manner of the Apostle Paul.

I Corinthians1:2 - Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:

I Corinthians 6:11 - And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

The word sanctified in the Greek is the word-  hagiazo.  The word means to make holy.  We would say it this way- To the saved.  Jude is writing to those that are saved. 

We live in a society that over the last 50 years has made this idea of being saved too easy.  Being saved is more than saying a prayer.  It is more than attending a few church services.  It is a life changing experience. 

When someone has Bible salvation, they will be sanctified- made holy.  

     A.  Being Sanctified Will Change Your Heart  (Psalm 51:7)

When one receives Christ as their Saviour their heart is made clean- it is made white.

I do not put much stock in this jailhouse, bail me out, religion.  I just do not give much thought to these folks that say- Yeah, I got saved but there is no change in their heart.  There is no desire to do right.  The word used to describe saved people is the word sanctified.  The word sanctified means to make holy.

     B.  Being Sanctified Will Make You Holy. (Hagiazo)

Being sanctified will make you holy.  Why?  Because when you come to Christ in repentance and faith; when you trust Christ to be your Saviour, the Holy Spirit of God indwells you.  God in the Spirit dwells inside. 

When we sin or commit wrongdoing, the Holy Spirit will convict us.  He will remind us that what we are doing is wicked. 

Holy people do not make it a practice to live unholy.  Now, do not misunderstand what is being said.  I am not saying we do not sin.  I am  not saying we reach a state of sinless perfection.  I John 1:9 is still in the Bible and we need to use it often.  Holy people do not dwell in sin.  They do not relish in sinful living.  People that never get victory, people that do not see sustained victory over sinful ways and sinful habits- probably need to make sure they really are saved.

     C.  Being Sanctified Will Head You in the Right Direction  (Acts 20:32)

Being sanctified will build you.  Being sanctified will grow your relationship with the Lord and right.

II.   Secured

Once a person is saved or sanctified he is secure.  The word in the Greek is also translated here preserved but also in verse 6 as kept, verse 6 reserved, and verse 21 as keep. It means to guard from loss, the implication is using a fortress or full military lines of apparatus to insure this action.

Jude says we are preserved.  We are kept.  Who is the one keeping?  Is it us keeping ourselves?  No, because Jude uses the phrase keep in verse 21 in reference to keeping ourselves in the love of God.  This is similar to saying guard your love relationship.  Like talking to a newlywed couple and saying, Do not let the flame die out.

As Baptists, I mean as Independent, Fundamental Baptists, we believe the Bible from cover to cover.  We teach and preach and practice the Word of God.  Believers.  That are saved or sanctified; children of God, joint heirs with Jesus Christ are secure.  We are kept by the power of God.  We are eternally saved.

     A.  We are secure in the family.  (John 6:37; John 10:25-30)

When we get saved.  (someone does not save us.)  they are born into the family of God.  Jesus said, Ye must be born again.  We are children of God. 

When I was born to Fred and Judibeth Taylor back on May 1, 1962, I was born into the family.  I may disappoint my father.  I may do things that cause him grief and sorrow.  I may do things that cause him to remove me from fellowship.  But I am their son because I am made of their genes. 

When are we are saved we are born into God’s family.  There is an old term for salvation called – regeneration.  When we are saved we are given a new set of genes.  Re- gene- ration.  II Corinthians- we are a new creature- creation.

     B.  We are secure in the Faith. (Hebrews 13:5)

            Salvation brings this eternal security. 

     C.  We are secure in the Fellowship.  ( I Peter 1:5)

            God is keeping us for the last days.  John 14:2,3

III.  Serving

     Jude uses the word called.

     A.  Called to be saints.

The word called is the Greek word kletos meaning called to be a saint.  The word saint means to be devoted and set apart fort he service of God.  A regenerated person is a saint.  Paul uses this terminology in Romans 1:7 -   To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

            He also uses the phrase in I Corinthians 1:2.

     B.  Called to sincerely serve.  (II Timothy 1:9)

Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,

     C.  Called to serve straight  (I Thessalonians 2:12)

That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.

Conclusion:  Are you saved?  Before you answer that question, let me ask you this question- What proof do you have that you are saved?  Has there been a change since you were saved?  Has there been a lasting change?  Has there been Holy Spirit conviction when you sin?  Can you see victories from the world, flesh and the devil? 

When people see my Dad they see a resemblance.  When people see my children, they see similarities in looks, actions, likes and dislikes.  Can people see a resemblance between you and the Heavenly Father?    

 Jude: Sermon 4

Daring Diligence

Jude 1:1-3

04-22-07 pm

This morning we saw that Jude was writing this letter to sanctified, secure, and serving people.  He was writing to those who were members of local churches.

Thus we have seen who Jude is.  He is the half brother of Jesus and the brother of James, the pastor of the First Baptist Church in Jerusalem.  We have seen those that Jude was warning against.  (We will say more about the Gnostics later.)  Now we know the recipients of the letter.

In our series we are skipping over verse 2.  Verse 2 is a normal apostolic greeting.  It is similar to words we say, because we are religious, and really have no bite to them.  Instead of saying mercy, peace, and love, we say God Bless You, I’m praying for you, Have a blessed day.  We say it because it sounds good, but in reality we say with little or no sincerity.  

However, having said that, there is little doubt that we need to be reminded of our need for mercy. We understand that peace comes through justification- Romans 5:1 -  Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.  The love that is mentioned is that of a love for the brethren.  That is how we have been identified through the ages-

John 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

John 15:17 These things I command you, that ye love one another. 

2 John 1:5 And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another.

We see next that the desire of Jude’s heart was to write about the common salvation.  Next week we will consider that thought.  But, tonight I want us to think about Jude’s use of the word diligence.  He states- when I gave all diligence.

Diligence- Steady application in business of any kind; constant effort to accomplish what is undertaken; exertion of body or mind without unnecessary delay or sloth; due attention; industry; assiduity.

2. Care; heed; heedfulness.  Proverbs 4:23 - Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.  (Webster’s 1828)

We need to diligence in our Christian lives.  We seem to understand diligence in other areas, but let it slip in our spiritual lives.

1.      Must be diligent about finances.

-          Make sure income does not exceed outgo.

-          Can not put $100 in the bank and spend $200

2.      Must be diligent about mechanical devices.

-          You can not just get in the car and start it and drive down the road.

-          There must be a diligence about checking for gas, oil, fuel levels.

-          A periodic check of belts and hoses and tires.

3.      Must be diligent about food inventories.

-          Must check the dates on dairy products.

-          Can not graze without thinking about needing that for another meal.

I submit to you this evening that diligence is required in our Christian lives.  There are four areas to investigate this evening.

I.  Diligence is required in living for the Lord.  (II Peter 1:10)

    In this verse we see some thoughts that will help us be diligent.

A.    Peter is speaking to brethren- people who are already saved.

B.     Give diligence- a steady application a steady effort. 

C.     A Christian can be assured of his salvation – I John 5:9-13

D.    Diligence in making sure will keep you from falling- not losing your salvation, but your testimony. 

When I got married my wife gave me a symbol of our love.  That symbol was a wedding ring.  As I do things throughout the day, I am reminded of her love for me and my commitment to her.  That ring helps me to keep diligence in our relationship.  God gave us His Word as a token of His love to remind us of His commitment to us. 

II.  Diligence is required in looking for the Lord.  (I Chronicles 22:19; Hebrews 11:6)

We do not meet God while meandering through life.  I believe this has to do with our prayer life. We seek Him in prayer.  It is impossible to pray without faith. 

We must be diligent in our prayer lives. We quit praying too often.  We make a decision for God, instead of letting God make the decision for us.

I believe as a church that everyday we must be diligent about certain things.

1.      We must be diligent to pray for wisdom to serve God.

2.      We must be diligent in praying for the Pastor and his family and that God would meet their needs.

3.      We must pray for the growth of our church.  Pray that God would send people our way.

a.       Lost folk who need Christ.

b.      Backsliders who need reclaimed.

c.       Workers to help us minister to needs

4.      We need to pray daily for the finances of the church.

5.      We need to pray about the sale of the land.  That it would go through quickly and without hassle.

6.      We need o pray for the Pastor to be led by the Holy Spirit in his preaching.

We must be diligent to pray for these needs everyday.  We must diligently look for the Lord.

III.  Diligence is required in laboring for the Lord.  (II Peter 1:5-8)

There are 7 things in these verses that we must make a part of our lives. Faith is the foundation.  This is saving faith. We must be diligent in laboring for the Lord by adding these 7 things.

A.      Virtue- Moral courage.  Doing the right thing because it is the right thing to do.

B.      Knowledge – wisdom, insight, understanding, God’s direction.

C.      Temperance- The word here refers to the mastery over all our evil inclinations and appetite. (Barnes)    A proper and limited use of all earthly enjoyments, keeping every sense under proper restraints, and never permitting the animal part to subjugate the rational.  (Adam Clarke)

D.      Patience- Bearing all trials and difficulties with an even mind, enduring in all, and persevering through all.  (Clarke)

E.       Godliness - let the fear of God restrain you from sin, the love of God constrain you to duty. (Burkitt)

F.       Brotherly Kindness- Feeling that each member of the assembly is a part of your body.  A love for each other. Brotherly kindness is shown by specific actions.

G.      Charity – This love is described in I Corinthians 13.  It is unselfishness.  It is esteeming the other above ourselves.  It is wishing better for others.  It is giving our best to others.

IV.  Diligence is required in lasting.  (Galatians 6:9)

If we are going to continue we must be diligent. We can not give up.  We can not quit.  We can not take a leave of absence.  We must continue forward.  The time for rest will be later.  The time for relaxation will be over on the other side.

     Until then we must be diligent.

Jude: Sermon 5

Reminders of the Common Salvation

Jude 1:1-3

05-13-07 am

Jude means praise.  There is little doubt that Jude was anxious to praise God and rejoice in the salvation God gives in Jesus Christ.  Those of us who truly experienced the redeeming hand of God in our lives can fully understand and appreciate the desire of Jude to spend the time to write about this wonderful life changing experience.  However, that is not what God had in mind for him.

I must admit this morning that I would rather preach a hanky-waving, Glory to God, shout it out from the rafters, watch the glory bumps roll, Happylujah,- Jesus blood has washed me white as snow, sermon.  I would much rather extol the evangelistic invitation than to reprimand the righteous to live right.  Let us face it, when faced with the choice of sweet tea or castor oil- sweet tea wins out every time.  So, in many ways I can feel for Jude.

Here this simple servant of God and half-brother of Jesus just wanted to give a simple testimony of the saving grace of God, but instead will exhort the brethren about earnestly contending for this faith once delivered.  I do hope you will be back this evening as we preach about earnestly contending.

