Emory Baptist Church

Salvation is Greater Than Service!

If you have your bibles this morning, please take them and find Luke 10:17.  I want to share a message with you entitled, “Salvation is Greater than Service!”

 

Remember the beginning of chapter 10 from last week.  Jesus sent out 70 disciples to minister in His name.  He sent them out as laborers into the harvest, but this wasn’t an agricultural harvest.  This was a spiritual harvest.

 

They were to go but not take any provisions.  Jesus would provide for all of their needs.

 

They were to look for other like-minded individuals and families who were ready to receive Jesus as the promised Messiah.  They were also to heal the sick.

 

However, they would certainly encounter opposition.   They were then to trust God for the judgment of those individuals, families, and cities.

 

Today, we are going to see the 70 returning.  What was their reaction?  How did they feel?

 

 

1. A Picture of Joy, Luke 10:17-20

17 Then the seventy returned with joy, saying, “Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name.”  18 And He said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 Behold, I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you. 20 Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” 

 

Verse 17 says they returned with joy!  Why? 

 

They had power of demons.  How so?  They had healed the sick.  They had cast out demons.  They saw the lost saved.

 

In response, Jesus said in verse 18, “I saw Satan fall like lightening from heaven.”  What did He mean? 

 

In this context, I think He meant that every time a prayer is answered, Satan’s kingdom falls.  Every time a saint is obedient, Satan’s kingdom falls.  Every time a lost person is saved, Satan’s kingdom falls.

 

BTW…Satan is real.  Jesus thought he was.  Satan is also a fallen angel.  That happened before time began and seems to be alluded to in Isaiah 14.  Finally, the bible teaches us that Satan was defeated with the death and resurrection of Christ.  Satan is being defeated every time an individual says yes to Jesus and no to the devil, and Satan will be defeated once and for all when Jesus Christ casts him into the lake of fire for eternity. 

 

The reason that the ministry of the 70 had any success at all was because Jesus gave them authority of the enemy’s power according to verse 19. However, please don’t take verse 19 as your license to handle snakes.

 

And even though, they rejoiced over ministry and we can rejoice over ministry today, there is something greater than ministry.  We’ll come back to that in just a moment.

 

 

2. A Praying Trinity, Luke 10:21-22

21 In that hour Jesus rejoiced in the Spirit and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. 22 All things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son, and the one to whom the Son wills to reveal Him.”

 

In verse 21, notice that the 70 are not the only who rejoiced.  Jesus rejoiced over the ministry as well, and He rejoices over you as well when you serve Him by serving others.

 

Verses 21 and 22 are a prayer.  Jesus the Son prayed to God the Father through the Holy Spirit, and He thanked God for these saints. 

 

God revealed the truths of salvation to these saints and to anyone who will humble himself or herself like a child.  We’ve already seen that in Luke 9:48.

 

48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this little child in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me. For he who is least among you all will be great.”

 

Paul also understood that salvation is not because of our influence or ingenuity.  It is because of God’s grace and mercy.  See 1 Corinthians 1:26-29.

 

26 For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. 27 But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; 28 and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, 29 that no flesh should glory in His presence.

 

Brothers and sisters, don’t ever forget that you and I can’t impress a holy God.  When we come to him, it is with empty hands.

 

In verse 22, we are reminded of the deity of Christ, and God is sovereign and in control of all things.  Notice that Jesus is God, and God is Jesus.

 

BTW…this is proof positive that all religions aren’t the same.  Ask a Jew is they believe that Jesus is God.  Ask a Muslim if they believe that Jesus is God.

 

 

3. A Private Message, Luke 10:23-24

23 Then He turned to His disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes which see the things you see; 24 for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it.”

 

After Jesus prayed, He had a private message for His disciples in verses 23-24.  He reminded them of their privilege. 

 

Prophets and kings had longed to see what they had seen.  What had they seen? 

 

They saw the Kingdom of God.  They saw the promised Messiah.  They saw God in the flesh.  They saw Jesus Christ!

 

 

Conclusion

So what is the point of today’s sermon?  Go back to verse 20.

 

20 Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” 

 

Ministry or serving others is good, but salvation is greater!  It is good to serve others, and we should rejoice in our service.  Rejoice when you invite someone to church.  Rejoice when T. E. L. goes caroling.  Rejoice when our budget is met and when more money is given to the FLC.

 

However, rejoice more when in your salvation and when lost people are saved.  Why?  Ministry or service is earthly.  Salvation is eternal. 

 

Is you name written in heaven because you have been saved?  If not, would answer God’s call to be saved this morning? 

 

How do you do that?  Admit that you are sinner.  Believe that Jesus died on the cross in your place.  Confess Him as your only Lord and Savior. 

Ready or Not, Here I Come!

What Will Following Jesus Cost You?

If you have your Bibles, please take them and find Luke 9:56.  I want to share a message with you entitled, “What Will Following Jesus Cost You?” 

 

I also could have just as easily entitled this message, “The Road to Hell is Paved with What?”  I’m sure you know the answer to that question.

 

Today’s text is about following Jesus as Lord and Savior. Notice that word, follow, in verses 57, 59, and 61.

 

57 Now it happened as they journeyed on the road, that someone said to Him, “Lord, I will follow You wherever You go.” 

 

59 Then He said to another, “Follow Me.”  But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” 

 

61 And another also said, “Lord, I will follow You, but let me first go and bid them farewell who are at my house.”

 

We are going to see three different individuals as they are considering the invitation to follow Jesus.  That same invitation will be extended to you this morning, but please understand that following Jesus will mean a radical commitment and may cost you significantly. 

 

1. Following Jesus may cost you financially, Luke 9:56b-58.

56 And they went to another village.  57 Now it happened as they journeyed on the road, that someone said to Him, “Lord, I will follow You wherever You go.”  58 And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.”

 

The end of verse 56 says that Jesus and His disciples went on to another village.  If you remember from last Sunday, they went to a Samaritan village, but were not welcomed. 

 

On their journey, a man came up to Jesus and said he was willing to follow Him wherever.  In other words, this man pledged his complete commitment to Christ.

 

However, in one sense, Jesus said, “Are you sure?”  In reality, Jesus said He didn’t have a home.  Animals had homes like foxes and birds, but Jesus did not.

 

What did He mean?  He meant that following Jesus may cost you comforts and specifically financially. 

 

What might that look like?  I am going to share with you some facts.  I am not soliciting pity or trying to make you feel sorry for me and my family.  Again, I’m just sharing some facts.

 

My family and I have been members of EBC since January 2015.  In 10 years, we have given over $165,000 to EBC in tithes and offerings.  That is an average of $16,500 per year.

