The Nails of the Cross

Col. 2:13-14, Lk. 24:36-40, Jn. 20:19-20, 24-29.  (Pray)

Scripture is very clear that Jesus was nailed to the cross.  Not much is said about the nails of the cross.  Some say that Christ’s hands were nailed up above His head on a stake rather than a traditional cross that we usually think of.  That may be possible.  We are not here to argue about that.  Ordinarily, we think of Christ being nailed to the cross with a nail in His left hand, a nail in His right hand, and a nail in His feet.  The actual number of nails that were used is not given in scripture but for the sake of three points in this message we want to consider three nails of the cross that will remind us of Judgment, Grace and Service.

I.                    THE NAIL OF JUDGMENT.  (LEFT HAND)

1.      The left hand of our Lord represents Judgment.  (Matt. 25:41)  There are three major judgments yet to come according to scripture.  All shall bow to Jesus somewhere.  (Phil. 2:9-11)  Where will YOU be?

A.     The Bema Seat Judgment.  This begins after the rapture of the saved when He comes in the air.  (2Cor. 5:10)  The saved will receive or suffer loss of rewards here.  (1Cor. 3:11-15)

B.     The Judgment of the Nations.  This begins at the end of the Great Tribulation and at the beginning of the millennial reign of Christ on this earth.  Israel will be greatly persecuted in the tribulation period and only those gentiles who are saved will help them.  (Matt. 24:21, 29-30. 25: 31-34, 41.)

C.     The Great White Throne.  This begins at the end of the millennial reign of Christ.  All the unsaved will be assigned their lot in Gehenna.  (Rev. 20:7-15)  Hell will be worse for some than for others.  (Matt. 11:23-24)

II.                 THE NAIL OF GRACE.  (RIGHT HAND)

1.      The right hand of our Lord represents Grace.  (Matt. 25:34) 

2.      This nail needs to be driven home today.  (Col. 4:6, 2Pet. 3:17-18, 2Tim. 1:8-9)

A.     The T of tulip, the flower of grace.  (Eph. 2:1)

B.     The U of tulip, the flower of grace.  (Eph. 1:4-5)

C.     The L of tulip, the flower of grace.  (Eph. 1:1-3, 9)

D.     The I of tulip, the flower of grace.  (Eph. 1:6) 

E.      The P of tulip, the flower of grace.  (Eph. 2:10) 

III.               THE NAIL OF SERVICE.  (FEET)

1.      Feet in the Bible have to do with service.  (Ps. 119:59-61)

2.      All those who are saved have a desire to serve God. 

A.     Prayer.  (Lk. 11:1) 

B.     Bible Study.  (Isa. 2:3)

C.     Witnessing.  (Jn. 4:28-29) 

D.     Giving.  (Mal. 3:10)

3.      Only the Lord’s true churches have scriptural authority to preach, baptize and teach.  (Matt. 28:18)

CONCLUSION:  Judgment is coming.  Which will YOU be in?  There is the Bema Seat Judgment, the Judgment of the Nations and the Great White Throne Judgment.  Grace is a thing we have no control over.  We cannot force God to give us grace.  However, if God has dealt with you by His grace, yield to Him and surrender to the Lordship of Christ and follow Him as a true believer in and through one of His true New Testament assemblies.  If you are lost, turn from your sins and by faith trust Christ as your Savior.  If you believe God and trust Christ as your Savior, we would be happy to have you serve Him with us and we would receive you in any scriptural way that we can.  Come now by Baptism, by letter or by reinstatement.  AMEN.  3-79, 2-81, 10-85, 9-94, 8-07. 

               The Faith and Compensation

Hebrews 11: 39-40.

This has been a good study of the Heroes of Faith Hall of Fame.  The writer of Hebrews concludes with a discussion of the Conquests, Costliness and Compensation of the Faithful.  We have already looked at the Conquests and the Costliness so today we will finish this series of sermons with a discussion of The Faith and Compensation.  Does it pay to live by faith?  All throughout this chapter the answer to that question is an undisputed yes.  AMEN!  Yes indeed!  It PAYS to live by faith.    There are three things that we will examine in regard to this question.

I.                    THE PRAISE FROM FAITH. 

1.      Gods Praise not mans.  Heb. 11:39.  Note two things.

A.     The People that are Praised.  ALL that are mentioned in this chapter.  The world does not care that much about them but they are Heavens Heroes.  Even Sarah, Rahab and Jephthah who were deficient is some ways but THEY are in the ALL.  That means anyone can live by faith and there is no excuse for not living by faith. 

B.     The Prerequisite of the Praise.  Faith.  The world requires fame, fortune or fantastic feats but not so with God.  All HE requires is Faith.  But I must tell you - Faith IS required.  Heb.  11:6. 

II.                 THE PATIENCE OF FAITH.

1.      Faith is Patient.  Heb. 11:39.  All compensations were not obtained in this life for the Old Testament saints.  Note two things about this.

A.     The Need of Patience.  This is so when the promises are still unfulfilled.  True Faith has great patience.  Ps. 27:14, Heb. 10:36. and James 5:7.  Faith can wait when the flesh becomes frantic. 

B.     The Nobility of the Patience.  These all in our verse are dead.  They clung to their faith even unto death.  Some cannot survive the dreary day and the ordinary way but need the spectacular to feed their faith.  That is not much of a faith.  Faith that keeps believing when it only has the plain and routine things of life going for it - is genuine faith. 

III.               THE PROSPECTS OF FAITH.  Heb.  11:40.  Note two things about this text.

1.      The Problem in the text.  After all the good things said about the heroes of faith we see that WE have better things.  This is not out of place.  It is a theme in the entire book of Hebrews.  New Testament believers indeed have it better than Old Testament believers. 

A.     Hebrews 7:19, 7:22, 9:23, 10:34, and Matthew 13:17. 

B.     In summary, WE have Christ in substance; not in only types and shadows like THEY did.  We have the complete story in the canon of Gods word.  We have so much more than they did.  But they clung to their faith tenaciously. 

2.      The Perfection in the text.  Note three truths.

A.     The Meaning of the Perfection.  Made perfect is talking about the completion of all the promises.  Even WE have many precious promises that are yet to be fulfilled but they shall be fulfilled at the 2^nd coming of Christ.

B.     The Multitude of the Perfection.  It is for BOTH the Old Testament and the New Testament saints.  It is not they without us, or visa-versa.  We are all going to be there in the summation of the promises of God if we are true believers and live by faith. 

C.     The Moment of the Perfection.  The time for this great summation is connected to the 2^nd Advent.  There is the Resurrection of the JUST in connection with the RAPTURE of the saints living at the first stage of Christs 2^nd Advent and we shall all be gathered together at the second stage of Christs 2^nd Advent when He sets His foot down on the Mt. of Olives and occupies the throne of David for the Millennial Kingdom.  Then after the end of the Millennial Kingdom, there is the resurrection of the UNJUST and the Great White Throne Judgment when death and hell shall be cast into the Lake of Fire.  ALL true believers shall see it all in the end at the last amen of time. 

CONCLUSION:  God is real and God has spoken.  Have faith in God.  The world the flesh and the devil have nothing to offer you like God.  His promises are going to be seen by ALL true believers who live by faith.  It does not matter who you are or where you come from.  If you are not a believer in Christ by the grace of God you will spend eternity in the everlasting torments of the Lake of Fire.  If you are a believer in Christ by grace, you shall see the summation of the fact that God is real indeed and He has spoken and He does not LIE or break a promise.  Repent and believe the gospel.  AMEN.  6-09. 

               The Faith and Costliness

Hebrews 11:35-38.

The writer of Hebrews brought out some very encouraging things about the Heroes of Faith in the Hall of Fame here in this eleventh chapter.  Last time we say the Conquests of the Faith but we will notice today that Faith does not come cheap.  The Costliness of Faith can be very high.  Sometimes it even costs the faithful their lives.  This aspect of the subject of Faith does not fit in that well with the Prosperity Gospel that is so popular now a days but it is the honest truth. The Christian life of Faith is not always a bowl of Cherries. Faith is not always a sure way to earthly success.  In fact, it may even cost you some earthly success.  We have two main points.

I.                    THE PERSECUTION OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:35.

1.      The Treatment from persecution.  We notice six things about the cruelty heaped on those that would remain faithful to the word of God not matter what.

A.     The Stretching.  Heb. 11:35.  The Rack. 

B.     The Scourging.  Heb. 11:36.  The Whippings.  Matt. 27:26, Acts 5:40.

C.     The Sentencing.  Heb. 11:36.  The Imprisonments. 1Kings 22:27, Acts 16:23-24.  It still happens today in Muslim and Commie nations.