But, in preaching through the book of Jude, as we are attempting to do, we have the privilege to stop at this phrase and camp just a little while.

Jude calls this a common salvation.  It is interesting that nearly all commentaries seem to agree- this is no small feat- that Jude’s reference to a common salvation is simply a reminder of this great grace belonging to all.  Jew and Gentile alike.  This common salvation is offered to all alike.

Remember, as Jude is writing this Epistle he more than likely is doing so with the writings of Peter very close at hand.  The similarities between Peter’s two epistles and this one by Jude are very convincing. 

Note what Peter records in II Peter 1:1 - Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:

Paul in his writing to Titus states this – Titus 1:4 - To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.

Every man, woman, boy, and girl needs this salvation.  It does not matter the educational background.  Family heritage does not play into this need.  One’s sex does not determine the need.  Salvation- this common salvation- referred to by Jude is a need that is shared by all.

Let’s look this morning at a few Reminder’s of the Common Salvation.

I.  Everyone Needs Salvation.  (Romans 3:23; Romans 5:12)

Because every human being is in the same condition, everyone needs salvation.

     A.  Because of sin man needs saved.

Sin separated man from God back in the garden of Eden.  That separation can be reconciled by being born again.

B.  Because we are all descendants of Adam we all need to be saved.  (Acts 4:12)

  II.  Every man can have salvation  (John 3:16-18)

     A.  Salvation is not limited to select few.

Jesus does not offer salvation only to a select group of people.

1.      It is not offered only to the elect.

2.      It is not just for the Jew. (Romans 1:16)

3.      It is not just for the Gentile.

4.      It is not for a certain race.

B.  Salvation is a whosoever will proposition (Revelation 21:6; 22:17)

III.  Everyone pays the same price  (Ephesians 2:8,9)

A,  This salvation is referred to as a gift.  (Romans 6:23, Ephesians 2:8,)

B.  Note the examples of Jesus speaking with those about salvation.

1.      Nicodemus (John 3:3-8)

2.      Woman at the Well (John 4:13,14)

3.      The impotent man at the Pool of Bethesda (John 5)

4.      The Woman taken in Adultery (John 8)

5.      The salvation of Paul (Acts 9)

IV.  Everyone experiences the same results.  (II Corinthians :5:17)

A.    Everyone is made into a new creature.

Everyone does not experience salvation in the same place.  Everyone does not experience salvation in the same manner. 

(Illustration of Edna Baugh getting saved at a Cottage Prayer Meeting, then a few weeks later Vince was saved in a hay loft reading John 3,  Mike Short was saved on his way to work while hearing Oliver B. Greene preach.  I was saved  at the altar of Bible Baptist Church in Stillwater, OK   We had a woman saved in a Church van after a preaching service at camp.)

While the place was different, the results were the same.

B.     Everyone who gets saved will have desires to change.

I was saved after I had been to Bible College, while I was on part time staff of a Baptist Church.  But the moment I got saved, I began to gain victory over things in my life I had battled for some time.

Everyone needs to be saved.  Everyone can have salvation.  Everyone pays the same price.  Everyone experiences the same results.

V.  Everyone is kept out of the same Hell  ( John 3:36)

Hell is a real place.  Jesus spoke more about Hell than Heaven.  Luke 16 gives us a vivid description of Hell.  Anyone who does not get saved will go to Hell.   Everyone who is not born again will spend eternity n Hell.

Although we do not deserve the mercy of God,  everyone that calls on the name of the Lord- Romans 10:13 – will make heaven and miss hell.

VI.  Everyone goes to the same heaven.   (John 14:1-3)

Everyone that is saved goes to the same heaven.  But as the old Negro spiritual states-  Everyone talking ‘bout heaven, ain’t goin’ there. 

Jude was right to want to praise God for this common salvation.  This equal opportunity salvation that keeps people from spending eternity in hell. 

Have you been saved?  Have you been born again?  Can you go back to the place and say without hesitation that this place I received Christ and He made a difference in my life?

Jude: Sermon 6

Earnestly Contending for the Faith

Jude 1:1-3

05-13-07 pm

We do not have the results of Jude’s writings.  Part of the reason for that is that you and I are a part of the results of his writing.  As I have mentioned before, Jude is very similar to Peter’s writings.  Many of the same illustrations and ideas used by Jude can be found recorded  in Peter’s writings- especially II Peter.

However, Peter makes a statement in I Peter 3:15 that seems to resemble a statement made by Jude in verse 4.  Remember, Jude wanted to write about the common salvation.  He wanted to give a treatise for the wonderful grace of Jesus, but instead was instruct to plead for the saints to earnestly contend for the faith.

Not just a generic faith, but the faith that was once delivered to the saints.  He not only was writing but exhorting them about this faith.  The word once is the Greek word haxpa.  This word carries the idea of a once for all.  It is not a faith that is different in 2007 than it was in 1947 or 1867 or 1547.  It is the same faith.

Which makes this an interesting thought.  Why do we read of men and women of God in other eras of time that had more faith, more commitment, and more zeal for God than our generation?  It is because the warning from Jude to earnestly contend has been ignored while churches spend time giving out clothing and meals.  While churches spend time making sure a sinner feels so comfortable with a little religion, that they do not need Christ.

Earnestly contending simply carries the definition of struggling with an adversary.  Throughout the rest of this letter to churches, we see Jude pleading with us to contend against the Apostates.

How do we define an apostate?  Warren Weirsbe states: He is a person who has professed to accept the truth and trust the Saviour, and turns from “the faith which was once delivered to the saints.”  (Jude 3)  Peter in II Peter 2:20-22 refers to the as dogs and sows.

Earnestly contending is not winning the lost   Although, people will get saved as a result of earnestly contending.  Earnestly contending is not a weapon in the arsenal of Soul Winning.  Earnestly contending is trying to keep the saint away from the pack of dogs and out of the hog pen.

The rest of the book of Jude is going to get specific and deal with matters in a forthright way.  This Christianity that we have in 2007 was not anything like Jude had or wanted.  This idea of trying to find an acceptable excuse for not coming to church was not a part of Jude’s life.  My motto has been if I would go to work and earn money for my family, then I could go to Church.  Church was more important.  This day and age of not being committed to the things of God- was not a part of what Jude was writing.  We have Christians spending more time hiding their sin than trying to get rid of it.  They know it is wrong, they feel convicted by the Holy Spirit of God by it, but they do it anyway. That is not earnestly contending.  That is earnestly corrupting the faith.

Let’s look at three thoughts concerning earnestly contending for the faith.  We will consider the reason to contend, the reaction to contending, and then the results of contending. 

I.  The Reason to Contend.

     A.  Because the Apostles Did.

1.      I Corinthians 9:3

2.      Acts 22:1

3.      Acts 26:1-2

4.      Philippians 1:7

     B.  Because of the Apostasy that exists.

We have already documented the problem of folks leaving the faith.  We live in a day now where more than ever the things of God are questioned. 

II.  Reaction to contending for the faith.

As we continue preaching through Jude, we will see his defense laid out.  He is going to describe those that have left the faith.  He is going to remind us of judgment.  He is going to show us how to treat the devil.  He will talk about the rebellion of God’s people and warn of the false prophets in the church.  Then he will show us how to live in the last days. 

As I have warned before, buckle your seat belts because the ride is going to be a little rough.

There will be three possible reactions to this earnestly contending for the faith.

A.    Some will embrace.

That is the hopes of contending.  That the apostate will listen to the defense of the Gospel and turn from their sin and do the right thing is the goal.

B.     Some will examine.

There are some that will hear at mull over the decision that must be  made.  Titus 1:10-16.  Paul gives sound advice to Titus to contend.  Then he says in Titus 3:10 to reject after the first and second admonition. 

C.     Some will evacuate.

Good riddance to bad rubbish.  If God’s church is to be presented a spotless church, we must protect the church membership. 

It has been said that good doctrinal preaching will separate things quickly.  It +will show the truth and like turning on a light will cause the roaches to scatter- so to truth will cause some to evacuate.

III.  Results of Contending.

A.    Contending will strengthen the saint.

If we know what we believe and why we believe it there is a subtle confidence.  Ephesians 4:14

B.     Contending solidifies our faith.

Titus 2:1-10 shows the relationship we should have in the local New Testament Church .  It all is a part of earnestly contending.

Earnestly - Warmly; zealously; importunately; eagerly; with real desire.

Contending - Striving; struggling to oppose;

Oppose the things that are against the faith once delivered.

The question is this: Are we ready to do just that? 

Jude: Sermon 7

Who Are the Great Pretenders?

Jude 1:3-4

05-20-07 am

We ended our last message with the instruction by Jude to earnestly contend for the faith.  The Holy Spirit of God changed the whole purpose for Jude writing this book.  He wanted to write about the common salvation, instead he wrote about earnestly contending for the faith.  It was as if the warnings that had been sounded by Peter had fallen on deaf ears, so Jude was now expounding the same thought.

Jude is crying forth, sounding out like a trumpet- the war is on.  There is a battle for right.  There is a conflict going on within the walls of the church.  Wake up and contend!!! 

He is trying to get these first century followers of Christ to understand that there are apostates, pretenders, claiming to be apostles.  There were those who once named the name of Christ behaving like they had never come in contact with the saving grace of Jesus Christ.  They were living their lives contrary to the teachings of both Jesus and His apostles. 

Thus when Jude was asking the believer to earnestly contend for the faith, he was asking them to physically involve themselves.  The word translated contend, was from a Greek word that spoke of agonizing in an athletic contest.  The word faith is not as though Jude is saying earnestly strive for salvation or earnestly strive so folks will get saved.  But earnestly strive for the faith- the body of doctrines given by God through the Apostles. 

Doctrine promotes a healthy spiritual life.  I understand there are many misguided souls- even among Baptists ranks- that would say leave doctrine alone because it is so divisive.  That is true, doctrine is divisive, is supposed to be.

There are certain fundamental things about football that makes it a great game.  There must be a 120 yard by 50 yard playing field.  There must be a ball that meets league specifications.  There are certain rules that must be adhered too.  These rules are divisive.  They separate football from any other sport.  They do not put a basketball goal in the end zone because they want all sports to just get along.  They do not put side boards and hockey sticks in the hands of the players so that hockey enthusiasts will not feel left out.  They do not ask the Defensive end to do a triple axle before sacking the quarterback so the ladies will enjoy the sport.  What makes football, football, is the doctrines or rules of the game.

What makes a Baptist a Baptist is the rules or doctrines so contained in the Holy Word of God.  Doctrine is the backbone of the Church.  Then he says- this faith once delivered.  This faith that has been faithfully passed down from generation to generation. 

