Good morning friends and welcome to the J and L Ministries Paltalk room. We're hoping Paltak behaves itself today, as there seems to be many issues the past few months.
For those who may have looked for last Sundays message and couldn't find it, you're not going crazy. When I started to render it to add to u-tube, there was no sound. The platform I'm using to put those together switched to the wrong microphone. Today’s message is going to touch on many topics. For those who follow the news, you probably have noticed that there seems to be more trouble in every part of the world, including here in the United States. Before we get started, I want to remind everyone that God still sits on His throne and He's still in control and does what He pleases. Those who have been with us for a while should remember the verses where we found this. Psalms 115:3 KJV But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased. I've found where many non-believers, and sadly even those professing Jesus as Lord, if you can believe, say that if there truly is a God that He would not have allowed the tornadoes in different parts of the US to happen. He would not have allowed all the soldiers to be shot and the bombings to have happened. Shootings all over the world wouldn't have happened if there was really a God that loves us. Have you heard these things? It's hard to explain these things to those who don’t believe in Christ. If God loves everyone, then why the millions upon millions of babies that have been brutally aborted? What about the Christians that are being killed? Where was their God? It’s hard to explain to some who doesn’t believe in Christ. We do have choices, and you don’t have to look very hard to find that this country has made many wrong choices against God’s will. Yes? Also, the Bible tells us that we will be persecuted. John 15:18-21 KJV If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. (19) If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. (20) Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. (21) But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me. Today we're going to look at some of the things that Jesus said would come in the last days. Now, we read this, but it's not to create fear in you my brothers and sisters, but to strengthen your faith. These things are already happening and they will get worse, but you know what? I'm ready. I will not worry about tomorrow. Please turn in your Bibles to John 16 and we are going to start with verses 1-16. We read in chapter 15 where Jesus warns us about being a follower of Him. The hatred of the world. “If the world hates you, you must realize that it hated me before it hated you." When we're saved, we're then called to live in a way that's much different than that of society. We're told not to live like the world, but that can be a very hard thing to do when we're right smack dab in the middle of it. We're to look toward heavenly things and be the reflection of Jesus in the things we say and do. Let's see what Jesus said in Matthew 16:24. Matthew 16:24-25 KJV Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. (25) For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. I think of the rich man who asked Jesus what must he do to be saved, and after Jesus said to obey all the commandments, which this man claimed he had done. Then he was told to sell all he had and give to the poor and he walked away sad. This is why when a Christian is very much praised by the power of this world and is exalted as a model for everyone by mass-media, it's good not to trust too much. Jesus said, “If you belong to the world, the world will love you as its own; but because you do not belong to the world, because my choice of you has drawn you out of the world, that is why the world hates you." We have two choices: the world or the Gospel. Which of these two will you choose? John 16:1-16 KJV These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. (2) They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. (3) And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me. (4) But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with you. (5) But now I go my way to him that sent me; and none of you asketh me, Whither goest thou? (6) But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath filled your heart. (7) Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. (8) And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: (9) Of sin, because they believe not on me; (10) Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; (11) Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. (12) I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. (13) Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. (14) He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. (15) All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you. (16) A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father. When we look through these verses and then look through the history of the church, we find that believers have been persecuted all along. The first disciples of Jesus were persecuted. Doesn’t it seem strange that through all these centuries people would hate people who love God and who are to share their love and their God with the world? It does until you think about the Gospel message. Here's what the late David Wilkerson had to say about why the world hates the true church, its pastors and the parishioners. A true Christian is loving, peaceful, forgiving and caring. Those who obey Jesus’ words are self-sacrificing, meek and kind. Now, common wisdom tells us it’s not natural to hate those who love you, bless you and pray for you. Rather, people hate only those who abuse, rob and curse them. So, why are Christians so hated? Jesus says simply, “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you…. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you” (John 15:18, 20). Why is this so? The church, and every minister and believer in it, is hated because of its mission. You see, our mission is much more than telling lost people, “Jesus loves you.” It’s more than trying to accommodate and appease people. You may draw back in surprise when I remind you of what our mission is. Simply put, our mission as Christians is to take back from the ungodly what's most precious to them: self-righteousness. It's to translate them into a freedom they think is slavery. It's to separate them from damning sins, a blessing they see as only ending in boredom and sadness. Church, the most precious thing to a worldly person is his self-righteousness. Think about it: he's spent his whole life forming a good opinion of himself. He’s built an idol to his good works. He praises himself that he’s really good at heart and kind to others. Simply put, he’s built his own Tower of Babel, a monument to his own goodness. He's sure that he’s good enough for heaven, and too good for hell. This ungodly man has spent years beating down his conscience and searing it. He's taught himself to still every voice of conviction that comes to him. And now he enjoys a false peace. He's become so deceived that he actually believes God admires him! This is truth my friends. And now, just when he's shut down the voice of his conscience, you, a Christian, come along. And the truth you bring speaks more loudly than his dead conscience: “Unless you’re born again, you can’t enter the kingdom of heaven.” Suddenly you’re a threat in this person's mind. You’re someone who wants to deprive him of his assurance that all is well with his soul. All this time, he has thought he is okay. But now you’re telling him that all his good works are as filthy rags. I tell you, this man doesn’t see you as someone who’s bringing good news. No, in his eyes you’re a tormentor, someone who’s out to take away his peaceful sleep at night. Sound familiar to before you came to know Jesus as your Savior? Maybe some of you still feel like, "Man, I wish I still could do the same things I did before." You might be thinking, "I sure miss the bar scene," or maybe thinking, "I miss the movies I used to watch. Why is it so bad to hang out with drug buddies?" Friends, you need to stay away from these things. When the enemy starts putting these thoughts of one more drink won’t hurt you, one little joint I smoke, or a pill to get high isn’t going to bother you. You’d better not fall for that lie. "I just want to go to one porn site, just this one time." Get it out of your mind, because once you have that thought, you're hooked again. Lust of the flesh. Church, God will reveal Himself to anyone who seeks