D.     The Stoning.  Heb. 11:37.  The Common form of Capital Punishment.  Acts 7:58, 14:13.

E.      The Sawing.  Heb. 11:37.  The Barbaric form of Capital Punishment.  Tradition says this is how the Prophet Isaiah died. 

F.      The Sword.  Heb. 11:37.  Multitudes of Christians were slaughtered in various places at various times by use of the sword.  They were often be-headed as was John the Baptist and the Apostle Paul.  This has been the story in church history too.  The Papists have exceeded the Pagans in cruelty against the faithful Anabaptists down through time.

2.      The Tongue of persecution.   Heb. 11:36. 

A.     Vicious Cruel Mockings.  It may not be physical pain but it brings pain all the same and some of you know that this is a fact of life, amen?

B.     Verbal abuse often leads to physical abuse too. 

C.     Vile and perhaps a mild form of persecution but who enjoys false accusations, twisting of facts, snide remarks and slander on them?  None of us do. However, if your faith cant take some verbal abuse it is not much of a faith.  Stand in the Faith by His grace. 

D.     Virtually all the liberal media today is filled with verbal abuse on Christians and conservatives while commending the faithless evil unbelieving world. 

E.      Vainly this also happens in religion when apostates rail against those that stand true to the Bible. 

3.      The Tempting by persecution.  Heb. 11:35 & 37.  Note 2 things about tempting.

A.     The Particulars of the Tempting.  They were offered release but refused and thought of future praise instead of present pain.

B.     The Presence of the Tempting.  It was everywhere and still is today. 

4.      The Traveling from persecution.  Heb. 11:37.  They wandered about.  3 things.

A.     The Clothes in the traveling.  Animal skins.  Gods true preachers are not always on the top 10 best-dressed list. (But dont I look sharp today?)  J  Wait until you see my royal robe some day.

B.     The Conditions in the traveling.  Destitute, afflicted, tormented.  Two things are seen in the Conditions:  Poverty and Pain. 

C.     The Country in the traveling.  Deserts and mountains and dens and caves.  No settled habitation or luxurious accommodations. 

II.                 THE PRIVILEGE OF FAITH.  Two things are important to note here.

1.      The Desirability of the faith.  Heb. 11:38.  None are more valuable than Gods people.  We often stay the hand of judgment in our society.  Gen. 19 and Sodom.  The unsaved world may not see it but God delights in us as the excellent of the earth.  Ps. 16:3.

2.      The Deficiency of the world.  The Bible shows the Deficiency of the world in two ways. 

A.     The Lack of Righteousness.  This is seen in the mistreatment of Gods people.  The Nation of Israel, Christians and especially the Lords true New Testament Churches. 

B.     The Lack of Reason.  This may sound strange because of the way the world toots its horn of rationalism over the so-called foolishness of faith but how reasonable is it to cruelly attack and seek the harm of the most valuable people in your society?   That is what the world does. 

CONCLUSION:  God is real and God has spoken.  Have faith in God.  Faith is not cheap but the rewards of faith are wonderful.  Our text teaches that that which God exalts and praises, the world will dishonor and persecute.  Another scripture says:  Luke 16:15 that which is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.  Let us strive to think like God thinks.  We would be much better off if we could.  Turn from sin and by FAITH receive the Lord Jesus Christ as your very own personal Savior.  Come now by His grace.  AMEN. 

Hebrews 11:32-35.

We have seen many examples of Faith in our study of the Heroes of Faith here in the eleventh chapter of the book of Hebrews.  The writer of Hebrews comes now to a summation of the chapter and we will notice three things that come with faith.  They are Conquests, Costliness, and Compensations.  In the message today let us consider the Conquests that come with faith and three things about that - Proof, People and Performance.

I.                    THE PROOF OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:32.

1.      The Quality of the proof.  What better evidence to you need?  The writer of Hebrews sees no need to list anymore.  Theses examples show 3 things.

A.     Anyone can have Faith.

B.     Any situation can use Faith.

C.     Anything is possible with Faith. 

2.      The Qualifying of the proof.  Biblical evidence has no rival.

A.     Evolution cannot match evidence with Creation.

B.     Religious relics cannot match Biblical claims. (Shroud of Turin)

C.     Philosophies of the world are no match for the wisdom of God.

3.      The Quantity of the proof.  There are so many proofs of the blessings of faith that they cannot all be named for lack of time and space.   

A.     The fault of unbelievers is their depraved heart.  Ps. 14:1.

B.     The fault of faith is not a lack of evidence for it. 

C.     The fault of man in general is his denial of faith despite its evidence. 

II.                 THE PEOPLE OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:32.  Look at the list of other men of faith that are only mentioned very briefly due to lack of time and space.  Note 5 things.

1.      The Sequence of the People.  Not in chronological order but massive evidence.

2.      The Society of the People.  They all were in a society that needed help.

A.     Gideon lived with Baal Worship. 

B.     Barak lived when men were so spineless that a woman ruled.

C.     Samson lived in the days of ungodly Philistine oppression.

D.     Jephthah also dealt with Baal worship and spineless men. 

E.      David came after years of decline under Sauls reign. 

F.      Samuel dealt with a corrupt Priesthood.  Elis sons. 

G.     The Prophets were always called in times of apostasy. 

3.      The Status of the People.  They all came from humble beginnings.

A.     Gideon was the least in his fathers house.  Judges 6:15.

B.     Barak was a no-body rebuked into service by a woman.  Judges 4:6&8.

C.     Samson came from the lowly tribe of Dan.  Judges 13:2&5.

D.     Jephthah was an outcast.  Judges 11:3-6. 

E.      David was left in the field when Samuel came to pick the King. 1Sam. 16:11-16.  He was just a shepherd boy. 

F.      Samuel was only a helper boy in the Tabernacle.  1Sam. 3:1. 

G.     The Prophets were generally despised and usually only honored after they were dead and gone from this world. 

4.      The Service of the People.  All these additional proofs of the blessings of faith were given very difficult things to do. 

A.     Gideon had to rout multitudes of armed men with only a faithful few. 

B.     Barak faced Siseras enormous army of 900 iron chariots and won. 

C.     Samson repeatedly & single-handedly beat multitudes of Philistines.

D.     Jephthah had to lead a very weak Israel against a very strong foe.

E.      David had to face Goliath with a sling and faith. 

F.      Samuel had to clean up the house of God, perhaps the hardest job. 

G.     The Prophets were constantly called on to expose sin and preach repentance to the people of God. 

5.      The Support of the People.  These prove that faith is the answer.

A.     It is the answer in spite of defilement in the land.  Do we have that?

B.     It is the answer in spite of different backgrounds.  Judge, King, Prophet, Priest, Shepherd, Tax collector, Fisherman, Well digger, Tent maker, Carpenter, and so on.  Faith is for all walks of life. 

C.     It is the answer in spite of discredited status.  You dont have to be from high society to be a hero of faith. 

D.     It is the answer in spite of difficult duties.  All our examples had hard jobs to do but they did them by the grace of God through faith. 

III.               THE PERFORMANCE OF FAITH.  Hebrews 11:33.  Look at ten things in the conquests of these great heroes of faith. 

1.      The Conquering of Faith.  Subdued Kingdoms.  Judges.

2.      The Character of Faith.  Wrought righteousness.  Faith goes with holiness.

3.      The Compensation of Faith.  Obtained Promises.  This is true today Acts 16:31.

4.      The Closing by Faith.  Stopped the mouths of lions.  Daniel.

5.      The Coolant of Faith.  Quenched the violence of fire. 3 Hebrew children.

6.      The Cleverness of Faith.  Escaped the edge of the sword.  David and Saul.

7.      The Change by Faith.  Out of weakness were made strong.  Samson.

8.      The Courage of Faith.  Became valiant in fight.  David and Goliath.

9.      The Chasing by Faith.  Turned to flight the armies of the aliens.  Abraham.

10.   The Crown of Faith.  Received their dead raised to life.  1Kings 17:17-24 and 2Kings 4:18-47. 

CONCLUSION:  God is real and God has spoken.  The 66 books of your King James Bible is the complete revelation of the will of God for you today in the English language.  Hear ye the word of the Lord.  Repent and believe the GOSPEL.  The greatest life and death experience one can ever have regarding faith is the salvation experience in Christ Jesus the Lord.  Gods word says you are a sinner and the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.  AMEN.  5/09. 

               The Faith of Rahab

Hebrews 11:31

The last person given singular attention in the Heroes of Faith Hall of Fame is a lady named Rahab.  She and Sarah are the only two women named in this chapter although there are other women mentioned, though not by name such as the mother of Moses and women that received their dead raised to life again v.35.  When the Bible teaches that it is the MEN that are to take the leadership role in churches, it does not mean that women cannot live by faith.  Rahabs faith was manifested when Israel was ready to conquer Jericho at the time they entered the Promised Land.  The Bible says that it was because of her faith that she did not perish.  When it comes to the salvation of Gods elect, the same thing is true.  The Just shall LIVE by faith.  That is true initially, in regeneration and in the Christian walk thereafter.  Notice some things about the Faith of Rahab.

