The Weekly Sermon

Homesick for Heaven

Pastor David Miklas — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 13:12:22 +0000

Volume No. 2011 Issue No. 04 Date: January 29, 2012

Publication of the BIBLE BAPTIST MINISTRY, 48 Alexie Rd, Hanover Township, PA 18706

Phone: 570.829.5216 pdmikBBM@aol.com pastormiklas@aol.com

In II Corinthians 5:1-8 we read, “For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. (2) For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: (3) If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. (4) For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. (5) Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. (6) Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (7) (For we walk by faith, not by sight:…) (8) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.”

Dr. Harold Sightler said in writing “Homesick for Heaven” We are Heaven's citizens. We are headed toward Heaven's bliss. However, as we journey, we are hindered by the pull of this world. It is very easy to become satisfied in this life. If this life offered no hardness, no suffering, no tears, no bitterness, no disappointments, most of us would be content to remain here.

It is the nights of this earth – that make Heaven to be desired – where there is no night.

It is the tears of this life that make Heaven a delight – where God shall wipe away all tears.

It is the suffering of this life which make us long for Heaven – where there shall be no pain nor sickness.

It is the poverty of this life that makes the riches of Heaven more desired than ever.

It is the disappointments of this life that make us long for the bliss of Paradise.

It is the heaviness of this life that makes the rest of Heaven a holy anticipation.

It is the mourning of this journey that will make the hallelujahs of Heaven blessed.

It is the loneliness of this life that makes us long for the fellowship of Jesus in Heaven.

The longer we live and the more tears we shed, the more homesick we become for Heaven. One by one our loved ones are crossing over, until soon we have more loved ones on the other shore than here. As this separating continues, so the more we desire to depart this life and enjoy reunion with loved ones who have outstripped us to Heaven's shore.

In Revelation 21:1-7 we read, “And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. (2) And I, John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. (3) And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. (4) And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. (5) And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. (6) And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. (7) He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.”

May God’s blessing be upon you this week as you read and meditate on the 15^th message from the Book of James chapter 3:13-18 “Wisdom – Who is Right?”

In His Amazing Grace,

PS: As we have repeatedly said, we will not charge for sending the Weekly SERMON. However there are expenses associated with doing what we do. If possible during 2012, would you please consider helping us in this faith ministry? Your donation will help us to continue to “stand in the gap” in “teaching others also.” After you have given your tithes to your church and taken care of your pastor, would you consider giving either a yearly gift, or a monthly offering? Remember, for the purposes of financial accountability, we have placed this ministry under the Green Street Baptist Chapel of Edwardsville, PA. Checks made out to Green Street Baptist Chapel, memo to the Bible Baptist ministry and mailed to Bible Baptist Ministry 48 Alexie Rd, Hanover Township, PA 18706 will be applied to this ministry.

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Wisdom, Who is Right?

Pastor David Miklas — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 00:52:33 +0000

Sunday January 29, 2012	Phone: 570.829.5216
Pastor David Miklas	e-mail pdmikBBM@aol.com
Message: Book of James #15	Text: James 3:13-18

“Wisdom, Who is right?”

Introduction: In the recent past we could not help but see in the news over and over again the tragic massacre of thirty-two lives on the campus of Virginia Tech.

On the one hand, our hearts went out to the grieving parents and those who lost loved ones in this senseless killing.

On the other hand, we were appalled by the actions of a sinful, depraved, and degenerate mind and soul twisted by our evil society.

Now in the aftermath, panels of news commentators are still trying to analyze the WHY, the WHAT and now, the WHERE we go from here. It’s easy to see the great divide between man’s wisdom and the wisdom from God. Man’s wisdom uses human philosophy, education, legislation, or psychoanalysis of how to control the wicked human heart, God’s wisdom is a heavenly wisdom that through Christ is the answer to a desperately wicked heart, wherein man alone will find the peace that passeth all understanding.

Even though we are witnessing a knowledge explosion in our nations' history, it is revealing to notice education in itself has not proved to be the answer to our basic problems, or basic human needs. Unfortunately, with all our knowledge, we have accumulated very little WISDOM. And yet the Bible tells us wisdom is the key to success and happiness.

Proverbs 3:13 "Happy is the man that findeth wisdom."

Proverbs 4:7 "Wisdom is the principle thing, therefore get wisdom."

Proverbs 8:11 "Wisdom is better than rubies…"

Psalm 111:10 "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom…"

We must understand that the two philosophies are at war with one another.

There is the earthly, humanistic, man-centered philosophy taught in public education.

On the other hand, there is a Godly philosophy found in the WISDOM of Christ, with the Word of God as its foundation.

Having brought this to our attention, we come to the last part of James 3:13-18 where James presents a dramatic contrast between earthly wisdom and heavenly wisdom. Follow me as I read these verses, “Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. (14) But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. (15) This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. (16) For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. (17) But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. (18) And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.”

Noticing again verse 13 we ask, "What is Wisdom?" Please listen:

Wisdom is not determined by how much knowledge we possess, but by how we act upon that knowledge.

Wisdom is not so much determined by how much we SAY, as by what we ARE and what we DO.

James is saying "If you profess to be wise, then make sure your WALK demonstrates your TALK."

To James, religion was more than just beautiful words. In many respects he is describing our present religious climate where "theological creeds are a dime a dozen." We have Christians who know the RIGHT WORDS, but their faith is worthless because they don't live what they say they believe.

Someone said, "Whenever the church can confront this world with people whose lives are consistent with what they say, REVIVAL will be on its way." It has been rightfully said, "Many people never read the gospel in a fine leather Bible or even from an inexpensive Bible. But no one can escape from the gospel in shoe leather. "

The wise man who takes his directions from the Word of God, is an open book testifying to the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

The wise man runs from the evil paths as Job 28:28 states, "Behold the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom and to depart from evil is understanding."

The wise man in verse 13 has "meekness of wisdom." MEEKNESS, which is the right use of power and WISDOM, which is the right use of knowledge, go together.

A wise man is a humble man.

A wise man recognizes his relationship to God.

A wise man acknowledges God's greatness and holiness.

A wise man humbly takes God's wisdom and makes it his own to show forth the Glory and greatness of our God.

Now, let’s take a more thorough look at the differences between earthly wisdom and Godly wisdom.

FIRST: The CHARACTER of Earthly Wisdom, found in James 3, verses 14-16. “But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. (15) This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. (16) For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” Here James describes the Origin, the Operation, and the Outcome of earthly wisdom, the wisdom of this world!

Number 1: The ORIGIN of Earthly Wisdom, verse 15. Three words are used by James to describe earthly wisdom.

It is earthly. This is the character of the "Me Generation." It is the wisdom based on earthly standards, earthly sources and earthly aims measured by earthly success. It is man-centered instead of God- centered. This is the philosophy of HUMANISM.

These same words of James are also echoed by Paul in I Corinthians 1:20-21 where we read, “Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.”

Man from the beginning, has been tying to reach God by his own wisdom but, as Paul explains in Romans 1:21-22, it has always backfired, “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darken. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools.”

Paul warned believers to fight the temptation to build their lives on the foundation of the world's wisdom. In Colossians 2:8 we read, "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the traditions of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ."

Whenever Man has tried to construct his life on a foundation of the world’s wisdom, he has ended up with the big three: DEFEAT, DISCOURAGEMENT and DISAPPOINTMENT.

It is sensual. The word "sensual" means"soulish or natural." This is the natural as opposed to the spiritual. It is the natural man as opposed to the supernatural God.

It is devilish. The wisdom of the world has a subtle source, Satan himself. I don't know about you but that frightens me. Humanistic philosophy comes from Satan himself. Make no mistake about it, Satan's wisdom is alive and well, and you and I are more affected by it than we know.

It is dominating our music world, including our "Christian music."

It is dominating our church ministries by the proliferation of the entertaining style of worship.

It is dominating our literature, our dress, our standard of living, and our education.

It is piped into our lives 24/7 and without constant vigil; we become intimidated by its principles.

The wisdom of the world operates in I John 2:15-17, through "the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life." I believe we can say nothing good grows out of earthly wisdom.

Number 2: The OPERATION of Earthly Wisdom, verses 14-16. James gives us four characteristics of worldly wisdom.

Worldly wisdom creates bitter envying. Another way of saying this would be "jealous anger." The wisdom of the world exalts man and tries to glorify him.

It is the number one ploy in the age old game of pushing oneself up by pushing someone else down.

It is resentment over someone else's success.

You will notice it is not just envy, as bad as that is, but it is bitter envy. Looking at someone else you might say, “They don't deserve what they have, so I hate their guts and wish I had it.” That's worldly wisdom. Proverbs 14:30 tells us, "A sound heart is the life of the flesh, but envy the rottenness of the bones."

Worldly wisdom creates strife in the heart. The word “strife” means "party spirit" It is the spirit of discord that creates division in the church. Please listen carefully, "I am not in competition with you or you with me. I am here to benefit you and you are here to be a benefit and blessing to me". Therefore, it is our responsibility to be the person God would have us to be so that we can minister to each other. Remember what Paul said in Philippians 2:3, "let nothing be done through strife or vainglory, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than themselves."

Worldly wisdom will glory not. The phrase “glory not” is a warning against proud arrogance.

Worldly wisdom is prideful arrogance that loves to compare ourselves with others, creating the atmosphere that what we are or what we have is better than who you are or what you have.

In contract God's wisdom exhibits a sense of humility and submission, and you want God to get all the glory. You don't compare yourself with other Christians you compare yourself only with Christ. Compared to Christ all of us have a long, long way to go.

How do we justify prideful arrogance by lying against the truth? Remember, a man's life is not read in his press releases; it is read by the Lord in his heart. All this brings me to

Number 3: The OUTCOME of Earthly Wisdom, verse 16. “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.” Two consequences of the world's wisdom are clearly marked out for us. They are "confusion and every evil work."