 

Also, please understand that we have not given this much because I am the pastor.  We have given this much because we are followers of Jesus that believe that the Bible says we are to give 10% of our gross income to the Lord through our local church. 

 

Furthermore, most of you know, I have two daughters in college…at the same time.  They have an apartment.  They share a car.  My wife and I share a car.

 

Do you think we could have used that money elsewhere?  You better believe it. Do we regret giving it?  Absolutely not!

 

Following Jesus may cost you financially!

 

2. Following Jesus may cost you your family, Luke 9:59-60.

59 Then He said to another, “Follow Me.”  But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.”  60 Jesus said to him, “Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and preach the kingdom of God.”

 

With our second individual, Jesus initiated the conversation with invitation to follow Him.  However, it was met with another priority. 

 

What was the priority?  It was family, and possibly even money. 

 

This man wanted to wait until he had buried his father.  However, keep in mind that his father hadn’t died yet. 

 

His father was elderly and dying, but still alive.  This man wanted to bury his dad FIRST and then follow Jesus.  He may have also been wanting to wait on his inheritance.

 

Jesus told him to let the dead bury the dead.  In other words, let the spiritually dead take care of the physically dead. 

 

Said another way, “You don’t give your attention to death.”  Instead, you have the gift of life.  Preach it to the world.

 

Jesus wasn’t saying don’t go to funerals or don’t take care of dying parents.  He was saying make sure sharing the gospel is your number one priority. 

 

In my own personal experience, there have been times when I had to choose Jesus and His bride over my extended family, and there are occasions when that is necessary. See Luke 14:26.

 

26 “If anyone comes to Me and does not hate his father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and his own life also, he cannot be My disciple.

 

Following Jesus may cost you your family!

 

 

3. Following Jesus may cost you your friends, Luke 9:61-62.

61 And another also said, “Lord, I will follow You, but let me first go and bid them farewell who are at my house.” 62 But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”

 

In verse 61, we find our last of three individuals.  Like the first and different from the second, this man initiated his own conversation with Jesus.

 

He said he would follow Jesus, but he had some other things to do before.  Certainly, he wanted to say good bye to his family and possibly to his friends as well.  Verse 61 just says those at his house.

 

Jesus said you need to quit thinking about the past and give your attention to the future.  Otherwise, you’re going to plow crookedly. 

 

In Matthew 12:46-50, Jesus even redefined relationships.  That includes family and friends.

 

46 While He was still talking to the multitudes, behold, His mother and brothers stood outside, seeking to speak with Him. 47 Then one said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, seeking to speak with You.”  48 But He answered and said to the one who told Him, “Who is My mother and who are My brothers?” 49 And He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! 50 For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.”

 

Paul understand what Jesus was saying.  See Philippians 3:13-14.

 

13 Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, 14 I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.

 

Following Jesus my cost you your friends!

 

 

Conclusion

If you here this morning, and you aren’t a follower to Jesus, I invite you to say yes.  If you wondering whether it is worthy in light of what it might cost you, remember Mark 10:29-30.

 

29 So Jesus answered and said, “Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My sake and the gospel’s, 30 who shall not receive a hundredfold now in this time—houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions—and in the age to come, eternal life.

 

On the authority of God’s word, and affirmed by my own personal experience, HE IS WORTH IT!

 

Is Your Face Set?

Please take your Bibles and find Luke 9:51. I want to share a message with you entitled, “Is Your Face Set?”

 

If you are a guest, we are studying the gospel of Luke verse-by-verse and chapter-by-chapter.  That means we have been in Luke for some time, and still have some time to go.

 

“Is your face set” sounds like a funny question, and not really how we talk in 2024.  However, it is the language that Luke uses here in Luke 9.

 

Notice this language as we read today’s story.  Specifically notice verses 52 and 53.

 

 

Exposition

Verse 51 begins with a time marker.  What we are about to read happened after the transfiguration and the conversation about positions of greatness in the kingdom of God.  It is also good to know that this material unique to Luke.

 

Luke continues that the time had come for Jesus to be received up.  The NIV says go to heaven.  The NASB says for His ascension.

 

Luke is describing a sequence of events with a few words.  In reality, he is describing the gospel. 

 

So let’s not only describe it, but let’s also define.  It begins with a holy God creating man and women, and we were sinless and in perfect fellowship with Him. 

However, Adam and Eve sinned.  They then passed along their guilty and their sin nature to us.  Consequently, we have sinned.

 

Next, our sin separates us from God because He is holy and can’t commune with sin.  Therefore, we are in need of a savior.

 

Morality can’t save.  Ingenuity can’t save.  Generosity can’t save.  Sincerity can’t save. 

 

The only qualified savior is a man, but He was also God.  I’m talking about Jesus Christ, God’s only son, who lived a sinless and perfect life.

 

Then He died on the cross and in our place and paid our sin debt.  He provided the opportunity for anyone and everyone to be back in perfect fellowship with God.

 

However, you must believe.  You must confess your sin and need for a savior and put your faith in trust in Jesus.

 

How can you know that what I have just told you is true?  It is the story of the Bible, and Jesus didn’t stay dead.  He was resurrected never to die again to validate and prove all that He said is true.

 

Then in Acts, that Luke also wrote, after His death and after His resurrection, He ascended to heaven.  Where did all of this happen?  It happened in Jerusalem. 

 

So when Luke says that His time had come to be received up and that He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem, all of what I just said is what Luke was talking about.  Jesus understand God’s will, and He knew that was the best place for Him, and was at peace with it.

 

Do you understand God’s will for your life? Aare you at peace with it? 

 

What is God’s revealed will for you?  The Bible tells us.

 

1 Timothy 2:3-4, 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.

 

Ephesians 5:17-18, 17 Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. 18 And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit.

 

1 Thessalonians 4:3, 3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality;

 

1 Peter 2:13-15, 13 Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, 14 or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good. 15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men.

 

1 Peter 4:15-19, 15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. 16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.  17 For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18 Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?”  19 Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator.

 

God’s will includes more for you, but not less.  Are you good with this? 

 

Are you at peace with God’s will? Is your face set?

 

There was a time in my life when I wasn’t.  I was in college, and I knew that God wanted me to be a vocational minister of some kind.  However, I thought I had to take a vow of poverty.

 

Needless to say, I was very materialistic, and had my mind set on riches.  I told God that I would wait for Him to change His mind.

 

In the meantime, I was miserable.  There was no peace in my life.  I was restless.

 

Finally, after two years of telling God no, I surrendered to Him and His will.  I finally had peace.  My face was set.  What about you?

 

Jesus knew God’s plan, and He was good with it.  His face was set, and so, He headed to Jerusalem.