Him. We can look in the book of acts with Cornelius, who feared God. Acts 10:1-5 KJV There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, (2) A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. (3) He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. (4) And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. (5) And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: Skip down to verse 34. Acts 10:34-48 KJV Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons: (35) But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him. (36) The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:) (37) That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; (38) How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. (39) And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree: (40) Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly; (41) Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead. (42) And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead. (43) To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. (44) While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word. (45) And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. (46) For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, (47) Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? (48) And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days. Beloved, there are Muslims who have prayed for the true God to reveal Himself to them and they've had angels appear and they've come to the saving grace of Jesus. Glory to God! Church, we're to be different than the world and in the name of Jesus, that's what I pray for all who attend these services each week, those who will be joining in the near future. And for the ones who read these messages every week, we'll be different. We'll fear God. We'll seek God’s face and want to be all that He has planned for us and be in obedience to that plan. We'll be His disciples. We'll be world changers. We'll be His light in this dark and dying world. We'll be the ones who share the Gospel with the world. We'll be the ones who pray for the sick. And church, here's, as pastor Jeff of A Far From Normal Faith Ministry, the boom, boom. Here are the words of Jesus. Matthew 28:18-20 KJV And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. (19) Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: (20) Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. Matthew 28:20 AMP Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations [help the people to learn of Me, believe in Me, and obey My words], baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. This is where I think the church has gone wrong. We share the gospel on salvation, but do we teach them discipleship? Friends, we've read scripture of who we need to be in Christ. We have a choice. Yes, I said we have a choice. God doesn't force us to call on Him. We can accept Jesus as Lord, or we can deny Him. And friends, God is a good God and He is a just God. Psalms 7:11 KJV God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry with the wicked every day. Now quickly I want to show you a few verses about seeking God and while we read them, we have to remember that God cannot lie, and He is not a respecter of persons. Jeremiah 29:11-14 KJV For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. (12) Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. (13) And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. (14) And I will be found of you, saith the LORD: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the LORD; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive. Now, I'm going to share a few scriptures showing where we are to seek God, and while I read them, I want you to catch what the verse means, but I also want to show you something that separates Christianity from any other religion. And for the record, I hate using the word religion when talking about Christianity (Christ like), but that's how it's classified. James 1:5 KJV If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. Acts 17:26-27 KJV And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; (27) That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: Matthew 7:7-8 KJV Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: (8) For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. You search the in-corrupt seed of Muslim faith, it's not for all. The same with Buddhism or any of the religions. The only True Living God of the world is where you will see that every man and woman has that chance to make a choice. John 3:15-18 KJV That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. (16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (17) For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. (18) He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. It's your choice, my friend. For those who say God isn't fair, how much fairer can He be? You have to remember He's a just God. God does hate sin, but He was willing to send His Son to earth. He that knew no sin to die to cleanse you and me of all our unrighteousness and remember it no more. Praise God. But you need to make that choice to receive Jesus or not. And that choice has consequences. We can receive Christ and have the hope of eternal life, or we can deny Him and lose that hope and spend eternity in the lake of fire. To me, it's a no-brainer. And my friends, when you call on Jesus to be Lord and Savior and you live your life for Him, wow, you see just how good God is. So now friends,make it personal. I will in the name of Jesus change from the wicked ways that have not pleased God. I'll sow GOOD seed into my son, daughter, grandchildren, husband, wife, niece, nephews, uncles Grandparents and friend’s lives who don’t know Jesus as Lord. I'll start from this day to do all things as if I were doing it for the Lord. I will read my Bible every day, from this day forward because I want to know God, His ways and what He has planned for me. I'll read my Bible because I want to strengthen my faith….faith comes from hearing and hearing from the Word of God. I will read God’s Word and meditate on it so I know how to be a witness to those who God puts on my heart, who don’t know Him. Is God speaking to anyone? I'll read and meditate on it because Proverbs 4:20-23 KJV My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. (21) Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. (22) For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. (23) Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Halleluiah!! Glory to God!! I'll be the husband that the Bible speaks of. I'll be the wife that I was called to be. I'll have the love and compassion of Christ to my neighbor, coworker schoolmates and everyone that I might have had problems dealing with. I'll be more forgiving to those who have hurt me in words and actions. I can do all these things and more because of Christ in my life who strengthens me. Glory be to God!!! Romans 8:35-39 KJV Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? (36) As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. (37) Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. (38) For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, (39) Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Philippians 4:4-8 KJV Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. (5) Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. (6) Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. (7) And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (8) Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. These are the things I want for my life and for yours brothers and sisters in Christ. And church, we all can have them when we let the Holy Spirit be our guide. Thank You, Jesus! Jesus said this to Satan when He was tempted in the desert, and we can do the same thing whenever we are tempted against God’s word. Luke 4:4 KJV And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God. Church, the next time your heart fails you with fear, hurt, loss, loneliness, or a wound, apply the medicine of the LORD. It’s only the well-fed hearts and souls that are healthy. John 6:63 KJV It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. God’s word has never been more available than it is today. Friends, you can go to Wal-Mart or most book stores and pick up a Bible. You can get a used one at a Salvation Army or thrift store. You can even download Bibles free from many sources online. I prefer e-Sword and have had it for years now and friends, it is free. There are so many translations, dictionaries, commentaries, maps