EVERY THINGS BETTER WHEN GOD'S ON IT

I. It Is A Better Way Of Life
A.

Those who give themselves

wholly to the Lord,

B.  Realizing the truth of I Cor. 6:19

What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is inyou, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

(1)

Have a life that is far superior  to a LOST person.

(a)

The best way to live is to live for theLord

(b)

It would be terrible to get to the endof the   LIFE and realize you hadwasted your life:1. Serving sin or self.(2) Christian life is better (a)  It is a life of peace,(b) Life of promises(c)  Life of power.(d)  Who in their right mind would want toforsake the life we have in Jesus?

 

II. It Is A Better Quality Of Life.

A) The Bible says much about the life that we have inand through the Lord Jesus Christ.a) First, it is eternal life.Our physical lives one daywill end,

i)

But the salvation of God is eternal (Jn. 3:16)

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, thatwhosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

b)

Secondly, it is abundant life (Jn. 10:10).

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I amcome that they might have life, and that they might have it moreabundantly.

B)

The word "abundant" means an "overflowing" lifewhere there should never be any spiritualshortages.

C)

Thirdly, it is a gratifying life (Phil. 4:13).

I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me.

 a) Since we have life from Godi) You can be sure nothing can surpass or excel it in any way.

 

III. It Is A Better View Of Life.

A)

The Bible speaks of a "better hope" that we havein the Lord (Heb. 7:19).

For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did;by the which we draw nigh unto God.

B)  It is a sure, confident expectation of better thingsfor the future.

a)

Hope is associated with the second coming 

of the Lord Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13).

Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of thegreat God and our Savior Jesus Christ;

b)

Like an "anchor" in life to settle and stabilize

us (Heb. 6:19). Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure andsteadfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;

IV. It Brings Better Companions In Life.

 A) When you are saved

a)

You become more conscious and careful aboutyour company (Psalm 119:63).

I am a companion of all them that fear thee, and of them that keepthy precepts.

b)

It is the desire of the righteous to seek thecompany of those that have the same spirit of the Lord.

 

CLOSE

A) EVERY THING IS BETTER WHEN GODS ON ITa) OUR WAY OF LIFE IS BETTERb) OUR QUALTIY OF LIFEi) IS ETERNALii) IS ABUNDANTOVERFLOWINGiii) IS GRATIFINGNOTHING IS OUT OFREACH THRU CHRISTc) OUR VEIW OF LIFE IS BETTERi) THERE’S HOPEii) THE LORD IS COMING BACKiii) WE ARE ANCHOR IN WHAT Jesus DIDd) OUR COMPANIONS WILL LOVE THE LORDi) STRIVE TO HAVE CHRISTAIN FRIENDS

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RESPONDING TO MATERIALISM

INTRODUCTION

1. We live in a very materialistic society...
   a. As evidenced in our popular culture (music, TV, etc.)
   b. As expressed in the desire for an affluent lifestyle

2. Materialism is dangerous foe to the Christian...
   a. The deceitfulness of riches can render the Christian fruitless
      - Mt 13:22
   b. The desire for riches can ensnare the Christian, leading him
      astray - 1Ti 6:9-10

3. What can we do as Christians, and as the church?  Consider God's use
   of Isaiah...
   a. Sent to a corrupt and materialistic society - Isa 1:21-23
   b. Offering that which truly satisfies - Isa 55:1-3

[Today, Jesus has a similar response, which we can offer to a world that
is starving for what truly satisfies...]

I. JESUS' RESPONSE TO MATERIALISM

   A. EXPOSES THE DEFICIENCY OF RICHES...
      1. Many think of "the good life" in terms of material prosperity
      2. Jesus taught there is more to life than material possessions
         a. Man's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions
            - Lk 12:15
         b. As illustrated in the parable of the rich fool - Lk 12:16-21
      3. Jesus taught the insecurity of riches - Mt 6:19-20
         a. They are susceptible to corruption
         b. They are open to theft
      4. Jesus taught the danger of riches - Mt 6:21-24
         a. They can dominate our affections
         b. They can blind us to the true light
         c. They can prevent us from being able to serve God
      -- Thus the message of Jesus is one of correcting our
         misconceptions; riches do not make one happy!