 

Our text says He was going through Samaria.  This would have been hostile territory.  Therefore, He sent some of the disciples ahead to arrange meals and lodging.  

 

Not surprisingly, verse 53 says the Samaritans didn’t want Him or His disciples in their village.  Again, Samaritans considered Jews as their enemies and vice versa.  Therefore, this should surprise us.

 

However, it does remind us of this.  Jesus came to be Savior of the world, not just Jews or just westerners or just Americans or just Republicans.  He came to be the savior of all.

 

When John and James found the sentiment of the Samaritans, they were mad.  They wanted to nuke them.  No wonder Jesus called James and John the sons of thunder in Mark 5:17.

 

Undoubtedly, they were thinking of what Elijah did in 2 Kings 1.  He called down fire twice on those opposing God’s work including King Ahaziah. 

 

Jesus didn’t appreciate their desire, and He rebuked them.  That rebuke is found in verse 56.

 

However, some of you don’t have verse 56.  Don’t be alarmed.  While verse 56 is not in the oldest Biblical manuscript, it is enough for the NKJV editors to include it. 

 

Furthermore, Jesus sentiment here is found elsewhere.  See Luke 19:10 and John 12:47.

 

First and foremost, Jesus came to save.  He came to save you.

 

Luke 19:10, 10 for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

 

However, if you reject His invitation to be saved, you will have to answer to God for your sin, and you will have no hope of heaven without Jesus. 

Jesus' Recipe for Greatness

If you have your Bible this morning, please take it and find Luke 9:46.  I want to share a message with you entitled, “Jesus’ Recipe for Greatness.”

 

Generally speaking, we as a culture and individuals in it desire greatness.  That is true of employees, employers, students, school districts, players, teams, political candidates, and political parties.  However, we all have different plans or recipes in achieving or attaining greatness.

 

Jesus had His own recipe.  It is found here in Luke 9, and it is profoundly different than any other plan or recipe. 

 

For Jesus, in order to go up, you must down.  I’ll explain more as we go.

 

 

1. An Argument about Greatness, Luke 9:46

46 Then a dispute arose among them as to which of them would be greatest.

 

In our first verse, the disciples were talking, and a dispute or argument broke out.  It centered on which of them would be the greatest. 

 

It seems that they were under the impression that Jesus would be some type of military or political king who would overthrow the Roman government, and put the Jews, the people of God, into positions of power.  However, Jesus had previously told them otherwise, but they didn’t understand Him.

 

In the recent weeks, we saw Jesus predict His own suffering, rejection, and death.  See 9:21-22 and 9:44-45.

 

21 And He strictly warned and commanded them to tell this to no one, 22 saying, “The Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.”

 

44 “Let these words sink down into your ears, for the Son of Man is about to be betrayed into the hands of men.”

 

Jesus prophesied twice about this reality, and a third time is coming in 18:33.  However, don’t forget 9:45.

 

45 But they did not understand this saying, and it was hidden from them so that they did not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask Him about this saying.

 

 

1. An Analogy of who is Great, 9:47-48

47 And Jesus, perceiving the thought of their heart, took a little child and set him by Him, 48 and said to them, “Whoever receives this little child in My name receives Me; and whoever receives Me receives Him who sent Me. For he who is least among you all will be great.”

 

Look at verse 47.  Luke says that Jesus perceived what they thinking and talking about.

 

BTW…Why was Jesus able to do this?  He was able to do this because He was and is God. 

 

He is omniscient.  That means He is all-knowing.  He knows right now what every person in the room is thinking. 

 

Jesus then took a child and set him next to Him.  This child was probably between 5 and 10 years old. 

 

Keep in mind that in this culture, children were the smallest and most powerless individuals.  They were barely seen and not to be heard.

 

Why did Jesus do this?  He was teaching a lesson on who is great. 

 

Look at what Jesus said in verse 48.  If you receive this child, then you in turn are receiving Jesus, and in turn are receiving God the Father.  You can think of receiving also as accepting.

 

The disciples were more than likely shocked.  Jesus just blew their minds. 

 

BTW…While not the main point of the text, these verse remind us that we should value children.  We should value every child in the womb, and we should value every child in this room. 

 

Therefore, don’t get all bent out of shape with children who haven’t learned to sit still and remain quite during the sermon.  Love them like Jesus did, and as always, we can use more nursery volunteers.

 

Furthermore, if we value every child in the womb, let’s make sure we are providing for them outside of the womb through foster and adoptive care if needed.  Today is Orphan Sunday, and we’ll see a video at the end of the service regarding a ministry opportunity for those the Lord is calling.

 

The reason we value every child and every human is because God does as we are all created in the image of God.  That includes republicans and democrats.  That includes citizens and immigrants and even illegal immigrants. 

 

Jesus’ main point is at the end of verse 48.  He who is least will be great. 

 

Again, their minds are blown.  Jesus didn’t assign greatness to the smartest or biggest or wealthiest.  His recipe for greatness was to go down. 

 

 

• An Answer regarding those not in our Group, Luke 9:49-50

49 Now John answered and said, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow with us.”  50 But Jesus said to him, “Do not forbid him, for he who is not against us is on our side.”

 

Hearing all this, John spoke up and answered in response to what Jesus had said.  What he recounted is not in the gospels.

 

Someone outside of the Twelve Disciples was casting out demons in Jesus’ name.  Consequently, the Twelve told him not to do that anymore.

 

Why?  He wasn’t in in their group. 

 

What did Jesus say?  Look at verse 50.  Don’t forbid him because he who is not against us is on our side.

 

In other words, Jesus told them God’s work goes on outside of their group.  Therefore, we are on the same team.

 

 

Illustration

So what does all of this mean?  Jesus’ recipe for greatness is found through humility that leads to submission. 

 

Jesus didn’t just say this.  He modeled this.  See Philippians 2:5-11.

 

5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, 6 who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, 7 but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. 9 Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

 

The King of the Universe, the Son of God, was born in a borrowed manager.  That same King of the Universe, the Son of God, was buried in a borrowed grave.

 

Jesus embodied humility that lead to submission to God’s plan.  God then exalted Him to greatness. 

 

 

Application

If you want to be great, humble yourself and submit according to God’s will.  Peter eventually got it. See 1 Peter 2:9-25.

 

9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; 10 who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.  11 Beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.  13 Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, 14 or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good. 15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men— 16 as free, yet not using liberty as a cloak for vice, but as bondservants of God. 17 Honor all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.  18 Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh. 19 For this is commendable, if because of conscience toward God one endures grief, suffering wrongfully. 20 For what credit is it if, when you are beaten for your faults, you take it patiently? But when you do good and suffer, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God. 21 For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: 22 “Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth”; 23 who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously; 24 who Himself bore our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, having died to sins, might live for righteousness—by whose stripes you were healed. 25 For you were like sheep going astray, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

 

Husbands and wives, submit.  Parents and children, submit.  Republicans and Democrats, submit.  Employers and employees, submit. 

