E.P.I.C. Word of Truth

Salvation, Sacrifice & Praise (Hebrews 13:10-16)

In this message we explore a profound and stirring passage from the book of Hebrews, one that calls us to reflect deeply on our salvation, our sacrifice, and our service to God. Hebrews 13:10-16 provides us with a rich tapestry of theological truths that not only illuminate the path of our redemption but also challenge us to live lives of faithful devotion and sacrificial service.
Our journey today will take us through three pivotal points:
Grace Not Works - Not Both (v.10): This verse draws a clear line between the old covenant of works and the new covenant of grace. It underscores the futility of attempting to earn God's favor through our deeds while emphasizing the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice.
This point turns our attention to Ephesians 2:5 which says, "Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)" This reminds us to remember our past condition—dead in sin—and the miraculous transformation through Christ who made us alive.
Our Second Point – The Sacrificial Type & Antitype (vs. 11-13): The sacrificial system of the Old Testament finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the ultimate sacrifice. He suffered outside the gate to sanctify us, calling us to bear His reproach and follow Him.
Our Third and Final Point - Service of the Saints: (vs. 14-16): Our earthly journey is temporary, but our service to God has eternal significance. We are called to offer continual praise and thanksgiving, to do good, and to share with others. These acts of service are the sacrifices that please God, reflecting our transformed lives and our commitment to His kingdom.
Let us be encouraged and emboldened to live out our faith with conviction, knowing that our salvation, our sacrifice, and our service are all rooted in the grace and love of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God's Building (I Corinthians 3:1-11)

This message will explore four main points. First, we will delve into the idea of guarding against carnality, as emphasized in verses one through four. Next, we will reflect on the assurance that God gives the increase, beautifully outlined in verses five through seven.
We will then examine the concept of God rewarding our efforts, as highlighted in verses eight and nine. Lastly, we will uncover the importance of growing on the right foundation, as explored in verses ten and eleven.
So, let’s briefly as an introduction look at each of these points, and then we will dig into them as we move along in our message.
Point #1 - Guard Against Carnality vs. 1-4:
Here the Apostle Paul addresses a concerning issue within the Corinthian church—carnality. Here, he reminds the believers that their spiritual growth should move them beyond infancy.
It is a timely reminder for us as well, urging us to remain vigilant against allowing our spiritual journey to be constrained by worldly desires. We will explore the dangers of carnality and the steps we can take to guard against it.
Point #2 - God Gives the Increase vs. 5-7:
Here, Paul reminds us that while he may have planted seeds of faith, it is only through God's grace and power that true growth and increase occur. As we navigate our journey of faith, it is essential to relinquish control and trust that God will work in wondrous ways.
Point #3 - God Rewards Our Efforts vs. 8-9:
In these verses the Apostle Paul draws our attention to the importance of our efforts in building God's kingdom.
We learn that our labor in the Lord is not in vain and that each one of our contributions, however small they may seem, holds significance in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. God honors and rewards our faithfulness as we work diligently in His service.
And Point #4 - Grow on the Right Foundation vs. 10-11:
In the final portion of our passage, Paul highlights the necessity of building our spiritual lives on the right foundation. We must ensure that our foundation is none other than Jesus Christ Himself.
In these next few moments, may the Holy Spirit guide us as we dive deeper into this passage, desiring to grow in our understanding, commitment, and purpose in God's glorious plan.

The Dragons War & Rage (Revelation 12:13-17)

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Click the link below for the book referenced in the introduction to this message on Revelation 13.
https://2020bible.pub/2024/04/06/rise-of-the-beast-a-study-of-revelation-chapter-13/
Here in Revelation 12 and our passage in the final verses of this chapter we are met with vivid imagery, symbolic language, and profound truths that unveil the ultimate plan of God for the culmination of human history.
In these verses, we witness a dramatic scene unfold before our eyes: the dragon, Satan himself, enraged and filled with fury, pursues the woman who had given birth to the male Child. This woman, representing the nation of Israel, is protected by God and flees into the wilderness, where she is nourished and kept safe for a time, times, and half a time.
This period represents the final three and a half years of the Tribulation, a time of unparalleled turmoil and persecution on the earth. During this time, the Dragon, knowing his time is short, unleashes his full wrath against the woman and her offspring, those who keep the commandments of God, and hold to the testimony of Jesus.
As we unpack these verses, we will see the unfolding of God's sovereign plan, the fierce opposition of the enemy, and the ultimate victory of God's people through the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.