Whenever there is confusion, Satan is the source of it, not God. Nothing can grow in that kind of atmosphere.

Whenever there is evil, Satan is the source of it. The word “evil” literally means "worthless or good for nothing."

Is this the kind of wisdom you and I want to have as our motive for living? What a relief to know that James goes on to describe heavenly wisdom.

SECOND: The Character of Heavenly Wisdom, verses 17-18. “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. (18) And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.” Here James describes the Origin, the Operation, and the Outcome of Heavenly wisdom. Returning to verse 13, James asks, "Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you?" He answers his own question by saying the wise man has a right relationship with God whose life reflects a HEAVENLY WISDOM.

Number 1: The ORIGIN of Heavenly Wisdom In contrast to the wisdom that is "earthly, sensual and devilish." James describes in verse 17 a "wisdom that is from above." In this phase James uses a present tense which says "Wisdom is coming and coming and coming from above." Wisdom from above is not only available one-time, or on the installment plan. James pictures a steady supply of God's wisdom that never runs dry. It comes to us continually from above to meet the demands of each hour.

Divine wisdom begins by KNOWING and EXPERIENCING by faith the Lord Jesus Christ as our personal Saviour.

Heavenly wisdom comes from Jesus Christ as I Corinthians 1:12 reads, "Christ the power of God, and the WISDOM of God…"

Heavenly wisdom comes from the Holy Spirit who according to Ephesians 1:7 is "the spirit of wisdom and revelation."

Heavenly wisdom comes from the Word of God, for in II Timothy 3:15 we read, the scriptures are able to make us "wise unto Salvation."

Heavenly wisdom comes from God. In James 1:17 we are reminded, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes from the Father…"

True spiritual wisdom is from GOD. There is no need to use the counterfeit wisdom from the world that caters to the flesh and accomplishes the work of the devil.

Number 2: The OPERATION of Heavenly Wisdom found in verse 17 give us an inventory of the SEVEN characteristics of Heavenly Wisdom. “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.”

1. Heavenly wisdom is PURE: Heavenly wisdom rejects immorality, lying, and cheating. An impure person may be clever but he is not wise. Jesus said in Matthew 5:8, "Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God."

There are no hidden motives in God's wisdom. It is transparent and clean. There is nothing under the surface, it is up front. God's wisdom leads to purity, man's wisdom leads to sin.

2. Heavenly Wisdom is PEACEABLE: True peace is always an outgrowth of purity. The absence of peace will always be accomplished by the absence of purity.

Isaiah 57:20-21 warns us, “But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.”

On the other hand Isaiah 26:3 says, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.”

Isaiah 32:17 says, "And the work of righteousness shall be peace, and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever."

Jesus said in Matthew 5:9, "Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God."

Paul tells us in Ephesians 4:3 that we are to "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

Real wisdom produces right relationships, with men and with God. A wise man is a seeker of peace.

3. Heavenly Wisdom is GENTLE. The word gentle means "a sweet reasonableness." It is possible for us to win an argument but in the process to lose the person with whom we argue. A GENTLE Christian will "yield right away." He will cultivate a grudge-free spirit and one of forgiveness even when the letter of the law says to condemn. Human wisdom produces strife but God's wisdom produces gentleness.

4. Heavenly Wisdom is easy to be ENTREATED: The Greek word for "Entreated" is found one time in the New Testament. This military term means "to be willing to take orders." One who is under heavenly wisdom will be obedient to instructions. There will be compliance instead of complaining. When God's wisdom is at work, there is a willingness to listen, think, pray, and obey.

5. Heavenly Wisdom is FULL OF MERCY. God's wisdom leaves nothing behind. It gives in love and it gives more than it gets. "In His GRACE, God gives to us what we do not deserve and in His MERCY does not give us what we do deserve."

Remember the story of the Good Samaritan? For the Samaritan to care for a Jewish stranger was an act of MERCY. He would gain nothing from it, except the blessings of God. REAL WISDOM IS A COMPASSIONATE WISDOM. A wise man is a TENDER man.

6. Heavenly Wisdom is FULL OF GOOD FRUIT: A wise man is one who is full ofGOOD WORKS. Remember the consistent message of James is"Faith without works is dead." I know in our determination to keep "good works" out of the Gospel message, we have almost removed the term from our Biblical vocabularies. But "good works" is an important doctrine for us to understand and practice.

II Timothy 2:16-17 "All scripture is given by inspiration of God…that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Titus 3:8, "This is a faithful saying, …that those who have believed in God should be careful to maintain good works."

Hebrews 10:24, "And let us consider one another in …good works."

Colossians 1:10, "That you may walk worthy of the Lord, …being fruitful in every good work…"

7. Heavenly Wisdom is WITHOUT PARTIALITY and WITHOUT HYPOCRISY: Heavenly Wisdom is without "religious politics or religious scheming." It is sincere and impartial. It reflects a consistency in our lives. With a wise man there are no first or second or third class people. There are no black or white or rich or poor. All men stand equal at the foot of the cross.

Number 3: The OUTCOME of Heavenly Wisdom, verse 18. The most important thing we can do in our lives, in our homes and in our church ministries is measure them by the Word of God not by the wisdom of men. Notice again the contrast in verse 18. “And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.”

Earthly wisdom produces "DISORDER."

Heavenly wisdom produces "PEACE."

Earthly wisdom produces "EVIL PRACTICE."

Heavenly wisdom produces a "harvest of righteousness."

The Christian life is a life of sowing and reaping. Someone said, "What we are, is what we live, and what we live is what we sow. What we sow determines what we reap. If we live in God's wisdom, we sow righteousness and peace, and then we reap God's blessing. If we live in man's wisdom, we sow conflict and sin and we reap confusion and every evil work."

Do you find in yourself bitter envying and strife?

Do you find in yourself confusion and evil work?

If you do, then perhaps it is time to yield it all to God and ask for wisdom that is from above. When that becomes the passion of your soul, the fruit of righteousness will be sown in you and through you to those around you.

In light of all this, each of us ought to get on our knees to ask God, through His Spirit, to produce God’s Heavenly wisdom in us. Proverbs 3:13 says, "Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding."

How do we find that wisdom? It is found through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. It is in Christ who is the wisdom of God, that we find the power for eternal salvation and the peace of God that passeth all understanding.

********************************************************************

If God has spoken to your heart after reading the sermon “Wisdom – Who is Right?” then right now talk to God about what He has spoken to you.

Do you have the assurance that one day you will go to heaven? If you have no assurance that you know Jesus Christ, then I trust you will decide to accept Him as your personal Savior. The Bible tells us in

Acts 16:31, “…Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved…”

Romans 10:13, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

This prayer is here for those who need to ask Jesus to be their personal Savior: “I do want to go to Heaven. I know I am a sinner, and I do believe Jesus Christ died for me. I realize I cannot buy this great salvation, nor can I earn it. Knowing Jesus died on the cross and arose from the grave to pay my sin debt and to purchase my salvation, I do now trust Him as my Savior, and from this moment on I am completely depending on Him for my salvation.”

If you made the decision to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior let me know? Please send an e-mail to, pdmikBBM@aol.com and I will send you some literature that will help you in your Christian life.

The “Weekly SERMON” was sent as a ministry of Bible Baptist Ministry, 48 Alexie Rd., Hanover Township, PA 18706. Privacy policy: your e-mail address will not be sold, or shared with any third party.

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In His Amazing Grace,

David Miklas" src="http://theweeklysermon.com/images/Pastor_David_Miklas.gif" />
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A Foundation of FAITH

Pastor David Miklas — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 09:05:06 +0000

Volume No. 2012 Issue No. 03 Date: January 22, 2012

Publication of the BIBLE BAPTIST MINISTRY, 48 Alexie Rd, Hanover Township, PA 18706

Phone: 570.829.5216 pdmikBBM@aol.com pastormiklas@aol.com

In Ephesians 6:4 we read, “And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” Question Parents, what is your greatest ministry? Being a mom or a dad is the greatest ministry you will ever have. There is NOTHING you will ever do for the Lord more important than being mom or dad to your children, raising them in the admonition of the Lord. Your children are a blessing from God and He has entrusted those children into your care; to protect them, provide for them, love them, nurture them, and raise them in the Christian faith.

I realize that the vast majority of moms and dads would never dream of instilling hatred into their children. However, let me tell you what is just as bad. When you fail to fulfill the responsibility God gave you to nurture your child in the Christian faith, to teach them God's Word, to encourage them to accept Christ as their personal Savior, you leave your children to the messages of this world. The messages of this world are of rebellion to God, rejection of the Bible as absolute Truth, and of mocking Jesus Christ.

Sadly, with the better percentage of two full generations who don't go to church and are not Christians, most children are growing up today in homes void of God. This is a wake-up call to you moms and dads today that you better take seriously the responsibility God gave you in the raising of your children and the nurturing of their minds. At some point, your children will be old enough to decide for themselves what they believe. However, God has given you the job of raising your children in the Christian faith, teaching them the Scriptures, and laying a foundation of Truth from God's Word in their life.

You should pray for that child in the womb, dedicate your baby to the Lord, pray over your baby every day, teach that child the name of JESUS as soon as he/she can speak, read the Bible to your child every day, teach your child how to pray, have your child in church, create a loving and nurturing home environment where your child can grow up knowing that he/she is loved and cared for, have your home a place where the name of Jesus and the Truth of God's word is honored, teach your child the Scriptures as soon as he/she can start to read, encourage your child to seek out a real relationship with – Christ for themselves, challenge your child to grow in their faith through activities at church and in serving the Lord, and make praying with your child a part of EVERY day.