 

Don’t think your submitting is dependent on someone else submitting.  Your submitting is dependent on whether you want to be obedient to God.

 

If you want to be great in this world, do exactly what the words say.  Go down and let God lift you up.

No Elephants Here

If you have your Bible this morning, please take it and find Luke 9:37.  I want to share a message with you entitled, “No Elephants Here.”

 

For some reason, elephants have a reputation for having a good memory.  You may have heard someone say, “That person has a memory like an elephant.”  Evidently, this reputation has been substantiated by studies of their behavior in the wild.

 

The reason I say that there are no elephants here is because like elephants have a reputation for good memories, the people of God have a reputation for bad memories.  I know this because God is regularly calling on the people of God in the OT to remember.

 

Consider only the book of Deuteronomy:

 

 

 

Deuteronomy 5:15

And remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God brought you out from there by a mighty hand and by an outstretched arm; therefore the Lord your God commanded you to keep the Sabbath day.

 

Deuteronomy 7:18

you shall not be afraid of them, but you shall remember well what the Lord your God did to Pharaoh and to all Egypt:

 

Deuteronomy 8:2

And you shall remember that the Lord your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness, to humble you and test you, to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep His commandments or not.

 

Deuteronomy 8:18

“And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day.

 

Deuteronomy 9:7

“Remember! Do not forget how you provoked the Lord your God to wrath in the wilderness. From the day that you departed from the land of Egypt until you came to this place, you have been rebellious against the Lord.

 

Deuteronomy 9:27

Remember Your servants, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; do not look on the stubbornness of this people, or on their wickedness or their sin,

 

Deuteronomy 15:15

You shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the Lord your God redeemed you; therefore I command you this thing today.

 

Deuteronomy 16:3

You shall eat no leavened bread with it; seven days you shall eat unleavened bread with it, that is, the bread of affliction (for you came out of the land of Egypt in haste), that you may remember the day in which you came out of the land of Egypt all the days of your life.

 

Deuteronomy 16:12

And you shall remember that you were a slave in Egypt, and you shall be careful to observe these statutes.

 

Deuteronomy 24:9

Remember what the Lord your God did to Miriam on the way when you came out of Egypt!

 

Deuteronomy 24:18

But you shall remember that you were a slave in Egypt, and the Lord your God redeemed you from there; therefore I command you to do this thing.

 

Deuteronomy 24:22

And you shall remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt; therefore I command you to do this thing.

 

So we see that we don’t remember, but why don’t we remember?  Consider Revelation 12:10.

 

10 Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, “Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down.

 

The people of God struggle to remember.  We are going to see that was true of the Twelve Disciples as well in today’s story.  At the end of my message, I’m going to challenge you to remember. 

 

 

1. A Situation that is Dark and Desperate, Luke 9:37-40

37 Now it happened on the next day, when they had come down from the mountain, that a great multitude met Him. 38 Suddenly a man from the multitude cried out, saying, “Teacher, I implore You, look on my son, for he is my only child. 39 And behold, a spirit seizes him, and he suddenly cries out; it convulses him so that he foams at the mouth; and it departs from him with great difficulty, bruising him. 40 So I implored Your disciples to cast it out, but they could not.”

 

Verse 37 happened the day after the Transfiguration.  Maybe that was at night.  If so, it would have been all the cooler.

 

However, the next day, they came down from the mountain.  Notice that they were met but a great multitude of people including a man with a demon-possessed son.

 

BTW…while mountain-top experiences are wonderful, they are not the majority of life.  You and I have to figure out how to survive and even thrive when we aren’t on the mountain top.

 

To validate the wonderful nature of mountain-top experiences, Peter chronicled for us in 2 Peter 1:16-18.

 

16 For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty. 17 For He received from God the Father honor and glory when such a voice came to Him from the Excellent Glory: “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” 18 And we heard this voice which came from heaven when we were with Him on the holy mountain.

 

I hope the truth that the majority of life is not lived on the mountain top is not discouraging.  God still works gloriously in the valleys.  See 9:43.

 

43 And they were all amazed at the majesty of God. 

 

This situation is dark and desperate because of this man’s only son.  The demon would take control and convulse him and make him foam at the mouth.  Those convulsions caused great physical pain and left bruising. 

 

This father asked the Twelve to cast out the demon, but they couldn’t.  Why not?

 

Didn’t they cast out some demons earlier in this chapter?  See Luke 9:1.

 

1 Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases.

 

I would suggest much of our pain and difficulties in the valleys of life are because we fail to remember what God taught us on the mountain top.

 

 

2. A Resolution from God Almighty, Luke 9:41-43a

41 Then Jesus answered and said, “O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you and bear with you? Bring your son here.” 42 And as he was still coming, the demon threw him down and convulsed him. Then Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, healed the child, and gave him back to his father.  43 And they were all amazed at the majesty of God. 

 

When Jesus was presented with the situation or problem with the father’s only son, He provided the solution.

 

However, He rebuked the disciples first.  He rebuked their lack of faith. 

 

Why didn’t they believe?  Again, I would suggest they had bad memories.  They had forgotten what they had seen and been told.  Consequently, Jesus had to heal the boy instead.

 

Verse 42 says Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, healed the child, and gave him back to his father. Then notice verse 43.

 

They were all amazed at Jesus?  No, they were amazed at the majesty of God.  Jesus was God Almighty.  Jesus was the omnipotent God.

 

 

3. A Prediction about Jesus’ Death, Luke 9:43b-45

But while everyone marveled at all the things which Jesus did, He said to His disciples, 44 “Let these words sink down into your ears, for the Son of Man is about to be betrayed into the hands of men.” 45 But they did not understand this saying, and it was hidden from them so that they did not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask Him about this saying.

 

Now for the second time in Luke’s gospel, Jesus predicted His own death.  The first was in 9:21-22.  The third time will be 18:33.

 

Even though this was not the first time they had heard this, they were having trouble comprehending it.  Look at 9:45.

 

 

Conclusion

So let’s go back to where we started. The People of God are not good remembers. 

 

We need to be constantly reminded to offset our accuser.  Therefore, remember in the valley what we have seen and heard on the mountain top.  Jesus is more powerful than demons, more powerful than difficulties, and more powerful than death.

How Can I Help Jesus?