I.                    THE PERSON OF FAITH.  Heb.  11:31

1.      Notice two things about the person of faith.

A.     The Surprise in the Person.  A harlot.  Sarah demonstrated great doubt and Rahab demonstrated great defilement but both of these ladies obtained a good report v.2.  There will be a lot of surprises in heaven.  If you are there, many will be surprised. 

B.     The Suitableness in the Person.  A Gentile.  This is mainly a Jewish list of heroes here.  How did SHE get in?  You will have the answer before you read six verses in the New Testament.  She married Salmon of the tribe of Judah and had a son named Boaz who married another Gentile girl and they had a son named Obed who was the grandfather of King David in the ancestry of the Messiah Jesus Christ Himself.

II.                 THE POPULARITY OF FAITH.

1.      Faith is not popular.  Rahab is the only one that believed in Jehovah God and His word.  She didnt go along with the crowd in that day.  She stood alone for the people of God.  It isnt always easy.  Ask Abel, Noah, Joseph and others.  YOU may have to stand-alone for the truth but in the end, when the rewards are handed out to the faithful, it will be worth it then. 

III.               THE PURIFYING OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:31.

1.      Faith is always able to clean up an ugly past.  Praise God for that.  Scars may remain because that is what sin does but faith has a great purifying effect on people. 

2.      Faith gave Rahab an honorable source of income.  Josh. 2:6.  Working with flax was hard work but it was honorable.  Flax was a plant that was used in making cloth material.  There were many steps in the process.  You grow it, pick it, wash it, dry it on the rooftop, spin it, etc.  It was the work of a virtuous woman according to Prov. 31:10-13.  So, Faith changed Rahab from a harlot to a virtuous woman. 

IV.              THE PERSUASION OF FAITH.  Josh. 2:9. 

1.      Faith brings certainty about important things.  2Tim. 1:12, 1Jn. 5:13.

2.      Faith wont listen to the Devil who only promotes doubt and uncertainty. 

3.      Faith is confident because of the veracity of Gods word.

V.                 THE PROOF OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:31.

1.      Faith is more than talk it is walk.  She received the spies with peace.  James 2:25.  James does not contradict Paul.  When Paul says we are justified by faith and not by works, he is speaking about in Gods sight.  James on the other hand is dealing with the human point of view.  Men cannot see your heart like God does.  Rahab was justified in the sight of God by faith like all the rest of His elect but she proved her faith to men by her deeds. 

2.      Faith in Rahab is proven by two things. 

A.     Her Reception of the Men of faith.  Faith enjoys the fellowship of fellow believers.  Jn. 13:35.

B.     Her Reception of the Message of faith.  She was not only cordial to the men but to their message.  Josh. 2:14. She responded to Gods word.  People that dont respond well the Biblical preaching are faithless, no matter what they say. 

VI.              THE PLEA OF FAITH.  Josh. 2:12.

1.      Faith is what prompted her plea.  She had a concern for her loved ones and prayed for their safety. 

2.      Faith prays.  Lack of prayer shows lack of faith in God. 

VII.            THE PROPAGATION OF FAITH.  Josh. 6:23. 

1.      Faith is evangelical.  She warned her loved ones and they came to her house to escape judgment.  Josh. 2:18-19. 

2.      Faith will not avoid the unpleasant message of judgment to show the NEED of salvation.  People wont flee to Christ if they see no need to do so. 

VIII.         THE PROTECTION OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:31.

1.      Faith protected Rahab and she didnt perish with the unbelievers.  Acts 16:31, Jn. 3:18 and 3:36. 

2.      Faith is the key to door of the sheep.  Look to HIM by faith. 

IX.               THE PERIL OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:31.

1.      Faith does the right thing despite the danger.  She hid the men of God at risk of her life.  Espionage in time of war is usually a capital offence. 

2.      Faith can knowingly and willingly face the dangers of service to God when it is founded on Gods word.  God does not lie.  True believers will venture for God and march confidently on for the cause of God and Truth. 

3.      Faith is not found in many today.  They wont even risk going without some luxury - in order to give to a special ministry in the local church. 

X.                 THE PRIZE FOR FAITH.  Matt. 1:1-6.

1.      Faith has its rewards and Rahab had a choice reward.  She was blessed to be an ancestress of the Lord of Glory, the incarnate Son of God.  The world may give its honors but none of them can compare the honors of faith.  Worldly and carnal honor fades away very fast but the honor of faith is eternal. 

2.      Faith will withstand ridicule, scorn and even peril.  Rahab did for a time but in the end she is found basking in the honors of heaven. Her name is eternally inscribed in the eternal written word of God. 

CONCLUSION:    God is real and God has spoken.  Have faith in God.  We have the full and complete revelation of the will of the Lord in the 66 books of our Bible, 39 books in the OT and 27 books in the NT.  There is no need for anything else.  The Bible says, To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.  Isa.8: 20.   Sinners may try to do away with Him but God is God.  He is THE eternal I AM and He will not go away.  Judgment is coming.  Repent and believe the gospel.  Christ is the only remedy for our sin.  Only the blood of Christ can cleanse from sin.  He died, was buried and rose again the third day according to the scriptures and HIS is the only name given among men under heaven whereby ye MUST be save.  AMEN.  5/09. 

               The Faith of Israel at Jericho

Hebrew 11:30.

In our study last time, we saw the Faith of Israel at the Sea.  The lesson today is the Faith of Israel at Jericho.  The two incidents are forty years apart.  The fist was at the exodus from Egypt and the second was at the entrance into the Promised Land.  Faith was essential for both.  So it is with us in our Christian walk.  We need faith in our early days as young believers and we need faith in our later years as senior saints in the Kingdom of God.  The main reason why Israel didnt enter the Promised Land earlier was because of a lack of faith.  I wonder how many blessings of the Lord the average Christian misses out on in their life due to a lack of faith. 

After the Israelites crossed the Jordan River to possess the Promised Land, the first obstacle in their way was the greatly fortified city of Jericho.  In those days, the strongest cities were those that had most formidable walls around them and Jericho had walls that were strong enough to literally build homes in and on. Josh. 2:15.  But as strong as the wall of Jericho was in worldly military might, when God said it was time for it to fall, according to our text, it fell.  Consider some things about Faith in this incident. 

I.                    THE PROMISE FOR FAITH.  Josh. 6:2.

1.      Faith comes with Divine encouragement.  It is not easy to live by faith so God gives us incentive with His promises.  The hardest part is often the struggle within us to do what God says in spite of the circumstances and our human reasoning.

II.                 THE PRECEPTS FOR FAITH.  Josh. 6:3-5. 

1.      Faith needs a premise.  Our action must be based on the word of the Lord.  Serving God is not a life of all promises with no precepts or principles.  Living for God looks forward with assurance to the promises of God but we also perform the precepts of His word and live according to His principles.

III.               THE PERPLEXITY FOR FAITH.  1Cor. 1:18.

1.      Faith and Gods ways often seem strange to the human way of thinking.  Just march?  Naaman was told to just bath in Jordan.  Elijah was told to feed for many months on just a little meal and oil.  The disciples were told to feed the multitude with just 5 loaves and two fishes.  Strange things indeed if not done by faith. 

IV.              THE PERSPIRATION FOR FAITH.  Heb. 11:30.

1.      Faith often requires considerable work.  Seven days of marching and then on the seventh day do it seven times.  Faith is NOT for the lazy.  Those who never lift a finger to help around the church are not living by faith. 

V.                   THE PERIL FOR FAITH.  Heb. 11:30.

1.      Faith can at times put you in dangerous circumstances.  Marching around the city in plain sight as they did made them open targets for the enemy.  Moses risked his life to go in to see Pharaoh.  Elijah risked his life to go to Ahab in his day.  David was in peril when he confronted Goliath as he did.  Faith takes courage.  It is unbelief that is cowardly when it comes to the things of God. 

VI.              THE PASSION OF FAITH.  Josh. 6:12 & 15.

1.      Faith puts zeal in the heart of believers.  Twice here the Bible says they got up early to do Gods will.  The flesh behaves just the opposite.  It wants to stay up late on Saturday night and sleep in on Sunday morning.  Punctuality, diligence and whole heartedness are characteristics of the true child of faith. 

VII.            THE PERFORMANCE OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:30.

1.      Faith follows Gods word with simple humility.  The Israelites did exactly what God said to do when He said to do it.  No arguments, no strikes, no boycotts no revisions of the plan to suit their way of thinking, no, they simply did what God said to do.  THAT is what WE need to do. 