While we live in 2007 and not 77- the faith has not changed. Doctrine has not changed.  Ideas, concepts, the packaging of sin, the lackadaisical approach to Scriptures- these have all effected a change.  But, doctrine remains the same. 

Jude is sounding the warning.  In sounding this warning, Bro. Jude is going to attempt to identify these “certain men.”  He is identifying the apostates.  He is proclaiming the pretenders have permeated the pews of the church house and are plucking down the walls.

We will not finish this message this morning.  This is a two-part sermon.  So let me get a commercial in for tonight at 6:00 PM. so you can get the entire message we have titled- Who Are The Great Pretenders?

I.  Deceivers- (crept in unawares)

Paul warned in Galatians 2:1-4 of these who were causing problems for him.  These apostates who were deceiving those in Galatia.

     Paul later describes for Titus these:  Titus 1:16

     Peter speaks of them in his second epistle:  II Peter 2:1

These pretenders had gotten into the church under false pretenses.  They were stealth.  They were pretenders.  They were crafty.

That is why there is a difference between a Congregation and a Church member.  There are some that are a member of the congregation but not a member of the church.

In order to become a member of New Testament Baptist Church one of three things must have taken place.

1.      You receive Christ as your Saviour and follow the Lord in Believer’s Baptism by immersion.

2.      You have been saved and baptized by a Baptist Church and are wanting to transfer your membership from a church of like faith and practice.

3.      You have been saved, but not baptized in a Baptist Church, so you are presenting yourself to be Baptized.

Once you are a member then there are certain means of Church discipline to help God’s people stay in line.  That is to protect the church from pretenders.  It is to protect the church from the deceivers.  It is to keep the connivers away from God’s House.

Understand, these apostates did not just show up one day and commandeer the church.  They accomplished things one step at a time.

This happened because the spiritual leaders were complacent.

II.  Declared of Old  (before of old ordained to this condemnation)

Throughout the Bible there have been those who have gone against the things of God.  When someone goes against the things of the Lord, they are condemned to punishment.  The simplest of these admonitions is found in Numbers 32:23- Be sure your sin will find you out. 

We will not spend the time this morning detailing what is found in the next three verses. But these verses contain the reminders of those who had once claimed to believe, but instead turned from living like God wanted them to.

Verse 5 begins with the phrase- I will therefore put you in remembrance.  What did he remind them of?  That God did some things to these that had apostatized.  What did He do?

. 

     A. He destroyed the Jews that did not believe. (5)

Remember, how God had delivered the children of Israel out of the bondage in Egypt?  God had lead them from their captivity, to the remarkable trip through the Red Sea.  He provided for them water and quail and manna.  But, when God said, This is why I brought you out.  Here is the great Promised Land.  It is yours.  Israel balked.  Because of unbelief.  They believed God enough to get them out.  They believed God enough every morning to feed them.  But, when it came to actually doing something God wanted- their faith ended.

     B.  He departed the angels from Heaven. (6)

God created the angels.  They were all created good.  But Lucifer and 1/3 of the angels decided they knew more than God and wanted to hijack heaven with their own ideas and leadership.  God removed them.

     C.  He disintegrated Sodom and Gomorrah (7)

Here is an entire region overcome by wickedness.  Sexual immorality was rampant.  Part of Lot’s family was destroyed in this fire. 

Enoch according to verse 14 prophesied of these things. 

Understand this text in verse 4 is not saying that these people were specifically created to this condemnation.  The Greek text and the syntax of the English corroborates, the reference  is simply that those who were apostates- those who had crept in unawares, would receive condemnation that had been spoken of in time past.

Thus we have seen the pretenders are deceivers, declared of old,…

III.  Destitute of God – (ungodly)

Ungodly is one of Jude’s favorite descriptive words.  In 25 verses he uses the word 6 times.  4 times in the 15^th verse alone. 

These claimed to belong to God, but were ungodly in their lifestyles and actions. 

That must mean that there is a way to live godly and a way to live ungodly.

Psalm 1:1 - Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

Thus if you and I are going to be blessed we must avoid the counsel of the ungodly.  We often wonder why our society and our Christian homes in particular struggle.  It is because we are getting all of our advice and counsel from the ungodly. 

That means turn off Oprah, and Phil, and Maury and the The View and every other heathen ungodly show and get back to the Bible.  Most of the time these shows try to explain why people act the way they do without it being their fault.

I could here Oprah interviewing Eve.

Oprah:  Eve, were you having struggles in your home that caused you to be attracted to this snake?

Eve:  Well, you know Oprah, I had this sheltered life.  God told me what I could and could not do.  Adam was the only one I was allowed to talk to.  It was like I was in a prison in paradise.  When this attractive serpent came along and promised me a better life- well what was I to do.  I was a prisoner in paradise.

Oprah:  Oh, honey, I understand this is not your fault.   Your circumstances made it necessary.

No the truth is- she made a conscious decision to rebel against God.

Titus 1:16 - They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.  

If someone is going to trust Christ as their Saviour, then act like it.  If someone is going to say they are a Christian, then act like it. 

Do not be like these athletes- I thank God for this great victory.  Then the next week they are out running the bars and cursing like  that is all the words they know.

Do not be like the entertainers that sing a hymn to end their concerts and then smoke and drink and live immoral.

I Peter 4:17,18 - For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?

Peter, brings us to the conclusion of our thoughts this morning

If he righteous scarcely be saved.  We go back to Lot in Sodom.  In Gen 19:16 - And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him: and they brought him forth, and set him without the city.

While he lingered.  There are numerous people who have struggled over salvation.  I knew beyond any shadow of a doubt 6 weeks before I got saved, that I needed to be saved.  I lingered.  I struggled with the decision to trust Christ.  Many people hear the gospel message numerous times.  Maybe they first heard it from Grandma.  Perhaps a Sunday School teacher.  Maybe a friend.  If the righteous, if the saved struggle to receive Christ,  what about the ungodly and the sinner?

Albert Barnes states this: What hope is there of their salvation? The meaning is, that they would certainly perish; and the doctrine in the passage is, that the fact that the righteous are saved with so much difficulty is proof that the wicked will not be saved at all.

So now there must be these questions asked?  Are you saved?  Are you a pretender- saved but not acting like it?  Are you unsaved? 

 Jude: Sermon 8

Who Are the Great Pretenders? (Part 2)

Jude 1:3-4

05-20-07 pm

This morning we began this message- Who are the great pretenders?  Jude was trying to identify these great pretenders -.  these apostates that were controlling and destroying churches.

Let me say, it is still going on today.  Yes, we must warn against the Jehovah’s Witnesses.  Yes, we must warn against the Mormons.  Yes, we must let people know of the Satanic influences of the Roman Catholic Church.  But, the truth be known, these folks will in all likelihood not influence New Testament Baptist Church.  But, these apostates- These great pretenders- They will annihilate the work of God.

This morning we saw three of these descriptions concerning the great pretenders.

1. They are deceivers.  They have on purpose crept in unawares.  They have sneaked their way into the church, with the soul intent of having things their own way.  Of running the church.  Of having control.  Of letting folks know who it is people will answer too.

2. They are declared of old.  In other words their behavior and subsequent consequences has been foretold by God for centuries.

3. They are destitute of God.  They act ungodly. They linger at the right way and stay in the wrong way. 

Now tonight is the beginning of about eight straight messages where things are going to get a little rough.  The message of Jude becomes a little more straightforward.  This is going to be good.  This is going to be a help to our church and our lives.  So, take notes and study along and we will come through this where God wants us to be.

IV.  Desire to Change Doctrine. (turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness.)

It is as if Jude is referencing II Peter 2:10.  Let’s first of all look at this phrase and define the words that make it up.  Then we will make comments, a few quotes, then see what Paul has to say about the matter.

     A.  Defining the Phrase.

1.      Turning- to transfer, exchange, pervert.

2.      the grace of God- This grace is the grace of the gospel.  Ephesians 2:8- For by grace are ye saved.  Grace is unmerited favor.  Being given by God something that we do not deserve.  Just like the bank mortgage is due on the 10^th of each month.  If we do not pay it on the 10^th they give us grace until the 20^th before they tack on a late fee.  We do not deserve that.  We do not deserve the grace of God to save us.  We do not deserve the grace of God in our everyday lives.

3.      lasciviousness- filthiness, wantonness- deviating from the rules of chastity; lewd; lustful; lascivious; libidinous.

     B.  Discerning Comments

What was taking place was the thought that God had wiped away all their past sin.  Thus, they were saved by the grace of God and they could live any way they desired.  In other words licentious living- living out the lusts of the flesh.

            It is the absence of moral restraints in behavior.

Usually this individual will say to someone who has standards- You are a legalist.  You will not find that term in Scripture.  The correct term found in Scripture was Pharisee who thought they were more spiritual because they added things to the Bible.

If I were to preach you had to stand on your head, and recite John 3:16 while gargling peanut butter- that would be legalism.  That would be adding to the Word of God.  That would be another area of wrong doing.

But for the believer to follow the Word of God- this is right.  For the believer to be taught the Word of God and turn away from it, that is turning the grace of God into lasciviousness.

. 

            The Bible states: I Thessalonians 5:22

That takes in a whole lot of things.  A woman should not wear that which pertains to a man:  Deuteronomy 22:5 

A woman should not bare the thigh: Isaiah 47:1-5  Babylon is referred to as the mother of harlots.  This is a description of one who has taken the position of a harlot.  She lost her charm and innocence.  She was put to the task of physical labor,  She uncovered her thigh- pass over the rivers.  She crossed a natural boundary.

            Proverbs 7:10- talks about the attire of a harlot.

Men things are not better for us.  We could mention I Thessalonians 5:22.  We could mention that God talks about britches for men.  We could mention the use of proper language.  We could mention I John 2:15-17.  We could mention Romans 12:2.

We could mention men allowing the wrong music in the home.  What is wrong music- Rock, Country, Jazz, Rhythm and Blues, Rap, etc.  We are not to fill our mind with the things of the world.  Much of the music of today is talking about perverted love, affairs, one night stands, drugs, alcohol, some form of illicit sexual activity.  That is not for the Child of God. 

That is not to mention smoking, drinking, drugs, bars, men looking after a woman to lust, watching movies and DVD’s that have wicked behavior on them and being endorsed.

This is the absence of moral restraint.  These things end up in the church house.  Why is it popular to let people dress inappropriately when coming to God’s House?  A lack of moral restraint.  Why is the CCM movement so huge?  A lack of moral restraint.

