Text: Mark 4:35-41
Title: Lessons from a Storm
Introduction: “The same day” refers to the day on which Jesus gave the “parables of the kingdom.” He had been teaching His disciples the Word and now He would give them a practical test to see how much they had really learned. After all, the hearing of God’s Word is intended to produce faith (Rom. 10:17); and faith must always be tested. It is not enough for us merely to learn a lesson or be able to repeat a teaching. We must also be able to practice that lesson by faith, and that is one reason why God permits trials to come to our lives.

The storm was a part of that day’s curriculum. It would help the disciples understand a lesson that they did not even know they needed to learn: Jesus can be trusted in the storms of life. Many people have the idea that storms come to their lives only when they have disobeyed God, but this is not always the case. Jonah ended up in a storm because of his disobedience, but the disciples got into a storm because of their obedience to the Lord.

Note: Sea of Galilee – No less than nine very populous cities stood on the very shores of the lake. The Sea of Galilee is of an oval long. It is 60 miles northeast of Jerusalem and 27 east of the Mediterranean Sea. Its more remarkable feature is its deep depression, being no less than 700 feet below the level of the ocean.

Note: Let’s carefully look into this lesson.

I. The Timing of the Storm

A. It was Unexpected – v37

Proverbs 27:1
Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.

Note – It did not take God by surprise.

B. It came during a busy season

C. It came during a time when they had a sense of security.

1. The Peaceful Seas.

2. The Saviour was with them.

Job 14:1
Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.

II. Their Testimony in the Storm
Quote – Your greatest sermon will be YOU in the valley – Dr. David Gibbs

A. Their Focus was Obstructed – v37
Note: Storms can fill you up
Note: Circumstances began to dictate their agenda
Quotes – Obstacles are those frightful things we see when we take our eyes off the goal.

Hebrews 12:2-3
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.

Note: This is the most important focal point!

B. Their Fear was Overwhelming – v38
Note: The storm described here must have been especially fierce if it frightened experienced fishermen like the disciples.
Note: Fear can cause you to think irrationally.

Quote: How often we look upon God as our last and feeblest resource! We go to him because we have nowhere else to go. And then we learn that the storms of life have driven us, not upon the rocks, but into the desired haven. – George MacDonald
Quote – God often brings storms into our lives to change our perspective, to shift the focus from ourselves and our lives to Him.

Psalms 145:19
He will fulfil the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them.

Psalms 34:17
The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.

1 Peter 5:7
Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

III. The Triumph Over the Storm
Note: How do you triumph over your storms?

A. The Promise of Christ – v35
“Pass over”
Note: …They had His promise that they were going to the other side… His commandments are always His enablements and nothing can hinder the working out of His plans. He did not promise an easy trip, but He did promise a guaranteed arrival at their destination.
Note: He does not guarantee a smooth journey but a sure landing!

1 Thessalonians 5:24
Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

B. The Presence of Christ – v38
Turn – Heb 13:5-6

Note: They could see that Jesus was perfectly at peace, even in the midst of the storm. This fact alone should have encouraged them.

C. The Peace of Christ – v39
Note: The Word of God brings peace
The winds that Satan blows can be overcome by the Word of God!

Turn – Psalm 107:25-29

Philippians 4:6-7
Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

D. The Principles of Christ
Note: Storms/trials are God’s Master’s Program to teach us His greatest truths!

Romans 8:28 
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

1. Full of Fear because of no faith.
Isaiah 41:10
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

2. Misplaced Fear – v41
Psalms 85:9
Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him; that glory may dwell in our land.

Note: They transferred their fear to the Lord.
Quote – We fear man, circumstances, for our safety so much because we fear God so little!

Note: Our greatest problems are within us, not around us. – Warren Wiersbe

Note: Jesus completed the lesson and then gave His disciples an unexpected examination! They had listened to the Word of God (Parables of Christ), and that Word should have increased their faith (Rom. 10:17).

Alas, they failed the test! It is not unusual for terrible storms to come suddenly on the Sea of Galilee, although this one may have been satanic in origin. The word “rebuked” in v. 39 is the same word Jesus used when dealing with the demons (1:25). Perhaps the enemy was trying to keep Jesus from arriving at Gadara, where He would deliver two demoniacs from Satan’s power. “With Christ in the vessel, you can smile at the storm”—if your faith is in Him and Him alone.