and so much more. Friends, for those who say they don’t have time to spend in God’s Word, you don’t fool me and don’t think for a minute you're fooling God. I was at that place once before. Make time. Soon you'll desire to be in it. Get into God’s Word and God’s Word will get into you and bring His life into your existence and bless you. Jeremiah 15:15-17 KJV O LORD, thou knowest: remember me, and visit me, and revenge me of my persecutors; take me not away in thy longsuffering: know that for thy sake I have suffered rebuke. (16) Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts. (17) I sat not in the assembly of the mockers, nor rejoiced; I sat alone because of thy hand: for thou hast filled me with indignation. If we don’t daily and often read His words, we have no one to blame but ourselves for not ingesting them, devouring them, and receiving of their inherent and divine medicinal properties. When we do, healing, joy, rejoicing, restoration, and wholeness will result. Praise God. God’s Word is so powerful and living. I'm amazed at how often scripture that I've read over and over and over teaches me something new. The Bible is alive. Friends, I am about to close but I urge everyone this week who's hearing this message, reading it at another time online, please, please, please, if you haven't been in God’s Word daily, please start today. Don’t let the devil talk you out of it, because he will try. I guarantee it. Satan is the father of lies and he comes to steel, kill and destroy your life. When we get God’s Word in us, we learn how to sense the enemy when he sneaks in and how to get rid of him. Don’t let pride get in the way of asking God for needs in your life, don’t let doubt rob you of a miracle. Acts 20:20-32 KJV And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house, (21) Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. (22) And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there: (23) Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. (24) But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God. (25) And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more. (26) Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. (27) For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. (28) Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. (29) For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. (30) Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. (31) Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. (32) And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Beloved, Jesus said in John 14:6 KJV Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Friends, there are those who don't like that verse very much, but you know what? That verse excites me. I praise God that there is a way. Praise Jesus. And we read earlier, that invitation is to all people throughout the world. It isn't for just those who can afford it. You don't have to belong to a special club. It isn't for just the smartest of people. No, it's for all who will seek Him and repent of their sins and follow Him. Glory to the name of Jesus! Jesus is the only way. 2 Peter 3:9 KJV The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. Psalms 34:8 KJV O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. Friends, we thank you all of you who have joined in us in the J and L Ministries room here on Paltalk, we thank those who have read the sermon notes on the various sites and those who have been following our sermon videos on u-tube and again on the many sites. Leanna and I love you and to all our brothers and sisters, till next week, Psalms 34:3 KJV O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together.
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What does the Bible say about that little member that dangles underneath our nose? part 2 Greetings friends and family and welcome to J and L Ministries in the Paltalk room and also those watching on the various Christian Networks and also some of the secular sites. Last week, we looked at words spoken being seeds that can sow good fruit or bad fruit. During that message we looked at many verses in the book of James chapter 3 on how our little member (the tongue) can be such a dangerous thing. This week as we continue, I want to look at positive things our tongues say. But we are also going to touch on things that many of the body of Christ is involved in and for most they don't seem to even be aware, or don't care. We read two verses last week that I want to look at again. Proverbs 18:21 KJV Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. James 3:2 KJV 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. This week I want to look at the positive words we need to speak and starting from these two verses. I want everyone to think back in this past week and think back to positive words that you may have spoken to a co-worker, fellow student, maybe a family member, someone at church, or maybe a neighbor. Does anyone remember what it means when we speak blessings over someone or say God bless you? Anyone? It doesn’t have to be word for word as I know it's a mouthful. What it means is this: I bless you means I declare over you that God’s full intention that He has for your life would come into fullness. How many want God’s full intention in your spouse’s life? How many want to speak God’s intentions that He's purposed for your children or grandchildren’s lives? It should be one of our greatest desires. When we learn these principles, we can speak to things that are not pleasant, or those things that are against God’s will and then expect and watch things change. Faith and works, Amen? I have nothing to gain by advertising this material, but I have seen it work. Praise God. I also want to comment on how we speak about illnesses, diseases, etc…. You all know by now that my wife, Leanna has been battling with symptoms of diabetes, and stage 3 chronic kidney failure. From day one, I've said, that with proper diet, exercise, and because we serve a God that still heals today, she would be fine. I still believe that. I had one doctor that rolled her big eyes when I said that, yet during Leanna’s next visit and after a letter from her doctor saying that she should be expecting to be on dialysis soon, was amazed at the improvements that had been made and made the comment that she, Leanna, could come off, or reduce some of her medications, very soon. Thank You Jesus. It's been a struggle for Leanna, because first, what she should eat for the sugar issues isn't good for her because of the high potassium levels. Secondly, this is still relatively new to her as she found out all these things a little over three years ago and because of having a new doctor every 6 to 9 months and because she does improve, they remained baffled. Third, and I’m sure that there's much more, but she's had doctors who aren't believers in Christ and believers that we serve a God that still heals today. Leanna's getting better about not saying, "What won’t kill me for one disease will on the other. I can’t eat anything." Now, this isn't pick on Leanna day, but just to bring caution to everyone things we shouldn't say and what we should say. What I want to try to encourage everyone to do when you're going through storms in your life or a family member is to speak differently. We need to be aware of the things that we say. Church, what we need to realize is there's power in our words. We read it last week and again this week. 