Remember (Hebrews 13:7-9)

The Faith Foundations website mentioned in this message has foundational and doctrinal messages (audio and full notes). You can access it at the following link: Faith Foundations for the Church
This passage, encapsulated in the single word "Remember," serves as a poignant reminder of our duties, our doctrines, and our devotion to the Almighty.
First, we are called to: Remember Faithful Leaders (Hebrews 13:7). The writer of Hebrews urges us to recall those who have spoken the Word of God to us, whose faithfulness echoes through the corridors of time.
Their examples, their sacrifices, and their steadfastness in the face of adversity serve as beacons, guiding us in our own pilgrimage of faith.
Second, we are to: Remember Our Unchanging Savior (Hebrews 13:8). In a world of shifting sands and fleeting ideologies, our Lord Jesus Christ stands as the immutable Anchor of our souls. His unchanging nature is our rock, our fortress, and our deliverer, offering us stability in a world of uncertainty.
Third, we are to: Remember Right Doctrine (Hebrews 13:9a). The writer warns against being led astray by diverse and strange teachings. We are called to hold fast to the sound doctrines passed down to us, doctrines that are rooted in the unchanging Word of God.
Lastly, we are to: Remember Grace (Hebrews 13:9b). It is by grace that we are saved, through faith, and not of ourselves. This grace is not a license to sin but a call to live in obedience to God's Word, empowered by His Spirit. So, let us heed the call to remember.
Let us remember the faithful leaders who have gone before us.
Let us remember the unchanging Savior who walks beside us.
Let us remember the right doctrines that guide us.
And let us remember the grace that sustains us.
May this remembrance be the foundation upon which we build our lives, to the glory of our God. Imagine you are on a hiking trail in beautiful East Tennessee, surrounded by dense forest (which I hope to be on such a trail in a couple of weeks).
And as you walk, you notice that the path splits into two. One trail is well-worn, with clear signs pointing the way, while the other is overgrown and barely visible.
The well-worn path represents the teachings and examples of faithful leaders who have gone before us. These leaders have faithfully proclaimed the Word of God, guiding us on the right path. Their lives serve as signposts, pointing us toward Christ and His unchanging truth.
On the other hand, the overgrown path symbolizes the diverse and strange doctrines that seek to lead us astray. These teachings may seem new, different, and appealing at first glance, promising easy answers or worldly wisdom. However, they ultimately lead to confusion, spiritual danger, and death.
As we navigate through life, we are faced with these two paths. The challenge is to Remember the example of those who have faithfully taught and lived out the Word of God while rejecting the false teachings that seek to divert us from the truth.
Hebrews 13:7-9 reminds us to remember these faithful leaders and to be wary of strange doctrines. Let us stay on the path of truth, firmly grounded in the unchanging grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Hannah’s Example of Godly Womanhood (I Samuel 1:1-2:10)

Hannah, a woman of deep devotion to the Lord, exemplifies godly womanhood in her life. Her story teaches us valuable lessons about faith, prayer, dedication, and the power of God to fulfill His promises.
Hannah Was a Godly Woman - despite her barrenness, Hannah remained faithful and devoted to the Lord. Her character shines through her actions and her trust in God's plan for her life.
In her distress, Hannah made a vow to the Lord, promising to dedicate her child to His service if He would grant her a son. This vow demonstrates Hannah's deep faith and her willingness to surrender her desires to God's will.
Hannah's story reminds us that God is always faithful to His promises. Just as He answered Hannah's prayer for a child, He is ready to answer our prayers and fulfill His purposes in our lives. Hannah's story also teaches us that our strength and victory come from the Lord, not from our own efforts or abilities.