Conclusion: This was only one of many lessons Jesus would teach His disciples in the familiar surroundings of the Sea of Galilee, and each lesson would reveal some wonderful new truth about the Lord Jesus. They already knew that He had the authority to forgive sins, to cast out demons, and to heal diseases. Now they discovered that He even had authority over the wind and the sea. This meant that they had no reason ever again to be afraid, for their Lord was in constant control of every situation.

What Does the Bible Say?

It is not uncommon today for an author or teacher to criticize a church for holding up a standard in Christian living. Some have suggested that a sure sign of “legalism” is when a ministry dares to mention a “list” by which one should live. But what if the Bible presents a list? What if God’s Word says we should or shouldn’t do something? Would it be okay—at a very minimum —to obey the Bible?

Listed below are Scriptures which help to form principles for genuine Christian living. Bible Baptist Church leaders are challenged to test our attitudes, actions, appearance, and associations by the following verses.

Our Personal Walk with Christ

Joshua 1:8

“8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”
Micah 6:8

“8 He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”
Luke 18:1

“1 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;”
Galatians 5:16

“16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”
2 Timothy 2:15

“15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
1 Thessalonians 5:17

“17 Pray without ceasing.”

Our Church Life and Ministry

Malachi 3:10

“10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.”

Matthew 28:19–20

“19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
1 Thessalonians 5:12–13

“12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;

13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.”
Hebrews 10:25

“25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

Our Entertainment & Recreation

Psalm 101:3

“3 I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.”
Romans 13:14

“14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.”
Ephesians 5:19

“19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;”
Philippians 1:10

“10 That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;”
Philippians 4:8

“8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
1 Thessalonians 5:22

“22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.”

Our Daily Lifestyle

Proverbs 20:1

“1 Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise.”
Proverbs 23:31

“31 Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright.”
1 Corinthians 6:19-20

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

20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”
1 Corinthians 10:31

“31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
2 Corinthians 6:17

“17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,”
1 Timothy 4:12

“12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
1 Peter 1:15

“15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;”

Our Personal Appearance

1 Corinthians 11:14

“14 Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him?”
1 Thessalonians 5:22

“22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.”
1 Timothy 2:9
“9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;”

Text: Psalm 126:5-6
Title: Soul Winning
Introduction: This psalm is entitled simply “A Song of Degrees.” There can be no doubt as to the occasion on which it was written, for it bears evidence of having been written with reference to the return from Babylon. It may have been designed to be sung as the returning captives went up to Jerusalem, but was more probably written following that event, as to keep it in remembrance.

Note: Psalm 126 Here the restored exiles rejoice in the Lord’s deliverance (vv. 1-3), pray for the restoration of others (v. 4), and take confidence in the principle of sowing and reaping (vv. 5-6).
126:5-6 The efforts of the exiles to reestablish the nation amid difficulties will someday come to fruition like a harvest, a principle applicable to Christian work as well.

Note: It is both a prayer for captives and a testimony to the conviction that God will bring His people home rejoicing.

Note: We can also make a Practical application of this verse in relation to soul winning.

1. The Duty of the Soul Winner
   Quote: The only alternative to soul winning is disobedience – Curtis Hutson 

   Ill: An old deacon was leading in prayer using one of his stereotypical phrases, “Oh Lord, touch the unsaved with Thy finger.”

    

   As he intoned this phrase in this particular prayer, he stopped short. Other members came to his side and asked if he were ill.
   “No,” he replied, “but something seemed to say to me, “Thou art the finger.”

2. 1. Go – “he that goeth”
      Matt. 28:18-20
      18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
      

      19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
      

      20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

      Mark 16:15
      15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

      Quote: As a Christian, you are either a missionary or an impostor. – Charles Spurgeon

   2. To Show Compassion – “weepeth”
      Definition: bewail, cry, shed tears
      (in grief, humiliation, or joy)
      Note: because of trials, obstacles, discouragements
      Note: Weeping must not hinder sowing; when we suffer ill we must be doing well.Jude 22
      22 And of some have compassion, making a difference: 

      Matt. 9:36
      36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.