VIII.         THE PUBLICNESS OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:30.

1.      Faith follows God openly.  If your faith is unwilling to go public, you have the wrong kind of faith.  To say your faith is a PRIVATE MATTER is to say you have something to hide.  True faith is not afraid to be seen in public. 

IX.               THE PATIENCE OF FAITH.   Josh. 6:14-15.

1.      Faith will wait for God to move.  The flesh wants instant gratification but faith can wait on the Lord.  They waited 7 days before anything happened.  The hardest service is repetitive service and not seeing any results.  Heb. 10:36, Gal. 6:9.

X.                 THE PROCLAMATION OF FAITH.  Josh. 6:16 & 20. 

1.      Faith can shout before the victory is actually seen.  Did you notice that they shouted the victory before the wall came down?  Faith shuts because it believes God and takes Him at His word. 

XI.               THE POWER FOR FAITH.   Heb. 11:30. 

1.      Faith is attached to the power of God.  That is what brought the walls of Jericho down that day.  They didnt have battering rams and catapults to breach the wall; they had the promises and power of God.  Matt. 7:20.  Churches today have resorted to carnal gimmick and programs to get people and that is not faith. 

XII.            THE PROTECTION FOR FAITH.  Josh. 6:20.

1.      Faith marches on under the protection of God.  Not an Israelite was crushed when the wall fell flat but they were all able to walk straight into the city.  The very moment, might and manner in which the wall fell was all a divine miracle.  Even Rahab was spared and we will learn more of her later.  The timing, the terribleness and the technique of it all was a miraculous thing indeed.

CONCLUSION:  God is real and God has spoken.  Have faith in God.  It is better to obey than to sacrifice.  God made the ultimate sacrifice when He sent His only begotten Son to be the Savior of His people.  Christ died, was buried and rose again the third day according to the scriptures that we might be saved.  Trust Him now.  AMEN.  5/09. 

               The Faith of Israel at the Sea

Hebrews 11:29. 

The example of faith in our text today is not the faith of an individual but the faith of a group.  It is speaking of the Children of Israel that left Egypt with Moses in his day.  The particular incident has to do with the crossing of the Red Sea.  This incident is one of the most significant miracles in the history of Gods Old Testament saints.  Skeptics naturally take a different view of this story than we do.  They reject the idea of miracles because they reject God.  Their problem is a lack of faith.  They have concocted many different interpretations of this story in order to do away with the divine miracle that we see so clearly here.  It is hard to get Israel across the Red Sea with out faith and that is why the skeptics have such a fit with this story.  Notice several things.

I.                    THE PERPLEXITY FOR FAITH.

1.      Exodus 14:1-2.  Numbers 33:5-6.  The Numbers route was a logical start but

2.      Faith is often tested when God directs us differently than we would reason.

3.      They needed to be on the East side of the sea and here they were on the West side.  (?)  Have you ever been in a situation where you wondered about God? 

4.      Looking at a map, it is easy to see why Israel would be perplexed. 

5.      God always has a reason for the way He leads us.  Exodus 16:4.  He proves us. 

II.                 THE PERIL FOR FAITH. 

1.      Exodus 14:3.  Not only were they perplexed; they were in peril.  Real peril.

2.      The Geography of the land had them boxed in for destruction by Egypt. 

3.      Egypt saw their peril and prepared to pounce on them. 

4.      Faith doesnt always go the easy comfortable way.  It goes the way God says. 

III.               THE PLEA OF FAITH.

1.      Exodus 14:10.  They understood their peril all too well.  Their behavior wasnt always commendable but here they did well. 

2.      When circumstances go sour on us in Gods service, the best thing to do is take it to the Lord.  He is in control.  He is almighty and He does all things well. 

IV.              THE PREMISE FOR FAITH.

1.      Exodus 14:15.  Faith must have a premise for its action.  It is not essentially an emotional or intellectual exercise.  It is simply taking God at His word. 

2.      Biblical faith is not a feeling but a trust and reliance on the solid word of God. 

3.      Crossing the Red Sea was not logical but it WAS doing what God said to do. 

V.                 THE POWER FOR FAITH.

1.      Exodus 14:21.  Faith taps into the power of God.  It makes us able to do His will. 

2.      The Israelites needed a way out and the flesh had nothing to offer.  No bridge. 

3.      By faith God opened the way for them and closed the way to Egypt.  This was in reality a double blessing.  Christ is the author and finisher of our faith. Heb. 12:2.

VI.              THE PROFESSION OF FAITH.

1.      Exodus 14:29.  This was walking not talking.  It was by faith.  We need to walk by faith and let our light shine for the Lord Jesus.  Put shoe leather on your faith.

2.      They walked on the bed of the sea with water stacked up on both sides.  Scary. 

3.      Living for God might bring some natural fear at times but step out by faith and see God handle the scary circumstances around you.  He can hold back the waters for you with no problem at all.  Praise be unto Him! 

VII.            THE PACE OF FAITH.

1.      Exodus 14:29.  Did you notice that the Bible says they WALKED?  Good point. 

2.      Hollywood and human reason would show them running in panic from the perils around them but no.  Faith is demonstrated by the way they crossed. 

3.      There was no confusion or lack of confidence in God as they passed over the Red Sea in perfect orderly procession that day. Gods people do things decently and in order according to His leadership.  1Cor. 14:40.

VIII.         THE PATH OF FAITH.

1.      Eight times the DRY ground is mentioned.  Heb. 11:29, Ps. 66:6, Neh. 15:19, Ex. 14:16,21,22,29, and 15:19.

2.      Not only was the water parted; the seabed was dried.  They had no fear of bogging down in a muddy quagmire.

3.      Faith needs no natural phenomena such as earthquakes or sudden changes in temperature or wind conditions etc.  They miraculously crossed on DRY ground. 

IX.               THE PRESERVATION BY FAITH.

1.      Exodus 14:30.  Faith saves, protects, delivers, and preserves.  That is obvious here.  So it is when it comes to the salvation of your soul. 

2.      God has given the good news of the gospel and it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes.  Have faith in God.  He does not lie. Eph. 2:8.  

X.                 THE PERVERTING OF FAITH.

1.      Heb. 11:29.  The faith of Israel was perverted by Egypt.  Israel went by faith trusting God but Egypt went by sight and in the power of the flesh.  Israel was saved and Egypt was destroyed. 

2.      Many call their feeble acts of the flesh, faith but it is not because it is not based on the word of God.  Women preachers and divorced and remarried men all claim to be called of God but they do not meet the scriptural qualifications for the job. 

3.      Say so ministries fail like the Egyptians for two reasons.

A.     The Mandate Problem.  They have not direct command to do what they are doing in the flesh.  God told Israel to cross not the Egyptians.

B.     The Motive Problem.  They do what they do for selfish reasons and not for the glory of God.  Egypt was only interested in their own personal gain. 

CONCLUSION:  God is real and God has spoken.  Have faith in God.  When you engage in a venture that is opposed to the will of God, you are only headed for trouble.  Be still and see the salvation of the Lord.  If you have been convinced that you are not right with God, stop trying to make yourself right with God and hear His message of salvation in Him.  Christ died, was buried and rose again the third day that we might stand before God just as if we had never sinned.  Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.  AMEN.  5-09. 

               The Faith of Moses and Compliance

Hebrews 11:28.

This verse is the last mention of Moses in this great chapter on the Heroes of Faith Hall of Fame.  The writer of Hebrews was writing to New Testament Jewish believers and naturally Moses is going to be an important example of faith for them.  He was the Lawgiver.  He was the boast of the Jews in Christs earthly ministry.  John 9:28.  The problem with the blinded Jews of that day was that they were seeking acceptance with God on the ground of their own doings.  Many today have that same problem.  Romans 10:3. 

The last incident in the life of Moses that is mentioned in our text has to do with the inauguration of the Passover.  It preceded the exodus of Israel from Egypt and faith was a very important part of observing the Passover.  Many lessons of faith can be learned from the way Moses complied with Gods word in instituting the Passover. 

I.                    THE PROMISES FOR FAITH.

1.      Notice four things about the Promises for faith in compliance with Gods word.

A.     The End in the promises.  Exodus 11:1.  One more plague.

B.     The Enrichment in the promises.  Exodus 11:2, 12:36.  Loaded.

C.     The Exodus in the promises.  Exodus 11:1.  He will let you go.

D.     The Encouragement in the promises. God blesses faithfulness. 

II.                 THE PROCLAMATION OF FAITH.

1.      `Faith presses on in spite of the perils.  Note two here.

