Nicodemus in the Dark

Prelude

What does it mean to be born again? Purpose: How are we born of water and the Spirit? Plan: Let’s understand the newness of a life in the Holy Spirit from John 3:1-17.

Nicodemus

John 3:1 There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.

Nicodemus was a senator in the Jewish ruling council, the Sanhedrin. He appears three times in the Gospel of John (John 3:1–2; 7:50-51; 19:38-39). Jesus explained to this wealthy and popular Jewish leader the mystery of regeneration as was taught in the prophets.

Nicodemus was not offended at Jesus’ teaching but received it in all humility. He later defended Jesus at His trial, and with Joseph of Arimathea, assisted at His burial. History reveals that he was eventually kicked out of the synagogue for believing in Christ, and then later retired to a country home where he died.

Come to the Light

John 3:2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.”

In the dark of night Nicodemus came to the Light. Others also wanted to understand. He said, “we know.” God’s word is “a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105). It leads us from darkness to “the light of the world” (John 8:12).

Born from Above

John 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly [Amen, Amen], I say to you, unless one is born again [regenerated from above], he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

To be “born again” also means “born from above,” from heaven. We have a similar expression in English when we practice a piece of music again, “from the top.” To be born from heaven above is to belong to heaven, as a child of God.

Whereas popular evangelists encourage saying a “sinner’s prayer,” which method is nowhere found in the Bible. It separates being born again from the sacraments or ordinances. But, Peter connects them, “repent and be baptized” (Acts 2:38). Paul connects them, “He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit" (Titus 3:3-7). Paul also wrote, “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Literal or Spiritual

John 3:4 Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?”

Nicodemus heard “born again” instead of “born from above,” missing the spiritual meaning. Even in old age like Nicodemus, life in Christ is new. We have every reason to live with youthful joy.

Born of Water and the Spirit

John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Most assuredly [Amen, Amen], I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”

Only those born of water and the spirit enter the kingdom of heaven. That’s very exclusive wording. Christian baptism is both the water and the Spirit. One part people perform, the other part God does. When we view baptism as a sacrament, a physical thing through which we receive a divine grace, we can understand why it’s called “one baptism” (Ephesians 4:5).

Spiritual Life

John 3:6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

Each of us who is born flesh will die. Each of us who are born of water and the Spirit live forever. The Christian life is a spiritual life, is eternal. Only by being regenerated from above can we enter the hope of eternity.

 
Born of the Spirit

John 3:7-8 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again [from above].’ 8 The wind [or Spirit] blows [or breathes] where it [He] wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

The Spirit breathes where He wishes. Some Christians believe Paul, “all scripture is God-breathed” (1 Timothy 3:16 NIV). Some refuse to accept this. By the flesh, we cannot tell where the Holy Spirit comes from or where He is going. Christianity is a life of faith trusting where God’s Spirit breathes.

Heavenly Things

John 3:9-12 Nicodemus answered and said to Him, “How can these things be?” 10 Jesus answered and said to him, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and do not know these things? 11 Most assuredly, I say to you, We speak what We know and testify what We have seen, and you do not receive Our witness.” 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?

Do many of us in spiritual Israel also ask how can these things be, because we are more focused on physical than spiritual things? The discussion changed to “we speak.” Who are the “we”? All Christians can only testify to what they have known or seen, and no surprise, some will not believe.

Who is in Heaven

John 3:13 No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven.

The tense is not of Jesus future ascension into heaven after the resurrection, but present and completed, “has ascended.” This refers to Jesus “who is in heaven” even while He was on earth? Jesus has two natures, His divine nature which was in heaven, and His human nature which was on earth. Jesus reveals heavenly secrets to Nicodemus because he “has come down from heaven” and “is in heaven.”

Lifted Up on a Pole

John 3:14-15 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.

God punished Israel with poisonous snakes (Numbers 21:4-9), then instructed them to look at a bronze snake on a pole and they would live, provoking them to repentance and faith. The wash basin in the Temple was bronze. The snake has symbolized sin since the garden. Jesus was lifted up on a pole to bear our sins and cleanse us. If we will keep our eyes on Jesus on the cross we will also live.