       

   3. To Bring the Word of God – “bearing”
      1 Pet. 1:23
      23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.Note: We are not to bring our own version of the gospel but the Gospel
      1 Cor. 15:1-4 

      Ill: A Soulwinner is a signpost for the Lord… as long clear and gives a direction

      1 Thess. 2:9
      9 For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.

       

   Ill: On May, 19th, 1780, in Hartford, Connecticut. The sky went from blue to gray at noon. Shortly thereafter the sky was so dark that men believed the end of the universe had come and fell to their knees begging for a final blessing. The House of Representatives was meeting, and many representatives asked for the meeting to be adjourned immediately. The Speaker of the House, Colonel Davenport, rose to his feet and silenced the men with these words, “The Day of Judgment is either approaching or it is not. If it is not, there is no cause for adjournment. If it is, I choose to be found doing my duty. I wish, therefore, that candles may be brought.”
   (The Duty of the Soul Winner)
   

3. The Direction of the Soul Winner
   
   1. Everywhere – “forth”
      Note – speaks of going forward, away, out, up and down.
      Acts 1:8
      8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.Acts 5:42
      42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ. 

      Note: You can’t take the gospel to the wrong place.
      Note: Do it all the time.
      Turn: Ecclesiastes 11:4-6

       

   2. Back – “come again”
      Note: The captives in Babylon were long sowing in tears, but at length they were brought forth with joy, and then they reaped the benefit of their patient suffering, and brought their sheaves with them to their own land.Note – to the local church.
      Turn: Acts 2:41-47 

       

   (The Duty of the SoulWinner, The Direction of the Soulwinner)

4. The Delight of the Soul Winner
   
   1. The Promise of God – “doubtless”
      Isa. 55:11
      11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.Quote: Soulwinning will not work every time you don’t have it. – Paul Chappell 

       

      1. Promise of a Harvest – “bringing his sheaves with him”
         Turn: Luke 5:1-6Note: We must sow: we may have to sow in the wet weather of sorrow; but we shall reap, and reap in the bright summer season of joy. Let us keep to the work of this present sowing time, and find strength in the promise which is here so positively given us. 

         Galatians 6:9
         9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

         Note: Like seed, lie buried under the soil, but take effect and will rise up in due time. We should wait patiently for the growth of them, as the husbandman for the fruits of the earth; in due time they will produce a large crop of blessings, a plentiful harvest,

         1 Cor. 3:7
         7 So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.

         Note: We are not fruit-inspectors but seed-sowers.

         Ill: Some of the greatest missionaries of history devotedly spread the seed of God’s Word and yet had to wait long periods before seeing the fruit of their efforts. William Carey, for example, labored 7 years before the first Hindu convert was brought to Christ in Burma, and Adoniram Judson toiled 7 years before his faithful preaching was rewarded by seeing his first converts.

          

      2. Promise of Joy – “rejoicing”
         Note: He will be abundantly rewarded for all his toil; he will see the fruit of his labors; he will be filled with joy. The design of this illustration was, undoubtedly, to cheer the hearts of the exiles in their long and dangerous journey to their native landNote: The secret to service when sorrowing is to keep on sowing!
         Note: Remove emotion it would still produce. Don’t be led by emotion!
         Be led by obedience!
         Note: It did not say, “He that soweth tears shall reap joy” but.. “IN” 

         Note: Though the sowing of seed is a work of labor and sorrow—often a work so burdening the farmer that he weeps—yet the return—the harvest—is accompanied with rejoicing. The truth is expressed in a general form, as illustrating the idea that enterprises which are begun under many difficulties, and which require much labor, will be crowned with success, and that the joy is more than an equivalent for all the weariness and sorrow.

         Quote: “Success is going from failure to failure without losing your enthusiasm.”—Abraham Lincoln

          

   2. The Power of God
      Matt. 28:18
      18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
      20 …
      : and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.
      Note: From beginning to end of the Great Comission, we have God’s assurance.Acts 1:8a
      8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: 

      Rom. 1:16
      16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

       

   Ill: Has it ever been done before?
   The early churches were able to accomplish the Great Commission by the Power of God through His Spirit!
   Turn: Colossians 1:5-6, 23
   Note: Without modern technology mics, internet, livestream
   
   

Conclusion: “Sometimes when we read the words of those who have been more than conquerors, we feel almost despondent. I feel that I shall never be like that. But they won through step by step, by little bits of wills, little denials of self, little inward victories, by faithfulness in very little things. They became what they are. No one sees these little hidden steps. They only see the accomplishment, but even so, those small steps were taken. There is no sudden triumph, no spiritual maturity. That is the work of the moment.”—Amy Carmichael