A.     The Meanness of the monarch. Exodus 10:28.

B.     The Magnitude of the message. All the firstborn shall die.

III.               THE PRECEPTS OF FAITH.

1.      Walking by faith is not always easy. 

A.     A lot was done to comply with Gods word per Exodus chapter 12.

IV.              THE PRESSURE ON FAITH.

1.      Faith often appears to be contrary to human reasoning. 

2.      Faith follows Gods word regardless of the circumstances.

3.      Faith is considered weird by the world. 

V.                 THE PORTRAYAL BY FAITH.

1.      Keeping the Passover Gods way pointed to Christ.

A.     The Portrayal in the lamb.  Christ is the Lamb of God.

B.     The Plan for Christ.  Acts 4:12.  The only escape.

C.     The Provision of Christ. Ex. 12:4.  To be eaten and shared.

D.     The Purity of Christ. Ex. 12:5.  1Pet. 1:19.

E.      The Person of Christ. Changing songs, bibles and creeds to a unisex language is an outright denial of the Biblical God and Christ.

F.      The Power of Christ. Ex. 12:5.  In the prime of his life.  Ps. 102:24.

G.     The Pain of Christ.  Ex. 12:3,6.  This points to Calvary. 

H.     The Protection of Christ.  Ex. 12:46. Ps. 34:20. Jn. 19:31-33.

I.  The Picture in the lintel.  Ex. 12:22.  Top & 2 posts of doorframe.

J. The Picture in the lunch.  Partaking of Christ brings salvation of soul and strength for service.  Phil. 4:13. I can do  Jn. 6:48-58. 

VI.              THE PROSELYTES OF FAITH.

1.      So DID they.  Ex. 12:28,35.

2.      So WE ought to do.  Follow Him by faith. 

3.      So others can see.  They need examples not entertainment. 

VII.            THE PURGING IN FAITH.

1.      God requires the blood.  Heb. 11:28. 9:22. Ex. 12:13.

2.      God must see blood not just a death.  1Jn. 1:7. Col. 1:20. 

VIII.         THE PERSONALNESS OF FAITH.

1.      Faith in the blood must be real for YOU. 

A.     Moses obeyed but the Israelites had to also.

B.     Mom and Dad cant believe for you. 

C.     Make the blood matter for YOU by faith.

D.     Mark your door with the blood of the Lamb. 

IX.               THE PROTECTION OF FAITH.

1.      Lest he that destroyed the firstborn tough them. Heb. 11:28b

2.      Live by faith and protect your family.

3.      Like Noah did in making the Ark. Follow Gods word by faith. 

X.                 THE PERPETUATING OF FAITH.

1.      Train others with steadfast service.  Ex. 12:25-27.  1Cor. 15:58. 

XI.               THE PROOF OF FAITH.

1.      Gods word always comes true.  Ex. 12:29.

2.      God speaks and in due time validation is forthcoming.  Ex. 11:4-8, 12:30.

          The Faith of Moses and Courage

Hebrews 11:27.

As one of the Heroes in Faiths Hall of Fame, Moses had great courage.  Faith gives courage to the people of God.  When we speak of courage, we mean more than bravery.  That is part of it but also there is something about the courage that comes with faith that includes persevering in spite of difficulties as well as dangers.  With that in mind, consider 5 things.

I.                   THE PERSEVERANCE OF FAITH.

1.       Faith keeps on going for God. V27 is forty years after v.24.

A.     His faith survived the decision.  Achievement may be harder to survive than defeat.  Many that have served gallantly have drifted back to the flesh.  This is a great danger for all of Gods people. 1Cor. 10:12.

B.     His faith survived the desert.  Demotion can be very hard on your faith.  Acts 7:30.  He went from the Palace to working for his in-laws as a sheepherder.  Exodus. 3:1. 

C.     His faith survived disappointment.  His great step to depart from the palace to lead Israel home was rejected by them.  Acts 7:25. 

D.     His faith survived decades.  After 40 years he is still serving by faith.  Many Senior Saints that walked well in earlier years no longer venture out on great works of faith but are old and cranky and wont support any new effort by the church to improve or expand its ministry.  Father, renew that childlike faith in us all. 

II.                 THE PARTING BY FAITH. 

1.       Faith will forsake Egypt and the world.  Heb. 11:27.

A.     Faith parts from bad conduct.  Egypt was notoriously sinful.  Dont fellowship with those that live ungodly lives.  2Cor. 6:17.

B.     Faith parts from bad creed.  Egypts religion was idolatry.  You cannot worship in Spirit and Truth at an ecumenical church of the world.  Dont mix doctrines of men with the doctrine of God. 

C.     Faith parts from bad chores.  The chores of Egypt and the world are bitter slavery.  Forsake the deadly habits of the world. 

III.              THE PERIL FOR FAITH.

1.       Faith wont fear the Kings wrath.  Heb. 11:27.  3 things about this wrath.

A.     The Position of the wrath.  The King (government) has power to execute (capital punishment).  Prov. 19:12, 16:14.

B.     The Prohibiting of the wrath.  God is still in authority even over the evil governments of the world.  Ps. 76:10. 

C.     The Precept of the wrath.  Faith takes a stand against the Kings of this world in favor of a Greater King.  Exodus. 14:13.  Gods wrath is greater than the wrath of Pharaoh.  Fear God.  Rev. 6:17. 

IV.              THE PERSISTANCY OF FAITH.

1.       Faith endures.  This speaks of great persistency.  Look at 5 obstacles Moses endured and that WE should endure. 

A.     Denials.  Again and again Pharaoh denied his requests but he endured and kept asking according to the word of the Lord.

B.     Disapproval.  The hardest opposition is that from loved ones.  Forty years earlier they rejected him and now too.  Acts 7:23-28.  Exodus 5:20-21. 

C.     Duplicity.  The Kings word could not be trusted.  He would say stop the plague and you may go but afterward he would change his mind.  Prov. 13:12.  It is like the wicked politician that says one thing in the campaign and does another thing when in office. 

D.     Difficulty.  It is a hard pill to swallow when God says things will get worse before they get better but Gods people can win the victory when they live by FAITH.  Exodus 10:1. 

E.      Deviations.  Four times Pharaoh offered a compromise in the negotiations.  Exodus 8-10.  Faith will not compromise with the world when it comes to the truth.

V.                THE PERCEPTION OF FAITH.

1.       Faith can see what the flesh cannot see.  Heb. 11:1, 3, 7, and 13. See 4 things.

A.     The Individual in the perception of faith.  HIM.  Focus on God and you wont be disappointed.  The flesh only can see mans viewpoint but Faith can see Gods viewpoint. 

B.     The Inspiration of the perception of faith. Why focus on God?  Heb. 12:1-2.  He will inspire you to run the race in a godly way.

C.     The Intensity in the perception of faith.  Note it does not say he saw but seeing.  Faith is a continuous looking to God.  Peter walked on the water until he took his eyes off the Lord.  Let us keep our eyes on the Lord.  That is how you walk by faith. 

D.     The Indictment in the perception of faith.  You DONT need images, icons, crosses, crucifixes and so on in order to focus on worshiping God.  God repeatedly warns us against forming visible objects of any kind in religion.  THAT is walking by sight NOT by faith.  Little children, KEEP your selves from IDOLS. 

CONCLUSION:  Have faith in God.  God is real and God has spoken.  Walk by faith and not by sight.  Live for Him according to His revealed word in the 66 books of the Bible (the received text) THAT is what God would have you to do.  Hear the good news of the gospel today.  Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures. He was buried and He rose again the third day that we might stand before God just as if we had never sinned.  It is the BLOOD of the Lamb that washes away our sins.  It is His blood that bought our salvation.  Believe and be saved.  AMEN.  4/26.09. 

          The Faith of Moses and Choices

Hebrews 11:24-27.

Moses is one of the most well know men in the Bible and it is not a surprise to see him here in the Heroes of Faith Hall of Fame.  Faith guided Moses in most of his major choices in life.  It was Faith that caused him to make the right decisions.  His choices werent impulsive immature choices but well thought out mature choices.  Heb. 11:24, Acts 7:23.  It is very important to make our choices according to faith and not according to the flesh and even the little choices we make can have great impact on our lives and the lives of those close to us.  When we make our choices by Faith, we will honor God first and foremost.  Lets consider seven things about this.

I.                    THE PRESENCE OF FAITH AND HIS CHOICE OF CREED.

1.      Faith moved Moses to make his choice.  Heb. 11:24

2.      Faith is found in unlikely places.  Lk. 8:3, Phil. 4:22, Acts 7:22. 

3.      Faith debunks false excuses in service. Bad environment, culture, etc.

4.      Faith doesnt need favorable circumstances to grow.

5.      Faith is of great value in the Christian home. 

II.                 THE POSITION OF FAITH AND HIS CHOICE OF CALLING.

1.      Faith refused worldly position. Heb. 11:24.

2.      Faith chooses by the influence of Gods grace.  Note 3 things.

A.     The Responsibility of his choice.  It was not made by impulsive youth but by a mature man with sound reasoning.  Acts 7:22.