   B. EXTENDS THE TRULY ABUNDANT LIFE...
      1. Jesus offers a life filled with peace - cf. Jn 14:27
         a. Peace with God through justification - Ro 5:1-2
         b. Peace with man through reconciliation - Ep 2:14-16
         c. Peace with self through supplication - Php 4:6-7
         -- The peace Jesus offers "surpasses all understanding" - Ph
            4:7
      2. Jesus offers a life filled with love - cf. Jn 15:9
         a. Love patterned after the Father's love for the Son - Jn 15:9
         b. Love that can be fervent, yet pure between brethren - 1 Pe
            1:22
         c. Love that can be extended even toward enemies - Mt 5:43-45
         -- The love Jesus offers "passes knowledge" - Ep 3:9
      3. Jesus offers a life filled with joy - cf. Jn 15:11
         a. His commandments, His promises, all are designed to impart
            joy - Jn 15:11
         b. A joy that can abound in any circumstance - e.g., Php 2:
            17-18; 4:4; 1Pe 1:6
         -- The joy Jesus offers is "inexpressible" - 1Pe 1:8
      -- By offering such peace, love, and joy, perhaps we can
         appreciate why Jesus said He offers an "abundant" life - cf. Jn
         10:10

[To communicate this response to a materialistic society, Jesus calls
upon His church.  While it certainly entails proclaiming the gospel, let
me suggest some additional thoughts about...]

II. OUR RESPONSE TO MATERIALISM

   A. EXEMPLIFY JESUS' RESPONSE AS INDIVIDUALS...
      1. As individuals we must possess the peace, love, and joy Jesus
         offers
         a. Which comes through heeding His words - Jn 15:10-11
         b. Which comes through spending time in prayer - Php 4:6-7
         -- If we fail to spend the time necessary in such activities,
            how convincing can we be that we have a more "abundant" life
            to offer?
      2. As individuals we must not depend on material things for true
         happiness
         a. If poor, learn the secret of contentment - cf. 1Ti 6:6-8;
            Php 4:11-13
         b. If rich, trust not in riches but be quick to help those in
            need - cf. 1Ti 6:17-19
         -- Being content and willing to share goes a long way toward
            demonstrating that Jesus' response to materialism really
            means something!

   B. EXEMPLIFY JESUS' RESPONSE AS A CONGREGATION...
      1. The value of a congregational demonstration cannot be taken
         lightly
         a. Jesus stressed the value of brotherly love and unity - Jn
            13: 35; 17:20-21
         b. His church illustrated the value of congregational love and
            joy - cf. Ac 2:46-47; 6:7 (in light of 6:1-6)
      2. We should make sure that our fellowship and worship
         demonstrates...
         a. The love we have found in Christ (e.g., by the way we greet
            one another)
         b. The joy of being Christians (e.g., by the way we praise God)
         c. The peace Jesus made possible (e.g., by the way we work
            together)
      3. We should be careful as a congregation not to fall into a
         materialistic trap
         a. By placing too much concern over such things as:
            1) The physical facilities in which we meet
            2) The physical appearances of the members or visitors
         b. Not that is wrong to have comfortable facilities or to look
            nice
            1) But that should not be our primary concern
            2) But not to the neglect of truly important matters (like
               saving souls)!
         c. Otherwise we could be guilty of being like the Laodiceans
            - Re 3:17
            1) Who thought they were "rich, wealthy, and have need of
               nothing"
            2) Who were unaware they were "wretched, miserable, poor,
               blind, and naked"

CONCLUSION

1. The rampant materialism in our society provides us with an
   opportunity...
   a. For materialism leaves one in a state of spiritual malnutrition
   b. Therefore often ripe for the true feast Jesus has to offer

2. What does Jesus offer...?
   a. Rest for a weary soul - Mt 11:28-30
   b. Rivers of living water for a thirsty soul - Jn 7:37-39
   -- Which He provides through His cleansing blood and life-quickening
      Spirit - Ac 2:38-39

3. But if those trapped in materialism are going to believe such is
   possible...
   a. We need to make sure that we are offering the "abundant life" as a
      viable alternative
   b. Both individually and as a congregation of God's people!

Are we experiencing the peace that "surpasses all understanding," the
love which "passes knowledge," and the joy that is "inexpressible"?