The Duty of the Soul Winner
The Direction of the Soul Winner
The Delight of the Soul Winner

Text: 2 Corinthians 1:1-6
Title:
The God of All Comfort
Introduction: Paul wrote 1 Corinthians from Ephesus, where he had been ministering for three years. He sent this letter to the church by Timothy (1 Cor. 4:17), but problems in the church only grew worse.
Paul had organized the Corinthian church during his second missionary trip.
Perhaps it was young Timothy’s timidity that made the believers at Corinth disobey Paul’s words. At any rate, Paul then sent Titus to Corinth to make sure the church obeyed the apostolic orders Paul had given them (2 Cor. 7:13-15). Paul had promised the Corinthians that he would visit them (1 Cor. 16:3-7), but circumstances were such that he was delayed along the way. He had hoped to meet Titus at Troas but this plan failed.
As you read 2 Cor. 1-2, you feel the burden and heartache of Paul, suffering both physically and emotionally. While at Troas, Paul did some preaching, then made his way to Macedonia. He and Titus finally met, most likely at Philippi (2 Cor. 7:5-6), and Titus gave Paul the good news that the majority at Corinth were behind him and would obey his word. It was this joy that prompted him to write this second letter to the Corinthians.

Note – Here we find our verse. Our encouragement as Christians, as Paul desired to encourage the Christians at Corinth.

1. We Understand “Who” Our Comfort Is -v3
   Note – “Blessed be God”Note – The word “comfort” is used ten times in vv. 1-7 (“consolation” in 5, 6, and 7) and literally means “to call to one’s side.” It is the same word Jesus used in John 14:16 for the Spirit, the Comforter (Paraclete).

   1. The Father of Jesus Christ
      Ephesians 1:3
      Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
      
   2. Father of Mercies
      Note – Father of mercies–that is, the SOURCE of all mercies

      James 1:17
      Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
      
      Hebrews 4:16
      Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.Psalms 86:5
      For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.

   3. The God of All Comfort
      Note – comfort–which flows from His “mercies” experienced.Like a true man of faith, Paul mentions “mercies” and “comfort,” before he proceeds to speak of afflictions (2Co_1:4-6).
      The “tribulation” of believers is not inconsistent with God’s mercy, and does not generate in them doubt about it; but in the end they feel that He is “the God of ALL comfort,” meaning, Who imparts the only true and perfect comfort in every instance 1 Peter 5:10
      But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.

      Turn – Romans 15:13

      Note – All Three Persons of the Godhead are active in the Comforting Work!

    

   Each member of the blessed Trinity is a Comforter.
   1.    The Father (2 Cor. 1:3; Isa. 49:13)
   2.    The Son (Jn. 14:1; Isa. 61:2; 2 Thess. 2:16).
   3.    The Holy Spirit (Jn. 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7).
   

   
   The word for “comfort” comes from two Greek words, para (alongside) and kaleo (to call). Thus, to comfort a person is to answer his call and walk alongside him to cheer him, guide him, and, on occasion, to defend him.

   The Greek word was often used in a court of justice to denote a legal counsel for the defense, one who would plead another’s cause—advocate.

   Ill – Son going to a party in a blizzard…the Father just following him in the shadows.

2. We Understand “What” His Comfort Does – v4

   1. He Comforteth us –
      Turn – Isa. 51:12John 14:16
      And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
      
      2 Corinthians 7:6
      Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;
      
      Quote – D Martin Lloyd Jones – It is grace at the beginning, and grace at the end. So that when you and I come to lie upon our death beds, the one thing that should comfort and help and strengthen us there is the thing that helped us in the beginning. Not what we have been, not what we have done, but the Grace of God in Jesus Christ our Lord. The Christian life starts with grace, it must continue with grace, it ends with grace. Grace wondrous grace. By the grace of God I am what I am. Yet not I, but the Grace of God which was with me.
      

   2. In all our Tribulation
      Note – in every circumstance
      (Physical fatigue, Spiritual, Mental distress)

      Romans 8:28
      And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.Quote – We must never think that trouble is an accident. For the believer, everything is a divine appointment. There are only three possible outlooks a person can take when it comes to the trials of life. If our trials are the products of “fate” or “chance,” then our only recourse is to give up. Nobody can control fate or chance. If we have to control everything ourselves, then the situation is equally as hopeless. But if God is in control, and we trust Him, then we can overcome circumstances with His help.