How God Loved the World

John 3:16 For God so [thus] loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes [has faith] in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

The words “so loved the world” mean “in this way” or “in this manner” God loved the world. We could also say that God loved the world in this manner. How did God love the world? By lifting up his son on the cross as Moses lifted up a serpent.

We’ll leave out the centuries long argument over whether faith is a gift or a choice. One text often used is misunderstood. “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it [being saved] is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).

Saving the World

John 3:17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

Though we are called to recognize and overcome sin, we neither condemn nor condone sinners. Why? Jesus neither condemned a woman involved in sexual sin, nor condoned her sin. He simply said, go and sin no more.

Postlude

Nicodemus learned about being born from above, a total change of character, lifestyle, affections, and goals. If any of us are still trapped in our old hateful and selfish ways, let’s come out of the dark and ask the Light of the world about being born again.

New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

WDJT

WWJD! What would Jesus do? That seems to be the answer for many today, but is it? Let's look at what Jesus did. He walked almost everywhere. We take cars. He was single. Many of us are not. He went into the Temple and turned over the tables. Try that at the next church bazaar! He taught without formal qualification, licensing or ordination. That won't work go far today! He asked men to leave their professions and follow Him on the road. How many would have to faith to live like that? Finally, Jesus went to the cross. That is not required of us literally, though figuratively we take up our cross daily. None of these things are required of most of us, so to ask what would Jesus do, does not always fit our calling or circumstances. Is there a better saying. What did Jesus teach? In Matthew 28:19-20 Jesus said, "teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you". Notice that He did not say teach what I did, but rather what I taught. What Jesus did is not our mandate, but His alone. What Jesus taught is our mandate. Let us rather ask, "What did Jesus teach?"

Spiritual Powers (1 Corinthians 12)

Spiritual manifestations were popular in the church in Corinth and they still are today. Paul does not want us to be uninformed. How can we get a godly balance in regard to unique skills given by the Spirit?

Spiritual gift tests probably still make the rounds of churches. They are simplistic and tend to assume that the gifts listed here are all the gifts of the Holy Spirit. A good background to this chapter is Exodus 31:1-5, where we see more gifts of the Spirit. Those listed here must then just be examples. What other gifts may the Holy Spirit give? What about hospitality, music, listening, or encouragement?

1 Corinthians 12:1 Now concerning spiritual [gifts], brethren, I would not have you ignorant.

The word “gifts” is not in the original, though it is implied in the later word charismata, meaning spiritual endowments, and is used several times in this chapter. The topic is the “spiritual” or “spiritual things.” Could their previous counterfeit gods speak as God speaks into our hearts through the Holy Spirit?

1 Corinthians 12:2 Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.

We too were once deceived by the things of this world. What is one sign that someone’s words can be trusted or not?

1 Corinthians 12:3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed [anathema]: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.

Were some things which Jesus and the Apostles allowed for conscience’s sake later called anathema by spiritually abusive church leaders? Are those who confess Jesus as Lord uniform or diverse in abilities?

1 Corinthians 12:4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.

There are diversities of:

1) charismata, literally “grace-endowments.” Should we divide over such issues, or do we have the same Lord?

1 Corinthians 12:5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.

2) administrations, literally “services.” Do we all work the same way?

1 Corinthians 12:6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.

3) operations or workings. When we look around our local church are we blind to the endowment, services and works which are from the Holy Spirit, or do we just find fault with people? Are the manifestations of the Spirit for self-glory or for the good of all?

1 Corinthians 12:7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

What is the first and potentially most overlooked manifestation of the Spirit?

1 Corinthians 12:8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;

Wisdom is needed in teaching, exhortation and comforting. Knowledge of scripture, doctrine, and mysteries is needed. Are some given an extra measure of faith?

1 Corinthians 12:9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;

All Christians need a certain measure of faith for salvation. This is speaking of extraordinary faith to move mountains (Matthew 17:20). Gifts of healing are plural. This could therefore include both miraculous and physical means. Why do some seem to focus more on some manifestations than others?