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THE PROBLEM OF RELIGIOUS DIVISION

INTRODUCTION

1. Every disciple who follows Jesus should be concerned with unity among
   believers...
   a. In light of Jesus' prayer for unity - Jn 17:20-23
   b. In light of Paul's condemnation of division - 1Co 1:10-13

2. From Jesus and Paul we learn...
   a. Unity can be a powerful witness to the world
   b. Division is often a mark of carnality and spiritual immaturity
      - cf. 1Co 3:3-4

3. Unfortunately, many who claim to follow Jesus...
   a. Have not done a very good job in displaying unity
   b. Have hindered the cause of Christ at different times and different
      places

[To illustrate what I mean, let's take a brief look at...]

I. THE PROBLEM OF DIVISION

   A. EXISTED IN THE DAYS OF THE EARLY CHURCH...
      1. The church at Corinth - 1Co 1:10-13; 3:3-4; 11:18
      2. The conduct of Diotrephes - 3Jn 9-10
      -- Such turmoil was anticipated by The Parable Of The Tares - Mt
         13:24-30,36-43

   B. CONTINUED THROUGHOUT CHURCH HISTORY...
      1. With the schisms between Roman and Orthodox churches
      2. With the denominational divisions of the Protestant churches,
         despite statements as:
         a. "I ask that men make no reference to my name, and call
            themselves not Lutherans, but Christians.  What is Luther?
            My doctrine, I am sure, is not mine, nor have I been
            crucified for any one. St. Paul, in 1Co . 3, would not allow
            Christians to call themselves Pauline or Petrine, but
            Christian.  How then should I, poor, foul carcass that I am,
            come to have men give to the children of Christ a name
            derived from my worthless name?  No, no, my dear friends;
            let us abolish all party names, and call ourselves
            Christians after Him Whose doctrine we have." - Martin
            Luther
         b. "Would to God that all party names, and unscriptural phrases
            and forms which have divided the Christian world, were
            forgot and that the very name [Methodist] might never be
            mentioned more, but be buried in eternal oblivion." - John
            Wesley
         c. "I look forward with pleasure to the day when there will not
            be a Baptist living!  I hope that the Baptist name will soon
            perish, but let Christ's name last forever." - Charles
            Spurgeon

   C. PRESENT IN THE RELIGIOUS WORLD TODAY...
      1. As demonstrated by the literally thousands of denominations
      2. Even among churches of Christ
         a. Whose plea for unity as been a major theme in what makes
            them distinctive
         b. Yet today there have been nearly twenty (20) identifiable
            divisions in the last 150 years
         c. And there have been countless divisions in individual
            congregations over matters of personality rather than
            doctrine!

[The problem of division continues, despite the devastating effect it
has on our witness for Christ.  What can be done by those who want to
work toward the unity for which Jesus prayed...?]

II. THE SOLUTION FOR UNITY

   A. ACCEPT THE SAME STANDARD OF AUTHORITY...
      1. This is the first step toward religious unity
         a. The need for a standard can be easily illustrated (e.g.,
            agreeing on the length of a line)
         b. For Christians, the standard must be the Word of God as
            revealed through Jesus and His apostles
            1) Jesus has all authority - Mt 28:18
            2) We must abide in His doctrine - Jn 8:31; 2Jn 9
            3) The Spirit led the apostles into all the truth - Jn 16:
               13; Ac 20:27; 2Pe 1:3
            4) We must continue steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine
               - Ac 2:42; 1Co 14:37
      2. This requires putting away all other standards of authority
         a. Such as creeds, traditions of men, ecclesiastical councils,
            etc.
         b. Also personal or parental preferences and opinions
         c. Things not explicitly authorized in the Scriptures
      3. The same standard of authority can quickly unify those willing
         to follow it
         a. E.g., how many baptisms are there?
         b. Those seeking to maintain the unity of the Spirit will
            answer:  "one baptism" - cf. Ep 4:3-6

   B. DEVELOP CHRIST-LIKE ATTITUDES...
      1. This is required to maintain true unity in Christ
         a. For many can claim to the let the Bible be their only
            standard
         b. Yet differing views often exist, for understandable reasons
            1) Varying degrees of maturity
            2) Varying levels of knowledge
      2. So we must display Christ-like virtues as we seek the mind of
         Christ
         a. Lowliness, gentleness, longsuffering, bearing with one
            another in love - Ep 4:1-3
         b. A lack of selfish ambition or conceit, esteeming others
            better than ourselves - Php 2:1-5
         c. Patient, in humility correcting those in opposition - 2 Ti
            2:24-26