Cary Monaco in the Baptist Edifier June 2007 said this:  An Exhortation to Church Service Etiquette (p 4)  The overwhelmingly popular trend in churches is to gratify people’s carnality by making dress ultra-casual, ensuring that plenty of snacks and pastries are available, providing never-ending entertainment for all ages, allowing people to converse and move around as they please, and so on, but any honest reader of the Bible must surely conclude that this new tradition is contrary to the worship of God recorded and instructed in His Holy Word.  More and more so the worship of the Lord in churches is being replaced by the traditions of man which revolve around worshipping self.

The “perfect” church of the 21^st Century America would include ”mini” Strabucks and McDonalds in the foyer; the latest Nintendo machines in every Sunday School class; couches and recliners for everyone in the auditorium; vendor-ushers to bring hotdogs, peanuts, and ice cold soft drinks throughout services; and a Christian rock group which sounds like “Black Sabbath” or the “Grateful Dead”, except with “spiritual” lyrics.

Such a church would sure to be wildly popular.  Indeed, there are already thousands of them which have almost reached the standards of this “perfect church.”  However, contrary to popular opinion, the Bible doesn’t teach that churches are to mesh and conform with society.

            Grace is not just forgiveness it is a change.

C.     Romans 6:1-14

V. Denying the Lord

     How are they denying the Lord?  James 4:4

These that have left the faith- no they did not lose their salvation- but they have left the principle and actions of the doctrines of the Bible.  These are Deceivers,  Declared of old to condemnation,  destitute of God (ungodly), desiring to change doctrine, and finally denying the Lord.  Denying the Lord that saved them by their very actions.

God will judge apostasy.  He will judge those that have turned form the grace of God.  I have heard some say- well He has not yet.  Then one of two things will happen.  First, God’s timing is not our timing.  Second, you are probably not saved and will have the fires of Hell to judge you through all eternity.

Jude: Sermon 9

Jude Puts Us in Remembrance

Jude 1:5-7

05-27-07 am

As we have seen thus far, Jude is writing a warning about these creepers- apostates.  These who have turned their backs on the faith once delivered to the saints were sneaking into the churches and perverting the Gospel. 

In verse 4 we were solidly introduced to these that had rebelled against the truth of the Gospel.  Last week we used 5 words that began with D to enlighten us- they were deceivers, they were declared of old, destitute of God, desiring to change doctrine and denying the Lord.

Jude, like his mentor the Apostle Peter, reaches back into the Old Testament to give reminders.  (II Peter 2:4-9)  Peter refers to the judgment of the ungodly.  Jude cites three examples of how God deals with those who disobeys.

There have been a number of times I have been asked the question: why study the Old Testament if we are a New Testament church?  Because the Old Testament is a recounting of history and an example for us.  In a few minutes we will see how Paul makes a clear case for this in I Corinthians 10.  The writer of Hebrews also supports this thought in Hebrews 3 and 4.

Reminders are good, so long as you use them to avoid previous mistakes or enjoy previous successes.  The problem with many folks is they have memory failure or just plain refuse to be reminded.

While Paul does say in Philippians 3- Forgetting those things which are behind- the context of that Scripture is Paul forgetting those things that  had the potential of filling him with pride.  Those things that could make him confidence in the flesh.  (Phil 3:4)

Paul points us in the direction of remembrance like Jude.

Jude Puts Us In Remembrance.  He does this with three specific examples.

I.  Disobedient Israel.  (v 5)

Jude brings to remembrance that Israel had been rescued from Egypt but due to rebellion were destroyed.

Paul, brings the details a little clearer in I Corinthians 10.  The thought is this:  God will judge His own.  There are Christians that really believe they never do anything wrong.    They believe that every one else is at fault, everyone else is out to get them.  They must always be doing it right, because of the “persecution” that seems to find its way to them.

That makes great Charismatic doctrine.  That makes wonderful fertilizer to grow a garden of pride.  But it is not Bible. 

Paul shows us in specifics what Jude casually mentions: God will punish those who abuse the grace of God to follow their own lusts.

     A.  They had been thorough instruction in this before.

     B.  These in Israel had been saved (rescued) then destroyed. 

The writer shows to specific actions.  Like Paul Harvey and the rest of the story.

     C.  The instances of God’s judgment are shown specifically be

           Paul. (I Corinthians 10)

1.      The specific judgment.

Num 14:29,32,35;

Your carcasses shall fall in this wilderness; and all that were numbered of you, according to your whole number, from twenty years old and upward, which have murmured against me,

But as for you, your carcasses, they shall fall in this wilderness.

I the LORD have said, I will surely do it unto all this evil congregation, that are gathered together against me: in this wilderness they shall be consumed, and there they shall die.

Num 26:64-65;

But among these there was not a man of them whom Moses and Aaron the priest numbered, when they numbered the children of Israel in the wilderness of Sinai.  For the LORD had said of them, They shall surely die in the wilderness. And there was not left a man of them, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun.

Ps 106:26;

To overthrow their seed also among the nations, and to scatter them in the lands.

Heb 3:17

But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcasses fell in the wilderness?

2.      The series of wrongs that showed Israel had turned against God’s grace in rescuing them from Egypt.

a.  Idolatry (v 7)

Exodus 32 they made the golden calf and worshipped idols.  The result was a judgment of 3,000 people killed because they turned to idolatry.

b.  Fornicators (v 8)

In Numbers 25 Israel began to commit fornication.  Not only were they involved with sexual relations with those in Shittim but they also were committing spiritual whoredom.  They turned from God’s grace and worshipped the idols of Shittim.  The result was God’s anger- God sent a plague and 23,000 died.

                 c.  Tempters (v 9)

Numbers 21:5,6 - And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread. And the LORD sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.

                 d.  Murmurers (v 10)

Exodus 16; Exodus 17; Numbers 14, and Numbers 16 mention specifics of the murmuring.

3.      The serious warning (v 12,13)

II.  Darkened Angels. (v 6)

It is interesting to note that Jude, as Peter, makes mention of these angels.  For other than the account of the fall of Satan mentioned in Ezekiel 28 and Isaiah 14 and the accounts of Peter and Jude about the fallen angels, we are left clueless as to all the circumstances surrounding the event.

     But suffice it to say- God judged the angels for their rebellion.

III.  Debauched Sodom (v 7)

This is the most explicit of these examples.  One can not but read of this in Genesis 18 and 19 and see the wrath of God on those that had turned form Him.

     There are three things to see in this account:

     A.  Giving themselves over

This was a willful, intentional desire.  They on purpose sought after sexual pleasure.  Warren Weirsbe said- they indulged in them.

We have a generation that, like Sodom, indulges in sex.  Yes, Sodom was destroyed by God.  But, this group of people did not just wake up one day to homosexuality- they started in indulgence.  Our society is over sexed.  We have clothing manufacturers making clothes to make little girls wear the attire of a harlot- grandma says- isn’t that cute? 

Books, magazines, movies, commercials, our society talks about sex openly- too openly.  Girls at 12 are considered a geek if they have not been kissed.  That is purity and should be guarded.  If you never hold hands, you will never get pregnant.

     B.  Going after strange flesh

Specifically they had taken the step of homosexual and animal involvement.

     C.  God makes them an example.

They were openly exposed as an example for all eternity.   God will judge those that leave the natural boundaries that He has set up. 

So how do we conclude this morning?  Go with me to II Peter 3:8-14.  God will judge his people.  It took 40 years to accomplish the judgment on Israel in the wilderness.  God is patient and longsuffering and not willing that any should perish.

(Read II Peter)  The question then this morning- are you rebelling against the grace of God?  Maybe I should be a little more specific-  Is He the reason you are living?  Are you trying to please Him in everything you do?  Or are you living for all the pleasures of this life?

I Timothy 4:16 - Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

Jude: Sermon 10

What Can We Do To Protect Our Church?

Jude 1:5-7

05-27-07 pm

So now we must ask the question. Can we protect our church from these creepers.  Can we do our best to make sure that the church is kept pure and unspotted from the world?

Yes, it is possible.  There is no doubt about it.  There are four keys to protecting our Church.

I.  The Word of God must have the priority. (II Timothy 4:1-8)

     Paul exhorted Timothy to preach the Word.  Why?

     A.  Because of the Charge.(v 1) Obedience.

     B.  Because of the Coming Judgment (v 1)

     C.  Because the time has Come (v 3)

1.      Church will not want sound doctrine.

2.      Church will not want truth.

     D.  Because we are to be Careful (v 5)

1.      Endure afflictions.

2.      Evangelistic work.

3.      Ethics in ministry.

II   Watching and praying must guide our position. (Matthew 26:41)

II Timothy 4:5- Watch thou in all things.  We must realize this watching is done under the auspices of the Word of God.

III.  Where and how money is spent must be protected.

We must guard how the money God has entrusted us with is spent.  I get easily 10 requests a month for money.  I get letters from frauds claiming to be missionaries.  I must have stupid written across my forehead.  I get a couple of calls a month from Philippine Nationals wanting American money to build their church.  Obviously, they are getting it because they fly over here and spend 6 months raising money.

We must be careful of psuedomissions.  We must be careful of spending to spend. 

IV.  Wisdom in Biblical separation must be pressed upon.

       A. We must mark those who cross these lines  (Rom 16.17-20)

B.  We must correct those who have strayed from the Word.  (II Timothy 2:15-18)

C.  We must not be ashamed of what we believe.  (III John 6-11)

There is little doubt that we are protect our church from creepers.  But it takes a knowledge of the Word.  It takes a willingness to watch and pray.  It takes a diligence about the finances.  It takes a willingness to follow Biblical guidelines of separation.  That means those that cross these lines are not to be fellowshipped with or communicated with unless they want to make things right.

Jude: Sermon 11

The Character of the Deceivers

Jude 1:5-8

06-03-07 am

Jude has just given us this absolute graphic remembrance of the situation in Sodom.  How these lived their lives uncontrolled in their fleshly appetites.

Jude then makes the transfer- Likewise.  Likewise- just like those that were in Sodom and Gomorrah, and those cities in the plains.  In other words, these apostates and these in Sodom were rebellious towards the things of God. 

Rebellion.  Rebellion has become such a part of American society.  In reality, rebellion has become so much a part of this society it has become difficult to recognize.  It has almost become normal to be rebellious.  Oftentimes rebellion is mistakenly identified as individualism.  Or perhaps someone will say, They are being themselves.  They are just trying to find themselves.  They are making a statement.

The doctrine of rebellion has been fueled by the music and lifestyle of rebellion.  The music industry has been the catalyst for this rebellion.  Which should not surprise us since the devil was in charge of the music in heaven and he rebelled against the Almighty.  As the days go by the rebellion and rebellious acts increase.  Styles of dress, tattoos, piercings, bizarre hair coloring, guns, (I believe in the second amendment, but people who have the right to bear arms are intelligent enough to know the purpose of those guns.) drugs, alcohol, and the list goes on and on. 