1 Corinthians 12:10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:

Counterfeit miracles and false prophecies abound (Deuteronomy 13). Tongues can come from God, mere human emotionalism and even the devil. Many non-Christian religions speak in tongues and their source is often emotionalism and mass hypnosis. What if God does not give us a gift that we want? Who makes the decision about giving these manifestations?

1 Corinthians 12:11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

As Jesus prayed so should we, not my will but Yours be done. Who are these manifestations of the Spirit for?

1 Corinthians 12:12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.

Do Christians with different manifestations all have the same Spirit?

1 Corinthians 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

How many members of a human body are there?

1 Corinthians 12:14 For the body is not one member, but many.

Are some manifestations of less value?

1 Corinthians 12:15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?

Are those with very different abilities still in the body?

1 Corinthians 12:16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?

How useless would a church be if we all had the same abilities?

1 Corinthians 12:17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?

What do we often overlook when we are frustrated by differences between church members?

1 Corinthians 12:18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

How useless would a body be if composed of only one part?

1 Corinthians 12:19 And if they were all one member, where were the body?

How wonderful is the diversity of heavenly gifts?

1 Corinthians 12:20 But now are they many members, yet but one body.

Do we need each other?

1 Corinthians 12:21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.

What about those whose contribution seems small?

1 Corinthians 12:22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:

What about those whose contribution is hidden behind the scenes?

1 Corinthians 12:23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.

Applause is addictive, and some contributions don’t get much public praise. Are anonymous jobs often given greater honor by heaven than those which receive more frequent public acclamation?

1 Corinthians 12:24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked.

What should we realize about our place in the local church?

1 Corinthians 12:25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.

How should we feel about those who suffer or are honored in our local church?

1 Corinthians 12:26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.

Are we all important parts of the team?

1 Corinthians 12:27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

What are some ways that people serve in the church?

1 Corinthians 12:28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

Are all sent on missions? Do all speak and teach God’s word or perform miracles?

1 Corinthians 12:29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?

Are all used to heal or work with languages?

1 Corinthians 12:30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?

What are the most helpful endowments of grace (charismata)? Which gifts are most useful for a particular church at a particular time?

1 Corinthians 12:31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

This more excellent way introduces the topic of love, often overlooked in ego-driven church politics. Let’s recognize and treasure the extraordinary manifestations of the Holy Spirit in each person’s life. Let’s remember to thank those faithfully serving in hidden duties. They may be the ones who receive the greatest reward in eternity.

The Holy Spirit's Work (John 15-16)

Prelude

What does the Holy Spirit do for us? Purpose: Let’s learn some of the Holy Spirit’s work among us. Plan: Let’s look at John 15:26-16:15.

He will Testify

John 15:26-27 “But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me. And you also will bear witness, because you have been with Me from the beginning.

Helper, Advocate, Comforter are all appropriate translations. The Paraclete means broadly anyone who advises, counsels, or helps. He is the Spirit of Truth. The Nicene Creed quotes this verse, that He “proceeds from the Father.”

To testify means to bear witness. The Holy Spirit witnesses not about Himself but Jesus. Preaching that glorifies a preacher, a saint, a denomination,  a political view, a nation, but not Jesus is not led by the Spirit. Shouting and other antics often cover up lack of content. If Jesus is not the content of preaching, it is not Spirit-led, because He will testify of Jesus. What was Jesus preparing the disciples for?

John 16:1-6 “These things I have spoken to you, that you should not be made to stumble. 2 They will put you out of the synagogues; yes, the time is coming that whoever kills you will think that he offers God service. 3 And these things they will do to you because they have not known the Father nor Me. 4 But these things I have told you, that when the time comes, you may remember that I told you of them. “And these things I did not say to you at the beginning, because I was with you. 5 “But now I go away to Him who sent Me, and none of you asks Me, ‘Where are You going?’ 6 But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart.”

What was to happen after Jesus ascended to heaven?

He will Help

John 16:7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.