   C. RESTRAIN PERSONAL LIBERTIES...
      1. Much division results from brethren pressing what they perceive
         to be their freedom in Christ
         a. Imposing such "freedom" on those who conscience would be
            violated
         b. Forcing brethren to either leave or sin against their
            conscience
      2. Paul taught brethren to restrain their "liberties" for the sake
         of their brethren
         a. In writing to the saints in Rome - Ro 14:14-15,21; 15:1-3
         b. In writing to the church at Corinth - 1Co 8:9-13; 10:24,
            31-33
      3. When "Christ-like attitudes" are joined together with a
         willingness to restrain liberty...
         a. Christians are more likely to remain united in their actions
            together
         b. Christians are more likely to one day be united in their
            thinking as well!

   D. FOCUS YOUR EFFORTS...
      1. First, on yourself!
         a. Resolve to be simply a Christian, a disciple of Jesus Christ
         b. Put away any belief or practice based on traditions of men,
            not the Word of God
         c. Develop the virtues that contributes to unity among
            Christians
            1) Those Christ-like attitudes mention earlier
            2) A willingness to restrain personal liberties for the sake
               of your brother
      2. Next, on your local congregation!
         a. That it not be one contributing to religious division (i.e.,
            a denomination)
         b. That it accepts the Word of God for its final authority
         c. That it puts away all names, practices, traditions, not
            taught by the Scriptures
         d. That it is concerned with the unity of believers
      3. Then, on others in your community!
         a. Individuals who desire to be true disciples of Jesus
         b. Congregations willing to take Jesus' prayer and Paul's
            condemnation seriously

CONCLUSION

1. You may feel there is little one can do with the problem of
   division...
   a. Denominationalism is so rampant
   b. Religious division has been around so long

2. Yet two thoughts come to mind that encourage me to try...
   a. I can at least save myself and those who hear me - cf. 1Ti 4:16
   b. Great things can have a small beginning - cf. Mt 13:31-33

If unity among believers was so important to Jesus, how can we not make
the effort to maintain the unity He made possible by His death on the
cross? - cf. Ep 2:13-16

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PRIVATE DEVOTIONS

INTRODUCTION

1. Great men of God were noted for engaging in private devotions...
   a. Isaac meditated in the field at evening - Gen 24:63
   b. David prayed three times daily, meditated on his bed at night
      - Ps 55:17; 63:6
   c. Daniel's custom was to pray three times daily - Dan 6:10

2. Private devotions is encouraged by the Son of God...
   a. Jesus sought solitary places at early morn and late night - Mk
      1:35; Lk 6:12
   b. He counseled His disciples to pray in secret - Mt 6:6

[You may faithfully attend public worship with God's people, but do you
also take the time to engage in daily, private devotions...?]

I. WHY HAVE PRIVATE DEVOTIONS

   A. TO DRAW NEAR TO GOD...
      1. God is found by those who seek Him
         a. As David advised his son Solomon - 1Ch 28:9
         b. As Azariah told the king Asa - 2Ch 15:2
      2. God draws near to those who draw near to Him - Jm 4:8
      -- Do you want a closer walk with God?

   B. TO RECEIVE SPIRITUAL NOURISHMENT...
      1. We need spiritual nourishment in our lives - Mt 4:4
         a. Man cannot thrive on physical food alone
         b. We need spiritual food that nourishes the soul
      2. Spiritual growth comes from the Word of God - 1Pe 1:23; 2:2
         a. We are born again through the incorruptible seed
         b. We continue to grow by the Word of God
      3. God's Word provides spiritual strength - Ep 6:10-17; cf. Psa
         119:7-11
         a. We need God's help to fight our spiritual battles
         b. The Word of God provides such help!
      -- Do you want a stronger, spiritual life?

   C. TO FIND PEACE AND STABILITY...
      1. We live in a world filled with anxiety; prayer provides the
         antidote - Php 4:6-7
      2. We live in a world filled with pitfalls; God's Word keeps us
         from falling - Ps 119:105,165
      -- Do you want inner peace and outer stability?

[More than ever, we need to take the time to draw near to God, to
receive spiritual nourishment, to find peace and stability.  The habit
of daily, private devotions can go a long way...]