If you have your Bibles this morning, take them and turn to Luke 9:28.  I want to share a message with you entitled, “How Can I Help Jesus?”

 

In the recent weeks, we have been in Luke 9.  Remember that Jesus told His disciples that He was going to suffer and die.  See Luke 9:21-22

 

21 And He strictly warned and commanded them to tell this to no one, 22 saying, “The Son of Man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised the third day.”

 

Then, Jesus told His disciples that if they were going to follow Him, they would have to have lose their lives.  See Luke 9:24.

 

24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.

 

Do you think Jesus’ most recent words made them a little anxious or apprehensive?  I would imagine so, and I imagine they were in need of some encouragement. 

 

How did Jesus encourage them?  He allowed them to experience a little bit of heaven on earth, and He told them that this is what He was going to do.  See Luke 9:27.

 

27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the kingdom of God.”

 

 

1. An Invitation to Pray, Luke 9:28

28 Now it came to pass, about eight days after these sayings, that He took Peter, John, and James and went up on the mountain to pray.

 

In verse 28, eight days later, Jesus took Peter, James, and John up to a high mountain to pray.  He did this after eight days and these sayings.

 

What sayings?  Peter had proclaimed that Jesus was the Christ from God.  See Luke 9:20.

 

20 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”  Peter answered and said, “The Christ of God.”

 

Then, Jesus invited these men to follow Him daily.  See 9:23.

 

23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.

 

John was Jesus’ closest disciple and best friend.  Peter, James, and John were the inner circle. 

 

Also, they were about to have a life-changing experience.  According to the OT, there should be 2-3 witnesses for such.  Therefore, these three were invited initially to pray.

 

Some say this mountain was Mt. Tabor.  Others say it was Mt. Hermon.  Regardless, it was a place where they would receive special revelation from God.

 

BTW…I believe it is absolutely imperative that you and I as followers of Christ be intentional in setting aside specific time to pray.  I would also discourage praying at night so as not to fall asleep because it is hard work.

 

On multiple occasions, these men fell asleep praying at night.  We see that in verse 32.  We will also see that in the Garden of Gethsemane.

 

 

1. A Demonstration of Heaven, Luke 9:28-33

29 As He prayed, the appearance of His face was altered, and His robe became white and glistening. 30 And behold, two men talked with Him, who were Moses and Elijah, 31 who appeared in glory and spoke of His decease which He was about to accomplish at Jerusalem. 32 But Peter and those with him were heavy with sleep; and when they were fully awake, they saw His glory and the two men who stood with Him. 33 Then it happened, as they were parting from Him, that Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is good for us to be here; and let us make three tabernacles: one for You, one for Moses, and one for Elijah”—not knowing what he said. 

 

Verse 29 says that when Jesus prayed, His face was altered and His robe became glistening white.  Mark used the word “transfigured.” 

 

The word “transfigured” literally means the figure is transformed.  Our English word is metamorphosis.  Jesus was changed from the inside out into a heavenly state. 

 

Verse 31 says Moses and Elijah appeared and where talking with Him.  Why Moses and Elijah?

 

First, God spoke to Moses and Elijah on Mt. Sinai in the OT just like we are going to see here with Jesus.  See Exodus 24:12-18 and 1 Kings 19:8-18.

 

 

12 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Come up to Me on the mountain and be there; and I will give you tablets of stone, and the law and commandments which I have written, that you may teach them.”  13 So Moses arose with his assistant Joshua, and Moses went up to the mountain of God. 14 And he said to the elders, “Wait here for us until we come back to you. Indeed, Aaron and Hur are with you. If any man has a difficulty, let him go to them.” 15 Then Moses went up into the mountain, and a cloud covered the mountain.  16 Now the glory of the Lord rested on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days. And on the seventh day He called to Moses out of the midst of the cloud. 17 The sight of the glory of the Lord was like a consuming fire on the top of the mountain in the eyes of the children of Israel. 18 So Moses went into the midst of the cloud and went up into the mountain. And Moses was on the mountain forty days and forty nights.

 

8 So he arose, and ate and drank; and he went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights as far as Horeb, the mountain of God.  9 And there he went into a cave, and spent the night in that place; and behold, the word of the Lord came to him, and He said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”  10 So he said, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God of hosts; for the children of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and killed Your prophets with the sword. I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.”  11 Then He said, “Go out, and stand on the mountain before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; 12 and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.  13 So it was, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood in the entrance of the cave. Suddenly a voice came to him, and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”  14 And he said, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God of hosts; because the children of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and killed Your prophets with the sword. I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.”  15 Then the Lord said to him: “Go, return on your way to the Wilderness of Damascus; and when you arrive, anoint Hazael as king over Syria. 16 Also you shall anoint Jehu the son of Nimshi as king over Israel. And Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel Meholah you shall anoint as prophet in your place. 17 It shall be that whoever escapes the sword of Hazael, Jehu will kill; and whoever escapes the sword of Jehu, Elisha will kill. 18 Yet I have reserved seven thousand in Israel, all whose knees have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him.”

Second, Moses symbolized the OT Law and gave the law to Israel.  Elijah symbolized the OT prophets and guarded the law for Israel. 

 

Third, Moses began the nation of Israel.  Elijah was supposed to usher Israel into eternity.

 

What were they talking about?  Verse 31 tells us that they were talking to Jesus about His departure. 

 

That word decease is the word “exodus” in the language of the NT.  It is interesting that Moses broke the literal chains of bondage through the exodus in the OT.  Jesus would break the spiritual chains of bondage through His exodus or death in the NT.

 

In verses 32-33 when Peter and the others woke up, he offered to make three tabernacles or tents or houses, one for each man: Elijah, Moses, and Jesus.  Why?

 

Peter wanted this experience to last so they would need someplace to stay.  He wanted this little bit of heaven on earth to last longer. 

 

Notice what Dr. Luke said at the end of verse 33.  These were his editorial comments. 

 

He said Peter didn’t know what he was saying.  Why was that?

 

Peter wanted heaven then and now.  However, that would have bypassed Jesus’ suffering.  Jesus HAD to suffer.  He HAD to die.

 

BTW…Don’t think you and I can have heaven on earth without suffering also.  Jesus had to go through some hell on earth to get to heaven.

 

If you’re longing for heaven, don’t be surprised if next month’s election result creates some future hellish experiences.  However, remember they might be necessary to get you closer to God’s Kingdom of Heaven.

 

 

• An Explanation about Salvation, Luke 9:34-36

34 While he was saying this, a cloud came and overshadowed them; and they were fearful as they entered the cloud. 35 And a voice came out of the cloud, saying, “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” 36 When the voice had ceased, Jesus was found alone. But they kept quiet, and told no one in those days any of the things they had seen.