This is why the western version of the Nicene Creed adds the filioque, “and the Son.” “We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son.” Why is this appropriate? Because we read here that Jesus sends the Holy Spirit to us. Eastern Christians would argue that though Jesus sends Him, He still proceeds from the Father. Rather than split hairs, let’s just leave it at that. Why is the Holy Spirit sent? To help, comfort, and advocate for us. What else does the Holy Spirit come to do?

He will Convict

John 16:8 “And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:”

What is meant here by sin, righteousness and judgment?

1) Sin of Unbelief

John 16:9 “of sin, because they do not believe in Me;”

Sin as defined here, is not moral failure, but a lack of faith. Because Jesus ascended to heaven, who now has the job of convicting the world of righteousness by faith?

2) Righteousness

John 16:10 “of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more;”

Christians are righteous by faith (Romans 3:22; 4:5, 9, 13; 9:30; 10:6; Galatians 5:5; Philippians 3:9; Hebrews 11:7). We walk by faith not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). We believe even not having seen Jesus as Thomas did (John 20:29). What does the Holy Spirit help us understand about those who rule this unjust world of war and crime?

3) Judgment on this World’s Ruler

John 16:11 “of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.”

Though injustice still holds sway in this world, judgment has already been made, justice is coming. The ruler of this world, whether human or demonic, has been condemned. What else will the Spirit do?

He will Guide

John 16:12-13 “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. However, when He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak; and He will tell you things to come.”

He will guide. He will speak. He will tell. There are many ideas blamed on the Holy Spirit. How can we discern between real truth coming from heaven and false doctrines or ideas of mere humans?

He will Glorify

John 16:14-15 “He will glorify Me, for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you. All things that the Father has are Mine. Therefore I said that He will take of Mine and declare it to you.”

He will glorify. Who? He will take. What? Who will the Holy Spirit glorify, Himself, human saints, or human sects? No, Jesus. What will He take, of Himself, of human ideas or human sects? No, of Jesus.

If a doctrine is universally accepted in the church, it is likely that it came from the Holy Spirit. If any teaching does not receive universal acceptance, it may be a vain tradition from mere men.

When someone claims to have a word of knowledge from the Holy Spirit, how can we tell if that word is a counterfeit or not? What the Holy Spirit speaks will always be entirely consistent with the teachings of Jesus and glorify Christ, just as Jesus echoed the Father’s teachings.

One thing unites Christians, the words of Jesus. When we emphasize the truths that Jesus taught, we become more unified. The relationship between Father, Son and Holy Spirit teaches us how such perfect unity behaves.

Postlude

The Holy Spirit bears witness to Jesus, comes to help and to convict us that unbelief is sin, what is true righteousness, and that judgment on the ruler of this world has already taken place. He guides us into all truth, faithfully helping us understand what Jesus taught.

New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Hair and Communion (1 Corinthians 11)

Do hair length and sharing communion in a worthy manner matter to God? Who does Paul follow?

1 Corinthians 11:1-16 Hair

1 Corinthians 11:1 Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.

Did the Corinthians generally remember their founding pastor and his instructions?

1 Corinthians 11:2 Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you.

Who did God intend to be the family head?

1 Corinthians 11:3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God.

Ought a man to pray or prophesy with a head covering?

1 Corinthians 11:4 Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth his head.

Ought a woman to pray or prophesy with a head covering?

1 Corinthians 11:5 But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven.

What if a woman is not covered?

1 Corinthians 11:6 For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.

Why the difference between men and women?

1 Corinthians 11:7 For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man.

Who was created first?

1 Corinthians 11:8 For the man is not of the woman: but the woman of the man.

Who was created for whom?

1 Corinthians 11:9 Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man.

Does long hair give a woman power? Are angels watching? Do we respect God’s holy angels?

1 Corinthians 11:10 For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels.

Some say this is a married woman’s submission to the power of her husband. Others say it is the power of her “glory” or beauty. Are men and women independent of each other?

1 Corinthians 11:11 Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord.

Do men and women mutually excel each other?