All of these are things you can do as a mother or father to lay that foundation of faith in your child's life. Never forget, as they get older they will start making their own choices, choices for which you are not responsible. Even if at some point they choose to turn from the faith, know that the foundation is there, and in their darkest hour it will sustain them. I will be praying as you open your heart to the Lord today and accept this incredible job He has given to you, not to just be mom or dad to your child, but to be their spiritual guide as you help raise them in the Christian faith. It is the greatest ministry you will ever have.

In our Weekly SERMONS we begin Part 2 of our series from the Book of James, who demonstrates for us a “Practical Faith in ACTION that is DYNAMIC and ALIVE.”

January 22 The World's Smallest Troublemaker James 3:1-12

January 29 Wisdom – Who Is Right? James 3:13-18

February 12 Why Do We Have Conflicts? James 4:1-3

February 19 Friendship in the World James 4:4-5

February 26 Grace to the Humble I James 4:6-10

March 18 Grace to the Humble II James 4:6-10

April 8 Sin of Slander James 4:11-12

April 22 Planning – Don't Leave God Out James 4:13-17

April 29 Wages of Worldly Wealth James 5:1-6

May 13 Enduring with Patience James 5:7-12

May 20 Which Heals – Prayer or Oil? James 5:13-15

June 3 Effective Praying James 5:16-18

June 17 Saving a Soul from Death James 5:19-20

In His Amazing Grace,

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World’s Smallest Troublemaker

Pastor David Miklas — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 01:06:10 +0000

Sunday January 22, 2012	Phone: 570.829.5216
Pastor David Miklas	e-mail pdmikBBM@aol.com
Message: Book of James #14	Text: James 3:1-12

“The World’s Smallest Troublemaker”

Introduction: Have you ever heard the expression "He is a troublemaker." Well, I need to inform you we have a troublemaker present this morning within our congregation. He is what you call the "world's smallest troublemaker." Oh! By the way, if you are wondering about whom I am talking, he is hiding behind those ivories in your mouth, HE IS YOUR TONGUE.

Someone said, "A sharp tongue is the only tool with an edge that grows keener with constant use." This little bit of muscle within our mouths can create all kinds of incredible trouble for us.

It can start wars and stop them.

It can create stress and then relieve it.

It can express love and renounce it.

It can build up friendships and then tear them down again.

It can praise and worship God, or with those same instruments curse God and deny His existence.

The tongue can be our strongest asset or our greatest liability.

It is a true what we read in Proverbs 18:21 "Death and life are in the power of the tongue."

The Christians to whom James wrote were having serious problems with their tongues. In each of the FIVE chapters of James, including the extended chapter we are going to study this morning, he has something to say about the tongue or our speech. Notice:

James 1:19 “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to HEAR, slow to SPEAK, slow to WRATH.”

James 1:26 “If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his TONGUE, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s RELIGION is VAIN.”

James 2:12 “So SPEAK ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.”

James 4:11 “SPEAK not evil one of another, brethren. He that SPEAKETH evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, SPEAKETH evil of the law…”

James 5:12 “…, my brethren, SWEAR not, either by heaven, neither by earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea: and your nay, nay: lest ye fall into condemnation.”

Now, please follow me as I read James 3:1-12:

“My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. (2) For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. (3) Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. (4) Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. (5) Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! (6) And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. (7) For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: (8) But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. (9) Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. (10) Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. (11) Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? (12) Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.”

Question: Are our literal tongues the real problem? Answer: NO! In Matthew 15:17-20 Jesus unmasks the culprit that controls the tongue.

“Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught?(18) But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man. (19) For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: (20) These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man.”

The tongue is neither friend nor foe. It’s merely a messenger that delivers the dictates of the HEART. So every time James uses the word TONGUE in our passage today, think HEART.

Since many have referred to James' letter as the Proverbs of the New Testament, we should not be surprised to find many verses on the tongue in that Old Testament book.

Proverbs 10:19, "…He that refraineth his lips is wise."

Proverbs 15:1-2, "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. (2) The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness.”

Proverbs 21:23, "Who so keepeth his mouth and his tongue, keepeth his soul from trouble."

Now retuning to James chapter 3, understand that James is not saying "SILENCE IS GOLDEN," rather he is dealing with the control of the tongue. Perhaps you noticed as we read, James gives us six pictures of the tongue:

In verse 3 the tongue is likened to the BIT in the horse’s mouth.

In verse 4 the tongue is likened to the RUDDER of a ship.

In verse 5 the tongue is likened to FIRE.

In verse 7-8 the tongue is likened to POISONOUS animals.

In verse 11 the tongue is likened to a FOUNTAIN, and

In verse 12 the tongue is likened to a FIG TREE.

You can put these six pictures into three meaningful classifications that then reveal the THREE POWERS OF THE TONGUE.

First: There is the POWER TO DEFILE: verses 1-4. In verse 1 James comes to those who held responsible positions in the church. “My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.” The word "MASTER" is the word for "Teacher". The very position itself opens doors for influence and persuasion. A teacher in many respects is in the "Drivers Seat."

Stop for a moment, because what I am about to say extends not only into the church but also into our homes. Our children look for guidance from those of us who are parents and are in "the driver’s seat."

Remember this often-used phrase that speaks volumes, "What we DO speaks so loudly that others cannot HEAR what we say."

Or let me say it this way, "It is not so much WHAT we say, but HOW and the WAY we live out what we SAY that is of supreme importance."

James’ words of caution were necessary because of leaders who did not PRACTICE what they PREACHED. They loved to talk and show-off, but not necessarily practice what they preached. The teachers were more interested in glorifying themselves than the Lord.

So James, who doesn't mince words, comes right out with some more thunder, "WITH RESPONSIBILITY, THERE COMES ACCOUNTABILITY." You who have the power to influence so many others by what you say will be judged more harshly for what you say. Remember, "WITH RESPONSIBILITY, THERE COMES ACCOUNTABILITY."

Wait a minute. James isn't about to let the rest of you off the hook. Verse 2 says, "for in many things we offend all." I believe every one of us must admit that we make far too many careless mistakes with our tongues.

The word "OFFEND" here speaks of a repeated action. We constantly stumble and slip up. If we err once a day, that amounts to almost 20,000 times in 50 years! Is James making a mistake by connecting sins committed by "the whole body" with sins of the tongue? No, because WORDS usually lead to DEEDS. Remember one of the famous slogans used during WW II was, "A slip of the lip may sink a ship." It may be that the tongue has slain more than all the bullets and bombs of battle.

Solomonsaid in Proverbs 18:21, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue."

Davidsaid in Psalms 141:3-4, "Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips. Incline not my heart to any evil things…"

Jesussaid in Matthew 12:34, "…out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh."

Petersaid in I Peter 3:10 "He that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile."

In verse 2 James points out if we do not stumble in the use of our tongue, WE ARE PERFECT and able to control the whole body. “For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.” The word “perfect” means “maturity.” A MARK OF A MATURE CHRISTIAN IS THE CONTROL OF THE TONGUE.

Now in verses 3-5 James uses the first two illustrations to demonstrate how powerful the tongue really is. “Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. (4) Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. (5) Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things…” He tells us that the tongue, though it is very small, can control the whole body. The BITin the horse’s mouth and the RUDDER of a ship have the power to direct, which means they affect the lives of others. The words we speak affect the lives of others.

A judge says "Guilty!" or "Not Guilty!" and with those words the destiny of a prisoner is affected.

Even a simple "Yes or No" from the lips of a parent can greatly affect the direction of a child's life.

How about this one? “DO you take this woman or man to be your lawful wedded wife or husband, to love her or him and cherish her or him …. till death do you part?” And you said, "I do!"

Our words have the power to control. Proverbs 15:1 says, "A soft answer turneth away anger, but grievous words stir up anger."

SECOND: There is the POWER TO DESTROY: verses 5-8. Although a small instrument, the tongue has the power to DESTROY. Notice again another illustration in verse 5-6, “Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! (6) And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.” As FIRE spreads, it destroys.

Have you ever experienced a forest fire? I learned what they are like during our first ministry. They are dangerous and frightful. An out of control forest fire is very destructive having been started by "only a single spark."

James’ point is clear, the tongue is also small, but it can start a raging fire of ruin that leaves in its path DEVASTATED andDISILLUSIONED people. Solomon said in Proverbs 26:20-21, "Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out; so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire, so is a contentious man to kindle strife."My friend,

CONTENTIOUS tongues have greatly hindered the work of God.

CRITICAL tongueshave closed church doors.

CARELESS tongueshave broken the hearts and health of many a dear pastor and Christian workers.

This thing we call the tongue can do unpardonable damage. God can forgive and so do people, but the scars may last a lifetime.

James says in verse 6, "The tongue is a fire … and it is set on fire of hell." All evil talk, James says, "has it's beginning in hell and will cause the whole body, the whole personality, to burn in hell."

In verse 8, James gives us another indictment of the tongue, "It is an unruly EVIL, full of deadly poison." The Greek word translated "poison" means "arrow." The tongue is like a poisonous arrow.

Let me introduce three poisons that infect the tongue.

There is the poison of GOSSIP: Gossip has been dubbed the favorite indoor sport of many who call themselves Christians.

GOSSIP is passing on groundless information about a person. Whether it is true or not, the damage has been done.

GOSSIP is called ear pollution. "Oh. Did you hear what I have just heard? Someone just told me this in confidence, but I thought you should know so we can pray about it."

The moving lips and lose tongues of gossip have resulted in starting another fire. Listen to these chilling words. “I am more deadly than the screaming shell from the howitzer. I win without killing. I tear down homes, break hearts, and wreck lives. I travel on the wings of the wind. No innocence is strong enough to intimidate me, no purity pure enough to daunt me. I have no regard for truth, no respect for justice, no mercy for the defenseless. My victims are as numerous as the sands of the sea, and often as innocent. I never forget and seldom forgive. My name is Gossip.”