 

Verses 34-35 say a cloud from heaven came forth along with a heavenly voice making a bold declaration.  In the OT, clouds were a symbol of God’s presence.  In the NT, they are associated with Christ’s return. 

 

A voice from the cloud said, “This is My beloved Son, hear Him!”  Obviously, this was God the Father.

 

He was saying to listen Jesus.  However, what is implied is obedience to Jesus as well.

 

Keep in mind what these men had heard in the recent days.  He is the Christ.  Follow Him.  Now, God the Father was saying obey Him.

 

Then all of a sudden, the transfiguration was over, and the only one left was who?  Jesus! 

 

The prophets weren’t left.  The law wasn’t left.  Only Jesus alone was left.

 

BTW…If the Transfiguration was a picture of Christ in heaven, could it also be a picture of who will be in heaven?  Some have thought that Moses represented the OT Saints or those who died before Christ.  Peter, James, and John would be representative of the NT Saints or those who die after Christ.  Then Elijah would represent those Saints who would never taste death but, like Elijah, will be raptured to heaven.  Perhaps. 

 

When it comes to the act of salvation, we are tempted to think that Jesus needs our help.  However, Jesus stands alone by Himself. 

 

We can’t add anything to Him like works or baptism or performance.  Jesus doesn’t need one single thing from you to save you, and He doesn’t need one single thing from you to keep you saved.  You can’t help Jesus!

 

 

Conclusion

First, pray on earth.  Second, look forward to heaven.  Third, trust only Jesus to get you there!

 

Behind the Eight Ball: How Should Christians Vote in 2024?

Behind the Eight Ball: How Should Christians Vote in 2024?

Proverbs 21:1

Sunday, October 20, 2024, 10:30 AM

Emory BC

 

1 The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.

 

 

Introduction

This morning, I am taking a break from Luke to preach a topical sermon.  It is different than my normal Sunday morning sermons.  Therefore, if you are guest, please come back next Sunday.  We will be back in Luke 9.

 

So why am I preaching this message?  First, I am preaching this message because tomorrow begins early voting in our state and runs October 21-November 1.

 

Second, I believe that the United States is the greatest nation in the world because of the freedoms we enjoy. 

 

Third, I believe we have a responsibility as earthly citizens to vote.  I derive that application from Romans 13:1 and 1 Timothy 2:1-2.

 

1 Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.

 

1 Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.

 

However, I believe how we vote should be determined by the Bible because not only do we have earthly citizenship, but we also have heavenly citizenship.  See Philippians 3:20.

 

20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.

 

Fourth, I have had multiple church members ask me about this election.  They have also requested I speak directly to the situation and to their concerns.

 

Fifth and finally, I believe this president election and our state senatorial election will have massive consequences for years to come.  I want to vote with my daughters in mind.

 

Therefore, let me direct your attention to Proverbs 21:1 for just a few moments.  My message is entitled, “Behind the Eight Ball: How Should a Christian Vote in 2024?”

 

If you have every played pool, you are familiar with the idiom, “behind the eight ball.”  That is not a position desirable position.

 

It means to be in an uncomfortable or tricky situation.  It means to be in trouble.  It is similar to being between a rock and a hard spot. 

 

For Christians, I believe we are behind the eight ball in this election.  I mean, we are in a very uncomfortable situation.  It is a tricky situation.  I’ll explain throughout my message. 

 

In Proverbs 21:1, King Solomon was the author.  Writing under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, he gave us three truths that apply to our current election season.

 

1. Every human being has a spiritual heart including elected officials.

 

2. Life is often very hard to understand and difficult to predict much like water in a river and can leave us feeling like we are behind the eight ball.

 

3. Regardless, God is still sovereign and in control over all things including the USA and will be in control on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.

 

 

My Personal History

• As early as five years old, I have some political memories. I can remember staying at my babysitter’s and listening to her talk about how she was going to vote for Jimmy Carter and Walter Mondale and not Ronald Reagan 1980.
• In 1984 and 1988, I can remember liking Jesse Jackson because he was a Baptist minister, and I was a Baptist.
• While in high school, I can remember admiring vice-president Dan Quayle because he was a champion of traditional family values and stood toe-to-toe with Murphy Brown.
• While in college, I can remember my father voting for Bill Clinton because he was a Democrat and because he was born in Hope, Arkansas.
• Since college and seminary, I have been a registered Republican, and I am not ashamed or embarrassed to be that or publicize that.
• However, I have voted for several Democrats in state and local elections in Arkansas simply to be able to participate in the process. Otherwise, when only Democrats were running, I would have not had a chance to vote.

 

 

What are my political options for our 2024 Presidential Election?

First, I could vote for the Republican nominee.  However, personally and candidly, I’m not a fan. 

 

I’m not a fan of how he conducts himself in public and of how he how he reportedly conducts himself in private.   In my opinion, his strength is not public speaking or thinking on his feet compared to someone like his running mate or our speaker of the house. 

 

In addition to changing his positions on multiple issues, he is a serial adulterer.  Furthermore, he has made his fortune gambling and alcohol.  Finally, I don’t believe he is saved. 

However, I am thankful for many of his accomplishments from 2016-2020.  First and foremost is his following through with who he said he would nominate for the Supreme Court and subsequently the overturning of Roe vs. Wade.

 

Second, I could vote for the Democratic nominee.  However, from my perspective, she is pro-abortion, completely supports the LGBT Agenda, is a threat to my religious liberty, and I personally don’t think is competent enough for the position. 

 

Third, I could vote for a third-party candidate because neither of the two major party candidates are not fit for the presidency of the United States, and I can’t endorse one’s character or the other’s policies.

 

Fourth, I could not vote. 

 

 

So what will I do when I feel like I’m behind the eight ball?

First, I WILL vote.  I have read some reports that are saying that 51% of Christians will not vote in this election. I believe that is the worst decision you could make. 

 

Second, I will NOT vote for a third-party candidate who has no chance of winning.  I think that is the second-worst decision you could make, but I have read an article from Baptist News last week advocating for such.  I think that is a terrible idea.

 

Third, I WILL vote against the Democratic nominee and her policies and for the Republican platform. 

 

Let me speak just a moment to that issue.  I have posted two articles on FB this past week.  They are from Baptist Press, and they compare the two parties’ platforms with recent Southern Baptist Convention resolutions. 

 

I want to put them on the screens for just a moment.  I will talk more about them on Wednesday night so if you want to hear more, come then.

 

BTW…I do predict that the Republican Platform will become less and less pro-life in the coming years, and I believe it will begin with this year’s Republican Nominee and his wife.  The rationale will be to become more electable by independents. I hope I’m wrong.