While rebellion may be hidden or mislabeled by most, God is very clear as to his sentiments about rebellion.  I Samuel 15:23 reads - For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry.   The word translated witchcraft is the Hebrew word divination.

Listen to what the Bible has to say about witchcraft-

Exodus 22:18 - Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.

Leviticus 20:6 -  And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards, to go a whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people.

Leviticus 20:27 - A man also or woman that hath a familiar spirit, or that is a wizard, shall surely be put to death: they shall stone them with stones: their blood shall be upon

Deuteronomy 18:10,11 - There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch,  Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer.

Rebellion defined is this:  open resistance to lawful authority.

Rebellion is dangerous.

Rebellion and pride go hand in hand.  Rebellion is open resistance to lawful authority.  The way one gets to the point of open rebellion is pride. 

Psalm 10 describes the actions of the rebellious.

     1.  The rebellious are bullies. (2) 

Especially of those trying to do right.  The thought of poor is not financially challenged but as Jesus said, “Poor in Spirit”.  The humble

     2.  The rebellious are boasters.  (3)

They are not afraid to talk of their own desires and their own covetousness.  They are not good team players.

     3.  The rebellious are belligerent.

a. They do not seek God.  (4)

b. They try to hurt others because they are always right.  (5)

c. They believe themselves to be so right nothing is their

    fault.  (6)

     4.  The rebellious are backstabbers.  (7)

a.       Cursing- speaks evil of God and man.

b.      Deceit- tries to entrap folks into believing they are not rebellious.

c.       Fraud –is the style of living.

     5.  The rebellious are behind bushes.  (8-10)

They are trying to quietly work their magic in destroying the work of God.

O.K. preacher.  You have made your point about the rebellious, but what does this have to do with the text we read back in Jude?

The devil will try to commandeer the church.  He will try to destroy the house of God The calculated work of the rebellious is to destroy the work of God.

Jude gives a description of the deceivers.  These that were rebellious and doing their best to keep it concealed while they destroyed the work of God.

Let’s look at Jude’s description of the character of the deceivers.

I.  Dreamers (Jude 8)

They live in a dream world.  They believe that they are the absolute authority.  Look at the first part of verse 10

They have a dream-world religion that revolves around themselves.  Jesus talked about this in this manner in Matthew 7:3-5

II.  Defile the Flesh (Jude 8)

While they may come to the church house, they live outside the church house after the desires of the flesh.

     We are expressly forbidden from living our life after the flesh.

I Peter 2:11 - Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;

II Corinthians 7:1 -  Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

These that Jude is warning about live their lives to please the flesh.  Because of their rebellion, they believe- if it feels good, do it.  They have the attitude that God’s Word does not matter.

III.  Despise Dominions. (Jude 8)

In most case these have set themselves up as their own authority and try to recruit others to follow after them.

     This is how false religions have been birthed throughout time:

     Catholics- look to the Pope

     Mormons- look to the Book of Mormon.

     Protestants- look to committees and councils.

     Charismatics- look to the authority of experience.  I have heard

     more than one say- I know what the Bible says but I believe  

     what I saw or felt.

I have known Baptist preachers that have set themselves up as absolute authority outside the parameters of the Word of God.

IV.  Dignities spoken evil of.  (Jude 8)

While the dominions are the authorities in ones life, the dignities are those that require respect.  These are spoken evil of.

Once again these described by Jude fit the description of the Psalmist in Psalm 10. 

How do we then conclude things this morning?

Ecclesiastes 8:11 - Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.

Because God is not swift in His judgment,  these deceivers have fallen into the trap of believing that they must be right with God. 

So the question that must be asked this morning is this-  are your attitudes and actions more in line with the rebellious or with those that are right with God?

Jude: Sermon 12

How To Handle The Devil?

Jude 1:9

06-03-07 pm

We now come to verse 9 in our thoughts as we preach through he Book of Jude.  This verse is one where many commentaries go “out to lunch.”  What I mean buy that is this, they write about verse 8 and then seem to take a break to eat lunch and then come back and start at verse 10. 

There is little doubt that Jude as relating a story or quoting a tradition that had been recorded in the Apocryphal book – The Assumption of Moses.  Let me say a few things about this quoting from the Apocrypha- those books that have not been included in the 66 books that make up the canon of Scripture.

First, just because Jude is quoting from this spurious book does not mean he is condoning the entire piece of literature.

Second, just because a portion of the writing is quoted in the inspired Word of God does not mean that Divine approval has been given to those Apocryphal books.

Third, since this story is included in the Book of Jude, which is included in the canon of Scripture- then we can rest assured that this is then a true story- even though it was never referred to the Old Testament.

Fourth, it would make sense that this event would have taken place.  It would have been just like the Devil to want to relate to the Jews the exact burial spot of Moses.  Listen, if when Israel said they did not know where Moses was (when he was on the mountain) and they built a golden cow, what kind of shrine or object of worship do you think they would have built had they known where to build it.

I realize this is a complete message in itself  But honoring the dead is Catholic tradition, not a Bible tradition.  The mother of the Jewish nation- Sarah- and now the great leader of Israel- Moses- both have their death downplayed.

Genesis 23:4 - I am a stranger and a sojourner with you: give me a possession of a burying place with you, that I may bury my dead out of my sight.

Deuteronomy 34:5,6 - So Moses the servant of the LORD died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the LORD. And he buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, over against Bethpeor: but no man knoweth of his sepulchre unto this day.

Jude has in the portion we looked at this morning, charged these deceivers with speaking against dignities.  In this verse he speaks of Michael the archangel.  Michael’s office is definitely of higher position than these creepers and deceivers, yet when he was confronting the devil he watched his tongue as to what he said to him. 

We oftentimes are caught up in running our mouths are especially running down those who have dominion or authority over us.  When we speak in this manner we are speaking out of pride.   Proverbs 13:10 -  Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

The title of the message is How To Handle the Devil.  There is a group of people who have made great money and gathered quite a following by telling people to rebuke the Devil.

I have heard preachers say, “Well, bless God, just tell that old smut face that you are a child of the King, bless God, and you can not touch me. “  Hey, that may get the crowd shouting and that may get the crowd going, but it I am not so sure that it is solid Bible preaching.

I sight this very example of Jude.  Michael simple responded- The Lord rebuke thee.  This colloquialism means: I leave thee to the Judge of all.

How then are we to handle the Devil?

I.  Be Sober (I Peter 5:8)

Not just to abstain from strong drink but to be discreet. Calm, not mad or insane, not heated with passion.  (Webster 1828)

Paul said in I Thessalonians 5:6 - Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

We must understand the seriousness of what the devil can accomplish.  He can destroy our testimonies, he can destroy  family relationships, he can destroy the churches, he can wreak havoc in our lives.

We can not play around as though the devil we nothing,  We can not look at the devil as a man in a red suit, with a pointed tail and a pitch fork.

II,  Be Vigilant (I Peter 5:8)

Webster (1828) defines vigilant this way: Watchful; circumspect; attentive to discover and avoid danger

We are to be watchful to the danger that exists.  Not just understand that it could happen but be attentive that it dies not happen to me.

III.  Resist (I Peter 5:9)

     James 4:7  states resist the devil and he will flee from you. 

Literally the word resist means to stand against.  Paul said in Ephesians  6:11, 13 - Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

We are not to attack the devil.  We are not to run from the devil. We are to stand fast and do all to stand.

IV.  Overcome (Revelation 12:7-12)

There are three important words to remember in withstanding or resisting the devil.

      A.  Pray.

When the devil comes around it is a good time to talk to your Heavenly Father. To pray to Him and to let the devil know where your allegiance is.

     B.  Praise  (Word of their testimony)

Hebrews 13:15- By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.

By praising the Lord you will not have time to listen to or be a part of what the devil wants.  You are resisting the devil and his ways.

     C.  Plead the Blood (by the blood of the Lamb)

Just begin to thank God for the Blood.  The reason why churches and religious institutions have removed the blood is because they sold out to the devil and His crowd. 

            The old song writer said it right:

            It’s still the blood that saves from sin.

            It’s still the blood that cleanses within.

            From the highest stars of heaven to the depths of the sea.

            It is still the blood of Jesus that brings victory to me.

How to handle the devil?  It is not up to us.  We must stand and do all to stand.  Be sober, Be vigilant, Resist, and Overcome.

Jude: Sermon 13

Rebellion Against Salvation

Jude 1:8-11

06-10-07 am

As we looked at verse 8 we saw these deceivers.  They were described as rebellious.  Anyone that defies the authority of God- and He does have all authority- is in rebellion to God.  We saw the description in Psalm 10 of these deceivers.

Jude was not just interested in reiterating the words of his mentor the Apostle Peter.  No, he is taking the resounding warning of the Apostle to microscopic examination.

It is like the warning is elevated to a new level.  Instead of sounding   a warning blast of:  There are going to be people come to the church and try to destroy the work of God.  Jude elevates the warning to a description of just who these “people” are. 

Jude divulges how they will get into the church;  Verse 4- they will creep in unawares.  In that same verse he gives a vivid description of what they will do:  turns the grace of God into lasciviousness.  In other words these creepers are not interested in anything but satisfying their own desires. 

Who cares if souls are won to Christ?  Who cares if the prodigal comes home and the fatted calf is killed?  Who cares if another IFB church is planted?  Who cares if there is a sweet fellowship among the saints?  As long as I get what I want, when I want it, and all the focus of attention is on me- I will be happy.  That is the deceiver.  That is the creeper. 

Back when I was a lad of 15 there was a man who came into a church like a flash.  He was energetic.  He could lead singing.  He could play the piano.  His wife was very talented and could hold a crowd with her singing.  The man was well connected with Bill Gaither and many of the Southern Gospel Groups of that area. 

Within six months he had formed a youth choir, got many of the young people in trios, quartets, and the like.  Oh, and he sold the church a new sound system to equip all the microphones that were needed because of this extra singing.

He did the same thing to 3 other churches in a 5 year period.  He did not care about young people, or the things of God.  He did not care if any of those young people surrendered to the Mission field or to Pastor a church.  He just loved to sell Sound Systems. 

Now that is a drastic example of turning the grace of God into lasciviousness.  But, there are those that will unite with a church because of social standing.  They will join because they believe they can control one aspect or another of the church or whatever other selfish desire they want filled.

Whatever happened to the days of uniting with a church, desiring to be fed from the Word of God, becoming solidified to the task of loving God, loving each other, and loving the church? 

Then Jude gets real specific and uncovers their secret identity- rebellion against authority.