Gossip is like taking feathers from a pillow and spreading them all over the countryside. Try recovering them after the wind has blown them about for a few days. Just as you cannot recover the blown feathers, you cannot recover all the words you have passed on with gossip. Proverbs 16:27-28 tells us, "An ungodly man diggeth up evil, and in his lips there is a burning fire. A forward man soweth strife, and a whisper separates chief friends."

There is the poison of LYING. Whether it is a little exaggeration or a big deliberate untruth, it is still a lie. Lying is designed deception. In Proverbs 12:19 we read, "The lips of truth shall be established forever, but a lying tongue is but for a moment."

Satan is the source of lying. It appears to be his desire to use our tongues as Christians to hinder God's work and to hurt God's people. I've been personally involved in situations where I've had to trace down a rumor, spending hours or even days unraveling the problem, only to find out what was said was either stated carelessly or misrepresented by someone else. OH, HOW TRAGIC WHEN SATAN SCORES THIS KIND OF VICTORY, ALL BECAUSE A TONGUE IS OUT OF CONTROL.

There is the poison of FLATTERY. In Psalms 5:9 "For there is no faithfulness in their mouth; their inward part is very wickedness; their throat is an open sepulcher; they flatter with their tongue."

If gossip is saying behind a person's back what you would never say to his face, flattery is saying to a person's face what you would never say behind his back. Flattery is speaking with a forked-tongue.

James tells us animals can be tamed and a fire can be controlled. When you tame an animal you get a pet. When you tame a fire you get power. But only God can tame your tongue.

As believers, indwelt by Jesus, the Living Word of God, God holds us responsible for every word that we speak. Every word that you and I speak reveals the true condition of our heart.

An evil heart is controlled by the flesh and manifests itself in words that ultimately produce death.

But, life-giving words flow out of a heart that is yielded to the control of the Holy Spirit.

THIRD: There is the POWER TO DIRECT, verses 9-12. Again James drew from the world of nature to make his point. “Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. (10) Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. (11) Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? (12) Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.” It is impossible for both "fresh water and salt water" to flow from the same source. Likewise it is impossible for a "fig tree to have olive berries" grown on its tree.

Just so, James was saying, it is not possible for PRAISE andCURSING to come from the same mouth of a mature Christian.

Proverbs 12:25, literally reads, "An anxious heart weights a man down, but a kind word cheers him up." All of us have felt the pain of sorrow or disappointment and a heaviness of heart. But oh, how a kind word lifted the spirit. For in Proverbs 11:24 we read, "Pleasant words are a honey comb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." Listen to this:

A careless word may kindle strife;

A cruel word may wreck a life.

A bitter word may hate instill;

A brutal word may smite and kill.

A gracious word may smooth the way;

A joyous word may light the day.

A timely word may lessen the stress;

A loving word may heal and bless.

Here are twelve profound yet simple words that could transform your life:

"Please and thank you," words of appreciation,

"I'm sorry," words that will build bridges and bind hearts,

"I love you," words that carry tremendous power and feeling,

“I'm praying for you," words that lift our spirit to God.

There's nothing that gives us away as much as our speech, because it reveals the location of our hearts. You can't cover up your heart.

If there's bitterness in our hearts, it will come out.

If there's hatred in our hearts, hatred will be revealed.

If there's anger in our hearts, anger will show.

No wonder James says in verse 8, "The tongue can no man tame." The heart is the factory that produces all these vile things, and the tongue is the showcase of the heart. There's little use carrying a Bible and wearing a lapel pin saying how spiritual we are, if we explode at the office, speak unkindly to our families, or if we are critical and bitter.

However, while no man can tame the tongue, GOD CAN! Oh, that you and I would have our hearts burning with love and devotion, so that our speech would likewise burn with love and praise to God as He reveals through us hatred for sin, but love for the sinner.

My prayer is, "Lord, teach me to hold my tongue. Teach me to do as the psalmist says, set a watch at the door of my lips that my speech may always be seasoned with grace. MY TONGUE NEVER A SWORD. My speech always edifying, uplifting, and that which glorifies God."

In her hymn, Frances Havergale said, "Take my lips, and let them be filled with messages for thee."

David said in Psalm 19:14, "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer."

Open your heart and stick out your tongue. Now say Ah-h-h-h. Perhaps your tongue looks healthy, but what has it revealed about your heart this past week?

May God grant us the heart of Jesus, who spoke words of grace, truth, compassion, and power.

May this week we use our tongues to speak the gospel of the grace of God to a soul in need of the salvation of our Savior.

May this week our tongue be used by Him to bring healing, blessing, and life to many FOR HIS GLORY.

In Romans 10:9-10 we read, “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (10) For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Just maybe, the most important thing you can do at this moment, if you have never done so, is to bow your head and open your heart by way of your mouth and say the words,

“Lord, I believe you died for my sins on the cross and right here and now

I am asking You to save me as I accept your gift of eternal life.”

********************************************************************

If God has spoken to your heart after reading the sermon “The World’s Smallest Troublemaker” then right now talk to God about what He has spoken to you.

Acts 16:31, “…Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved…”

Romans 10:13, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

In His Amazing Grace,

http://BibleBaptistMinistry.org/……/MMXII/04/

Keep ON, Keeping ON!

Pastor David Miklas — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 13:03:07 +0000

Volume No. 2011 Issue No. 02 Date: January 15, 2012

Publication of the BIBLE BAPTIST MINISTRY, 48 Alexie Rd, Hanover Township, PA 18706

Phone: 570.829.5216 pdmikBBM@aol.com pastormiklas@aol.com

In Proverbs 24:16 we read, “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again…” The best people are those who are always beginning again. Disappointment, upsets, reverses, losses and defeats cannot quell their courageous, determined spirits.The real test of a man is not his ability to go to the top, but his ability to be knocked off the top, strike rock bottom and go to the top the second time. Anyone can listlessly lie on the bottom and cry, "Foul play!" Anyone can blame fate, enemies, politics or environment for failure. Anyone can grow bitter, cynical, morose, caustic and sarcastic at things and persons. But it is the sterling soul of eighteen-carat quality that can get up from the ground, brush himself off, smile and start for the mountaintop again.

Remember it is never too late to begin again! It is always too soon to quit. In life it is not the man who fails repeatedly who ultimately loses; it is the man who fails to try again who is the final failure.

Keep trying. It is never too late to begin again.

Keep climbing. Don't let temporary rebuffs stop you.
Keep coming. Someday you'll break through.

Don't let trouble, misfortune, opposition, misunderstandings, sorrows, trials or disappointments keep you down. If you fall, get up and keep your face set toward God's plan for your life. If you fail, keep trying; victory will come. If you are defeated on one battlefield, remember it is not the loss of a battle but the winning of the war that counts.

Jesus Himself was rejected, despised, rebuffed, beaten and crucified. But He is the all-conquering Victor over temptation, sin and death. To be temporarily set back, to be down, to be defeated need not mean final loss. It is never too late to begin again. An unknown author wrote “Get Up, By God’s Grace, Get Up.”

God, I failed you. Just one mistake after another! It's no use; I'm a lost cause, stumbling along.

I don't know which way to turn – the ground seems so dirty, so cold and so big, when you are facedown.

Sin found me again. Am I really sincere? I gave up without a fight,

in spite of Your love, Your grace – the great joy of having seen Your face.

I did not want to do wrong. I despise sin. I loathe it! Now I loathe myself.

I am ugly, God; what makes me so ugly? I tried.

You know I tried! It seems the more I try, the worse I become.

I can't lift my head. How can I look at my family, my beloved wife, my sweet innocent children?

The darkness is so heavy; blackness is all around. There is no star, no light on any horizon.

What am I to do? Where am I to go? To whom am I to turn? Then I heard His voice say,

So you've fallen! It is not the first time, nor will it be the last,

unless you lie there, buried in the darkness of your own self-pity.

What a shame! You tried to lift yourself with your own bootstraps.

You didn't save yourself. What made you think you could lift yourself?

I loved you when you were loveless, And you are still unlovable at times- Especially now.

So you have fallen on your face! Get up – be a man. Find My grace."

May God’s blessing be upon you this week as you read and meditate on the message from
Romans 14:10-12, “Give an account of your stewardship.”

In His Amazing Grace,

http://BibleBaptistMinistry.org/../MMXII/02/

Give an Account of your Stewardship

Pastor David Miklas — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 01:05:19 +0000

Sunday January 15, 2012	Phone: 570.829.5216
Pastor David Miklas	e-mail pdmikBBM@aol.com
Message: Give an Account of your Stewardship	Text: Luke 16: 1-2 & Romans 14:10-12

"Give an Account of your Stewardship"

Introduction: On this third Sunday of 2012, I want to pause and have us do some soul searching as we prepare for this year ahead.

In Romans 14:12 we read, "Every one of us shall give an account of himself to God."

In Luke 16:2 we have these words given to an “Unjust Steward” in a parable: "Give an account of thy stewardship; for thou may no longer be steward."

These are very sobering words. Here, you are moving through life day after day, and then all of a sudden without warning the God of the universe says to you: "STOP WHAT YOU ARE DOING. TIME IS UP. IT’S NOW TIME TO GIVE AN ACCOUNT OF THY STEWARDSHIP!”

"Give an account of thy stewardship," is a command that will be addressed to the unsaved when they one day stand at the GREAT WHITE THRONE JUDGMENT found in Revelation 20:11-15. Here, God will say to them, "Depart from me you worker of iniquity." Then He will cast them into the Lake of Fire which burneth forever and forever.