 

Does voting for the Republican nominee mean I like him?  I do not.  I do not like him or endorse him or defend him.

 

However, …

• I do believe he is the lesser of two evils;
• And I will vote whole heartedly for the world’s strongest and most powerful military who will defend our country and fight for the freedoms I cherish;
• I will vote whole heartedly for securing our border and legal immigration;
• I will vote whole heartedly against the LBTQ Agenda and their indoctrination of my children;
• I will vote wholeheartedly for religious liberty for all not just those who believe like I do;
• Finally, I will vote whole heartedly for the sanctify of every human life, especially those in the womb.

 

 

 

 

Conclusion

I want to close this morning by answering some objections. 

 

Some say voting for one candidate means I condone everything that candidate has done or will do.  It does not. 

 

Every candidate is flawed.  If your conscience won’t let you vote for a candidate, that is between you and the Lord. 

 

However, remember that your vote and your non-vote has earthly consequences.  Make sure you can live with those, and just like you will answer to God for who you will vote for, you will answer to God for who you don’t vote for.

 

Some say I won’t vote for either because of their lack of character, and I’ll vote for a third party.  Again, that is fine, but remember that your vote or non-vote has earthly consequences.  It can be argued that Bill Clinton was elected in 1992 over George Bush 41 and again in 1996 over Bob Dole because of Ross Perot. 

 

Some say I don’t live in a battleground state so my vote doesn’t matter.  Don’t be so sure.  Remember that 537 votes got George Bush 43 elected in Florida in the 2000 Presidential Election, and in Texas, this election is not only about the presidency but also about our United States Senator. 

 

At the end of the day, I’m voting for God’s design for marriage.

 

At the end of the day, I’m voting for religious liberty.

 

At the end of the day, I’m voting for the sanctity of human life.

 

The reason every life is sacred is because every life is created in the image of God, and God loves you so much that Jesus died on the cross in your place. 

 

If you’re here this morning and have never trusted Jesus to save you from your sins, I want you to know that your life matters to God, and Jesus is ready to save you today. 

What Does It Mean to be a Disciple of Jesus?

Last Sunday morning, we heard Peter’s answer to Jesus when Jesus asked him life’s most important question.  Peter answered with personal conviction that Jesus was the Christ from God.  In other words, He was the Savior sent from God.

 

Before we left that text, Jesus predicted His suffering, rejection, and death.  Then, I told you that if Jesus suffered and was rejected, those that follow after Him will most likely suffer and be rejected as well.  This reality shouldn’t surprise us.

 

Today, we will see Jesus extend a formal invitation to follow Him.  This is a formal invitation to be one of His disciples.

 

However, today’s text will not elicit a celebration from the world’s perspective. It will seem paradoxical at best, but it isn’t strange.  Matthew and Mark recorded this narrative in their gospels as well.

 

Before we look at the specific aspects of the invitation, notice that it is an invitation for any and all to be one of His disciples.  His invitation is not to a special class of disciples but to be a disciple. 

 

This is commonly how Jesus and the biblical writers referred to His followers.  See Matthew 28:19, Acts 6:1, Acts 9:1, and Acts 11:26.

 

19 Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

 

6:1 Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution.

 

9:1 Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest

 

26 And when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. So it was that for a whole year they assembled with the church and taught a great many people. And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch.

 

Now, turn your attention to verse 23.  I believe this text identifies three marks of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.

 

 

1. A Disciple of Jesus is marked by a conscious decision to follow Him, 9:23a, c.

23 Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.

 

As we said a moment ago, this invitation is for anyone and everyone.  Jesus made this invitation to all of those who around Him and listening.

 

Next, notice His actual words, “If anyone desires to come after Me.”  This is the invitation.

 

To come after Him means to become His disciple.  It means to follow Him and His ways.  Jesus is the teacher.  His followers are His students. 

 

When you decide to study under someone, that doesn’t mean that you become a clone.  For example, there are many things that Jesus did that we can’t do.  We can’t heal the sick.  We can’t calm the storms.  We can’t multiple the supplies.

 

Furthermore, Jesus was single, but that doesn’t mean we are called to singleness.  Jesus didn’t have any children, but that doesn’t mean we are called to childlessness.

 

However, if we are following Jesus, we want to live exactly how He taught.  We want to live exactly how He lived. 

 

If we will, we will be happy.  We will be blessed. We won’t regret it.  See Matthew 5:3-9.

 

Have you made a conscious decision to follow Jesus?  It can’t be my decision.  It can’t be your spouse’s decision.  It can’t be your parents’ decision.

 

It has to be YOUR conscious decision.  However, it is one you will NEVER regret.

 

 

2. A Disciple of Jesus is marked by a consistent denial of self and fame, Luke 9:23b, 24-25.

let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. 24 For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it. 25 For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?

 

Look at verse 23 again.  Here are two words that our world won’t comprehend: deny and die.

 

Disciples of Jesus are called to deny yourself and take up your cross daily.  This is Luke’s first use of the word cross.

 

What was he talking about?  Death by crucifixion was the worst bar none. 

 

The one sentenced to die would carry the cross bar through town to the location where he was then nailed to that cross bar and the upright post as well.  There he hung until death.

 

Jesus was literally crucified.  His followers are called to be figuratively crucified.  We know that because it literally can only happen once, but Luke says daily.

 

On a daily basis, you and I called to deny self.  On a daily basis, you and I are called to die to self and live according to Jesus. 

 

Listen to what Jesus said in Matthew 10:34-38.  Understand that this makes no sense to a lost world as Jesus spoke as to how our relationship with Him should compare to our relationship with others. 

 

34 “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. 35 For I have come to ‘set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; 36 and ‘a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.’ 37 He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38 And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me.

 

Paul also understood this.  See Galatians 2:20.

 

20 I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.

 

So what does that look like?  It means instead of you and your will and your way and your thoughts and your actions and your reactions and your attitude, it is Jesus first.

 

Some might say that sounds awful.  Others think it is the greatest joy this life has to offer.

 

Scott Drew is the Men’s Basketball Coach at Baylor University.  His teams’ theme for the past several years has been “Choose JOY!”

 

Write JOY down on your bulletin.  What does Jesus start with?  What does others start with?  What does you start with? 

 

A follower of Jesus chooses joy.  A follower of Jesus will then receive joy.

 

Verse 24 says we can’t keep what the world has to offer.  However, we can keep with Jesus has to offer.

 

Does it profit a man to gain the world and lose his soul?  No, you can’t anything with you.

 

Missionary Jim Elliot is known for having written, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.”  You are smart to give away what you can’t take with you and choosing Christ.  He can’t be taken away.