B.     The Refusal of his choice.  It began with a negative before the positive.  He turned his back on earthly fame and fortune and took instead the people of Faith.  Heb. 11:24.

C.     The Response to his choice.  People were likely stunned.  This kind of choice is crazy even in todays society and is freely criticized. 

3.      Faith can do more in obscurity than the best of carnal works of the flesh.

III.               THE PAIN OF FAITH AND HIS CHOICE OF COMFORT.

1.      Faith chooses pain in this life but bliss in eternity.  Heb. 11:25.

2.      Faith makes an uncommon and difficult choice.  Most take the broad easy way.

3.      Faith is NOT sadistic.  We dont purposely look for ways to hurt ourselves for the sake of hurting and it is not wrong to avoid suffering. You can take pain-killers when you are hurting or go to the Doctor for example.  But live for God.

IV.              THE PEOPLE OF FAITH AND HIS CHOICE OF CROWD. 

1.      Faith chooses the right associates. Heb. 11:25.  No matter the cost. 

2.      Faith is not ashamed of identification with Christ and His people. Rom. 1:16.

3.      Faith flocks with the sheep.  Birds of a feather flock together.  Prov. 13:20.

4.      Faith wont mix truth and error for the sake of ecumenicalism.  We will stand alone if we must on the word of God and thus saith the Lord. 

V.                 THE PURITY OF FAITH AND HIS CHOICE OF CHARACTER.

1.      Faith chooses purity of character.  Heb. 11:25.  3 lessons about sin.

A.     The Enjoyment of sin.  It does have its pleasures.  Moses could have had a lot of it but he chose purity over sinful pleasures.

B.     The Environment for sin.  Pharaohs house could easily partake of the carnal sins of the flesh much like those in politics today.  Moses took the high road instead.  That is the way WE need to be. 

C.     The Epithet of sin.  The pleasures of sin dont last.  The thing about sin that lasts is the bitter results of its aftermath.  That can last for eternity. 

VI.              THE PREFERENCE OF FAITH AND HIS CHOICE OF CHRIST. 

1.      Faith chooses the riches of Christ over the things of the world.  Heb. 11:26.

A.     What Faith shuns. Moses rejected great fortunes of worldly treasures. Wealth is not evil in itself but even the reproaches of Christ are better than the best the world can offer. Only Faith can help you make the right choice on this issue. 

B.     What Faith selected.  Moses chose Christ.  Yes, way back then in the Old Testament, Christ is the ONLY right way to go.  Moses was not a fair weather believer.  The unsaved make the foolish choice of that which kills and they hate that which blesses and gives life.

VII.            THE PERSPECTIVE OF FAITH AND HIS CHOICE OF COMPENSATION.

1.      Faith chooses heavenly rewards.  Moses could wait for spiritual blessing rather than having the carnal pleasures of sin that only last for a while and pay off in death.  He had respect unto the recompense of the reward.  Heb. 11:26.

2.      Faith does not preach a prosperity gospel for here and now.  Our dominion over this world will come in the glorious Day of Christ when we rule and reign with Him.  In the mean time, He will take care of us - even if we are reproached with His little flock for now. 

3.      Faith can see more than the eyes of the flesh can see.  Faith can see heavenly rewards that are better than anything this wicked old world can give us. 

CONCLUSION:  Have Faith in God.  God is real and God has spoken.  Repent and Believe the Gospel.  Turn from your sins and by FAITH trust Christ as your personal Savior.  Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.  AMEN.  4/19/09. 

The Faith of Amram and Jochebed

Hebrews 11:23.

More is said about Abraham and Moses in the Heroes of Faith Hall of Fame than any others in Israel and rightfully so but our heroes today are the parents of Moses.  They were great heroes of faith and their son might not have been the man of God that he turned out to be had it not been for the faith of Amram and Jochebed.  You may remember the murderous decree given by Pharaoh, at one point, to have all Hebrew baby boys thrown into the Nile River.  When Amram and Jochebed learned that their new baby was a little boy, they began to exercise some real faith.  This is the kind of faith all of us need to practice.  It will get us through all the hard times in life and give us victory in the end.  Parents should be more concerned about faith for their children than fame, fortune or fun.  Notice eight things about faith today.

I.                    THE PRESENCE OF FAITH.  Text.

1.      By faithhis parents did not walk the worldly way.  Ezek. 20:6-8.

2.      By faith YOU can live the Christian life even if all others around you dont. 

3.      By faith we can overcome unfavorable outward circumstances in our life. 

II.                 THE PARTNERSHIP OF FAITH.  Text.

1.      By faith both parents stood together for God.

2.      By faith Amram though laboring as a slave encouraged Jochebeds stand.

3.      By faith homes today need to practice this kind of partnership.

4.      By faith young people should seek believers as their mates in life. 2Cor. 6:14.

III.               THE PERCEPTION OF FAITH.  Text.

1.      By faith they saw he was a proper child but there was more than good looks here.

2.      By faith they saw what the flesh can never perceive.

A.     Faith perceives divine truth from the word of God.

B.     Faith perceives the value of worshiping God and putting Him first.

C.     Faith perceives the importance of spiritual things over physical. 

IV.              THE PRIORITY OF FAITH.  Text.

1.      Faith obeys God rather than man.  Pharaoh says kill him but what does God say?

2.      Faith makes good citizens but it puts Gods will first.  Acts 5:29. 

V.                 THE PEACE FROM FAITH.  Text. not afraid of the Kings commandment.

1.      By faith they did not fear the government because they were right with God.

2.      By faith they did what others could not do.  Acts 7:19.

3.      By faith they endured the mocking of their old fashioned ways. 

VI.              THE PROTECTION IN FAITH.  Text. 

1.      By faith they protected Moses physically but even more important is the spiritual.

2.      Ephesians 2: 8-10, Acts 16:31.

3.      The greatest protection we can give children is faith in Gods word.  Rom. 10:17.

VII.            THE PRUDENCE OF FAITH.  Text. 

1.      Faith gave clever skill for concealing a baby for 3 months.  Baby evidences

2.      Faith makes a man wise with true wisdom from God.  Not worldly wisdom.

3.      Faith is often lacking in many so-called ministries.  Faith is not foolish. 

4.      Faith prepared the ark with wisdom.  Similar to the ark of Noah.

A.     The Plan for the ark.  Exodus 2:3.

(1)    The Concept of the ark.  Protection in the river.

(2)    The Construction of the ark.  No lack of ingenuity. Water tight.

B.     The Placement of the ark.  Exodus 2:3.

(1)    Where the Protection was (in the flags).

(2)    Where the Princess washed.  (Childless)

C.     The Playmate for the ark.  Exodus 2:4, 7-8.

(1)    An Inconspicuous watch.  She obviously wasnt the mother.

(2)    An Instructed watch.  A safe distance.  Quickly offer help. 

VIII.         THE PRIZE OF FAITH.  Exodus 2:8-9. 

1.      Faith gives a Royal home to believers.  Adopted into the Royal line to the throne.

2.      Faith arranged for the killer of Israelite baby boys to pay all the expenses for the one that would grow up and eventually lead the Israelites out of Egypt. 

3.      Faith frustrates the Devils plans and pays off big time for the people of God.

CONCLUSION:         Have faith in God.  God is real and God has spoken.  God has revealed His will to us in the 66 books of the Bible.  The rewards of faith are great and wonderful.  We may not collect all the rewards of faith in this life but we can collect enough of them to make a good preview of the great prizes of faith that are yet to come in all eternity.  The wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ the Lord.  AMEN.  4/09. 

               The Faith of Joseph

Hebrews 11:22. 

Joseph, the favored son of Jacob, is another one that is worthy of a place in the Heroes of Faith Hall of Fame here in Hebrews chapter eleven.  Like his father and grandfather, Joseph was faithful right up to the end. Isaac and Jacob were Josephs fellow heroes of faith.  Faith is a thing that can always help us even when death begins to draw near.  Unsaved sinners greatly fear death and rightly so but for the child of faith, death does not diminish the value of faith but rather it actually enhances the value of faith.  All through out the eleventh chapter of Hebrews faith is shown in precious examples of power and potency. It is a great encouragement to saints of God to continue steadfastly in faith.  Let us consider eight things about the Faith of Joseph.

I.                    THE PERSEVERENCE OF FAITH. 

1.      Joseph had faith until he died.  Text.

A.     Evil treatment from brethren did not destroy it.

B.     Enslavement did not destroy it.

C.     Elevation did not destroy it. 

II.                 THE PROFESSION OF FAITH.

1.      Joseph had faith in Gods word.  Text.

A.     In the Paternal scene.

B.     In Potiphars house.

C.     In Prison.

D.     In the Palace.

III.               THE PERSUASION IN FAITH.  Gen. 50:24-25.

1.      Joseph was dogmatic about his faith.  Dont say possibly or perhaps but SURELY!  That is the positive language we need to hear.