II. HOW TO HAVE PERSONAL DEVOTIONS

   A. FIND A TIME AND PLACE...
      1. The time may vary for different individuals
         a. For "night owls", the best time may be late at night, after
            the children are in bed
         b. For "morning larks", early morning before the children wake
            up might be better
         c. The key is to find a quiet time, free from worldly
            distractions
      2. The place may also vary for different people
         a. Some may prefer a place outside, following the example of
            Jesus - cf. Mk 1:35
         b. Some may prefer a place inside, following the teaching of
            Jesus - cf. Mt 6:6
         c. The key is to find a solitary place, free from worldly
            distractions
      -- To develop a habit, the time and place should be the same each
         day

   B. ENGAGE IN PRAYER, MEDITATION, AND PRAISE...
      1. Approach God in prayer
         a. Thank Him for your blessings - cf. Col 4:2
         b. Confess your sins - cf. 1Jn 1:9
         c. Make supplication for your needs - cf. Php 4:6
         d. Intercede on behalf of others - cf. 1Ti 2:1-2
      2. Spend time in meditation - contemplate on such things as:
         a. The Lord Himself (His character) - Ps 63:6
         b. His wonderful Works (both creative and redemptive) - cf. Psa
            77:12
         c. His revealed Word - Ps 119:15,23,48,97-99,148
         d. Things that are wholesome and praiseworthy - cf. Php 4:8
      3. Praise God in song - perhaps aided by recorded hymns
         a. A natural response to joy in the heart - cf. Jm 5:13
         b. Making melody in your heart - cf. Ep 5:19
      -- Talk with God through prayer, praise; listen to Him by
         contemplating His Word

CONCLUSION

1. Living in world filled with sin, there is much that would...
   a. Fill our lives with stress and anxiety
   b. Pull us away from God and things that are good

2. Making room for private devotions in our lives, will help greatly
   to...
   a. Walk closer with our Father in heaven
   b. Receive strength of heart and peace of mind in doing His will

If David, a man after God's own heart, and Jesus, the Son of God
Himself, found it needful to spend time alone with God, how much more do
we...!

   "I rise before the dawning of the morning, And cry for help; I
   hope in Your word. My eyes are awake through the night watches,
   That I may meditate on Your word."
                                                - Ps 119:147-148

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Principles of Church Growth

INTRODUCTION

1. The Lord desires for His church to grow...
   a. He provides gifts to ensure spiritual growth and development - Ep
      4:11-16
   b. He provides increase through our connection with Him as the head
      - Col 2:19

2. Yet church growth is not automatic...
   a. Some churches become stagnant
   b. Other churches enter a downward spiral till they cease to exist

[To avoid either of these catastrophes, there are two important
principles of church growth that must be understood and applied.  The
first of these is...]

I. EACH PART MUST DO ITS SHARE

   A. CHURCH GROWTH IS ENHANCED...
      1. When each member does his or her part as a member of the body
         - Ep 4:16
         a. We all have a function to fulfill - Ro 12:3-8
         b. Every member is important - 1Co 12:12-22
      2. When each member is drawing strength from the Head - Ep 4:16;
         Col 2:19
         a. Directly through God's indwelling - Php 2:12-13; 4:13; Ep 3:
            16,20
         b. Indirectly from one another - cf. 2Co 1:3-5
      -- Nourished from above and from within, a congregation is bound
         to grow

   B. CHURCH GROWTH IS ENDANGERED...
      1. When members do not do their part
         a. The church is handicapped by nonfunctioning members
         b. The church cannot perform to its full potential
      2. When other members have to make up the difference
         a. Who often struggle under the extra burden
         b. Who sometimes become disheartened, even give up
      -- When members won't do their part, a church cannot grow as God
         intended

[The second principle of church growth that is crucial to understand and
apply is...]

II. THE STRONG MUST BEAR WITH THE WEAK

   A. CHURCH GROWTH IS ENHANCED...
      1. When strong members understand the weakness in others
         a. As the church evangelizes...
            1) There will always be babes in Christ
            2) There will always be those who are weak
         b. As the church grows, such growth can be messy - cf. Pr 14:4
            1) Many new members haven't had the benefit of good role
               models
            2) Some families may not know their duties as parents,
               spouses, children
            3) It will take time for many Christians to learn principles
               of godly living
      2. When strong members remember their duty toward the weak
         a. To bear with the infirmities of the weak - Ro 15:1-2; Ga 6:
            1-2
            1) Not to please ourselves
            2) To restore those overtaken in faults
         b. To be patient with the weak - 1Th 5:14
            1) We must accommodate the weak in order to grow ("Growth
               comes out of weakness")
            2) Many churches fail to grow because the strong expect too
               much from the weak
      -- With strong members bearing with weak members, the help needed
         for the weak to grow will be provided