     1.  The cause of their rebellion. (v. 8)

Dreamers.  Living in a dream world of setting their own rules of right and wrong- not what does the Bible say.

     2.  The course of their rebellion  (v. 8)

            Living to satisfy themselves.

     3.  The consequence of their rebellion. (v 10)

They corrupt themselves.  They believe in their heart they are promoting themselves instead of corrupting themselves.

            (Weirsbe)

The rebellion of these creepers or apostates is seen as a pronouncement of condemnation.  Our text, (v. 11) shows the pronouncement.  Woe unto them.  This is the only time in the New Testament a woe is given other than when Jesus spoke.

Then Jude gives three Old Testament examples.

The title of the message is this:  Rebellion Against Salvation

Note- Jude states- they have gone in the way of Cain.

So we ask, what is the way of Cain?

Before we answer this question let’s look back at a couple of portions of Scripture as background refresher material.

Hebrews 11:4

I John 3:12

Now let’s look to Genesis 4.

There are four specific things that define the Way of Cain.

I.  Rejecting the Blood (Gen 4:3-5)

There are those who have crept in the church unawares with some other way of salvation.

Some say we are saved only by placing the Lord at the number one position of our heart.  While He must occupy the throne of our heart, it is still the blood that cleanses us from all unrighteousness.

There are some who state it is only through the baptismal waters that one can be justified.  If that we true, how could the thief on the cross be saved?

There are those that believe it is by a series of good works that we can make it to heaven.  That at the end of life our good and bad will be weighed out and the good had better outweigh the bad.  But the Scriptures indicate- Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord.

The way of Cain is rejecting the blood.  By rejecting the blood they have been puffed up with pride- thus rejected by God- (James  4:6 and I Peter 5.5- God resisteth the proud and giveth grace to the humble.)

II.  Refusal to listen to the Brethren.  (Gen 4:8,9)

While Cain talked with Abel.  Do you not reckon that Abel pleaded with Cain to do the right thing?  Of course he did.  The way of Cain is a refusal to listen to the brethren.

Do you know who has the greatest influence in people receiving Christ?  You, as a friend, a neighbor, a business associate.  As a Pastor, I sometimes have the privilege of drawing the net.  I sometimes have the privilege of seeing the harvest come in.  However, the seeds of salvation are planted by you.

The biggest influences in my life.  The three people that worked with me, loved me, prayed for me, and nudged me ever so gently along until I received Christ were my wife, my Pastor, and an evangelist friend.  I spent the most time with those people.

You spend time with classmates, co-workers, neighbors, and business associates.  How you represent Christ to them does make a difference. 

Cain had a heart of jealousy and hatred and pride.  He hated that Abel was right.  Cain wanted a religion without faith.  He wanted righteousness based on good works.  It did nor mater that Abel was obeying God’s Word- he wanted what he wanted, when he wanted it. 

While Abel pleaded, Cain plotted.  While Abel witnessed, Cain whacked.  While Abel was on his way to Heaven, Cain had decided on Hell.

III.  Replacing the Boundaries  (Gen 4:7)

The first born was to receive the inheritance.  The first born was to receive the family blessing.  Cain was the firstborn.  To him was to have passed the promise given to his Dad in Genesis 3:15-  The Saviour would be born through his descendants. 

Cain refused all of that.  He, under the direction of the father of all lies- rejected God’s plan.  Not only God’s plan for redemption- no blood.  Not only God’s plan of evangelization- one person telling another.  But he now was replacing God’s plan for the ages with his own.

Hallelujah, we have a God that is greater than all and gave Adam and Eve a child named Seth who would carry the banner.

The way of Cain is that of trying to do every thing Cain’s way and not God’s way.  You and I are not smart enough to change God’s plan.  So why try?  Why not submit and enjoy life under His authority.  You know the times that have been the most difficult for me in this Christian life?  When I want to replace God’s boundaries with my own.

IV.  Rejoicing in their own Booty.  (Gen 4:16-24)

The way of Cain comes full circle when Cain tries to establish his own name.

Verse 16 says- He builded a city.  He was building a name for himself. He was running the show.  Look, he did not need God.  He did not need a sacrifice of some animal.  Cain could do what Cain wanted.

Cain did.  Cain’s sin was repeated.  The way of Cain is living life without God, and reaping the iniquity over and over again.

Cain just disappears form the Scripture.  He kills his brother and then raises another murderer from His offspring.  While Cain thought he got one over on God.  Thought he could just run his own life outside of the boundaries of God and rejoice in his own booty- his own achievements.  Cain’s great grandson murdered a man.

    Note that there are three things about this.

1.       Lamech had broken the law of God concerning marriage. (Two wives,)

2.       Lamech was boastfully proclaiming (Hear my voice…Hearken unto my speech.)

3.       He probably killed a man after the heavenly line (Just like Grandpa)

Preacher, what are you saying- The way of Cain is one of pride and self righteousness.  God’s laws do not matter.  God’s word has no value.

Conclusion:  This is where society is today.  We have set our own rules of religion.  We have set our own ways of life.  We have taken a little Bible here and little Bible there and established rules that our contrary to a holy and righteous God.

Cain died and went to Hell.  Cain’s grandson followed in his footsteps. Your sin and your decisions effect more than your personal life. They affect everyone in your family and everyone you come in contact with. 

However, when you meet Jesus- things change.  You reject the way of Cain.

Jude:

Rebellion Against Separation

Jude 1:8-11

06-17-07 am

The Christian life is a separated life.  There is to be a distinct difference between the way of God and the way of the devil.  The closer we live to the Lord the less we will desire the things of the world.  The closer we get to the flame of His righteousness, the less we will desire the coldness of unrighteousness.

The moment one receives Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour- a separation occurs.  So how does one receive Christ as their Saviour?  There must be a complete understanding that one is a sinner.  Not only that he is a sinner, but because of his sin, he will spend eternity in Hell.  Then completely trusting that Jesus Christ died and arose the third day so you would not have to spend a minute in hell, you ask Jesus Christ to save you.  You come to Him in repentance – agreeing with His assessment-  and faith- believing what He said is true.

This separation is like light separates darkness, water separates land, ground separates sky- salvation separates the child of God from his father- the devil.  This separation is to continue until death.  We are to make steps- albeit sometimes they are baby steps- toward a life of pleasing God.

This separation is commanded by Jesus.  Listen to these words about separation:

Joh 13:34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

 Joh 13:35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

 Joh 15:12 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

 Joh 15:17 These things I command you, that ye love one another.

 Ro 13:8 Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.

1Th 3:12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:

 1Th 4:9 ¶ But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.

 1Pe 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:

 1Jo 3:11 ¶ For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. {message: or, commandment}

 1Jo 3:23 ¶ And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.

 1Jo 4:7 ¶ Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.

 1Jo 4:11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

 1Jo 4:12 No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.

2Jo 1:5 ¶ And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another.

This separation is more than just saying the right things and going the right places and wearing the right clothes, although that comes with maturity.  The very basic is that you are a member of a new family and their must be a family unity.  We must take on the characteristics of our Heavenly Father.

Our text gives us this phrase- and ran greedily after the error of Balaam.  The biography of Balaam is found in Numbers 22-25.  Thus in order to understand what Jude is saying, we must rehearse the story of Balaam.

Just prior to looking at Balaam’s life.  There are three times in the New Testament that Balaam’s name is mention. 

II Peter 2:15- Following the way of Balaam.  The way of Balaam is exchanging truth for wealth.

Jude 11- The error of Balaam- Thinking he could be like God- living a life of pride.  Creepers- Apostates believe they can have church any way they want it.  There is nothing in the word of God that should dictate how they worship, how they act, or how they live.  Pride.

Revelation 2:14- Doctrine of Balaam.  This is the result of following and running after the way of Balaam.  It will always lead to death- in this case 24,000.

So how do we prevent the error of Balaam?  There are three things that caused the error of Balaam that we must resist.

I.  The Devil’s Enticement.  (Numbers 22)

Balak was the king of Moab.  Balaam was known as a prophet of God.  (II Peter 2:16).  At one time, Balaam knew what was right.  At one time Balaam did the right thing.  At one time Balaam was known for his ability. 

So Balak, who knew his days were numbered, wanted to ally himself with a prophet   He thought if he could get a prophet of God to pronounce a curse on the people of God, he could kill the Israelites and take over the land. 

In other words, get the man of God to leave his responsibility of leading the people of God with the truth if the Word of God. 

     A.  The first approach.  (Numbers 22:5,6)

The first approach was so sly.  Verse 6 reveals the flattery.  Verse 7 shows they brought a gratuitous offering.  It was right to bring an offering to the prophet.  So Balaam prays and God says NO!  (v 12)

     B.  The second approach.  (Numbers 22:15-17)

The second approach was even more intense.  Balak was going to promote Balaam to great honor and make his word good. (v 17)  God said, (v 20) if the men come to call thee, then go.  But in verse 21, Balaam just went.

The Devil enticed and Balaam followed.  The Devil will do anything he can to get men to turn form God.  What he uses most, for those that claim to be saved, is compromise and change of the Word of God.  Why is it that there has been over 200 new Bibles come out in the last 100 years?  Why is it that organizations like Moral Majority, Promise Keepers, Focus on the Family, PTL, 700 Club- need I go on?- have come onto the scene- to compromise the truth of the Word of God. 

These all have come about to fight moral issues.  If people get saved these moral issues then to take care of themselves.  When Mordecai Ham and Billy Sunday and D.L. Moody preached the Word of God- drunks got saved, tavern owners gat saved, harlots came to Christ- business dropped.

II.  The Prophet’s Evilness- Pride (Numbers 22:22-41)

Balaam was now leaving the things of God behind.  Note some interesting things that took place.

     A.  Did not recognize God’s representative.  (Numbers 22:22)

The apostate will often ignore the representative of God.  The angel- one sent by God- stood in the way.  All of a sudden, Balaam turns a deaf ear to God.

By the way, according to Revelation 2 and 3 the Pastor is referred to as an angel - A representative of God.  Oftentimes when these creepers or apostates get away from God it is because they have ignored the warnings of a faithful man of God.

B.  Did not recognize circumstances sent form God.  (Numbers 22:22-27)

Three different circumstances where God used the Donkey to get the attention of Balaam.  Remember this is a series of events that began back in Numbers 22:6.  The invitation came.  God had told him 2 times, NO!. The angel- messenger of God- was ignored.  Now, three setbacks.

1.      The donkey turned aside.

2.      The donkey crushed his foot.

3.      The donkey laid down.

C.  Did not recognize how far pride had taken him.  (Numbers 22:28-30)

Balaam was talking to a donkey!!  Defending his actions to a donkey!!  People that are full of pride will do things that are bazaar.  They will not realize that there is a lot to be said for faithfulness.  This donkey had been faithful and was trying to convey a message.