'Power in our words. Better yet, there is power in the name of Jesus. I think many forget this when they go through storms, and I have my hand raised also, as there are times I jump and act on my own when I might be struggling with an issue. I'm better, but I still at times need to be reminded. I, as I hope all of you are all children of God. I learn from His word. I read and I study what His word says for my life, my family’s lives and for you who come to our house, join in live via Paltalk, phone, or for those who can now watch these messages on U-tube or on the other many sites they are shared. Take the Gospel to the world is what Jesus commanded us to do in Mark 16:15. That's what I try to do each week and also for those that I meet throughout the week. Let’s look at some of the verses discussing Jesus' name and the power in His name. Friends, there's only one Jesus who stands as a mediator between the Father God and humanity. There's only one Jesus who died on the cross and arose victoriously who said, "All power in heaven and in earth now belongs to Me." There are churches one must confess their sins to a priest and go through a bunch of rituals, yet my Bible says "No one comes to the Father but by Me." Actually let's go there. Praise Jesus. John 14:6 KJV Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. That doesn't mean to bow down to some statue. You know what, we're not going there today because that's a sermon in itself and God willing we'll do that soon, as that's been on my heart. There have been messages that I've done where I've asked you to write scriptures down and post them in places that you'll see them and have asked you to speak them out. I hope you've been doing that. When you and I use the name of Jesus in faith, it means knowing WHO it is that stands behind that name, knowing the wealth and the power that's invested in the name of Jesus. Amen? This is one of the greatest weapons that you have in your arsenal to use against the enemy. Let’s turn to Philippians 2:9-11. Philippians 2:9-11 KJV Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: (10) That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; (11) And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Praise God!! Halleluiah! Friends, the enemy's going to try to throw you off the path that God has chosen for you and he'll use everything he can. Satan doesn't play fair. There have been many times that I knew that I knew that I was supposed to ask someone if I could pray with them. It's one thing to pray for someone in your own prayer closet. What I mean is in a place where you're alone, or with your spouse or a close friend, but to pray with someone that you barely know? That takes leaning on God’s strength. That's getting bold! That's defeating the fear that Satan tries to shower you with. Don’t allow Satan to make you think. "But brother Jim, I tried this before, it just doesn’t work for me." This isn't a trick, this is the Word of God. You've got to plant the Word inside your heart and mind and not move off of it, no matter what you see or hear. The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy, but Christ came to give us life and life more abundantly. Praise Jesus! And the Savior of the word calls you His friend. Church, for this reason I asked you to memorize verses. God tells us in His word, that every word is true and every man (that denies it) is a liar. God's trying to work some miracles out in your life and Satan's trying to block it. Satan's trying to destroy it and convince you that following Jesus is a waste of time. Don't believe the father of lies. You can be victorious by using the name of Jesus and having faith and confidence in His name and His Word, because Jesus is the Word, Who became flesh. You can trust God’s Word. Praise the King of Kings. Listen up church. Get these words in your heart. Praise God. 1 John 4:1-6 KJV Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (2) Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: (3) And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (4) Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (5) They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. (6) We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. Did we get this church? Halleluiah! It's very important that we go to the Word of God, the Bible, for ALL our priorities in life. And all of our understanding about who Jesus is, what the Gospel is, how a person becomes reconciled with God, The Bible tells how a person gets to heaven, how we should live as Christians, what the Church is. The Bible teaches us how the Church should function. Organized church, did you catch this? Who should lead in the body of Christ, what our calling is in society on this earth. Here's a big one. What should our message be to the World? If I was to ask everyone who is Jesus to you? What has God called you to do? You don’t have to answer out loud, for those listening live. What's your relationship with God? Is He someone you think about just on Sundays? Maybe again on a week night if you go to a Bible study? Can you talk about your faith with your friends? Family members? Do you have conversations with God on a daily basis? Do you know what your gifts are? I'm not trying to attack anyone, but these are things that we should know. We find these things as we spend time in His Word, in prayer and when we're in obedience. He has a perfect plan for each of us. The first night, I should say in the wee hours of the morning, I came home after bringing Leanna to the ER, I spent an hour crying out to God on the drive home after hearing one symptom after another that the doctors discussed could be wrong with my wife. We went because of a sore on her ankle. In that prayer, I asked God, "Why all this, Lord? I know that You blessed us with this part of J and L Ministries. Why these symptoms? I can’t do this on my own. You blessed me with her and because of her, I have a purpose now. Because of her and what You've done through the both of us, why take her away?" I was hurting and when I was almost home, I realized what was going on. We had gotten to a higher place with God. We were studying things that I guarantee the enemy didn’t want us to learn about. In many ways we were coming to a higher level with God. Then 4 days later, my dad passed away. The same day I brought Leanna home from the hospital. Again I went through stuff, and again I had many hours of traveling picking up family from the airport and bringing them two hours north to my parents home and then a two hour ride back to my home. Because of that alone time and in prayer, I wrote a salvation message to read at my dad’s funeral in front of those who were professing atheists. Praise God. I know I've gone totally off what I thought I was supposed to teach on today, but there must be something that someone needed to hear. If that was you, I'd like to hear after this service. If you're watching this or reading this and it spoke to your heart, please drop me a message. Back to words being seed. If everyone can please turn to Matthew 12:32. Whatever's in your heart will eventually come out of your mouth. Matthew 12:32-37 LEB And whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him. But whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him either in this age or in the coming one! (33) "Either make the tree good and its fruit is good, or make the tree bad and its fruit is bad, for the tree is known by its fruit. (34) Offspring of vipers! How are you able to say good things when you are evil? For from the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. (35) The good person from his good treasury brings out good things, and the evil person from his evil treasury brings out evil things. (36) But I tell you that every worthless word that they speak, people will give an account for it on the day of judgment! (37) For by your words you will be vindicated, and by your words you will be condemned." Good things as well as bad things come into being why? Because of the words we speak. I know we looked at this last week but let’s turn to Matthew 15:10-20. I want us to see what Jesus says in this parable. Matthew 15:10-20 KJV And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: (11) Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. (12) Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? (13) But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. (14) Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch. (15) Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable. (16) And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding? (17) 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. These words from Jesus are to the bad or evil treasure in our hearts that comes out as negative and perverse speech. We've seen in other studies that all through the entire Bible we're given very explicit and detailed instructions about speaking right words. We're to be witnesses to the world. If we're cursing others, and I don’t mean just swearing, but saying hateful things that down others, is that being a good witness? When Christians are bad mouthing others, slandering other people, and here comes the boom, boom, involved in gossip, what will the unbeliever think about your faith in God? Are they going to be learning the ways of God? I think not. If that's the way that God sets you and me free, by living just the way the world does, why bother? Let's turn to a verse we've looked at before. Proverbs 4: 20-24. Proverbs 4:18-27 KJV