   B. CHURCH GROWTH IS ENDANGERED...
      1. When strong members become disheartened
         a. They become weary of well-doing - cf. Ga 6:9
         b. They begin to feel their labor is in vain - cf. 1Co 15:58
         c. They think about leaving to go elsewhere
            1) Where they may be more appreciated
            2) Where there may be others willing to work
      2. When strong members lose their source of strength; yet
         consider...
         a. Longsuffering is a fruit of the Spirit - Ga 5:22-23
         b. Longsuffering with joy is a gift from God - Col 1:10-11
         c. Becoming disheartened can be an indication the strong are in
            trouble
            1) Because God's strength is unlimited - cf. Ep 3:20
               a) We may be depending too much on our own strength
               b) Not looking to the Lord for the strength He provides
                  - Ep 6:10-13
            2) We may forget...
               a) The joy of serving for the Lord's sake alone, even if
                  others do not appreciate it
               b) The joy of eating cake, even when there is no icing on
                  the cake
            3) We must not lose our perspective
               a) There will always be the weak
               b) Dealing with weak is necessary training for future
                  shepherds and teachers
         -- If the strong members become weak, a church cannot grow!

CONCLUSION

1. We have considered two principles of church growth...
   a. Each part must do its share
   b. The strong must bear with the weak

2. We have seen that...
   a. Growth is enhanced when each part does its share
   b. Growth is endangered when members don't do their part
   c. Growth is enhanced when the strong bear with the weak
   d. Growth is endangered when the strong themselves become weary

3. May we consider what we all need to be doing to help the Lord's
   church grow...
   a. Fulfill our function in the body of Christ
   b. Do our share in the work of the church
   c. Grow as we should in the service of the Lord
   d. Bear with the infirmities of the weak
   e. Look to Lord for strength to avoid becoming disheartened

   "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always
   abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is
   not in vain in the Lord." - 1Co 15:58

   "And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season
   we shall reap if we do not lose heart." - Ga 6:9

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Healing the Hurts of Life

  Background: John 11:10-18I. Pain Is a Universal Experience (vv. 19-20)Some pain is physical, the result of injury or illness. Some pain is emotional, imposed by friends and foes or rising from our own fears or frustrations. Whether the hurt is real or imagined, it still hurts and usually is associated with some kind of loss. A. Different in kind (physical, emotional) B. Different in degree (pain threshold) C. Some pain is open (striking out) D. Some pain is hidden (callusing the heart)II. People React to Pain Differently (vv. 21, 32b)Death. Divorce. Disease. Disasters. They are all alike. They cause loss; loss produces grief; grief can lead the best of us to question God, raising our faces and fists toward heaven and asking, "Why?" Do we really think that having some rationale for loss will make the pain less? Hurting people are seldom rational. We really want someone to blame. Hurting people sometimes tend to hurt other people, striking a physical form because the real source of pain is often intangible. If God is supposed to be in charge of the universe, why did He let this happen? If He is good and powerful, how could He not prevent something like this from happening? A. Withdrawal ("Where do you go when you hurt deeply?") B. Aggression (Striking out at others) C. Questioning the goodness of God ("Lord, if you had been here our brother would not have died.") D. Overcompensation (Do more, be more, win more: "How do you express your pain?")III. Jesus Understands Your Pain (vv. 23, 33-35)God does understand our pain, whether we are ready to believe that or not. What sickness have we suffered that could equal the pain of the scourge? What injury can we experience that approaches the wounds of the cross? A. Rejection ("He came to His own, and His own received Him not.")

B. Betrayal (He was betrayed with a kiss.) C. Shame (The shame of the cross [Heb. 12:2])IV. You Must Want to be Healed (vv. 24-32a)God also wants to do something about our pain. Jesus not only wept with Mary and Martha, He took the next step. Unfortunately, some people prefer pain to healing. A. Pity Parties B. Excuses (You don't understand.) C. Rather endure pain than forgiveFaith is a risk. We risk that nothing will happen and our faith will be shattered like a glass fallen on the kitchen floor. We risk further loss—the loss of trust, the loss of what little we had left. Too many people are not willing to take that great a gamble, so they choose to disbelieve the supernatural, to deny the spiritual. Ironically, they find it less painful simply to have no God than to have One who allows such hurt into their lives.