      Quote – Charles Spurgeon –

      
      There is no attribute of God more comforting to His children than the doctrine of Divine Sovereignty. Under the most adverse circumstances, in the most severe troubles, they believe that Sovereignty hath ordained their afflictions, that Sovereignty overrules them, and that Sovereignty will sanctify them all.Hebrews 13:5
      Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

3. We Understand the “Why” of His Comfort – v4-6
   
   1. That we may Comfort others – v4
      Note – The apostle lived, not only for himself, but also for others. Whatever comfort He experienced from the Lord, he considered it not for himself alone, but that he might have the greater ability to help others.Note – Don’t waste your trial!
      Note – the greater the trial, the greater the opportunity to minister.

      Note – Paul’s point is that our own sufferings enable us to identify with those who suffer—and enable them to identify with us. Then they will sense the reality of the comfort we have received from God and find their own comfort in Him.

      v6-7: Note – which is effectual–literally, “worketh effectually.”

      Note – Paul’s example would enable other Christians to endure when similar troubles faced them.

   2. That we may know Christ- v5
      Note – by ChristPhilippians 3:10
      That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

      1. We know Him in His sufferings
         Turn – 2 Cor. 4:10-11Note – sufferings of Christ
         The sufferings endured, whether by Himself, or by His children, with which He considers Himself identified
         Christ calls His people’s sufferings His own suffering:
         ~because of the sympathy and union between Him and us

         Romans 8:17
         And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.

         ~They are borne for His sake

      2. We know Him through His Comfort
         Turn – 2 Thess. 2:16-17Note – There is a vast difference between sympathy and empathy. The first can only say, “I’m sorry for what you’re going through,” but the second may state, “I know exactly what you’re going through.” Thus, because our Lord Jesus suffered all things, he is able to offer all comfort.
         Turn – Heb. 4:15

Conclusion: Joe Scriven was a missionary from Ireland to Canada, working among the Iroquois Indians. He was joined by his fiancé who was also from Ireland. Just before the wedding, she was killed in an ice accident. Joe buried her with his own hands, and a broken heart. A year later, in a letter to his mother, he reflected, “What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged. Take it to the Lord in prayer.”

Text: James 5:16-18
Title: Earnest Prayer
Introduction: Little Johnnie was saying his bedtime prayers a week before his birthday. In a loud voice he listed all the things he wanted. “Do not pray so loudly,” his mother instructed. “The Lord is not hard of hearing!” “Maybe He isn’t,” admitted Johnnie, “but Grandma is.” A lot of our prayers may be like Johnnie’s.
Note – Today, we will learn what it means to pray earnestly!

1. Our Engagement in Prayer – v16
   
   1. Confession
      Note – vs 14-15
      
      Note - Confess your faults one to another,…. Which must be understood of sins committed against one anothe
      Note – It is not the anointing that heals, but the praying. The Greek word translated “anointing” is a medicinal term. This may be an indication that James suggests using available means for healing along with asking the Lord for His divine touch. God can heal with or without means; in each case, it is God who does the healing.)Psalms 66:18
      If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:

      Proverbs 28:13
      He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.

   2. Righteousness
      Philippians 3:9
      And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:Psalms 34:15
      The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry.
      
      Proverbs 15:29
      The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.
      

   3. Fervency
      Note - intense and fervent, not “wavering”
      Note - signifying energetic supplication, or such a prayer as is suggested to the soul and wrought in it by a Divine energy.Romans 8:26
      Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
      
      Turn – Jer. 29:12-13

      Romans 12:11
      Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
      
      Note – is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire? – Corrie Ten Boom
      
      Quote - It is not the arithmetic of our prayers, how many they are; nor the rhetoric of our prayers, how eloquent they may be; nor the geometry of our prayers, how long they be; nor the logic of our prayers, how argumentative they may be; nor the method of our prayers, how orderly they may be: it is fervency of spirit which availeth much!