A.     We need it from our Medical Doctors.

B.     We need it from our Mechanical Repairmen.

C.     We need it from our Monetary men, Bankers and financiers.

D.     We need it from our Ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. 

IV.              THE PRAISE IN FAITH.  Gen. 50:24-25.

1.      Joseph honored GOD with his words of faith.

A.     Honor Gods faithfulness.  He will come through.

B.     Honor Gods holiness.  He is righteous and does all things well.

C.     Honor Gods truthfulness.  He cant lie or break a promise.

V.                 THE PREMISE OF FAITH.  Gen. 15:13-16. 

1.      Josephs faith was based on the Word of God.

A.     Joseph did not have the 66 books of the Canon like we do.

B.     Joseph believed what God said to Abram, Isaac and Jacob.

C.     Joseph did more with less.  Shame on us today who lack faith.

D.     Its not the size of your Bible that counts but the important thing is how much of your Bible do you actually believe? 

VI.              THE PATIENCE OF FAITH.  Text.

1.      Joseph spoke of his BONES not his BODY.  Gods plan often takes time. 

A.     Believers should be able to wait on God according to His time.

B.     Believers should be like Joseph.  Knowing Gods time is best.

C.     Believers shouldnt doubt if prayers arent answered immediately.

VII.            THE PROOF OF FAITH.  Text. 

1.      Joseph had two things that proved his faith.

A.     The Edict of his faith.  He backed up his words with command. 

(1.)  Many Talk faith but dont Walk faith.  We need both.

(2.)  True Faith requires Action if it is real.

(3.)  Joseph said, God will surely do what He said, so take my bones with you when He leads you back to the Promise Land. 

(4.)  Are YOU talking the talk AND walking the walk today?

(5.)  That is the kind of followers God wants to see today. 

B.     The Encouragement of his faith.  Gen. 50:25.

(1.)  Joseph was put in a coffin NOT a pyramid when he died.

(2.)  This reminded his people that God was going to keep His word.

(3.)  Proof of his faith encouraged Gods people even after death.

VIII.         THE PREFERENCE OF FAITH.  Gen. 50:25. 

1.      Notice two things about the Preference of Josephs faith.

A.     The Choice in the Preference. 

(1.)  Canaan VS Egypt and Faith VS Sight. 

(2.)  Honor from the World VS Honor from Heaven.

(3.)  Power, popularity and possessions VS Promises of God.

B.     The Compliance to the Preference. 

(1.)  Exodus 13:19, Josh. 24:32. 

(2.)  Josephs faith influenced history for good.

(3.)  Many evil men in history have done just the opposite.

(4.)  Let us learn from the faith of men like Joseph.

CONCLUSION:  The story of Joseph should be a very sobering and challenging thing in the lives of all of us.  What kind of influence will YOU leave behind?  If we walk by FAITH we will leave a good influence behind but if we continue to walk as an unbeliever, our lives will only be a curse on us and to those that follow on behind us.  Listen my friend.  God is real and God has spoken.  God is greatly offended by our sins.  Praise God, He has given us a remedy for our sins in the person of His only begotten Son, the Lord Jesus Christ who died on the cross of Calvary, was buried and rose again after three day that we might have eternal life.  Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be SAVED.  AMEN.  4/5/09.

               The Faith of Jacob

Hebrew 11:21.

Jacob is one of three Heroes of Faith that exercised Faith even at the point of death.  He did not start off very well in his early years but the longer he lived, the stronger he became in faith.  He was a man that became very consecrated to God.  He is certainly worthy of a spot in the Heroes of Faith Hall of Fame here in Hebrews chapter eleven.  Notice eight things about the faith of Jacob.

I.                    THE POWER OF FAITH.

1.      Faith when he was a dying.  Heb. 11:21, Gen. 48:1, 21.

2.      Faith when bedridden by old age.  Three bedside scenes show this.

A.     Blessing Josephs sons.  Gen. 48.

B.     Blessing all 12 sons.  Gen. 49.

C.     Giving the commands for his burial.  Gen. 49. 

3.      Faith does not require physical strength.

II.                 THE POSSESSION OF FAITH.

1.      Faith passed on to Ephraim and Manasseh.  Heb. 11:21. 

2.      Faith adopted them as his own like Reuben and Simeon.  Gen. 48:5.

3.      Faith gave Joseph a double-portion of the birthright.  (In his two sons)

A.     The Equity in their possessing.  On equal par with Josephs brothers. 

B.     The Evidence of their possessing.  Five evidences.

(1)    When Moses selected helpers from the 12 tribes. Num. 1:10.

(2)    When the tribes were numbered.  Num. 1:32 and 35.

(3)    When spies were sent into Canaan.  Num. 13:8 and 11.

(4)    When they were numbered a 2nd time.  Num. 26:34 and 37.

(5)    When the millennium is described. Ezek. 47:13 and 48:4-6. 

III.               THE PLEASURE OF FAITH.

1.      Faith sees the blessings in life.  Gen. 48:10-11.

2.      Faith wont make you sour and bitter about everything.

3.      Faith counts blessings in spite of the pain and hardships of life.

4.      Faith gives you a cheerful spirit not a complaining one. 

IV.              THE PROSTRATION BEFORE FAITH.

1.      Faith deserves honor.  Gen. 48:12. 

2.      Faith is generally despised in modern society.  They scoff and ridicule.

3.      Faith is to be honored by the highest positions.  Joseph was 2^nd to Pharaoh.

4.      Faith is greater than Fame. Fortune or Folly.  Put is first on your list. 

V.                 THE PROTESTING OF FAITH.

1.      Faith often goes contrary to human reasoning. Gen. 48:17.

A.     The Cause of the protesting.  Gen. 48:13-16.

B.     The Character of the protesting.  Gen. 48:17-18.

C.     The Conclusion of the protesting.  Gen. 48:19-20. 

VI.              THE PRONOUNCEMENTS OF FAITH.

1.      Faith pronounced some detailed blessings.  Heb. 11:21.

A.     The Source of the blessing.  The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

(1)    God of Fellowship.  Gen. 48:15.  They all worship Him.

(2)    God of Faithfulness.  Fed is translated shepherd.  That He is. 

(3)    God of Forgiveness.  Gen. 48:16.  Christ the Redeemer. 

B.     The Status in the blessing.  They were identified with the name Jacob.

C.     The Seed in the blessing. Faith sees children as a blessing.  Ps. 127:3-5.

D.     The Symbol in the blessing. Gen. 48:20.  This was a saying in Israel.

E.      The Site in the blessing. Gen. 48:22.  This is the Promised Land. 

VII.            THE PRIZE OF FAITH.

1.      Faith gives the best.  Joseph was more faithful and was blessed more. Gen. 48:22.

2.      Faith gets double blessings.  Jacobs blessing had two parts. 

A.     The Birthright. Reuben the 1^st born lost it to Joseph. Its based on merit.

(1)    Joseph was superior to all his brothers in faith.

(2)    Israel pictures the 2 parts of the blessing in the two divisions.

a.       The Northern Kingdom.  Called Ephraim.  The larger double portion and carnal side of Israel.

b.       The Southern Kingdom.  Called Judah.  The spiritual side of Israel through whom came the redeemer. 

B.     The Divine-Prince. Reuben lost it to Judah. Its based on mercy.

(1)    Judah was a sinner but he repented and received mercy. 

a.       Grace brings great blessings to those that repent.

b.       Christ is the only mediator of Gods mercy.

VIII.         THE PIETY OF FAITH.

1.      Faith worships.  Heb. 11:21.

A.     The Fact of his worship.  There is not true faith without worship.

(1)    You can attend worship services without faith but you cant have faith without worshiping. 

(2)    If you SAY you love God but you neglect His house, you lie. 

B.     The Fervency of his worship.  Even with a crutch or a cane he worshiped.  It isnt always easy to worship but faith finds a way. 

(1)    Faith makes worship important enough to overcome obstacles.

(2)    Faith wont make flimsy excuses to miss church. 

CONCLUSION:  Thank God for the faith of men like Jacob.  Men that grew in grace and stood firm for the truth, in the end - no matter what.  Men who, in spite of their old age and physical weakness, stood for the truth of God even if it meant leaning on their staff to do it.  How is it with you?  Do you know the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob?  They all looked by faith to Christ.  Christ is the only hope for lost sinners.  Do you see your need of a savior today?  Christ is the only one who can save you.  Look to Him now by faith and trust Him as your personal Savior.  AMEN.  3/22/09. 

                The Faith of Isaac

Hebrews 11:20. 