1 Corinthians 11:12 For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman; but all things of God.

What do we think?

1 Corinthians 11:13 Judge in yourselves: is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered?

Is it obvious?

1 Corinthians 11:14 Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him?

This does not refer to “nature” as some say that this is contradicted by a lion having longer hair than a lioness, but is a colloquial way of saying, “isn’t it obvious” (NLT). Is the veil or covering a bonnet, scarf, cloth or something else?

1 Corinthians 11:15 But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering.

Perhaps this is the power spoken of earlier, the beauty or “glory” of long hair. What if some want to quarrel about this passage? Was this just a local custom or was it church wide?

1 Corinthians 11:16 But if any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither the churches of God.

1 Corinthians 11:17-34 Bread & Wine

Is a church gathering supposed to be for the better or worse?

1 Corinthians 11:17 Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come together not for the better, but for the worse.

Is division one way to sour a church service?

1 Corinthians 11:18 For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it.

Is apostasy another way to ruin a church meeting?

1 Corinthians 11:19 For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.

What particular service was the concern?

1 Corinthians 11:20 When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord's supper.

Was communion meant to be self-serving or taken like an ordinary meal?

1 Corinthians 11:21 For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken.

Was the Eucharist being treated like a common meal in their own homes? Were the poor being ignored or left out?

1 Corinthians 11:22 What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? what shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not.

What should Jesus’ example at the Last Supper teach them and us?

1 Corinthians 11:23 For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread:

What did Jesus do with the bread?

1 Corinthians 11:24 And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.

What did Jesus do with the wine?

1 Corinthians 11:25 After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, this cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.

How often should we take communion?

1 Corinthians 11:26 For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.

Jesus does not say how often. Passover was once a year, but there is no such directive for the Lord’s Supper. What if we partake of communion in a selfish manner like them?

1 Corinthians 11:27 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.

What is an important preparation for taking the Eucharist?

1 Corinthians 11:28 But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.

What happens if we partake in a flippant or self-serving manner?

1 Corinthians 11:29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.

What was happening among the Corinthians because of their contempt for communion?

1 Corinthians 11:30 For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.

What should we do as we examine ourselves?

1 Corinthians 11:31 For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.

What is God’s purpose in disciplining us?

1 Corinthians 11:32 But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.

What should we do instead of greedily gobbling up communion and not caring for others?

1 Corinthians 11:33 Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another.

Is waiting for each other easier if we eat before communion?

1 Corinthians 11:34 And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.

Some Christian traditions are based upon ideas not found in the Bible, but veils, hair length and communion traditions go back to these instructions. Some just blatantly disagree with Paul, some believe this is no longer culturally relevant, and others believe that it is still applicable because it is God-breathed scripture.

Out of the World

Prelude

In all the world’s religions and philosophies are there real alternatives or just varieties of the same worldly way of life? Purpose: Let’s see that there are only two ways, God’s and the world’s. Plan: Let’s look at John 17:6-19.

Out of the World

John 17:6 “I have manifested Your name to the men whom You have given Me out of the world. They were Yours, You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word.

“They were Yours,” these disciples out of the world which God created, were believers, yet their faith had also been mixed with some false ideas of the world, as is ours (Revelation 2-3). In the rest of this context the “world” (kosmos) refers to the ungodly inhabitants of the world, alienated from God, hostile to the cause of Christ. Christ’s disciples are in and sent into the world but are not of the world.

John 17:7 Now they have known that all things which You have given Me are from You.

This applies to His whole ministry. His words (John 12:49) and deeds (John 5:36) are from the Father.

John 17:8 For I have given to them the words which You have given Me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came forth from You; and they have believed that You sent Me.

Jesus’ words are often called the logia, meaning those parts of the New Testament where Jesus is quoted, but here the plural of rhema, the rhemata is used, meaning the words He spoke or sayings.

John 17:9 “I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for those whom You have given Me, for they are Yours.

Jesus did at other times pray for those in the world (John 17:23), for his enemies (Luke 23:34), and we are to pray for those who despitefully use us (Matthew 5:44).