But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. (19) The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble. (20) My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. (21) Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. (22) For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. (23) Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. (24) Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee. (25) Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. (26) Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. (27) Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil. Powerful words here. Friends, I think the message God's trying to get across to us today is this. We need to be careful with our words. I remember a saying that my mom used to say to my brother, sister and me, and I am sure most of you have heard it too, "If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say it." Amen? Do we want to say things that are going to harm people and then come back to harm us? Think about that for a moment. Remember there's power in our words. We can curse or bless with what we say. Amen? Romans 12:2 tells us to be not conformed to this world but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may PROVE what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Once you prove God’s word to be true to yourself, the gates of hell will not be able to prevail against it. You'll know that you know that it's the truth and no one will be able to steal it from you if you continually guard your heart. Proverbs 21:23 KJV Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles. 1 John 5:18 KJV We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not. With these two verses, should we not want to live our lives for God the best we can? When we totally surrender to Jesus, we can. So now, let's touch on a topic that's been brought up by a couple of friends. I just mentioned it a few minutes ago. Because of time's sake, we can't get into a whole sermon about it, but let's look at gossip and slandering others. What does the bible say about it? "Brother Jim, is it really that big a deal?? Let's see what God thinks. Psalm 119:11 AMP Your word I have treasured and stored in my heart, That I may not sin against You. So let's first look at the definition of gossip. Search Results 1. gos·sip ˈɡäsəp/ noun noun: gossip 1. 1. casual or unconstrained conversation or reports about other people, typically involving details that are not confirmed as being true. : information about the behavior and personal lives of other people : information about the lives of famous people : a person who often talks about the private details of other people's lives Now let's look at some verses to see if it is okay according to God's word to gossip: Now for those who try to look up gossip in the KJV, you're not going to find it, and because there are those who've been following this ministry for a while who won't believe anything but, I'll stick to the KJ. Before I end this message, I'll show you enough verses that you'll know that gossip is definitely not pleasing to God. Proverbs 6:16-19 KJV These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: (17) A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, (18) An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, (19) A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren. That passage alone should seal the deal, but I'll share some more. Proverbs 16:28 KJV A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends. Proverbs 17:4 KJV A wicked doer giveth heed to false lips; and a liar giveth ear to a naughty tongue. Proverbs 20:19 KJV He that goeth about as a talebearer revealeth secrets: therefore meddle not with him that flattereth with his lips. "Okay brother Jim, I don't think I want to look at the book of proverbs anymore." Okay my friend, let's look in 2 of my favorite books. Colossians 3:8-10 KJV But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. (9) Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; (10) And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: James 4:11 KJV Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. You see friends, our words are so very powerful. We need to bridle our tongues. Words of encouragement need to be used. Yes, there are times we need to be bold and correct others, but use Godly wisdom. We looked last week at our tongue being able to start a forest fire. I shared a testimony on that, but what I also failed to mention is I see it happening right now within the body. 1 Timothy 5:13 KJV And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. Friends, let us be the light of the world. Don't be part of the world, but let the world see that we're different. You and I can be different because of Jesus living inside of us. Thank you brothers and sisters in Christ for being here on Paltalk, and for those who have watched or read on the many sites that I and others have shared them on. We love you and we hope that each of you have a great week in the Lord. What does the Bible say about that little member that dangles underneath our nose? Greetings to all of you this beautiful Sunday September 6, 2015. Leanna and I want to thank each of you who has joined us here in the J and L Ministries room on the Paltalk platform and also for those who'll be watching this on U-tube, or both Leanna's and my Cross Roads Fellowships sites, Mylook Online, A Far From Normal Faith Ministry, or Lokey Sisters and Google+. And then there are those who may be watching on Twitter or Facebook where friends have been posting there. All the Glory to God. About 5 years ago, Leanna and I offered a Bible study, studying from the book of James, on the power of our tongues. I think it's important that we be reminded from God’s perspective on this, because He knows all and He knows us, being our Creator. He also knows how our tongue can get us into a heap of trouble. All week long this topic seems to be what I have felt the Lord has put on my mind, along with another topic that will fit perfectly within this series that a couple people have brought up. Again, glory to God. So first, I would ask those who have a Bible in reach to grasp on to it. Do we all agree that the Bible is true? Every word of it is true? We all agree that the entire Bible was inspired from God? Praise the Lord! We're going to be searching throughout the Bible for God’s truth, so if you're taking notes, please have your paper and pen handy, as I'll be referring to many scriptures and we have a short time today to go through them. I want to look first at Proverbs 18: 21. This verse I hear used often, but I wonder if most heed the meaning. We're supposed to be hearers of the Word of God and then be doers. Yet that little member that dangles underneath our noses often wags. Proverbs 18: 21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof. What a powerful verse. We can speak death unto someone. We can speak death unto ourselves. You may say, "Brother Jim, how can I do that?" My friend, many do it on a daily basis. Example: My head aches so bad I want to die. Hmmm!!! I hurt so bad, it’s just killing me. Really? Then, there are the words that we can speak to or about others that can leave a scar that lasts for life. I'm sure each of you can relate to that in some point in your life. These things should not be. Now, did we catch the last part of that verse? "And they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." Think about the words that you've spoken about a supposed friend, maybe your wife or husband, or a child. Maybe a classmate, or co-worker. Are you speaking negative words that might come back to you? Hopefully each one listening is speaking positive words. Words that uplift and edify those people, and that's what I want to have come back to me. Amen everyone? Let’s go to Matthew chapter 15. Matthew 15:10-12 KJV And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand: (11) Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man. (12) Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying? A Christian life, brothers and sisters, is to be Christ-like, and the things I hear many professing Christians saying is not being Christ-like. Let's go down a few verses to verse 18. Jesus is speaking here. Matthew 15: 18-19 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: Let’s see what else the Bible says about our hearts by turning to Jeremiah 17:9. Jeremiah 17:9 The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? So my friends, if our hearts are not right, we shouldn't say a thing. You know how when we get frustrated or angry we're apt to say things that we shouldn’t or don’t mean. Has anyone been there? Proverbs 12:18 There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health. I know Leanna, I'm keeping you busy, but these are all things we need to read, understand and then make it part of our lives. Psalms 57:4 My soul is among lions: and I lie even among them that are set on fire, even the sons of men, whose teeth are spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword. One thing that really bothers me, and I'm sure you've heard it - parents who speak ill words over their children like, “You won’t amount to nothing. Why are you so stupid? You're so dumb." This doesn’t just hurt at the time it's being spoken. It can leave a scar on that child’s life forever. It also can be spoken into existence. Ephesians 4:29 KJV. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. Okay, so we're to say good things to one another. What kind of words should we speak? That which edifies and words that may minister grace unto the hearers. Proverbs 16:24 KJV. Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones. Here's what Jesus said at the Mount, and brethren, we need to listen up and heed these words. Matthew 12:36-37 KJV. But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. (37) For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. The amplified version says this: 36 But I tell you, on the day of judgment men will have to give account for every idle (inoperative, nonworking) word they speak. 37 For by your words you will be justified and acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned and sentenced. Are we seeing the dangers of speaking negatives towards others or ourselves? What stirred me up to discuss what we speak was we had a sermon playing one night, as we always do when we go to bed, and I heard a few scriptures that kept going through my mind. You know how a song comes on and you can’t get it out of your head? Sometimes it stays for days? Have any of you been there? Well, I woke up and there were parts of scriptures that I woke up with very early in the morning. So when I came downstairs I looked them up on E-sword. They didn’t seem to go with anything that I was going through, but figured that someone needed to hear them. These are powerful and very important scriptures that I want us to listen to and repeat. Amen? Joel 3:10 Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruninghooks into spears: LET THE WEAK SAY, I AM STRONG. Psalms 27:14 Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. Ephesians 6:10 KJV Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Later that morning I got a letter from a woman from Cross Roads Fellowship that I know battles from depression and she was tired of stuff and said she felt like ending everything like a friend of hers did a few months back. See how God works? Hallelujah!!! I replied to her and gave her the scriptures and told her to pin them up all over her house as a reminder and to speak them out. You see, I believe that the Bible is true. I believe there's much power in God’s Word, and when we speak scriptures out, we're speaking God’s words. Hebrews 4:12 KJV For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. God is our light and strength by whom and in whom He lives. Praise God! We should therefore let the heart be fixed in Him and the mind stayed upon Him, waiting His deliverance in all circumstances. Please turn to Proverbs 4 and verse 20. Here's a passage that those who've been joining us have heard me say often, but I feel we should be reminded of often. Praise the Lord. Proverbs 4:20-23 ASV My son, attend to my words; Incline thine ear unto my sayings. (21) Let them not depart from thine eyes; Keep them in the midst of thy heart. (22) For they are life unto those that find them, And health to all their flesh. (23) Keep thy heart with all diligence; For out of it are the issues of life. My friends, when we get into the Bible and meditate on these Words, they should be a reminder to us. I've often said to post scriptures up around places that you can read them and speak them out as a reminder. In a video just recently, I heard brother Jeff from a far from normal faith ministry mention something similar. Let’s all say this verse together. Psalms 18:32 KJV It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. Again!!! GNB He is the God who makes me strong, who makes my pathway safe. Let’s say it again. He makes me strong. Do we hear our friends saying this? This is where we need to start changing what we speak. Leanna and I were blessed to have pastors who taught us when someone asks how you are, don’t start in with “Well you know, I’m tired and I’m broke and I.... No, no and no. Say, "I am blessed." When you're a child of God, you are blessed. Speak it out. Leanna and I always say we're blessed when someone asks how we are, even when we don’t feel it. We are blessed, and if you want to go even further, say you're blessed and highly favored from God above. We know we're blessed. We know that God's taking care of all our needs. We know that He's guiding us in the things we do for His Kingdom. Praise God. Mischelle, if you can type what you often say. Let’s say it again. I am strong in the Lord. He fills me with strength. Remember, there's life and death in the power of the tongue. He makes my path safe. Glory to God!!!! Psalms 27:1 A Psalm of David. The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Let’s say it again. Let the weak say I am strong!! You're not saying your words, you are saying God’s Words. Do we believe there's power in these words? Psalms 19:14 KJV Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer. Say this, My God makes me strong!!! Satan wants you to say you're weak. He, little “h” wants you to speak ill of yourself. The Lord is the strength of my life. Again. I am strong. God is the strength of my mind, my body, my emotions. The Lord is the strength of my life. Friends, we need to get this and put our faith in this. Psalms 29:11 KJV The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace. Let’s go to Psalms 71. I love this book. So many verses we can use, but let’s look at Psalms 71:16 KJV. I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD: I will make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only. Say it with me, I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD. Glory to God. Remember, this is what we're told in the Bible. I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD. Remember when the enemy comes and says you're too tired to go to church, or to go to work, or whatever. I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD. Psalms 84:7 KJV They go from strength to strength, every one of them in Zion appeareth before God. They go from strength to strength. Let us all say this........ I’m going from strength to strength. I will go in the strength of the Lord God. God is my safe place. In God I will find my strength. Philippians 4:13 KJV I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. I am strong in the Lord. I am strong in the power of His might. Brothers and sisters, we went through many scriptures, yet I would highly suggest copying them down and posting them in places where you'll see them often. When you see them, keep speaking them out. Not just once or twice, but over and over. These are scriptures we should all be saying when we feel discouraged. When we feel like giving up. When we feel like we just can't go on anymore. In closing, let's turn to Matthew 7:7-8 . Matthew 7:7-8 KJV Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: (8) For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. Let’s remember to speak good things. Let us remember to speak words that were inspired from God over situations. Let us not talk down other people. It's easier to not say anything if we remember that we're going to be held accountable for the things we say. I pray that these scriptures spoke to someone today. Our words are more important than most even know. As we read, we're responsible for every idle word we've spoken. It's so easy to let our flesh take over, but I honestly believe, when we're filled up with God's Word each day, it doesn't leave room for the negativity to come in. Praise God. Friends, in closing, we'll probably be a couple, maybe 3 weeks on this series, as the Lord leads. I know that there's one area that concerns our little member the tongue that I feel very much led to speak on and as I said, I'll probably add it to the next couple of messages. We thank each of you for being with us this morning and we do hope that you'll not just let these verses in one ear and out the other, but chew on them today. Write them down, maybe underline them in your Bible. Get them in your heart, but above all, act upon them. For those who want to hear this video, I won't have it up today, as I have to leave immediately after I close this room, but hopefully tomorrow it will be posted on J and L Ministries u-tube channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcZK5TvqtrxZnf91hgSfw_g Friends, thank you again for being part of this sermon message today, we love you and Leanna and I hope your week is filled with joy as you seek God's will for your life. Good morning brothers and sisters in Christ. Leanna and I want to welcome each of you to this J and L Ministries room here on Paltalk and for those watching the videos on the various networks that have allowed us to share them. For all of those networks, a big thank you.