"Give an account of thy stewardship," is a command that will be applied to the Child of God one day, when he or she stands at the JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST. For in II Corinthians 5:10 we read, "For we must all appear before the JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST, that everyone may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done…"

At this point, you may be asking: “Pastor, on what is God going to judge the believer?” Well, in I Corinthians 4:2 we read, “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” When God judges our stewardship, He is looking for FAITHFULNESS. Will God find us faithful? Let’s take an inventory as we step into the year 2012.

First: God calls us to GIVE an account of our TIME. Time is a very precious commodity God has given to us, and He is going to hold us accountable as to how we have used it.

Someone said, "There is a gift which comes to us from a royal source each day of our lives, BRIGHT and SPARKLING, absolutely untouched and unspoiled. What is that gift, you ask? It is the priceless gift of time. Each day we receive a fresh new supply, 24 hours, 1440 minutes and 86,400 seconds. This is 24 hours we have never lived before and 24 hours we shall never live again."

Psalm 90:12, "So teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom…"

Psalm 39:4, "Lord make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days what it is…"

Psalm 89:47, "Remember how short my time is…"

Ephesians 5:16, "Redeeming the time, because the days are evil."

Another said, "Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is uncertain. Therefore, it behooves us to spend every moment we have in our life in the right place doing the right thing for JESUS.”

We must redeem our time for God.

We must redeem our time for our family.

We must redeem our time for our church.

We must redeem our time with eternal values.

If God were to say today, "Give an account of your Time," would it be time well spent or wasted? Think about it, how did you use your time yesterday? You will be accountable for every minute God has given you. (Talk about priorities and consistency.)

Second: God calls us to GIVE account of our TALENTS. In Matthew 25 we have the parable of the TALENTS. God has given each of us gifts, abilities and talents, some of which are deeply buried in our lives. Follow me as I read verses 14-19, “For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. (15) And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. (16) Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents. (17) And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two. (18) But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money. (19) After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.”

The message of this parable from Matthew 25 is CRUCIAL for our day. The greatest problem we face in our generation in the church is a personnel problem. We are suffering in our churches from a severe case of unemployment.

"A handful of people are doing the MAJORITY of the work while the MAJORITY of the people just sit by, not so much in CRITICISM as in INDIFFERENCE."

Many are SITTING and WATCHING instead of WORKING. Many just slide into church and then slide right on out of church.

What will be your excuse before the Lord at the day when you have been called to give an account of your talents?

I am TOO OLD, or TOO YOUNG.

I do not have ENOUGH TIME.

I HAVE DONE MY SHARE OVER THE YEARS.

I AM NOT A MEMBER.

Folks, I believe God is looking for ACTION, not EXCUSES. I believe either you use what God has given to you for His service, or you will lose it. One day God will say, "Give an account of your stewardship concerning your gifts, abilities, and talents."

Third: God calls us to GIVE an account of our TREASURE: Someone said, "The value system of your heart is expressed by your relationship to material things, in most cases that of money." Please notice what the Lord said in Matthew 6:19-21, “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: (20) But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: (21) For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”

When we talk about our treasure, we would include in that our TITHES and OFFERING unto the Lord.

Remember from Leviticus 27:30, "the Tithe is holy unto the Lord," and in I Corinthians 16:2, “Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.” The store being the church house.

Did you Tithe or did you withhold your tithe during 2011?

Will you tithe or withhold your tithe during 2012?

In the day of accounting, will God have found you FAITHFUL in giving "upon the first day of the week as you gave from the heart, not grudgingly, but willingly," of your tithes and offering?

Fourth: God calls us to GIVE an account of our WORDS: In Matthew 12:36-37 we read, “But I say unto you that every idle word that men shall speak, he shall give an account of it in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned."

Folks I have to be honest with you. There is far too much lying and story embellishing going on, even in the Christian world. Oh, be careful what you say. How would you muster at the judgment seat TODAY if you were called to account for your words just this past year?

Fifth: God calls us to give an account of our THOUGHTS: In Proverbs 23:7 we read, "as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he."

Behind every wicked deed is a process of wicked thinking. The person who cannot control his thoughts, cannot control his behavior.

The evil idea starts in the HEAD, goes to the HEART, and finally into the HAND.

God will judge us according to what we really are, not what we seem to be.

Remember that man looks on the outward appearance, but God looks on the heart.

It is said, "a man's REPUTATION is what people THINK about him; his CHARACTER is what God KNOWS about him."

What are you like when the bark is peeled off, with the Holy Eyes of God looking straight into your soul?

Ecclesiastes 12:14 tells us, "For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil." If God should call you to report for an accounting of your life, what will be revealed about your thought life?

Sixth: God calls us to GIVE an account as to the stewardship of our INFORMATION: In II Timothy 2:1-2 we read, “Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. (2) And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.”

Here we are told that what we learn from others we are then to pass on to others. We are the stewards of information. You are the steward of every TRUTH you learn in Sunday School or from preaching.

Let me illustrate this in a practical way using myself. Do you realize that I am using my stewardship of information as I preach and Pastor? During my up-bringing:

My Dad and Mom taught me spiritual truth.

My Sunday School teachers taught me spiritual truth.

My youth leaders taught me spiritual truth.

My college professors taught me spiritual truth.

My pastor's taught me spiritual truth.

They taught me convictions.

They taught me standards.

They taught me how to love the Bible.

They taught me how to pray.

They taught me how to live for Christ daily.

Sometimes, I am criticized for passing on to you my life experiences, but I am only doing so in order to relate to you what God said and how those words have affected my life.

You must realize that God expects you to be a steward of every GOOD and WHOLESOME TRUTH anybody has ever taught you. You owe it to them, and you owe it to God to pass it on.

Romans 14:11-12, “For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. (12) So then, every one of us shall give account of himself to God.”

It did not say give an account of OTHERS’ stewardship.

It did not say give account of the PASTOR’S stewardship

It did not say we are to give an account of your WIFE’S actions.

It did not say we are to give an account of your HUSBAND’S actions.

At the Judgment Seat of Christ, we “shall give an account of ourselves, not to one another but to God.

Forget for a moment that there are any other people in the world, and YOU stand individually and separately before those piercing eyes which are searching you, through and through. For God will judge YOU as if there were no others to judge, and examine your innermost heart as if He had no other object to look upon.

Let me remind you, the Year of our Lord 2012 has already begun. It seems most suitable as we step into another year of grace that we should in our heart and consciousness STOP to take stock of our STEWARDSHIP.

As we begin this year, it might be well to take to heart David's words in Psalm 139:23-24, "Search me O God, and know MY heart; Try ME and know MY thoughts and see if there be any wicked way in ME, and lead ME in the way everlasting."

As we begin this year, it might be well to take to heart what the Apostle Paul said as he examined his past in Philippians 3:13-14, "Brethren, I count not myself to have arrived; but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before. I PRESS toward the MARK of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

I am sure that if we would honestly search our heart we would be driven to our knees. There is enough in the history of one week, let alone in one year, to make us see our sinfulness and praise more than ever our REDEEMER who can pardon us from our sin.

Go again to the cross where the burden of sin and the failure of our lives came upon Him and CONFESS, REPENT and SEEK FORGIVENESS where we have faltered in the past in our areas of accountability.

Return one more time to Luke 16:2 and notice the very last phrase, "…for thou mayest be no longer steward." Think about those solemn words. If you don’t use what God has given unto you for His Glory, you could lose it. Think about these words of a song,

Only to be what He wants me to be every moment of every day

Yielded completely to Jesus alone, every step of this pilgrim way

Just to be clay in the Potters hand, ready to do what His words command

Only to be what He wants me to be every moment of every day.

Live for Jesus TODAY. Serve Jesus TODAY. Use your TIME, TALENT, TREASURE, INFLUENCE and WORDS for God TODAY, for it may be tomorrow that:

Your ministry is taken away;

Your child or spouse is swept away;

Your class is scattered;

Your wealth and possessions are stripped from you;

Your ministry and witness has ended.

Let each golden moment have its pressing service rendered unto God, lest it be said to thee, "Thou mayest be no longer steward."

The hour may come before this year is finished that you will pass on to glory. We have this as a constant reminder even in this congregation. It may happen even in the full strength of life that we will be called upon to give an account of our stewardship.

Can you say at this very moment, "I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day…?"

Can you say "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith?"

Can you say, "As a steward I have been faithful?"

Will you be hearing the Lord say, "Well done, thou good and FAITHFUL servant, enter into the JOY of the Lord?"

The Brevity of life should cause us to,REFORM our PERSPECTIVES.

The Brevity of life should cause us to REORDER our PROPRIETIES.

The Brevity of life should cause us to REEVALUATE our LIVES.

As a result we will:

REST in God more CONFIDENTLY,

LOVE the Lord more EARNESTLY,

SERVE our generation more INTENSELY,

LIVE by the power of the HOLY SPIRIT,

FULFILL our appointed places as God shall help us,

Be more CONCERNED for SINNERS, and

Be more LOVING toward the SAINTS.

It may be that you are listening to this message and you do not have the hope of Heaven, or the assurance of eternal life. One day, and it may be before this year is concluded, the death angel will come and close up shop for you. Then you must give "an account of your stewardship. "WHAT HAVE YOU DONE WITH JESUS CHRIST?"

I plead with you, one more time, to “Put your faith in JESUS who was crucified for you and whose blood was shed to cover your sins before the eyes of a Holy God.”

You will be called to give an account of your life. Determine in your heart to make it before the Judgment Seat of Christ with other believers, rather than before the Great White Throne Judgment with all the unbelievers.

**********************************************************************

If God has spoken to your heart after reading the sermon, "Give an Account of Your Stewardship" then right now talk to God about what He has spoken to you.

Acts 16:31, “…Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved…”

Romans 10:13, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

If you made the decision to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior let me know. Please send an e-mail to, pdmikBBM@aol.com and I will send you some literature that will help you in your Christian life.