The disciples were given to Jesus out of the world, this being not a prayer for the world, yet the disciples still lived in the world; the world hates true disciples because we are not of the world, yet are sent into the world. These ideas about the world are a major theme.

John 17:10 And all Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine, and I am glorified in them.

What a compliment to us, that Jesus would be glorified in us!

John 17:11 Now I am no longer in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep through Your name those whom You have given Me, that they may be one as We are.

Disciples are one through God’s Name (authority, character and reputation), not the name of any man (Polycarp, Chrysostom, or Luther), not the name of any sect (Catholic, Orthodox or Protestant), not the name of any doctrine (Sabbatarian, Baptist, or Charismatic), but in God’s name.

John 17:12 While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Your name. Those whom You gave Me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled.

Jesus guarded the apostles safe from counterfeit authority, false teachings, the apostasy of the religious leaders. Only Judas was lost. Is true joy found in Jesus?

John 17:13 But now I come to You, and these things I speak in the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves.

Does the joy of Christ mean that the world will love true disciples?

John 17:14 I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.

True Christians need not be shocked that they are hated. Should God take us out of the world?

John 17:15 I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one.

How does God protect us from the evil one? What are martyrs protected from? Are we of the world?

John 17:16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world.

Made Saints

How are we made holy?

John 17:17 Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.

Should Christians hide from the world in exclusive communities or monasteries? What is our responsibility to the world?

John 17:18 As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.

We are called to be holy, sanctified, saints. What makes us saints?

John 17:19 And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth.

Following the Bible sanctifies us. Jesus is “Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world.” (John 10:36) Jesus also said that Christians are “sanctified by faith in Me.” (Acts 26:18) Paul wrote that Gentiles are “sanctified by the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:16), “by the Spirit and belief in the truth” (2 Thessalonians 2:13), “sanctified by the word of God and prayer” (1 Timothy 4:5), that the church is “sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints” (1 Corinthians 1:2) and sanctified “by the Spirit of our God” (1 Corinthians 6:11).

Outro

This world’s ways are not the way to life. We have been raised with Christ. Let’s set our minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for the old ways have died, and our lives are now hidden with Christ in God.

Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Israel’s Failures (1 Corinthians 10)

What can we learn from Old Testament Israel’s self-willed ways? Are we just as sinful?

1 Corinthians 10:1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;

What spiritual lessons can the Exodus generation teach us? Is the word baptize always used literally in the Bible?

1 Corinthians 10:2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;

As Christians are baptized “into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19), so the Exodus generation “into” [same word] Moses. Was this non-immersion experience also a “baptism” for both adults and children?

1 Corinthians 10:3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat;

Their physical food was manna (Exodus 16:13), and something deeper was going on. The true bread of heaven (John 6:32) fed them, prefiguring communion and the bread of life. What did they drink?

1 Corinthians 10:4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.

Christ as God with us (Matthew 1:20-23) was also the Lord God of the Old Testament (John 1:1-3, 14). Why did many Israelites fail?

1 Corinthians 10:5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.

Only two of that generation were allowed to enter the promised land, Joshua and Caleb. What were some of their significant sins?

1 Corinthians 10:6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.

1) Israel lusted, such as for the food they left behind in Egypt (Exodus 11; Numbers 11).

1 Corinthians 10:7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.

2) Israel feasted and danced to idols such as the golden calf (Exodus 32).

1 Corinthians 10:8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.

3) Israel committed fornication for instance with the daughters of Moab (Numbers 25).

1 Corinthians 10:9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.

4) How could they have tempted or tried Christ, except that Christ was the Lord God of the Old Testament (Numbers 14:22).

1 Corinthians 10:10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.

5) Israel complained (Numbers 16), and murmuring is still a common sin in churches today.

1 Corinthians 10:11 Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.

Christians who toss out the Old Testament are ignoring instructions like this. Apart from faith in Jesus, we are just as dead in our sins, and apart from the Holy Spirit, we are just as incapable of holy living as they.

1 Corinthians 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

We can fall so easily into lust, idolatry, fornication, tempting God and complaining.