   Ill – It is well to let prayer be the first employment in the early morning and the last in the evening. Avoid diligently those false and deceptive thoughts which say, “I will pray an hour hence; I must first perform this or that.” For with such thoughts a man quits prayer for business, which lays hold of and entangles him so that he comes not to pray the whole day long.
   – Martin Luther

   I. Engagement in Prayer

2. An Example in Prayer – Elijah – v17
   Note – The background of this incident is found in 1 Kings 17-18 (1 Kings 18:41-45). Wicked King Ahab and Jezebel, his queen, had led Israel away from the Lord and into the worship of Baal. God punished the nation by holding back the rain that they needed. For three and one half years, the heavens were as brass and the earth unable to produce the crops so necessary for life. Then Elijah challenged the priests of Baal on Mt. Carmel—He had proven that Jehovah was the true God. But the nation still needed rain. Elijah went to the top of Carmel and fell down before the Lord in prayer. He prayed and sent his servant seven times to see if there was evidence of rain; and the seventh time his servant saw a little cloud. Before long, there was a great rain, and the nation was saved.
   
   1. He just like we are
      Note – with weaknesses; He was not perfect; in fact, right after his victory on Mt. Carmel, Elijah became afraid and discouraged and ran away.Note – It was not a matter of being a great man but having a great God!
      Note – God is no respecter of persons but He honors faith!

      Turn - 1 Kings 17:1

      Quote – “Wise indeed was the person who said, “Courage is fear that has said its prayers.”

      Hebrews 11:6
      But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
      

   2. He Prayed
      Turn - Romans 11:2
      God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,
      
      1. Earnestly – “he prayed earnestly”
         proseuchē — only 1 time translated as “earnestly”
         21x as prayer, 15x as prayersNote – He prayed in prayer.

         Ephesians 6:18
         Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
         

      2. Specifically – “that it might not rain”
         Note – Be specific when you pray.
         Note – “…the land of Judea”…for this drought did not extend elsewhere.
         for three years and six months.1 John 5:15
         And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.
         

      3. Believingly – 1 Kings 17:1
         Note – AhabMatthew 21:22
         And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.
         

      4. With Yieldedness– v18a
         “and he prayed again…”Turn - 1 King 18:1
         Note - God told him He would send the rain (1 Kings 18:1).

         “Prayer,” said Robert Law, “is not getting man’s will done in heaven. It’s getting God’s will done on earth.” You cannot separate the Word of God and prayer, for in His Word He gives us the promises that we claim when we pray.

      5. Persistently
         Note - Elijah was not only believing in his praying, but he was persistent.
         “He prayed . . . and he prayed again” (James 5:17-18).
         On Mt. Carmel, Elijah continued to pray for rain until his servant reported “a cloud the size of a man’s hand.” Too many times we fail to get what God promises because we stop praying.Turn - 1 Kings 18:42

         Luke 18:1
         And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;
         

I. Engagement in Prayer
II. Example in Prayer

1. An Encouragement in Prayer – v18
   
   1. God Hears and Answers – “and the heaven gave rain”
      Turn - Matt. 7:7-11
      Turn - 1 Kings 18:41-45Note – it may take some time, but He hears!

   2. God has the power to change impossible circumstances.
      Note - Prayer can accomplish the impossible—”Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.Quote - Prayer power is the greatest power in the world today. “Tremendous power is made available through a good man’s earnest prayer”
      History shows how mankind has progressed from manpower to horsepower, and then to dynamite and TNT, and now to atomic power. But greater than atomic power is prayer power. – Warren Wiersbe

      Quote - Men may spurn our appeals, reject our message, oppose our arguments, despise our persons, but they are helpless against our prayers. – J. Sidlow Baxter

      Jeremiah 14:22
      Are there any among the vanities of the Gentiles that can cause rain? or can the heavens give showers? art not thou he, O LORD our God? therefore we will wait upon thee: for thou hast made all these things.
      
      Ephesians 3:20
      Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
      

Conclusion: Review the Points
I. Engagement in Prayer – We must pray!

II. Example in Prayer – A Person just like us whom God used greatly!

III. Our Encouragement in Prayer – We have a God who can do the impossible!

“There is a Christian failure to distinguish between socializing and fellowship. Although socializing is often both a part of and the context of fellowship, it is possible to socialize without having fellowship. Socializing involves the sharing of human and earthly life. Christian fellowship, New Testament koinonia, involves the sharing of spiritual life. Don’t misunderstand— socializing is a valuable asset to the church and necessary for a balanced life. But we have gone beyond giving socializing the place it deserves. We have become willing to accept it as a substitute for fellowship, almost cheating ourselves of the Christian birthright of true fellowship altogether.”—Donald Whitney

It is not inconsistent with spiritual power; the Holy Ghost may work in the channels of order and systematic work, but all of this may exist in the most complete form and yet it be simply a religious club and ecclesiastical machinery.