D.  Did not recognize a need for repentance. (Numbers 22:31-35)

Note what Balaam says, I have sinned.  He started out right.  But this is a generic statement.  No admission of guilt, just a statement. 

His “sin” was- I did not know you were standing in the way.  Hold it!! Wait a minute!!  The “sin” was seen back in verse 21 when Balaam disobeyed God.  Repentance requires an agreement with God and a reversal of direction.

An attempt to bargain- if it displease thee.  A repentant heart would know.  A man that is acting because of conviction knows why.

III.  The pitiful ending.  (Numbers 25:1-9)

Balaam announces four blessings upon Israel, instead of four coursings.  He even announces the prophecy of Jesus- Numbers 24:17-19. 

But Balaam had already sold out.  He was leading Israel down a path that cost the nation dearly.  Following apostates always carries a price.

Go back to Numbers 22:36-41.  Balaam offered a sacrifice on the altar of Baal.  Bob Jones, Sr.  It is not right to do wrong in order to accomplish the right.  Do you see that.  Balaam did not set a proper sacrifice to God. He instead offered a sacrifice on the altar of Baal. 

Does this sound familiar?  Hi, my name is Bill Hybels. Hi, my name is Rick Warren.  Do you attend church?  No, what kind of church would you like?  What kind of music would you like to hear?  What activities would you like?

So what happens is that people think that the ways of the devil are right because the “man of God” did it.  24,000 people died in Balaam’s day because they would not separate.

It is not that I am being old fashioned.  It is not that I am being narrow minded.  It is not that my personality just does not bend that way.  It is that the Word of God does not change. 

Pride is what destroyed Balaam.  By the time you come to Numbers 31, Balaam was no longer a prophet.  He was enjoying the easy life, not caring about what problems his sin had caused.  Balaam lacked integrity.  Look at Numbers 31:8.

The man of God ends his life- not as a prophet, but living with the enemies of God.

Why?  He listened to the devil’s enticement.  He followed the evilness in his heart.  He led Israel astray by his actions.  There must be a separation from the ways, the actions, the ideas, the philosophies of the world. 

Jude: Sermon 15

Rebellion Against Service

Jude 1:8-11

06-17-07 pm

So we have come to the end of verse 11.  Jude has pronounced the woe.  He has said pay attention, these creepers- these apostates are rebellious.  They have rebelled in three important areas.

They have rebelled against salvation.  The have gone the way of Cain and the way of false religion.  They have established not only their own righteousness, but their own basis for character and good works.

The way of Balaam is using one’s gifts and ministry for material gain.  Balaam was thinking he could get away with this rebellion.  He was a true prophet of God who left the things of God.    Which leads to the doctrine of Balaam.  That doctrine is that you do not have to follow God’s laws.  You can compromise ad as long as the end justifies the means- it is ok.  It is a living picture of turning the grace of God into lasciviousness.

The story of Korah is another picture in this mural.  Although it took place before Balaam, it is mentioned after Balaam in the text.  In order to understand the story we must return to Numbers 16.

The story of Korah centers on rebellion against authority.  Specifically it is rebellion against God’s man.  A rebellion where Korah was attempting to take over leadership.

I.  A Forceful Takeover Attempt.  (Num 16:1-3)

     A.  Korah (a cousin of Moses) gets upset about some things.

1.      The setting up of Elizaphan chief over the Kohathites.  (Num 3:30)

2.      That Moses preferred Aaron as a priest over him.

B.  Korah plots an offensive (v 2)

Korah gets his ducks all in a row.  He gets 250 people.  These were of the mixed multitude.  Not from the 12 tribes but half breeds. 

These charges are impossible to prove.  They are bogus.  He is reading the mind and heart of Moses.

     C.    Korah accuses Aaron and Moses of taking responsibilities

meant for others.  That they were doing these things for their own glory.

       Hebrews 5:1-4

II.  A Leader’s Reaction  (4-11)

A.    He fell on his face (v. 4)

He prayed.  By falling on his face it shows two things.

1.      It shows humility.

2.      It shows a concern for what could happen.

B.     He forwards the case to the Lord. (v 5)

He did not try to answer any of the charges.  He simply said the Lord would settle this.  Why would Moses not get into a debate about this?  Because it was an issue of authority- God had placed Moses in charge and not Korah.

C.     Moses focuses on kindness. 

Even though this action is wrong and a blatant attempt to overthrow what God was wanting to accomplish- Moses exhibited kindness.

1.      He called them the sons of Levi- (v 7)

He could have called him a number of nasty things, but he reminded them of their position.

2.      He reminded them that God had used them in the position they were filling.  (v 9,10)

D.    He finalizes their intent- it was against the Lord.  (v 11)

III.  A Secondary Issue with Dathan and Abiram  (12-15)

A.    Moses asks to meet with them. (v 12)

Why did he ask to meet with them to discuss things?  Because they had not spoken for themselves, only Korah had spoken aloud.  Also because Korah’s charges were against God’s leading.  Dathan and Abiram was against the actions of Moses- his personal decisions.  This would have been as Matthew 18 in the New Testament.

B.     They refuse to come up and speak.  (v 12)

Come up was a term meaning to come to the place of judgment.

C.     They slander him behind his back.  (v 13,14)

They make four charges.  All of which are unfounded and petty.

1.      They charge Moses with wrongly making them leave Egypt.

2.      They charge Moses with wanting to kill them.

3.      They charge Moses with building a kingdom.

4.      They charge Moses with making useless promises.

IV.  Moses Manliness Shows.  (v 15)

     A. He becomes angry.

Moses was a meek man but he still became angered.  Glorianne Gibbs – Meekness is accepting circumstances as though God had directed them to occur just as they have without reacting in a carnal or rash way.

Exactly what Moses did- and said Lord.

     B.  He asks God to not accept their offering.

            God would not, because they were doing on their own.

     C.  These charges were upsetting because they were unfounded. 

1.      Not one ass

2.      Not hurt anyone.

V. Moses Sounds a Warning. (16-19)

     In this warning he gives them one more day to repent.

VI.  God Gives His Judgment ( v. 20-50)

A.    Separate yourselves from this rebellion.  (21 and 24)

B.     Moses went to the accusers once again.

1.      Interceded (22)

2.      Instructed (25)

C.     Punishment came (31-43)

1.      250 died when the earth swallowed them.

2.      14,000 that were in agreement silently died as well.  (45-49)

Conclusion:  Korah made comments that were not true.  Korah’s comments caused 2 rebellions where nearly 15,000 people died..  Korah did not think about the consequences of others. 

Those that were blessed separated from Korah, Dathan, Abiram.

Proverbs 6:16-19

Romans 16.17,18

There are people who lost their lives in Moses day because they followed what they heard not what was right. 

Jude: Sermon 16

The Dangers of the Apostates (Part 1)

Jude 1:12-16

06-24-07 am

In verses 12-16, Jude gets real personal with these creepers.  These that have become apostates can no longer hide as being unknowns.  Jude is sticking his long bony finger into the face of these reprobates and naming names.

Remember what an apostate is?  An apostate is one who has professed to accept the truth and trusts the Saviour and turns from the faith once delivered to the cents. 

Back in verses 5-7 Jude warned of those who had become apostate.  Jude had reminded us earlier that they had crept into the church.  They squirmed their way in.  They were dishonest and deceitful in their motives. They had turned from following after God and the right way of doing things and how there had been a judgment of God.

In verses 8-10 he describes the rebellious ones as filthy dreamers, defilers of the flesh, despisers of dominion, and speaking evil of dignities.  He pointed out how pride had caused them to corrupt themselves.

Then in verse 11 he cites 3 Old Testament examples as pictures or types of these apostates.  They have rebelled like Cain in establishing their own righteousness.  They had rebelled by following the way of Balaam in trying to profit from the thins of God.  No doubt this was a direct slap at the Gnostics, whose founder is seen in Acts 8:9-25.  Simon Magus thought the Hoy Spirit was such a great commodity that He could be purchased.

Finally Jude mentions the rebellion of Korah which was a rebellion against God given authority.  This dovetails with the rebellion of Cain who tried to establish himself as God.

Thus as we come to verse 12-16.  Jude begins to give an explanation as to why these apostates are dangerous to the church.  Remember, we have to go back to the definition of a first century church to understand where Jude is coming from. 

In the last half of the 20^th century and the beginnings of this current century, churches have redefined themselves.  They have done so against God’s design. They have done so by setting themselves up as the authority instead of using the authority of Scriptures.  They have done so by prostituting religion.  By finding a way to make money about the things of God.  They have given away God given authority to the man of God and given it  women and queers.  They have taken the Pastoral authority and given it to committees and people who have no interest in the things of God- but sure do love the pride.

Scripture gives a clear directive about what the church is to be:

Ø      The church is to be subject to Christ.  (Ephesians 5:24)

Ø      The church is to be glorious, spotless, wrinkles, holy, and without blemish (Ephesians 5:27)

Ø      The church is to be united with the Bridegroom Jesus and not anyone (thing) else.  (Ephesians 5:30-32)

Ø      The church is to be actively performing the Great Commission.  (Matthew 28:18-20)

Ø      The church is to be a place where preaching has the prominent position (II Timothy 4:1-5)

Ø      The church is to be the pillar and ground of truth (I Timothy 3:15)

None of this takes into account the weights that society and apostates have placed upon the institution that the gates of hell shall not prevail against.

ü      It is not the responsibility of the church to entertain you.

ü      It is not the responsibility of the church to make you feel good about yourself.

ü      It is not the responsibility of the church to build homes for those struggling with a place to live.

ü      It is not the responsibility of the church to provide a daycare program or preschool activities to give Mom a break.

ü      It is not the responsibility of the church to feed you, clothe, you and pay the utility bills of those who do not tithe and spend their money on smokes, booze, and lottery tickets.

ü      It is not the responsibility of the church to have rock climbing walls, upwards basketball, and the latest worldly enjoyment that we try to make spiritual.

False prophets, creeper, apostates are a danger to the church because they attempt to lead people away from doing the right things as prescribed by the Word of God.   Which brings us full circle to verses 12-16.  Why are these apostates dangerous to the church? 

I.  They are Hypocrites  (These are spots in your feats of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear.)

Look with me at II Peter  2:13. Note in both portions of Scripture the word spot is used.  These are both two different Greek words.  The word used by Jude is defined as a rock by the sea.  Or by implication a hidden rock that at any unexpected moment in time could destroy a vessel.

These hypocrites are purposely staging submerged until the right time when they can do the most damage to the local church.