1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

With each temptation to sin, God provides a way out, so that we don’t have to just give in.

1 Corinthians 10:14 Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.

One example of a way out is taking drastic action by fleeing. Rather than seeing how close we can get to sin, let’s see how far we can run.

1 Corinthians 10:15 I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.

What are we to consider?

1 Corinthians 10:16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?

The mystery of communion, because it contains physical elements, can be treated in an idolatrous manner. Yet, what are we partaking of?

1 Corinthians 10:17 For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.

How does this relate to the temple sacrifices?

1 Corinthians 10:18 Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?

Some of the Old Testament sacrifices were taken as a communal meal.

1 Corinthians 10:19 What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?

What really happens in idolatry?

1 Corinthians 10:20 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.

Whereas communion involves fellowship with God, so idolatry is fellowship with demons.

1 Corinthians 10:21 Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.

Worship of God can be the opposite of fleeing idolatry. Some unwise practices of later Christian tradition have actually moved believers dangerously closer to idolatry rather than further away.

1 Corinthians 10:22 Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he?

Do we really want to pick a fight with God?

1 Corinthians 10:23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.

Because of personal sensitivities, or because weaker members can only handle milk of the word, it is not always necessary to serve strong meat.

1 Corinthians 10:24 Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth [good].

Seeking what is good for our neighbor is the essence of Christians love.

1 Corinthians 10:25 Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question for conscience sake:

How could this apply today? Let’s say we boycott a company because of unethical practices. Do we then boycott every company, because all sin? Perhaps it’s sometimes better not to ask too many questions.

1 Corinthians 10:26 For the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof.

At the end of the day, everything belongs to God.

1 Corinthians 10:27 If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience's sake.

Need Jewish Christians just not ask what kind of meat they have been served? Should vegetarians, vegans and healthy eaters just not worry so much about what is set before them?

1 Corinthians 10:28 But if any man say unto you, this is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof:

In cases of potential offense against the conscience of another it is better not to eat. The same might apply to clean and unclean meats, vegetarianism, alcohol consumption, drinking coffee, eating meat on Fridays, and so on.

1 Corinthians 10:29 Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my liberty judged of another man's conscience?

We should consider the weak consciences of others. Our freedom in Christ might be misjudged by someone newer in the faith.

1 Corinthians 10:30 For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks?

Why expose yourself to potential gossip? It’s not worth it.

1 Corinthians 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

Remember that though we are free to partake of many things, wisdom might suggest abstaining, lest God be brought into disrepute.

1 Corinthians 10:32 Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God:

This is difficult advice to follow. We all offend at times. But let’s not do so unnecessarily.

1 Corinthians 10:33 Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.

More important than always eating what we desire are the souls of those observing us.

We fall into lust, idolatry, fornication, testing God and murmuring because we are thinking of self. There is a better way, even abstaining from things that might be legitimate, yet offend their consciences. The opposite of the sins of ancient Israel is thinking of others, and how we can show love to them.

Abide in Christ's Love

Prelude

We often think of love as the number one rule of a Christian life. But, Jesus places a different emphasis on it than many may think? Purpose: Let’s discover Jesus’ different emphasis on love. Plan: Let’s note Jesus' words in John 15:9-17.

Abide in My Love

John 15:9 “As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love [agapé].

Abide means in His love. Abide in the vine means abide in the love that He has for us.

John 15:10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love [agapé], just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love [agapé].

Abide means keep Jesus’ commandments summarized by the word love. Jesus’ friends are “those who are loved.”

Joy to the Full

John 15:11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.

Abide means joy to the fullest. What is Jesus’ main commandment?

John 15:12 This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.

Abide means we love one another.

John 15:13 Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his [philos, beloved] friends.

Abide is like a game where the purpose is to help others win. What kind of sport is that? It’s a strange sport called Christianity. It is the sport of Jesus, proving His love through giving Himself.

Beloved Friends

John 15:14 You are My [philos, beloved] friends if you do whatever I command you.

Abide means we are Jesus’ beloved friends because we do “what He is commanding us” which is to love.