A minister may build up his church just as a man builds up his business, and the ambition which accomplishes his splendid ideal may be of precisely the same kind as that which has founded and consummated the great financial enterprises of our age. There is a no more perfect organization in the world than Romanism. Its machinery is superb, but it knows nothing of spiritual power.

(Excerpt from his book “Walking in the Spirit” by A.B. Simpson; Chapter 11: The Spirit of Power)

Text: Matthew 14:22-33
Title: Ejecting From Our Comfort Zones
Introduction: The African Impala can jump to a height of over ten feet and cover a distance of greater than thirty feet. Yet these magnificent creatures can be kept in an enclosure in any zoo with a three foot wall. The animals will not jump if they cannot see where their feet will fall.

Faith is leaping when you can’t see where you’re going to land. It is taking action based on the unseen fulfillment of God’s promises.

v1-12: Death of John the Baptist
vs13-21: Five thousand people miraculously fed.

1. A Dangerous Dilemma
   V22: He sent His disciples
   Note: Constrained
   

   1) to necessitate, compel, drive to, to force
   

   V23: Jesus spent time alone in prayer.
   Note: The importance of solitude.

   Mark 1:35
   35 And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.

   1. The Disciples were in a storm – v24
      Note: Tossed with waves—Grievously agitated; Torment.
      Note: w/o Jesus, seemingly. Jesus knew ALL about it.

      1 Pet. 4:12
      12 Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:

   2. Jesus came to them – v25
      Note: The fourth watch—Anciently the Jews divided the night into three watches, consisting of four hours each. This division the Romans had introduced in Judea, as also the custom of dividing the day into twelve hours: The first watch began at six o’clock in the evening, and continued till nine; the second began at nine, and continued till twelve; the third began at twelve, and continued till three next morning; and the fourth began at three, and continued till six. It was therefore between the hours of three and six in the morning that Jesus made his appearance to his disciples.

      Note: He will always come to you in your time of need. He knows WHERE you are!

      Phil. 1:6
      6 Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

      1. Walking on the sea
         Job 9:8
         8 Which alone spreadeth out the heavens, and treadeth upon the waves of the sea.

         Note: They were in a state of fear.
         Note: He was LITERALLY above the very thing that brought them fear.

      2. Jesus encouraged them by reaffirming His presence
         Quote: Peace is not found in the absence of trouble but in the presence of ChristHeb. 13:5
         5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

         Turn – Isa. 26:3

         Note: What you need is not an explanation, but the presence of God.
         You don’t have to understand, you just have to trust His hand!

         (A Dangerous Dilemma)

2. A Daring Decision
   
   1. Peter Waited on a Command – v28
      Romans 10:17
      17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

      Note: “If” Bid me to come to THEE.
      Note: Come unto thee on the water. Not “bid me walk on the water;” for he does not want to perform a miracle, but to come to Jesus. His request is not due to the hope of making a show, but to impulsive love.

      Note: The Importance of the “Why?”
      Note: He did not want to begin anything without the command of God.
      God is always previous.

   2. Peter Responded Immediately – v29
      Note: He was out of the ship
      Note: He was already in distress to begin with, considering the storm.
      
   3. Peter Walked on Water! – v29
      Mark 9:23
      23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.Note: However impossible the thing commanded by Christ may appear, it is certain he will give the power to accomplish it to those who receive his Word by faith
      Quote: God supplies everything God commands – Oliver B. Greene

      Note: In all recorded history only two men ever walked on… water, Jesus and Peter.

      Eph. 3:20
      20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

      Turn – Jer. 33:3

      (A Dangerous Dilemma, A Daring Decision)

3. A Dynamic Declaration
   
   1. Jesus shows Peter where he lacks faith – v31b
      
      1. Focus changed – v30
         Note: Before we criticize Peter for sinking, let’s honor him for his magnificent demonstration of faith. He dared to be different. Anybody can sit in the boat and watch. But it takes a person of real faith to leave the boat and walk on the water. What caused Peter to sink? His faith began to waver because he took his eyes off the Lord and began to look at the circumstances around him. “wherefore didst thou doubt?” Jesus asked him (Matt. 14:31). This word translated doubt carries the meaning of “standing uncertainly at two ways.” Peter started out with great faith but ended up with little faith because he saw two ways instead of one. We must give Peter credit for knowing that he was sinking and for crying out to the Lord for help. This experience was difficult for Peter, but it helped him to grow in his knowledge of himself and of the Lord. The storms of life are not easy, but they are necessary. They teach us to trust Jesus Christ alone and to obey His Word no matter what the circumstances may be. It has well been said, “Faith is not believing in spite of evidence, but obeying in spite of consequence.”