 

 

3. A Disciple of Jesus is marked by a courageous declaration of allegiance to Christ, Luke 9:26-27.

26 For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels. 27 But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the kingdom of God.”

 

Look at verse 26.  Jesus spoke about those ashamed of confessing Him as Lord and Savior on earth.  In turn, those will be rejected by Jesus for eternity. 

 

Again, if you reject Jesus on earth, He will reject you in heaven.  Instead make a courageous declaration this morning that are a follower of Jesus Christ!

 

Verse 27 foreshadows next week’s message about the transfiguration. The transfiguration demonstrated the kingdom of God.

 

 

Conclusion

This morning, I am going to close by reading a prayer from a classic Christian work called “The Valley of Vision.”  The author is Arthur Bennet.

 

Lord, high and holy, meek and lowly…

 

Let me learn by paradox

that the way down is the way up,

that to be low is to be high,

that the broken heart is the healed heart,

that the contrite spirit is the rejoicing spirit,

that the repenting soul is the victorious soul,

that to have nothing is to possess all,

that to bear the cross is to wear the crown,

that to give is to receive…

 

Let me find Thy light in my darkness,

Thy life in my death,

Thy joy in my sorrow,

Thy grace in my sin,

Thy riches in my poverty

Thy glory in my valley.

 

Will you follow Jesus today?

Life's Most Important Question

This morning, we continue in our study of Luke’s gospel, and we are going to see life’s most important question.  It comes from the mouth of Jesus in 9:20.

 

However, this is not the first time we have heard this question.  We heard a very similar question from Herod just a few weeks ago.  It is found in 9:9.

 

9 Herod said, “John I have beheaded, but who is this of whom I hear such things?” So he sought to see Him.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen, Please listen carefully.  How you answer this question, life’s most important question, will determine where you spend eternity.  You will either spend eternity living in heaven, or your will spend eternity dying in hell.

 

 

Exposition

In verse 18, we see that Jesus was alone praying.  However, His disciples were close by.

 

BTW…If Jesus spent time alone in prayer, don’t you think you and I should as well?  What is prayer?  Prayer is simply talking to God.

 

The most I talk to God is first thing morning after I have let God talk to me by reading my Bible.  Then I pray for about 30 minutes.

 

I pray for me.  I pray for my family.  I pray for you.  Then I pray thought out the day as needs arise or the Lord brings them back to mind and heart.

 

 

1. An Answer of Public Consensus, Luke 9:19

19 So they answered and said, “John the Baptist, but some say Elijah; and others say that one of the old prophets has risen again.”

 

When His twelve disciples joined Him, He asked them who they crowds were saying He was.  In verse 19, they answered Him.

 

Their answer was one of public consensus.  In other words, this is what the crowds were saying.

 

Keep in mind, these are the same crowds who had heard Him teach, and they had seen Him heal.  Therefore, their answers were not surprising.

 

Some said John the Baptist.  Others said Elijah.  Other said an older prophet who had come back to life, possibly Moses.

 

BTW…Do prophet still exist today?  Yes, and no, they are similar to apostles. 

 

Apostles with a capital A witnessed the resurrected Christ and wrote Scripture.  They don’t exist today.  However, apostles with a lowercase a are sent ones who are Christians sent to the Lost with the gospel.

 

Prophets like Moses and Elijah and John the Baptist spoke the very words of God.  They don’t exist today. 

 

However, prophecy is a spiritual gift, but not one that predicts the future.  It is boldly proclaiming the truths of the Bible.

 

Essentially, Herod reported the same earlier in this chapter.  See 9:7-8.

 

7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by Him; and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had risen from the dead, 8 and by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the old prophets had risen again.

 

The public consensus was that Jesus was some type of prophet.  Today, multiple religions say similar.  This would be true of Islam.

 

Hinduism believes that Jesus was some type of self-realized saint.  Buddhism believes that Jesus was a great moral teacher.  Judaism believes that Jesus was a crazy man.

 

 

2. An Answer of Personal Conviction, Luke 9:20

20 He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?”  Peter answered and said, “The Christ of God.” 

 

After the disciples spoke about the crowds, Jesus looked directly to them, and asked life’s most important question, “But who do you say that I am?”  Keep in mind, how you answer this question will determine if you spend eternity living in heaven or dying in hell.

 

Peter spoke for the group.  He confessed that Jesus was the Christ of God.

 

What does that mean?  In the language of the NT, Christ is word for Messiah.  Jesus was the Messiah sent from God.

 

What does Messiah mean?  It means that Jesus was and IS the savior sent from God.

 

Why is that significant?  Sending a savior implies we need a savior, and we do.

 

Let’s work backward.  We need a savior because we are sinners. 

 

Consequently, our sin separates us from God because God is holy and cannot have fellowship with sin.  Therefore, we need a savior. 

 

However, our man-made saviors don’t qualify.  What do I mean?

 

First, morality won’t save.  We can’t ever be good enough.

 

Second, genealogy won’t save.  Our family can’t ever be good enough.

 

Third, generosity won’t save.  We can’t ever give enough.

 

Fourth, ingenuity won’t save.  We can’t ever be smart enough. 

Fifth, authenticity won’t save.  We can’t ever be sincere enough. 

 

As a matter of fact, unless you trust in Christ, regardless of your authenticity, you can simply be sincerely wrong.  Jesus is the only qualified savior because He is the only sinless, perfect Son of God. 

 

Next, it was this sinless, perfect Son of God that died on the cross for our sins and in our place.  To authenticate all He said and did, Jesus didn’t stay dead.  He was resurrected from the grave and now reigns in heaven.

 

 

Conclusion
Today’s text ends with verses 21 and 22.  In verse 21, Jesus warned all of His disciples not to proclaim this truth yet.

 

Why?  It wasn’t God’s time yet, and this announcement at that time might have been perceived as Jesus being a political and military savior rather than a spiritual savior.

 

In verse 22, Jesus predicted His death and resurrection for the first time in Luke’s gospel. He would do it two more times in 9:44 and 18:31.

 

BTW…If Jesus predicted He would suffer and He would be rejected and we are His followers, what should that say about us?  More than likely, we will suffer, and we will be rejected.

 

The end of verse 22 is the gospel in brief.  Jesus would die on the cross for our sins, but He would be resurrected from the grave, and invites us to be saved.

 

Paul said the same thing in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4.

 

3 For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures.

 

How will you answer life’s most important question today?  Is Jesus your savior?  If not, would you receive Him today?

 

If He is, what is now your job?  God didn’t leave you on earth to live the good life chasing the American Dream.  He left you after saving you to share the gospel again and again and again and again.  Will you commit to that today?