Isaac is another one of the Heroes of Faith listed here in this chapter of the inspired word of God.  He is not as shining of an example as some of the others but never the less he carried on the faith in spite of his weaknesses.  He is recorded as passing on the Patriarchal Blessing to his two sons when he thought he was very near the time of his death.  We read about that in Gen. 27:1-4.  Each of his sons, Jacob and Esau, were assigned different portions.  The main portion went to Jacob.  As the story of the Blessing unfolds we see that in the first place Isaac did not have a heart that was in tune with the will of the Lord on this matter but in the end His faith does indeed acknowledge the will of the Lord in His divine providence.  Consider seven things. 

I.                    THE PROCLAIMING OF FAITH.

1.      Faith is proclaimed by the actual words of the blessing.  Heb. 11:20.

2.      Faith in Abrahams blessing is passed on by Isaac.  He believed it.

3.      Faith is not nullified by erroneous intentions.  God is in control. 

II.                 THE POWER OF FAITH.

1.      Faith gives one the power to bless others.  By Faith he blessed

2.      Faith is better to pass on than fame and fortune.

3.      Faith is not a curse like monetary wealth can be. 

4.      Faith is not seen in your Will but in your life. 

5.      Faith is more powerful than anything else you can leave your children. 

III.               THE PREMIUM IN FAITH.

1.      Faith has to do with premium things that are yet to come.  Heb. 11:20.

2.      Faith looks forward to the blessings of Christ.  Gal. 3:8. 

3.      Faith in Christ is the most important thing.  Mark. 8:36.

4.      Faith should be the emphasis of true churches not only the social needs. 

5.      Faith is spiritual not carnal.  God help us all in this area of our lives. 

IV.              THE PROBLEM FOR FAITH.

1.      Faith must fight against fleshly appetites.  Gen. 27:1-4.

2.      Faith puts Gods word first.  Gen. 25:23.

3.      Faith does not sell out Gods birthright but confirms the word of God. 

4.      Faith wont flirt with fleshly desire that leads only to sinful conduct. 

V.                 THE PENITENCE OF FAITH.

1.      Faith recognizes ones error and makes the correction needed. Gen. 27:33.

2.      Faith repents of doing wrong like Isaac did with Jacob & Esaus blessings. 

A.     The Speaking of the repentance.  He trembled very exceedingly.

B.     The Strength of the repentance.  Gen. 27:38, Heb. 12:17.

3.      Faith can break down and over come fleshly sentiments.

4.      Faith is the most important thing in this life.  Matt. 22:13, 24:51, 25:30. 

VI.              THE PERCEPTION OF FAITH. 

1.      Faith is the substance of things hoped for.  Heb. 11:1.

2.      Faith can see the future and eternal things clearly.  It stresses the hereafter. 

VII.            THE PATIENCE OF FAITH. 

1.      Faith has patience to wait for the promises.  things to come.

2.      Faith believes God regardless of the circumstances.

3.      Faith wont take shortcuts in the Devils get it now program.

A.     He says why wait for marriage to have sex?

B.     He says why wait and work to earn your money? 

Conclusion:  God is real and God has spoken.  Have faith in God.  He cannot lie and He cannot break a promise.  It is always better to wait on the Lord and enjoy His blessings in His good time than to listen to the world, the flesh or the Devil.  The Bible says the Just shall live by Faith.  Hear the word of the Lord now and believe.  It all starts for the redeemed with Faith.  Well did the writer of Hebrews say in Heb. 10:36 Ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.  Faith can give you the patience you need to wait on the Lord for His future blessings but you must begin by faith.  AMEN.  3/09.

                    The Faith of Commitment

Hebrews 11:17-19.

This portion of the Faith Chapter deals with a second section on Abraham.  The first section that we looked at had to do with his call.  This section has to do with his commitment.  Abraham is one of the most shining examples in the Heroes of Faith Hall of Fame.  No wonder he is called the father of the faithful.  The commitment of Abrahams faith is seen in his offering up Isaac.  Nothing is more remarkable than this commitment.  Abraham puts to shame most of us today and our lack of commitment to obey God. 

I.                    THE PROBING OF FAITH.  The school of faith has tests.

1.      The Regularity of tests.  Offering Isaac wasnt the first one.

A.     The Forsaking test.  Leaving Ur.

B.     The Famine test.  After arriving in Canaan.

C.     The Falsehood test.  Sarah in Egypt.

D.     The Family test.  Parting with Lot.

E.      The Fortune test.  After defeating Chedorlaomer.

F.      The Fatherhood test.  Had Ishmael by Hagar.

G.     The Foremost test.  Offering Isaac.

2.      The Responses to tests. 

A.     Abraham failed many of his tests.  He took kin with him to the promise land.  He left the promise land during the famine.  He lied about Sarah being his wife.  He had Ishmael by Hagar, etc. 

B.     When he failed, God didnt lower the standard.  He simply had to do better next time.  We need more of that in schools today.

3.      The Reason for the tests. 

A.     Not to embarrass the student but to show how well we are learning.

B.     For believers they increase our faith.  God will provide.  Gen. 22:13.

C.     For believers they improve our service.  Points to Christ.  Gal. 3:8. 

4.      The Rigor of the tests. 

A.     The toughest tests are for the toughest saints.  1^st graders dont get college tests.  Dont confuse a test with a chastisement.  Ponder this.

B.     Faith will sustain trials, perform duties and obtain great blessings.   

II.                 THE PIETY OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:17.

1.      True faith is demonstrated by worship.  Abrahams worship showed his faith.

A.     Notice the Distance for the worship.

(1.)  It took effort to go 3 days journey to worship.

(2.)  Today people wont even dress up for church.

(3.)  Clock-watchers dont want overtime in church but its OK in when their sports team is playing and theyll gladly miss the evening services when it happens.  .

B.     Notice the Distraction from the worship.

(1.)  Think of the burden on Abrahams mind on the way to worship. 

(2.)  He had a family reason for missing worship but he went anyway. 

(3.)  David lost a child but look at 2Sam. 12:20. 

(4.)  It is times like these when we need to worship the most. 

(5.)  Skipping worship wont make problems go away.  They grow. 

C.     Notice the Donation in the worship.  Offered Isaac.

(1.)  True worship does not happen without offerings.

(2.)  Offerings are often opposed but they speak much of your faith.

(3.)  Notice the Size of Abrahams offering.  What he most loved.

(4.)  Notice the Sacrifice of it.  The sacrifice determines the size. Remember the widows mite in Lk. 21:2-4. 

III.               THE PRIORITY OF FAITH. 

1.      Those that live by faith have their priorities right.  Matt. 6:33. 

2.      Abrahams test came down to this question; what is number one, God or our personal feelings about the matter? 

3.      It is the same question Jesus asked Peter in the N.T.  Jn. 21:15. 

4.      Having your priorities right is the secret to success in your spiritual life. 

IV.              THE PERPLEXITY OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:18.

1.      Faith doesnt mean you will always understand everything that happens in life. 

2.      If Isaac were slain, how will the promises be fulfilled? 

3.      True faith requires that we obey what God says regardless of what our human reasoning tells us.  Gods wisdom is superior to human wisdom. 

V.                 THE POWER OF FAITH.  Heb. 11:19.

1.      Abrahams perplexity was canceled by his faith in the power of God.

2.      Abraham had learned that God has power over death.   Heb. 11:12, Rom. 4:19.

3.      Unbelief leaves out the Power of God and denies the miracles of the Bible. 

4.      Faith rests its case with the Power of God.  Gen. 18:14.  Anything too hard?

VI.              THE PORTRAYAL OF FAITH.

1.      Abrahams experience was a figure of the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ.

2.      One of the greatest pictures of the Gospel in the O.T.  Notice 5 things.

A.     The Person in the offering.  Jn. 3:16.

B.     The Place of the offering.  Land of Moriah later known as Jerusalem.

C.     The Provision for the offering.  Gen. 22:13.  Figure of substitution.

D.     The Preservation of the offering.  Taking Isaac off the altar where the ram died in his place pictures the resurrection of Christ did for us.

E.      The Perception in the offering.  Jesus said Abraham rejoiced to see my day.  Jn. 8:56.  That happened right here. 

VII.            THE PROOF OF FAITH.

1.      Abrahams faith proved his commitment to God. 

2.      True faith demonstrates total subjection to the sovereignty of God. 

3.      Let faith prove your Christianity.  Take a stand right now.

A.     No more meager giving to the work of God.

B.     No more skipping church for other things.

C.     No more worldly lifestyles. 

CONCLUSION:  Faith is a good thing indeed.  It gives proof of your genuine love for God.  One of the ways that faith is validated is by how committed you are in your life for God and in your service to Him.  If God has spoken to your heart, do not listen to the lies of the Devil.  Do not listen to the wicked wisdom of the world.  Dont even listen to the carnal inclinations of your own human nature but hear the word of the Lord and believe HIM.  He can be trusted.  Trust Him now.  AMEN.  3/09