The “Weekly SERMON” was sent as a ministry of Bible Baptist Ministry, 48 Alexie Rd., Hanover Township, PA 18706. Privacy policy: your e-mail address will not be sold, or shared with any third party.

Copy write permission: Because the “Weekly SERMONS” will be reproduced into other formats, PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING: The “Weekly SERMON” in its original form, without any changes, may be copied and re-transmitted by electronic mail, and copies may be printed for individual or ministry purposes, provided that such copying, re-transmission, printing, or other use is not for profit or other commercial purpose. Any copying, re-transmission, distribution, printing, or other use of the “Weekly SERMON” must set forth in full the heading that is given before each “Weekly SERMON.” Any other request for use, please contact Bible Baptist Ministries at pdmikBBM@aol.com or by phone at 570.829.5216.

In His Amazing Grace,

http://BibleBaptistMinistry.org/……/MMXII/02/

Vision for BBM – 2012

Pastor David Miklas — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 13:51:06 +0000

Volume No. 2011 Issue No. 02 Date: January 8, 2012

Publication of the BIBLE BAPTIST MINISTRY, 48 Alexie Rd, Hanover Township, PA 18706

Phone: 570.829.5216 pdmikBBM@aol.com pastormiklas@aol.com

Whether your feet be mired in the mud of some unexpected valley or scaling the precipitous heights of some great mountain, whether you are in the brightness of noonday or in the darkness of midnight, whether in sickness or in health, whether you have much or little, my prayer for you is to stay true, stay on track, stay excited, and stay at the task God has given to you. Honor Him, walk with Him, and serve Him every day.

As usual, for the first week of the year, we set aside the Weekly SERMON to give you a challenge for the coming year. May the Lord bless you this week as you read the attached “Challenge for the Coming Year.” May these suggestions become a full agenda and a fruitful plan for all of us in 2012!

Now as we start into 2012 allow me to share with you the vision for the Bible Baptist Ministry and the Weekly SERMON.

We are humbled by the 1100 Weekly SERMON messages going out by e-mail. This number includes over 830 missionaries receiving them. Since we began this ministry, we have e-mailed over 292,000.

We are grateful for those who helped us meet all the financial obligations in 2011. Praise the Lord!

We are grateful for the new server system that has significantly reduced the time needed to send the Weekly SERMON.

We are grateful for those who have helped us this past year, Pat Lynn as proof reader and Tom Dye with the Web and server.

I am thankful for you! Your prayers and financial support allowed us to continue to do what God has opened the door for us to do. Without your prayers and support the BBM would not be possible.

Lord willing during 2012, we will focus our Weekly SERMON messages on the rest of the Book of James, the Book of Philemon and the Books of I, II, III John along with other topical messages. In addition to the Weekly SERMON messages and as time allows, we are still working on putting all the Weekly SERMONS into SERMON notebooks. Currently, I have completed or am in the process of completing eleven volumes. Lord willing, those completed will have a final proof reading and correction during 2012. Once these are ready, you will be notified. They will be available on CD as well as in print form.

If possible during 2012, will you consider helping us in this faith ministry? Even though we do not charge for the ministry, there are expenses. Over the last 2 years we have come short in meeting our expenses by $1,200.00 a year. Your donation will help us continue to "stand in the gap" in “teaching others also.” After you have given your tithes to your church and taken care of your pastor, will you consider giving a one time yearly gift, or a monthly offering? For the purpose of financial accountability, we have placed this ministry under the Green Street Baptist Chapel of Edwardsville, PA. 18704. Checks made out to Green Street Baptist Chapel, memo to Bible Baptist Ministry and mailed to Bible Baptist Ministry 48 Alexie Road, Hanover Township, PA 18706will be given to our ministry.

Again this year, from the Bible Baptist Ministry, we thank you for your prayers and financial support as we seek to get the message out around the world. We trust you will have a very BLESSED NEW YEAR in the Lord during 2012.

In His Amazing Grace,

http://BibleBaptistMinistry.org/../MMXII/02/

New Year’s Challenge

Pastor David Miklas — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 00:37:49 +0000

Sunday January 8, 2012	Phone: 570.829.5216
Pastor David Miklas	e-mail pdmikBBM@aol.com
Message: A New Year’s Challenge for 2012	Text: Psalm 121:1-8

“A New Year’s Challenge for 2012”

In Psalm 121:1-8 we read, “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. (2) My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. (3) He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. (4) Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. (5) The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand. (6) The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. (7) The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. (8) The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.”

It’s hard to believe that 2011 has become history. What awaits us during this coming year of 2012, in our personal lives, in our families, in our church, in our nation as well as on the international scene, only God knows. However it is good that we take heed to His instructions “To occupy until he comes.” Therefore, I do pray that the Lord will be at the center of all you do.

As usual, for the first week of the year, we set aside the Weekly SERMON to give you a challenge for the coming year. For the next few minutes would you please put aside what you are doing, pull up a chair, and focus on these TWELVE New Year's suggestions:

First: Search the Scriptures daily. Read them systematically and devotionally.

In Acts 17:11, we read of the people at Thessalonica that they "…received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily whether those things were so."

In Psalm 119:105 we read, "Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." The Word of God provides a guide to our daily walk of life. The Word of God stabilizes our walk though life.

In Psalm 119:11 we read, "Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against thee." One can not live victoriously in the Christian life without reading the Word of God. You must read it, study it, search it, and memorize it to keep you from sin. If you choose to neglect those activities, then sin will keep you from the Word of God.

Throughout 2012, the challenge is to read your Bible daily and then get down on your knees and search your heart. I remind you of Psalms 119:165, "Great peace have they which love thy law, and nothing shall offend thee." Jesus said in John 5:39, "Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of me."

Second: Pray a lot! Pray and expect to get answers from God.

Jeremiah 33:3 is perhaps one of the most challenging verses in the Bible on the subject of prayer, "Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knoweth not."

Then in Ephesians 3:20 we read, "Now unto Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think…"

Finally in I Thessalonians 5:17 we read, "Pray without ceasing."

There ought to be DAILY prayer on the part of each and every believer. Praying is a full time job. We ought to pray, and in our prayers expect to get answers from God. May I challenge you during 2012 to have a daily prayer life! There is so much to pray for – yourself, your family, your church, lost souls, missionaries and the ministry.

Third: Witness every day and try to win the ones to whom you witness. You can win souls if you work at it.

In Mark 15:16 Jesus commanded us to "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Soul winning is every Christian’s responsibility, every day, in every situation. It is also the primary responsibility of the church.

For in Acts 2:47 we read, "And the Lord added to the church DAILY such as should be saved."

Then in Acts 5:42 the principle of visitation is established, "And DAILY in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ."

Oh, we must witness as never before. We must reach out and win souls. There are literally thousands of people who are dying and going to hell without any gospel witness.

Fourth: Make church the hub of your life. Have your family in church every Sunday morning, Sunday night and Wednesday night and allow nothing and nobody to discourage you from doing so. In Hebrews 10:24-25 we read, “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: (25) Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

Fifth: Tithe! Give the Lord His portion of your income! You cannot out give Him. So be obedient in your stewardship. In I Corinthians 16:1-2 we read, “Now concerning the collection for the saints…. (2) Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.”

Six: Believe God about everything. Have faith in Him; trust Him. Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. (6) In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”

Seven: Keep a good spirit in you. Rejoice! Let the joy of the Lord dominate your countenance. In Philippians 4:4 we read, "Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say REJOICE." Spend a little time each day rejoicing in the Lord. Praise the Lord for the BIG things, and even the little blessings in life, that He so graciously gives to you.

Eight: Serve! Find a place to plug your talent into the Lord's work. Do something in which you invest yourself in the Lord's work.

Nine: Keep short accounts with God. Stay in good relationship with Him. Use I John 1:8-10 as often as necessary, but keep things right. “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. (9) If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (10) If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.”

Ten: Build strong relationships with strong Christians. Run with the right crowd and learn from them. Don't imitate weakness; let strength be your model.

Eleven: Find a mentor. Find someone to whom you can be accountable and who will help you grow in your walk with the Lord. I'm not talking about hero worship, but a mentor of stature whose track record is well established, clean, and obviously faithful.

Twelve: Keep looking expectantly to the sky. Maranatha! Indeed, the Lord is coming. When, we do not know, but it could be sometime soon! With both hands on the plow (at work), keep one eye glancing upward in anticipation of His promised coming. Even though the following passages about the second coming of Jesus are in the revelation for Israel at the end of the tribulation, they can also apply to us.

In Matthew 24:26 we read, "But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no not the angels of heaven, but my Father only."

And then in Matthew 24:44 Jesus says, "Therefore be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh." Live every day, literally live every hour, as if Jesus would come at that moment.

May these suggestions become a full agenda and a fruitful plan for all of us in 2012?

********************************************************************

If God has spoken to your heart after reading the sermon “A New Year’s Challenge for 2012”then right now talk to God about what He has spoken to you.

Acts 16:31, “…Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved…”

Romans 10:13, “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

In His Amazing Grace,

http://BibleBaptistMinistry.org/……/MMXII/02/

A Follower of Jesus Christ

Pastor David Miklas — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 20:58:27 +0000

Volume No. 2012 Issue No. 01 Date: January 1, 2012

Publication of the BIBLE BAPTIST MINISTRY, 48 Alexie Rd, Hanover Township, PA 18706

Phone: 570.829.5216 pdmikBBM@aol.com pastormiklas@aol.com

Dear Friends,

After Christ's resurrection in John 21 we find Peter going back to his old occupation of fishing in disobedience to the Lord's call for him to preach. Amazingly the Lord didn't let him catch any fish. When Peter came to the shore, Jesus gave him an experience he would never forget. Jesus confronted him about his lack of love in verses 15-17. Then at the end of verse 19 Jesus said to Peter, "Follow Me." So what does it mean to be a follower of Jesus Christ?