     A.  Supped with them  (shepherding, tending themselves)

While some would imply this to be the Lord’s Table, I would take exception to this.  I would be more inclined to the thought of breaking bread of fellowshipping around the table. 

The context is that of these hidden rocks have grown close to the vessel.  They have forged a relationship.  They have completed friendships.  They have involved themselves in others lives in order to forge a bond.

     B.  Serenity in doing do.

These hypocrites had mislead and misrepresented themselves and did not feel bad about doing so.  It was all a part of their twisted plan.  They had no fear in what they were doing.  They had no respect for the things of God or the people of God. 

II.  Full of Heresy  (clouds they are without water, carried about of winds.)

In II Peter 2:17 the Apostle makes a very similar statement as Jude.  Peter calls them wells without water, while Jude calls them clouds without water.

     A.  Clouds without water.

Clouds, especially in the arid climate of the Middle East would be a welcome sight.  They would give a hope of rain.  They would give hope of a much needed shower on a parched land.  But when the wind blows them by, as they pass over, these clouds of encouragement become clouds of disappointment and despair. 

The Word of God is likened to rain.  Deuteronomy 32:2.  The false teachers, these apostates, were giving hope that they were bringing the truth of God’s Word.  But instead they had no water. They had no truth.  They had no rain.  All the prayer hankies, and seed faith and name it and claim it, and 40 days of purpose and Jabez’ prayer- all of it brings a false sense of hope.

     B.  Carried about of winds.  (Ephesians 4:14)

These false teachers will jump at the chance of following some new thing.  It does not matter to them whether it is Scriptural.  It does not matter to them whether the Hand of God is on it.

Bus ministry, Christian School Movement, Prayer of Jabez, Purpose Driven Life, 40 Days of Community,  or anything else that comes down the pike.

Tonight we will finish the next three of these dangers.  This morning I ask- Do you see?  Are you aware? 

There can only be one truth.  There are hypocrites that wish to destroy the integrity of the church by acting like they care for the work of God, but instead they could really care less.

Sure they smile, and laugh, and try to appear friendly and gain favor- but not for the purpose of maintaining a strong church

They are full of heresy.  They do not care ir the truth is taught or doctrine is straight.  No concern if God’s truth is revealed properly.

There is only one truth.  The biggest part of that truth is that Jesus Christ came to save sinners.  But once we are saved- Christ wants us to mature.  II Peter 3:17,18

Jude: Sermon 17

The Dangers of the Apostates (Part 2)

Jude 1:12-16

06-24-07 pm

We began looking at the  Dangers of the Apostates.  Long story, short, they are full of pride.  Apostates are contentious people who are not satisfied unless they et their way.  Proverbs 13:10 - Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.

But the apostates by the very nature of their creeping are patient enough to wait for their own agenda to be accepted.  They will take the time to see their agenda carried forth.

This morning we saw 2 important dangers.

1. They are Hypocrites.

They would act like a part of the church.  They would pretend to want unity and fellowship.  They would pretend they wanted to see God’s work accomplished.  But time would show them to be a great pretender. 

2.  Full of Heresy

Jude uses the term clouds without water.  Empty as a cardboard box.  The truth of the Word of God would not interest them.  They would be carried off with any wind of doctrine.  Name the latest religious fad- they would follow it.

Like the religious T-Shirt craze.  It was a way to look like the world and pretend to be the world. But supposedly have a gospel message.  I would not give 10 cents for such heresy filled, hypocritical filled, worthless witness.

We stated the obvious- there can only be one truth.  There can not be a set of right for Methodists, a set of rights for Baptists, a set of rights for Catholics, a set of rights for Mormons, etc. 

These evening we have three more dangers.  These dangers are not so much with a description or title, but with a look at their lack of production in the Christian life.

Turn with me to John 15:1-8.  Jesus is clear that we are to bear fruit.  He states in verse two- every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away. 

So, we are to protect God’s church from those that are apostate.  Those that are not following after the things of God.  Those that are causing contention.  Those that are sowing discord.  Those that have left the truths of the Gospel.

There are four ways that these apostates are taken away.

1.       Church discipline.  It is the right and responsibility of the church to protect itself from those that cause contention.

2.       By turning them over to Satan. (I Cor 5:5)

These two are done by God alone

3.       By persecution.

4.       By death.

Thus those that do not produce.  Jude talks about three areas of production that show these apostates.

I.  Produce No fruit.

We must understand the teaching that fruit is souls is no where found in Scriptures.  John 15 talks many times about fruit.  But no where is the implication that of Soul Winning.  The implication and specific teaching is that of joy.  The fruit that remains is to be the joy of serving Jesus.  This joy is exhibited in being a disciple and a love for the brethren and answered prayer.  But it is not Soul Winning.

These are described by Jude –  trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;

Thus we have the apostates described as evil tress.  Matthew 7:15-20  speaks about fruit inspecting.  Once again no where is the idea of Soul Winning expressed.

     We do see in Jude 4 properties of evil trees.

      A.  Trees whose fruit withereth. 

The fruit is rotten. It is worthless.  These apostates produce fruit that is not lasting.  If the fruit is joy and it is then the description of their fruit is seen in Jude 16 – We will not get ahead of ourselves- just keep these thoughts in mind

     B.  Without fruit.

There is no honor to God.  They are barren and unfruitful.  If these are without fruit, how do we produce good fruit?

1.      Start with the right seed (Isaiah 61:3)

2.      Continue with the right vineyard  (Psalm 92:13,14)

3.      The fruit must become ripe.  (John15:4)  (It must be fruit, not blossoms, not leaves, but fruit.)

4.      The fruit is for the owner not the vine.  (John 15:8; Phil 1:11)

     C. Twice Dead.

There are a couple of thoughts about this phrase.  One would be the dying that takes place in fall, followed by the very dead of winter.

The other application is that they were first dead in trespasses and sin.  The when the apostasy has taken place they have become dead a second time.  Just like they were resurrected  by the power of God the first time; they need a revival of heart and soul to overcome this twice dead.

Or the first was bad fruit, then leaves, then rottenness.  Or as Paul said to Timothy - 2Ti 3:13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.

     D.  Plucked up by the roots. 

It is at this point- no recovery.  It is at this point they have been gathered out.  John 15:6 - If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.

II.  Produce Nothing but Foam

Isa 57:20 But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt.

II Peter 2:18 - For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error.

These that are apostates, when the time is right to overtake the things of God.  When the time comes for them to confront like Cain or like Balaam or like Korah they become noisome and uncontrollable. 

Do you realize how impossible it is to harness the waves?  Have you ever tried to predict the waves?  It is difficult because there is nothing by which to control them.  The waves make much noise and have much movement but for all the effort the produce foam.

Philippians 3:19 - Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.

Proverbs 17:14 - The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with.

The apostate, the creeper is not interested in producing the fruit of the Spirit.  He is not interested in producing joy.  He is not interested in abiding in Christ.  He just produces foam.

III.  Produce no Fire

Wandering stars refers to shooting stars. When navigating on the seas or traveling without benefit of compass at night, the use of stars are of great value.  Stars that are stationary or fixed are of great value as markers.  They shine with fire bright in the sky.

But these apostates are referred to as Wandering stars  Shooting stars or meteors that one could not use in navigation.  First their movement is erratic and if followed could lead to great destruction.  The second reason is that the light will eventually burn out-, which would cause the follower to end in darkness forever.

     For this reason we are to listen to the prophet Daniel 12:3.

The wise shine as the stars.  The apostate is a wandering star leading folks away from God..

One of the ways to determine a creeper from a disciple is what are they producing?

Are they producing fruit?  I mean is the joy of the Lord seen in their lives.  Is their desire to see people become disciples of Jesus Christ?  Are the producing foam?  Are they making noise and a lot of current but all that is left behind is contention?  Are they producing fire?  Is their life producing the light of the Word of God?  Matthew 5:14- Ye are the light of the world.

By their fruit ye shall know them.  By your fruit others shall know you.

Jude: Sermon 18

The Judgment to Come

Jude 1:12-16

07-01-07 am

Jude has been describing in detail these creepers.  These that have been labeled apostates. They have sneaked their way into the church house.  They claim to be saved.  They claim to have a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ.  But Jude has exposed them as pretenders.  He depicts them as professors and not possessors of the common salvation.  He treats them as enemies of the grace and mercy of God.

Jude references Enoch- the seventh form Adam.  It is once again supposed that Jude is quoting from an Apocryphal book.  If  he is- and I am not convinced he is- this quote in verses 14 and 15 would be a compilation of several references throughout Enoch’s writing.  However, the writing in question never surfaced until sometime after the death if Jude.  This would make it highly unlikely that Jude is quoting from a written record.

It is however more likely, Jude is repeating what has been handed down by tradition.  So we must remind ourselves, who is Enoch?  Go with me to 2 passages of Scripture.  First, Hebrews 11:5. 

Now, let’s turn to Genesis 5:21-24.  This Enoch is the seventh form Adam.  He is the Godly line.  That is to differentiate from the Enoch in Genesis 4:17. 

So according to Jude, Enoch is a prophet.  He is a man of God that lived a holy life and walked with God.  I think it is also interesting that Genesis 5:22 says- Enoch walked with God… after.  In other words, Enoch did not always walk with God. He had to make a cognizant decision.  He had to come to a certain decision in his life that he would walk with God.  And he was consistent. 

So we come to Genesis 6:1. Men multiplied (line of Cain).  Verse 2 we see the godly line saw the ungodly daughters and entered into relationships.  These relationships drew the godly line away from the Lord and caused the earth to become more and more wicked.  Verse 3 God said there would be 120 years and then judgment would fall. 

Thus the result of the marriage between the godly line and the ungodly line is witnessed in verses 5-7.  Enoch knew this day was coming back in his time.  He preached and sounding a warning before Noah ever came onto the scene..  Justice said, “Destroy this earth.”  Mercy said, “I will give them 120 more years.”

Let’s go back to Jude.  Note the statements made by the Apostle.

1.      The Lord cometh with 10,000 of his saints.

2.      The Lord is going to execute judgment on all.

3.      The Lord is going to convince them of their ungodly deeds.

4.      These that have committed ungodly deeds have done so knowing full well what they have done with no remorse.

5.      The Lord knows all the words that have been said against them. 

From Jude’s warning I would like for us to ponder the Coming Judgment.

I.  He came (John 14:1-3)

What makes this promise of His return so wonderful is that there were promises concerning His first coming and all of them were fulfilled.

A.    He was born like the Bible said..

1.      Isaiah 7:14- Born of  a Virgin – Luke 2:26-35

2.      Micah 5:2- Born in Bethlehem – Luke 2:7