John 15:15 No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you [philos, beloved] friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you.

Abide means He has told us, His dear friends, heaven's secrets. Did He choose us?

Jesus’ Choice

John 15:16 You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.

In this context, we did not make a “decision for Jesus.” He made a decision for us. What we choose is to abide in His love. Abide means we bear lasting fruit. Abide means our prayers are answered.

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

Postlude

We know that Christianity is about brotherly love, but forget that it begins by abiding in Jesus’ love for us. His love overrides everything. He chose us. Let’s abide in His love.

New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Abide in the Vine

Prelude: Jesus prayed that we remain in unity, but from the beginning there have been divisions. Purpose: What creates unity? Plan: Let’s find out in John 15:1-8.

The True Vine

John 15:1 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.”

Jesus describes himself as the true vine, sometimes called the trunk. And God the Father is the husbandman, vinedresser or owner. This metaphor also described the relationship between old covenant Israel and God (Psalm 80:8; Isaiah 5:3-7). Here we see that God takes care of His vineyard, the Church.

The Pruning

John 15:2 “Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.”

We are like branches or cordons. New shoots grow with leaves and tendrils. Pruning does two things: removes dead branches and makes fruitful branches even more productive. Don’t be discouraged when people leave or church gets hard. Stick around, God may be pruning us for greater service.

Example: a church once was stuck at 80 attendees and no growth. A new preacher came and the church shrunk from 80 to 20. People were upset. They wanted to get rid of him, but after pruning it grew to many hundreds. God prunes churches for growth.

Clean by the Word

John 15:3 “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.”

How are we pruned clean? The word that Jesus speaks prunes us. Grapevines must be pruned clean to produce. In winter 85-90% of year-old wood is removed. Summer pruning removes excess. The biggest problem is not removing enough. We are reluctant for God to prune us. Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart,” using the same word for pure or clean. Vinedressers remove unfruitful parts so that the vine can focus its energy on fruitful parts. What must we do?

Abide

John 15:4 “Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.”

Abide means “stay.” Quitters don’t abide. Cutting ourselves off is asking for fire. If God prunes us by 85-90%, He knows what He is doing. Those who endure to the end will be saved (Matthew 24:13).

Abide means rest, designed at creation, originally the seventh day. We abide or rest in Jesus, a permanent rest for our souls (Matthew 11:28-30).

Abide means fellowship with others who abide in Christ, with forgiveness and grace. It includes the blessing of living longer and healthier lives than those who cannot abide by church.

Abide in Whom?

John 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.”

If I was starving, I would not care what music played, if they only had green beans and no ice cream, or if the cooks did not get along. Abide means we stay where Jesus is. If a church preaches Jesus then that’s where I want to be. The music and personalities are irrelevant.

Abide means stay in Jesus.

Abide means to hear Jesus before tradition, reason, and experience.

Abide means connection, and Jesus our greatest friend.

Quitters

John 15:6 “If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned.”

To not abide means to quit. To not abide means withering and fire. The vine will be trimmed. Sometimes we suffer painful setbacks. Yet, Jesus is also pruning us. The Lord disciplines those that He loves (Proverbs 3:12; Hebrews 12:6).

My Words Abide in You

John 15:7 “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you.”

Abide means rest in Jesus.

Abide means stay in the Word, prioritizing Jesus’ words.

Abide means answered prayer. Pruning is a temporary setback, but produces a much better harvest. A vine that is cut off cannot bear any fruit. It is just headed for the fire. Cutting ourselves off from Jesus and church causes our lives to shrivel up. We cast our lives into the fire.

Much Fruit

John 15:8 “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.”

Abide means honor God.

Abide means bear much fruit.

Abide means teachable, disciples. Do those who cannot love and forgive others in the church eventually leave? God prunes everything that keeps us from bearing spiritual fruit. Are we bearing the fruit of the Spirit?

Postlude: God created his Church to be unified in Jesus. Let’s not be quitters, but abide in connection with heaven. Let’s hang in there and bear much fruit.

New King James Version (NKJV) Scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.