V. You Must Remove the Barriers—Attitudes (vv. 26, 37-40)For Martha, the stone represented the barrier between the pain of grief and the deeper pain of a dead brother. She objected to smelling the stench of his decaying body. She feared the sight would be more than she could endure.For Jesus, the stone was no barrier to healing. He easily could heal Lazarus without having the door to the grave opened. What of Lazarus? A common human fear is to awaken inside a casket, having been buried alive by mistake. Jesus would not be so cruel as to bring Lazarus back to life in the darkness of the tomb.Too, Jesus wanted Martha to exercise her faith. He wanted her to believe before there were facts to aid belief. All of the people present soon would see Lazarus walk out; Jesus wanted Martha to know the joy of belief while her brother was still in the tomb.If we want our hurts to be healed, we must remove the stones blocking the way. For one, it may be anger or bitterness. For some, the pain itself prevents the touch of healing as we jerk away from the balm that would take away the pain. For another, the barrier is unbelief or the stubborn refusal to admit the existence of a power greater than ourselves. We cling to the illusion of control, willing to suffer rather than give up our self-sufficiency. A.  Anger, Scapegoating B. Guilt C. Sin (confession, repentance) D.  Surrender of will (You cannot have fast-food healing.)VI. Healing Is Not Superficial (vv. 41-44)Jesus wants not only to heal us from the hurts in our lives, but to loose us from the grave clothes of doubt that keep us from living His abundant life. While we would prefer never to have the pain in the first place, we really can only choose to deal with pain on our own or allow the Healer to touch us at the point of our pain. He may remove its source or relieve its result. He may release you from the pain or strengthen you to endure it. —Lazarus was made whole. — "Loose him, let him go!"Conclusion: God wants to heal you completely, to free you of decaying grave clothes that bind your heart and soul and prevent wholeness. Is the stone that blocks your healing too heavy for you to move? Allow Him, and He will do that for you. No stone could keep Him from the grave of His friend any more than could a rock block His own grave. Stones cannot keep Him from one who needs healing.Invitation: More gentle than a mother's kiss, the touch of the Healer awaits our willingness and faith. He who came to heal broken hearts and bind up wounded spirits stands just outside, ready to do in us what we never could do for ourselves. Will you let God do what only He can do?

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5BX SPIRITUAL FITNESS PLAN

INTRODUCTION

1. In the late 1950s, there was an exercise program called 5BX (Five
   Basic Exercises)...
   a. Developed for the Royal Canadian Air Force
   b. Published as a booklet with 23 million copies sold in Canada
   c. Consisted of five exercises to be done daily in 11 minutes

2. In this lesson, I would like to suggest a similar 5BX plan...
   a. Designed for Christians, to aid their spiritual growth and
      development
   b. Consisting of five spiritual exercises to be done daily (though
      not in 11 minutes!)

[I call it the 5BX Spiritual Fitness Plan.  In the original 5BX plan,
the first exercise involved stretching.  Our spiritual 5BX plan begins
with a daily regimen that will stretch our souls...]

I. READ THE WORD OF GOD

   A. THE WORD OF GOD...
      1. The means by which we grow spiritually - 1Pe 2:2
      2. Read the Psalmist's valuation of the Word - Psa 19:7-10
      3. It was by the Word of God that Jesus resisted the devil - Mt
         4:4,7,10
      4. It is by God's Word in our hearts that we can resist sin - Psa
         119:11
      -- The Word of God is therefore foundational to our spiritual
         fitness

   B. READING THE WORD...
      1. Develop the habit of reading the Word daily
      2. Start slow; perhaps with the NT, a chapter a day
      3. Progress to reading the Bible through each year
      4. Read devotionally, meditating on what you read
      -- The Word of God will help you to grow in grace and knowledge

[In the original 5BX plan, the second exercise involved sit-ups to
strengthen the midsection.  Our spiritual 5BX plan involves a spiritual
exercise that will empower our souls...]