For over a month now we've been studying, and today we will conclude this series, "Having The Compassion Of Jesus." Though we could go a lot further with this in many different areas, I think we're supposed to move on to something else. Today as we finish this study with some of the things that we've already covered, we'll also be reminded of other scriptures dealing with us having the compassion that Jesus had and still does. Jesus is still very much alive! I said, Jesus is still very much alive. Halleluiah!! First, let’s start with what compassion means, and do you have it? Also, what does it mean to you in your life? Have you felt that someone's being compassionate towards you lately? Do you feel compassionate towards others more than you want them to feel compassionate towards you? Why do you feel the way you do? Let’s look at a verse we used at the beginning of this series. Please turn to Matthew 9:36. Matthew 9:36 KJV But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. If you remember, we looked at the definition of compassion: Compassion means having a sense of deep sympathy and the heartfelt feelings of sorrow for someone hurting physically, mentally or emotionally; an unselfish need to reach out to help relieve the unfortunate misery of a person in need. The feeling of regret and pity, showing a kind, loving attitude. What kind of compassion did Jesus, our Savior have? Jesus had the perfect righteous compassion. Let’s look at Matthew 20:34. Matthew 20:34 KJV So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him. Jesus was perfect in every way possible and free of carnal sin (the sin we're born with, dating back to Adam and Eve when they sinned mankind's first sin). The life of Jesus was not tainted with jealousy or immorality as yours and my lives are. Christ was righteously pure and full of positive faith because He was doing the perfect will of the Father who sent Him to save mankind. Thank You and praise You, Jesus! Jesus being perfect had pure unselfish motives when He felt compassion toward others. Unlike the people of the world, Jesus Christ cared more for our lives than He did His own. (His precious sinless life was laid down for our sins at the cross of Calvary.) Glory to God!! Jesus compassionately understood people’s feelings. Let’s turn to Matthew 14:14. Matthew 14:14 And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with (what?) compassion toward them, and He healed their sick. Jesus was motivated to win souls, (why?) Compassion! John 6:38 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. Who was Him? God. John 6:40 And this is the will of Him (God) that sent Me (Jesus), that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. Jesus wanted to share the Father’s love, why? Compassion! Church, some of us are getting this. Praise the Lord! John 15:12-14 This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Friends, hear me on this. Hear the Holy Spirit. We have to be willing to lay down our lives for others. "Brother Jim, you mean I have to be nailed to a cross as Jesus did?" No, unless that's what God calls to happen. Friends, not one person should be left on the earth that doesn't have the chance to make the decision to know Jesus Christ as their Savior. Nothing in our lives should be more important than that quest. We're in a spiritual war for people's souls and we mustn't let up one minute or back down. From time to time we may have to withdraw our forces to recoup and heal up our battle wounds and scars, but as soon as we're able to fight, we have to get right back into doing our righteous duty. Even from a hospital bed people have been led to Jesus, and by opening up your mouth, so can you! If we love our fellow mankind, then no matter how badly we get hurt and wounded we must not give up the fight. Satan will throw everything that he can at us, but we must not quit. If one door is closed, then we strive to walk through another door. We must not always assume that every door closed was Satan's doing but realize that the hand of God is with us leading the way. We just have to trust Him to be doing the right thing even when it seems like He's not. We have to trust and walk by spiritual eyesight and not worldly carnal eyesight. There are times that we seem to get hit by every dart that's thrown. There may be times that everything you touch breaks. Anyone going through that right now? Then, just when you seem to get caught up with bills, another catastrophe happens. Then there are those who are dealing with health issues, maybe you just feel like giving up. Some have possibly gone so far as to cry out "Where are You God? Don't You even care?" My dear friends, I need to remind you, He's still right there. Sometimes we need to remind each other that God is still in control. We keep trusting in Him. That's what we all need to do when we see or hear another brother or sister going through a tough time. That's what Jesus had to do with the disciples when they got down on their faith. We also need to be in prayer for others going through trials. It's that important. Jesus showed compassion with great courage. I think it was in the second part of this series that I discussed Jesus’ half brother James, preaching to the Jews that were scattered because of fear for their lives after Jesus was put to death. Let’s see How Jesus was affected when His chosen people were scattered abroad without a shepherd. Please turn to Mathew 9:36. Matthew 9:36 But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Suffering from sin that Satan brought into the world, we, as Adam and Eve, go through some of the same things. Let’s look at Genesis 3. Genesis 3:1-7 KJV Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. Let’s look at the word subtle: crafty, sly, artful, crafty, deceitful, and treacherous. And notice, the serpent, Satan was already there. Even though in Genesis 2:15-17 it says: Genesis 2:15-17 And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it. (16) And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: (17) But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. Back to Genesis 3:1-7 Now the serpent was more subtle than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he (Satan) said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? (2) And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: (3) But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. (4) And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: (5) For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. (6) And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. (7) And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. Friends, Satan may come to you as your long lost friend. He'll make you feel like that, but I tell you he hates you and everything about you. He hates your life, he hates your family. There's nothing he likes about you other than seeing you not following the Savoir of the world. Now this is Satan's plan: 1) He tempts us to doubt and question God's Word. 2) The devil strives to get us to look at the problem rather than seeking and putting our faith in God. 3) By making us think that wrong things look easier than what we should do in the Lord’s eyes. 4) Satan affects our emotions by making us feel like a failure. 