         Note: Saw Christ in the light of circumstances. It should’ve been the other way around.
         Note: It was not the violence of the winds, nor the raging of the waves, which endangered his life, but his littleness of faith.
         Turn – Heb. 12:2-3

         Quote: The secret of overcoming the storm and doing the impossible is simply to believe the Word of God and keep looking to the Son of God.

      2. He cried to the Lord
         Turn – Ps. 107:27-30
         
      3. The Lord helped him – v31
         Ps. 138:7
         7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me.
         
   2. Declaration of God’s Power
      
      1. The wind ceased – v32
         Turn – Mark 6:51
         Note: When they were in the ship. As if God was saying, “End of Session”.
         Ill: A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.
         Note: Don’t waste your trials/wounds!
         
      2. Glorified God – v33
         Note: Trials & storms have a way of making us glorify God if we don’t quit and keep trusting Him!
         Note: Showing Christ to others
         Turn – 2 Cor. 1:3-4
         

Conclusion: This is the ultimate reason why God fills our lives with troubles is to ensure that we shall learn to hold him fast. The reason why the Bible spends so much of its time emphasizing that God is a strong rock, a firm defense, and a sure refuge and help for the weak is that God spends so much of his time showing us that we are weak, both mentally and morally, and dare not trust ourselves to find or follow the right road.
When we walk along a clear road feeling fine, and someone takes our arm to help us, likely we would impatiently shake him off; but when we are caught in rough country in the dark, with a storm blowing and our strength spent, and someone takes our arm to help us, we would thankfully lean on him. And God wants us to feel that our way through life is rough and perplexing, so that we may learn to lean on him thankfully. Therefore he takes steps to drive us out of self-confidence to trust in himself.
Quote: Being Broken is the first step to being Blessed! J

This year, I have again the privilege of teaching in our Bible Institute. The President gave me the responsibility of handling the “Special Hour” class, often called the “Inspiration” class. I’d like to share to you the schedule of lessons that will be taught in the class. I’m praying that through these messages, the Lord would stir the hearts of the students to be more yielded to His Spirit.

“Special Hour” Schedule

Bible Baptist Institute School Year 2010

The Audience of One

A story is told of a famous violinist who was to perform at a concert hall of world renown. As he stood before the packed house that night and played his violin, he mesmerized the audience with his prowess and skill. As he lifted his bow off the string on his final note, the hall erupted with thunderous applause and he was given a standing ovation. He looked at the crowd for a moment and walked off the stage only to return to render an encore performance. To the amazement of the masses gathered there that night, his encore performance was even more beautiful and flawless than the first.

He looked to the audience and left the stage for the second time, but was beckoned back by the deafening roar of the multitudes that once again stood to their feet in adulation. He gave yet another encore number, leaving the audience fumbling for words that could describe what their eyes and ears just experienced. This sequence was repeated several more times until finally this virtuoso of virtuosos finished his piece, looked to the audience, nodded his head and simply walked off the stage while the ferocious cheers could still be heard long after he exited.

Reporters pressed outside the violinist’s dressing room, waiting to catch a word from the man who had just given the performance of a lifetime. As he emerged from the small room, one reporter asked the question, “Sir, why did you give so many encore performances? You could have stopped after the first and everyone would have been amazed.” The violinist stopped and replied, “For the very first time in my career, my master, the one who taught me to play the violin, was in the audience. When I finished my performance, everyone stood except for one person. I played again, and everyone stood to applaud except for him. I continued to play. On the conclusion of the last encore I looked into the seats and I noticed that everyone, including my master, was standing and applauding. It was only then that I was satisfied that I had done a good job.”

Christian, who are you living to please? Is your life focused on receiving the praises of men or are you striving to please your Master, Jesus Christ? The writer of Hebrews said in Hebrews 12:2, “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith…” Let us keep our focus on Jesus Christ that we may be satisfied that we did a good job when we hear His words, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant…”

Source: Unknown