I have seen this article on a number of occasions. Today let me share with you these powerful words on what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. It is apparent that the author of these words is unknown. Would you please take these 16 thoughts and separately meditate on what each means and how each applies to you.

I'm a part of the fellowship of the unashamed. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made.

I'm a disciple of His and I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still.

My past is redeemed. My present makes sense. My future is secure.

I'm done and finished with low living, sight walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tamed visions, mundane talking, cheap living, and dwarfed goals.

I no longer need preeminence, prosperity, position, promotions, plaudits, or popularity.

I don't have to be right, or first, or tops, or recognized, or praised, or rewarded.

I live by faith, lean on His presence, walk by patience, lift by prayer, and labor by Holy Spirit power. My face is set. My gait is fast. My goal is heaven.

My road may be narrow, my way rough, my companions few, but my guide is reliable and my mission is clear.

I will not be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, turned back, deluded or delayed.

I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice or hesitate in the presence of the adversary.

I will not negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity.

I won't give up, shut up, or let up until I have stayed up, stored up, prayed up, paid up, and preached up for the cause of Christ.

I am a disciple of Jesus!

I must give until I drop, preach until all know, and work until He comes.

And when He does come for His own, He'll have no problems recognizing me. My colors will be clear!"

It is hard to believe we recently entered our 9^th year sending the Weekly SERMON. We are still humbled by the ever increasing opportunity God has given us to continually be "…able to teach others also." Starting with 10 e-mails in October 2003, these Weekly SERMONS are being sent to college students, now over 830 missionaries around the world, military personnel, pastors, evangelists, and former members of the churches where I have had the privilege of serving. The ministry wants to be a help to believers and at the same time extend the message to others.

To date we have e-mailed over 292,000 Weekly SERMONS. To date we have completed messages on the New Testament "Book of James", on "Christ's Seven Words at Calvary", on "How to Treat One Another in the Family of God", on "The Saints Fellowship with God" from I, II, and III John, on the "Names of God" on the Old Testament "Book of Joshua" and on the "Ten Commandments" along with numerous individual sermons.

We do not, nor will we charge for the Weekly SERMONS. However if these have been a blessing to you and you can help with the cost of this endeavor for the Lord we appreciate and thank you for your financial help and prayers. For financial accountability we are handling all ministry funds under the Green Street Baptist Chapel of Edwardsville, PA. (Mailing address: Bible Baptist Ministry, 48 Alexie Rd, Hanover Township 18706) Checks made out to Green Street Baptist Chapel and memo to Bible Baptist Ministry will be tax deductible for you and placed to our account for this ministry.

In His Amazing Grace,

PS: In order to access the Weekly SERMON, please click the link to Weekly Sermon Library, where you will be able to choose: Plain Text (TXT), Microsoft Word document (DOC), Rich Text (RTF), Web Page (HTML) or PDF (Portable Document Format), any of the format(s) you desire. After you decide on the appropriate format(s) you may then print a copy of the Weekly SERMON, save it to a file on your computer, or download it and save it to a disk for future use. Your use of this material is meant to be flexible.

http://BibleBaptistMinistry.org/../MMXII/01/

Saints Alive!

Pastor David Miklas — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 09:08:17 +0000

Sunday January 1, 2012	Phone: 570.829.5216
Pastor David Miklas	e-mail pdmikBBM@aol.com
Message: Saints Alive!	Text: Philippians 1:1-2

"Saints Alive"

Introduction: As you read through this book of Philippians, one of the most intimate of all the Apostle Paul's letters, you will discover that it is a love letter filled with expressions of Gratitude, Confidence, and above all Joy. Instead of being filled with rebuke and correction, it's a book that helps us to understand the importance of what goes on inside of us as a Christian.

Psalms 118:24 tells us "This is day the Lord hath made, we will REJOICE and be GLAD in it." Joy, the theme of the book, is found in Philippians 4:4, "REJOICE in the Lord always, and again I say, REJOICE." EIGHTEEN times the words, Joy, Rejoice and Gladness are used in this letter. In our last message we focused on an outline of the 4 chapters of Philippians showing how we can have "JOY" over circumstances, people, things, and worry.

Chapter ONE: You can have JOY in spite of CIRCUMSTANCES with the SINGLE MIND where Christ is thePRINCIPLE of life, verse 21.

Chapter TWO: You can have JOY in spite of PEOPLE with the SUBMISSIVE MIND where Christ is the PATTERNof life, verse 5.

Chapter THREE: You can have JOY without THINGS if you have the SPIRITUAL MIND where Christ is thePASSION of life, verse 10.

Chapter FOUR: You can have JOY over WORRY when you have the SECURE MIND where Christ is the POWERof life, verse 13.

Now for the most part in this message, we are going to zero in on Philippians 1:1-2, "Paul and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons: (2) Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ." Here we come to understand three things the Apostle Paul tells us about a Christian:

First: Who the Christian is,

Second: Where the Christian lives,

Third: What the Christian receives.

However, before we get into the heart of these introductory verses, there are a few observations that need to be made.

Philippians 1:1 begins by identifying "Paul and Timothy the servants of Jesus Christ…" When you read this very thoughtful letter, it's not long before you discover some of the outstanding characteristics of the writer, the Apostle Paul.

First: Paul was a FRUITFUL servant of God, verse 1, "Paul and Timothy the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at Philippi…" If you would go back sometime to the 16th chapter of Acts you would discover the beginning to this church at Philippi. It was here that Paul came in obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit. While he was there:

Lydia, a Jewish proselyte, a successful business women of social standing, was converted;

A gentile fortune teller who had no social standing and a slave girl were gloriously saved, and a jailer, who asked Paul and Silas in jail "What must I do to be saved?" believed what Paul said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved."

As a result of these conversions, a church was established. Now, Paul is communicating to the saints, helping them to grow in Christ.

Second: Paul was a THOUGHTFUL servant of God, verse 2, "Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ." He wanted God's best for these believers at Philippi. His goal and desire was for the grace of God to develop in their lives that they may have peace.

Third: Paul was a THANKFUL servant of God, verse 3, "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you," You know, it's a wonderful thing for a Pastor to be able to say that about his congregation. Yes, and what a joy it is for me to be able to look at you, and to say I thank God upon every remembrance of you.

Fourth: Paul was a PRAYERFUL servant of God, verse 4, "Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, (5) For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now;"

Fifth: Paul was a JOYFUL servant of God, verse 4, "Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy,"Again, I remind you this was not written in some Hotel penthouse. Paul was in the Roman Maritime prison when he penned these words, and yet he was joyful. Paul's joy was found in Christ. The secret of the Believer's joy is found in his attitude, the way a "BELIEVER THINKS." While Christ is the source of the believer's joy, the mind is the channel through which that joy comes.

Sixth: Paul was a HOPEFUL servant of God, verse 6, "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:" Here Paul expresses his hope.

So as you begin this epistle, you soon discover the character of the Apostle Paul. As a man of God, he was HOPEFUL ,JOYFUL, PRAYERFUL, THANKFUL, FRUITFUL, and FAITHFUL. All of these qualities characterized the Apostle Paul.

As I read these opening words, I find there is something else that characterizes this man of God. He was a HUMBLE person of God. You see that quality in his opening statement, "Paul and Timothy, the SERVANTS, of Jesus Christ…"Interestingly,

In the introduction to Philemon, he calls himself a "…Prisoner of Jesus Christ…"

In the Introductions to nine of his letters, he calls himself "…an apostle of Jesus Christ…"

In the introductions to Philippians and Titus, he calls himself "…a servant of Jesus Christ…"

Now, the word Paul in the Latin means "little" or "small". Before God, Paul saw himself as "the chief of sinners" and "the least of all the saints." But more than that, Paul saw everything in his life through the lens of his slavery to Jesus Christ.To Paul the term "servant" was a title of dignity and humility. There was no greater position than to be a servant of Jehovah God. Paul was a servant. A servant was one who served another. As a servant, he did all he could to make theONE he was serving successful.

Paul's joy as a servant was lifting up the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul's joy as a servant was proclaiming the risen Christ.

We all would do well to remember that God did not save us to be sensations, but rather to become servants. Humble service is another dominate theme in this letter to the saints at Philippi. Besides the example of a servant's lifestyle found in Paul, Timothy and Epaphroditus, the greatest model of servanthood is Jesus Christ. In chapter 2:5-7 we read, "Christ Jesus…took upon him the form of a servant,…" even though He was the sovereign God.

Holding your place here, would you please turn with me to Mark 13? Here, we have what is called the "Olivet Discourse."Jesus was informing His disciples of His leaving, and what will take place before His return. He is also informing them of what their responsibilities are to be before His return. In verses 32-37 we read, "But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. (33) Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. (34) For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. (35) Watch ye therefore: for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight , or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning: (36) Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. (37) And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch." Would you notice again the phrase in verse 34, "and gave authority to His servants, and to every man his work…" The Lord Jesus has gone back to glory. Today He is in heaven. To each one of us, while we are still here on this earth, He has given a specific task to do. He has given, to every born again believer, a JOB to do, a capacity to fulfill.

Now, if you attend this church, and you worship here, but you are not vitally connected to us by membership, and yet you benefit from the ministry of this church and the pastors here, I would ask you to consider, this morning, not only "YOUR NEED OF US" but "OUR NEED FOR YOU," to become officially connected to this body of believers. I believe church membership is spiritually and scripturally right for a child of God. You not only ought to get with it, but also to be involved in it.

On the other hand, maybe you are already a member of this church, and you come every week. In fact, you are here all the time. Then, I believe it's important for you to consider "WHAT YOUR SERVICE FOR GOD, THROUGH THIS ASSEMBLY OF BELIEVERS, IS TO BE." The church is not only a place of fellowship and preaching, but it is also a"VEHICLE THROUGH WHICH PEOPLE CAN SERVE GOD." I challenge you to be thinking about your service in the coming days.