5) The devil gets us to delay in doing what we know to be right so the job never gets done. He makes us afraid with fear! 6) What is the job at hand for believers? Winning souls for the Kingdom of God! Have any of you experienced any of these attacks? I can tell you that I've had them just as clearly as can be. Some I have overcome with ease, because of my trust in Jesus. There have been some trials that I still struggle with right now. Let’s look at how Jesus felt compassion when He saw people who were suffering: Matthew 9:35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. Here's Jesus’ commandment to His followers. Matthew 10:8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give. Matthew 11:5 The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them. Are we carrying out these commandments? Let’s look at a man possessed being freed of demons. Mark 5:2-13 KJV And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, (3) Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains: (4) Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him. (5) And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. (6) But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him, (7) And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not. (8) For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit. (9) And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many. (10) And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country. (11) Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding. (12) And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them. (13) And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea. We also need to have that same compassion Jesus had and still has today, sitting at the right hand side of God the Father. Jesus did all these things because of His compassion for them and for you and me. Jesus felt compassion at the risk of His very life. Listen to what the writer of Hebrews says. Hebrews 12:2-4 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin. Friends, this is why we don’t ever give up the fight to win souls. Even though we may at times get wearied in our minds, yet we know that we have not resisted unto death to win souls for the Lord. We should have and use Godly compassion. Through some of the studies that Leanna and I have shared, I've said that Jesus taught by example of how to be compassionate. Matthew 9:36-37 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Jesus taught people to follow Him and teach others how. Mark 6:34 And Jesus, when He came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and He began to teach them many things. Jesus taught believers to pray for workers and laborers. Matthew 9:38 KJV Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest. Here's a major verse. The Lord taught us compassion by giving all He had. John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Brothers and sisters, Jesus wants you and me to develop compassion toward others. I can list many times where we're commanded to love our brothers and sisters. Love our spouses. Love our neighbors. Love our enemies. Turn the other cheek. Do unto others as you would like done unto yourself. These are hard things to do with certain people. But you know what? It can be done if we truly want the compassion that Jesus had. Here is a list how. A. By constantly dwelling upon His Word filled with spiritual teachings. 1. Read, study, and study some more. 2. Act and live out our lives by the teachings, letting them become a part of us. B. Spending time among Godly people. 1. Going to church and attending regularly. 2. Having dinner with believers and getting to know their personal lives and sharing your faith and testimony. 3. Ministering to their needs and watching their Godly examples. C. Here's where I truly want to see each and every one of us. Spending time looking and seeking out the lost and lonely. 1. Getting to know them by inviting them out to lunch and spending time with them. 2. By visiting the nursing homes, hospitals and even grocery stores as well as jobs. Clubs and classes are excellent places to look. 3. Become aware of anyone that's isolated and lonely like the sick, disabled or senior citizens not yet in nursing homes. 4. Get to know your neighbor by showing up with a tray of cookies and invite them over for coffee. Leanna and I at one time shared goodies at Christmas time with many neighbors. 5. Here's a tough one but an important one, and Jesus mentioned it. Visit the jails and minister to prisoners. These are just a few suggestions, but you know what? If you're serious about doing God’s work, He'll guide you with what gift He has given you. In closing, I really want you to think about these points I'm about to bring up. I want you to think about where you are in all of this. Where are all of the souls that should be saved today after 2,000 years of Bible training? Are people any different today in their desire to reach the lost than they were in Jesus’ time? What keeps us from reaching out with compassion to win souls for the Kingdom of God? Lack of real courage and compassion? Does the desire to win souls permeate your whole being and when we see people that we strongly sense are lost, do we reach out to minister to their needs? How can we say that we care about the lost when we make no real effort to even try to reach them? How many people truly try to even talk to their neighbors, and who are our neighbors if not all of mankind? If we become too engrossed with our own problems and comforts, we'll never be able to reach out to the lost. Set aside TV and computers for a time and go out of your way to reach the lost. Jesus set the example by going out to the multitudes, didn’t He? Can we believers do anything less with our lives? Should we let comfort keep us from striving to reach out to the unsaved? We can all pray for the lost and that the Lord will send laborers into the field and I pray that we all do, daily. If we have trouble teaching people, can’t we at least invite people to come to church to be taught? Maybe even send this video to them? Be an encourager to those who are going out in the field because they'll be under demonic attack. They'll need to be spiritually covered with all of our prayers. Let compassion to save the lost motivate you into action. Some of the people were filled with ingratitude and self-centeredness, yet Jesus revealed His compassionate heart when He showed His mercy by feeding and healing them. Jesus felt a burning desire to save them spiritually, but He knew their immediate needs had to be met first in order to reach their hearts. The eternal needs could then be met after their physical needs were satisfied. Feeding their bodies made the people look with love and become more receptive to receiving the message. In other words, they had to trust the messenger first before they could trust the message. The Lord was tired, and yet He placed His own needs and comforts aside to minister to others needs. Can we do any differently? I've learned much these past few months in trusting God. When we go through trials and troubles, the Lord teaches us how to handle problems so that we then have the knowledge and sympathetic compassion to help others. As we see their problems, we remember how we felt and how we were able to make it through. This then opens the door to winning souls for the Kingdom of God, because the Lord can use our painful past to minister healing into the lives of other people. We become the laborers of the Lord harvesting souls for the Kingdom of God. If we're failing to see people as God does, it's because we haven’t yet learned to develop Godly compassion. Jesus had compassion for those weak in faith, and yet He still reached out to save them. He fed the five thousand by taking care of their physical needs first and then their spiritual needs. Find a way to help others first and then you'll reach their hearts. My dear friends, I challenge your attitudes and actions to become motivated to minister with compassion into the lives of people and show them their need to have a relationship with Jesus Christ. Start viewing people from a biblical perspective and come to understand the mind of God when it comes to winning souls for His Kingdom. Remember my friends, there may be a finger pointed at each and every one of you, but I have them pointed back at me too. Let’s let God take full control over our entire life and be so on fire for Him that people around us can’t help to take notice and want so badly what we have. Let’s win back what the enemy has stolen from us. It starts with a change in me and you. It starts with prayer. It starts with a deeper relationship with Jesus. It starts with a greater knowledge of God’s word. It starts with a change in our speech. Cursing and blessing. And it also starts with a change in our actions. Are you up for the challenge? That concludes this message on Having the Compassion Of Christ. I'm not sure what the Lord will have us teach on next week, but I'm sure it'll be a message that each of us need to hear. 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