II. SPEND TIME IN PRAYER

   A. THE POWER OF PRAYER...
      1. There is forgiveness from God - Ac 8:22; 1Jn 1:7-10
      2. There is peace from God - Php 4:6-7
      3. There is strength from God - Ep 3:14-16,20
      4. There is opportunity from God - Col 4:3
      5. There is boldness from God - Ep 6:19-20
      6. There is wisdom from God - Jm 1:5-8
      7. There is healing from God - Jm 5:14-16
      8. There is tranquility from God - 1Ti 2:1-4
      -- Together with the Word, prayer is foundational to spiritual
         fitness

   B. PRAYING FERVENTLY...
      1. As you read the Word of God, pray for wisdom
      2. Pray daily for forgiveness, strength, opportunity, boldness
      3. As needed, pray for peace, healing, tranquility
      4. Continue earnestly in prayer, vigilant in with thanksgiving
         - Col 4:2
      -- Consistent, fervent prayer will strengthen your relationship
         with God

[In the original 5BX plan, the third exercise involved back extension
that increased flexibility. Our spiritual 5BX plan involves a spiritual
exercise that will enrich our souls...]

III. SING PRAISES

   A. THE ROLE OF SINGING...
      1. One purpose of singing is to praise God - Ac 16:25
      2. It is a type of spiritual sacrifice that we offer to God - He
         13:15
      3. A way to be filled with grace and melody in our hearts - Col
         3:16; Ep 5:19
      4. A way to respond to the goodness of God - Jm 5:13
      -- Singing praises is foundational to our spiritual well-being

   B. SINGING PRAISES...
      1. Make praising God in song a part of your daily devotional
      2. Either by listening to hymns or singing them yourself
      3. Sing while you drive, while you work, either quietly or aloud
      4. Make melody in your heart, sing with grace in your heart
      -- Singing enriches our souls and fortifies our relationship with
         God

[The fourth exercise in the original 5BX plan was pushups to strengthen
the upper body.  Our spiritual 5BX plan involves a spiritual activity
that strengthens our relationship with God and other Christians...]

IV. FELLOWSHIP WITH BRETHREN

   A. THE IMPORTANCE OF FELLOWSHIP...
      1. The church is the body of Christ which is built up when each
         part does its share - Ep 4:15-16
      2. Our assembling is designed to stir one another to love and good
         works - He 10:24-25
      3. Our fellowship is a source of comfort and edification - 1Th
         5:11
      4. A way to avoid becoming hardened by the deceitfulness of sin
         - He 3:12-14
      -- Frequent fellowship is crucial to remaining faithful and
         steadfast

   B. EXPERIENCING FELLOWSHIP...
      1. Assemble together with Christians every opportunity you can
      2. Take advantage of the assemblies offered by the local
         congregation
      3. Not just one time on Sunday, but every time the door is open
      4. Look for ways to be with Christians daily - by phone, Bible
         studies, social activities
      -- Fellowship with other Christians strengthens one's faith in God
         and Christ

[The fifth and final exercise in the original 5BX was running in place
or walking to increase endurance.  Our spiritual 5BX plan includes
spiritual activity that produces endurance as well...]

V. DO GOOD WORKS

   A. THE ROLE OF GOOD WORKS...
      1. We are not saved by good works - Ep 2:8-9; Tit 3:4-5
      2. But we are created in Christ for good works, to glorify God
         - Ep 2:10; Mt 5:16
      3. Thus we are to be fruitful in every good work - Col 1:10
      4. We are not to grow weary in doing good - 1Co 15:58; Ga 6:9-10
      -- Good works are essential if we are going reap spiritual
         benefits

   B. DOING GOOD WORKS...
      1. Share the gospel with the lost
      2. Minister to brethren and to the lost in need, whether physical
         or spiritual
      3. Utilize your resources (time, money, talents) to help the poor
         or sick
      4. Each day try to do something that blesses another person
      -- Good works, done systematically, builds spiritual endurance

CONCLUSION

1. We have seen that the 5BX Spiritual Fitness Plan contains these five
   elements...
   a. Read The Word Of God
   b. Spend Time In Prayer
   c. Sing Praises
   d. Fellowship With Brethren
   e. Do Good Works

2. Engaged in daily, I believe they go a long way to developing strong
   Christians...
   a. But please note that these are "basic" exercises
   b. I am not suggesting they are everything a Christian needs to do
   c. However, they will establish a good foundation of spiritual
      fitness

Perhaps you might find this "plan" helpful as you seek to carry out the
admonition given by Paul to the young man Timothy...

   "...exercise yourself toward godliness. For bodily exercise
   profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things,
   having promise of the life that now is and of that which is
   to come." - 1Ti 4:7-8

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