Jesus is in Heaven today, and in the interim before He returns, He has given every one of His servants a job to do. There is an old poem that is a take off on the hymn "I'll go where you want me to go, dear Lord." The poem goes like this:

I'll go where you want me to go, dear Lord,

Real service is what I desire.

I'll say what you want me to say, dear Lord,

But don't ask me to sing in the church choir.

I'll say what you want me to say Dear Lord,

I like to see things come to pass.

But don't ask me to teach a Sunday School class of boys and girls,

I'd rather sit in my class.

I'll do what you want me to do dear Lord,

I yearn for the kingdom to thrive.

I'll give my nickels and dimes dear Lord

But please don't ask me to tithe.

I'll go where you want me to go dear Lord,

I'll say what you want me say.

But I am busy with myself right now dear Lord,

I'll help you some other day.

I trust that you will not let that poem characterize you, since you never know when life is going to end, and when it does, the opportunities for service will be gone. Years ago, there was a very fine Christian gentleman. He was a man on fire for God, a very, very busy man. He not only owned one of the largest department stores in Philadelphia, but he was at one time the Post-Master General of the Untied States, as well as the president of the YMCA. His name was John Wanamaker.

One day someone came to Mr. Wanamaker and asked him, "How do you find time to run a Sunday School of 4000 people in addition to the YMCA duties, the responsibilities of the postmaster general and direct your store. How do you find time?" Mr. Wanamaker replied saying, "The Sunday School is my business, all those other things are just that, things. Forty-five years ago, I decided God's promise found for us in Matthew 6:33 was true, "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these THINGS shall be added unto you." I decided to put God's work first, and then He gave me the ability to cope with all those other things."

You see, John Wanamaker had his priorities straight. The Apostle Paul had his priorities straight too. The Kingdom ofGod and His cause came first. It was to this end that Paul said to us in Philippians 3:7-14, "But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. (8) Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, (9) And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: (10) That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; (11) If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. (12) Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. (13) Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, (14) I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." What was that mark? It was putting the cause of Christ first. To every believer, God has given His work.

Maybe your God given work is to be a HOUSEWIFE and MOTHER preparing the next generation that will rise up to serve God.

Maybe your God given work is in that office or work place as you stand with the courage of your convictions to be a witness for the glory of God.

I also believe there is God given work for you in the congregation. If you have not already determined this, I trust with God's help you will soon discover what it is that the Lord wants you to be and to do.

Paul was more than a servant. He was a "Bondslave," as indicated by the word "Doulos" in the Greek, referring to the very lowest of servants. Paul joyfully announced that He was a "Bondslave" to the Christ who saved him. In a spiritual sense, Paul had the same testimony as the slave in Exodus 21:5, "I love my master…I will not go out free."

Now for the remainder of this message, let's focus upon the three things the Apostle Paul tells us about a Christian.

First: Who the Christian is. Returning to Philippians 1:1; we move from the very lowest of words, "Servant," to the very highest of titles that a person can receive. That is found in the word "Saint." How can you go beyond that? Paul is writing to "all the saints in Christ Jesus, which are at Philippi…"

Now the word for "saint" comes from the Greek word " Hagaios." In the New Testament, the word is often translated not by the word "saint," but by the word "holy." Those two words, "saint" and "holy," are interchangeable, they mean the same thing. So we could read here, "Paul and Timothy, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the HOLY ONES in Christ Jesus…"

Question: "More than anything else, what should our lives be characterized by?" Some might answer that our lives should be characterized by LOVE . I would agree. However I believe we ought to strive higher and be characterized byHOLINESS. The root of the word "Hagaios" means to be "set apart." It means separation and consecration.

Holiness means SEPARATION from the things of this world.

Holiness means CONSECRATION separating ourselves apart for God.

Those of us who are saints should live as saints, and not bring disgrace and reproach upon Him who died on the cross in order that we might BE saints.

The idea and practice of making men and women saints, by bestowing "sainthood" upon them after they are dead, is strictly man-made dogma. It is definitely not Bible doctrine. The moment we have by faith trusted Jesus Christ as personalSaviour, we become a saint. We become a holy one. We are now to conduct ourselves "as becometh saints."

Christians, who live as the world, who live like the world, do more to destroy the name of Christ and the effectiveness of the church in a community then do all unbelievers put together.

The moment we come to Christ by faith we become a "Christian" and a "Christian" means "Christ-like."

If you bear the name "Christian" then you should be living "Christ-like" lives.

The NAME and the NATURE of a believer ought to coincide. We should not only bear the NAME "Christian" but also the NATURE of a Christian.

What is that nature? It is that of a "Saint," a "Holy One."

The desires of our lives "ought to be that which becometh a saint." Here in our church, we have qualifications for those who are in leadership, teaching and ministering positions. It concerns me when I see folks in those positions who don't take a stand for BIBLICAL SEPARATION and CONSECRATION unto God. We all ought to be concerned about separation in our lives, because God is. As a saint, we are to be different than those who are unsaved.

One day, a Sunday School teacher asked his class of boys, "What is a "saint"? One little fellow looking at Saint Peter through the stained glass window in his class room said, "A saint is someone the light shines through." That might sound simple, but that is profound. That's what a saint is. Not only the Love of God, and the mercy of God, but the Holiness of God ought to be seen in and through our lives as believers, and in and through our lives as a congregation.

We ought to be marked by sainthood.

We ought to be characterized by a life of holiness.

Separated, dedicated, and consecrated to the cause of Jesus Christ. Now that is the answer as to "Who a Christian is."

Second: Where the Christian lives. According to Philippians 1:1 we discover that saints live in two locations:

First: "To all the saints in Christ Jesus…" this is the spiritual location of the saint.

Second: "…who are at Philippi…" this was their geographical location.

As far as you and I are concerned, as believers we live "in Christ Jesus." This is our spiritual location. In Acts 17:28 we read, "For in Him (that is in Christ) we LIVE and MOVE and have our BEING…" As a Child of God we function BESTwhen our MINDS and our HEARTS and our LIVES are saturated with Jesus Christ. That my friend was the key to Paul's joy because he was able to say in Philippians 1:21 "For me to live is Christ…"

There is also a geographical location in which we live. To the people of Philippi, this location was not a celestial city, it was a Roman military town with all its vices, degeneration, angry mobs, witchcraft and profane crowds.

Have you ever asked yourself why God doesn't give his saints more desirable places to live?

Have you ever said to yourself, "If only I could live in a place where there was no snow, or where I could be financially well off, I could live like a real Christian?"

How could God have ever put me in a place like Edwardsville, Wilkes-Barre, or you name your location of ___________?

Actually, I believe that, God has you right where He does for a reason. As long as you are here, that reason is to OCCUPYand CAPTURE and HOLD this location for the cause of Jesus Christ and for the glory of God.

The Philippians were servants and saints right where they lived. Here was a church full of saints who despite the sinfulness of the city in which they lived, their surroundings, and their circumstances, they projected the life, nature and mind of Christ.

Where do you live? If you ask me that question, I have to say that spiritually for 57 years I have been in Christ Jesus. For the past 27 months, I've been here in this geographical location.

So far, from verse 1, we have seen WHO the Christian is and WHERE he lives. Now in closing, let's see from verse 2 what the Apostle Paul tells us about being a Christian.

Third: What the Christian receives. What he receives is Grace and Peace.

Someone said, "You may search the Word of God but you will never find peace first. It is always "grace and peace" never "peace and grace." They are the Siamese twins of the Bible. You cannot have peace until you first have been given grace. A man may search and seek until the end of his life, but until he receives grace through Christ, he can never have peace."

No one illustrates the concept of "peace through grace" better then John Newton. Although he started out life in a Christian home, he was orphaned at the age of six and ended up living with an agnostic relative. Newton was so abused that he ran away from home, joined the British Navy, deserted and ran away to Africa where he lived in sin to his fill.

In Africa, he joined forces with a Portuguese slave trader, and once again experienced cruelty. He again ran away and was finally picked up by a slave ship on it's way to England. One night in a drunken stupor, Newton fell into the sea and was narrowly saved from drowning by an officer who speared him with a harpoon.

Toward the end of the voyage, the ship on which Newton was sailing encountered heavy winds, and began to sink. Newton was sent down into the hold to help man the pumps. He was sure that the ship would sink. As he worked, he began to cry out to God, remembering the verses he had been taught as a child. He was miraculously born again. He went on to become one of England's great preachers. By understanding his life, you can understand his most famous hymn:

Amazing Grace! How sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost, but now am found; was blind, but now I see.

Let me ask you. Does that characterize you this morning? Are you a Saint? Are you a Christian? Have you put your faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ?

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Has God spoken to your heart after reading the sermon on "Saints Alive?" Then why not right now talk to God about what He has spoken to you.

Acts 16:31, "…Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved…"

Romans 10:13, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

This prayer is here for those who need to ask Jesus to be their personal Savior: "I do want to go to Heaven. I know I am a sinner, and I do believe Jesus Christ died for me. I realize I cannot buy this great salvation, nor can I earn it. Knowing Jesus died on the cross and arose from the grave to pay my sin debt and to purchase my salvation, I do now trust Him as my Savior, and from this moment on I am completely depending on Him for my salvation."

If you made the decision to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, would you please let me know? Fill out the information below and e-mail me, pdmikBBM@aol.com. I will send you some literature that will help you in your Christian life.

Date: _________________ Name: __________________, Address: _______________

The "Weekly SERMON" was sent as a ministry of Bible Baptist Ministry, 48 Alexie Rd., Hanover Township, PA 18706. Privacy policy: your e-mail address will not be sold, or shared with any third party.

In His Amazing Grace,

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