The Doctrine of Creation - Part Four

One of the points we will be examining in this message is the age of the Earth. The age of the Earth can be a contentious issue, often debated between scientific theories and biblical truths, and often debated among Christians as well. While some propose an ancient earth, the Bible provides a clear timeline of creation, pointing to a relatively young earth.
One of the intriguing questions that arise from the early chapters of Genesis is the identity of Cain's wife. Genesis 4:17 mentions Cain building a city and finding a wife. This seemingly simple question actually highlights the broader scope of humanity's early history.
Another big question is about dinosaurs and dragons. The mention of behemoth and leviathan in Job 40-41 has led some to speculate about dinosaurs and dragons in the Bible.
The theory of evolution stands in stark contrast to the biblical account of creation. While some attempt to reconcile these two viewpoints, the fundamental differences in their premises make such harmonization untenable.
The Bible teaches us that God created each kind of creature according to its kind, a concept that aligns with the observable evidence in nature. As believers, we hold fast to the truth that God's Word is infallible and provides the ultimate explanation for the origins of life.

The Doctrine of Creation - Part Three

On the sixth day, God crowned His creation with the pinnacle of His handiwork—humanity. In Genesis 1:26, we read, “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.' This day was a culmination of divine design, as God fashioned man and woman, distinct from all other creatures, and breathed into them the breath of life. As we meditate on this truth, let us marvel at the intentionality and purpose with which God created us, setting us apart as bearers of His image and stewards of His creation.
May we be steadfast in our commitment to God's Word, standing firm against the tides of skepticism and worldly wisdom. Let us go forth, proclaiming the glory of God's creation and the truth of His Word to a world in need of His saving grace.

Covetousness, Contentment & Confidence (Hebrews 13:5-6)

In this message we delve into the profound truths of God's Word concerning two contrasting but intimately related aspects of our Christian walk: covetousness and contentment.
This emphasizes that our entire lifestyle should be characterized by a lack of covetousness, showing that our behavior and attitudes should align with God's principles of contentment and trust in His provision.
Likewise, this verse is also saying our entire lifestyle should be characterized by a state of contentment, and confidence in the fact our Lord and Savior will always be with us and never leave us nor forsake us.
In Hebrews 13:5, the writer provides us with a powerful exhortation:
urging us to live without covetousness,
to live with contentment,
and ultimately, to live with confidence in God's unfailing promises.
Covetousness, the desire for things that belong to others, is a temptation that has plagued humanity since the dawn of time. From the Garden of Eden to our modern-day struggles, the allure of what others possess often leads us astray.
However, as believers, we are called to a higher standard. We are called to live without covetousness, we are called to be satisfied with what God has graciously provided for us.
Now the contrast to covetousness is contentment and if you think about it contentment is a rare and precious virtue in today's world. It is the antidote to covetousness, the inner peace that comes from trusting in God's provision.
Contentment does not mean complacency or laziness; rather, it is a deep-seated trust in God's goodness and faithfulness, knowing that He will always provide for our needs.
So as we strive to live without covetousness and live with contentment, we can do so with confidence, knowing that God has promised never to leave us or forsake us. This assurance should fill us with boldness and courage, knowing that we are not alone in our journey but are accompanied by the ever-present God who loves us beyond measure.
 

Our Expectations & God's Answers to our Prayers (Proverbs 3:5-6)

It is not uncommon for us to approach God with preconceived notions of how we expect Him to answer our prayers. However, the Scriptures teach us to trust in His wisdom and not impose limitations on His ability to bless us.
Proverbs 3:5-6 again says, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
In the context of prayer, these verses remind us of the importance of trusting in the Lord completely. When we bring our requests before Him, we should not rely solely on our own understanding or limited perspective. Instead, we are called to trust in God's wisdom and leading.
Trusting the Lord with all our hearts means:
surrendering our desires,
surrendering expectations,
and surrendering our plans to Him.
It involves acknowledging His sovereignty and believing that He knows what is best for us. This includes trusting the answer He gives us, even if it is different from what we expect or desire.
When we acknowledge God in all our ways, including in our prayers, He promises to direct our paths. This means that as we trust Him with our requests and accept His answers, He will guide us in the right direction.
This guidance may not always be what we anticipate, but we can have confidence that God's plan is perfect and that He is working for our good (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).

The Doctrine of Creation - Part Two

As we delve into the Scripture, we are reminded that every word penned in the Bible is breathed out by God, serving as our guide to truth and life.
In the beginning, the Almighty set forth the heavens and the earth, crafting each aspect with intentionality and purpose. As we ponder the vastness of creation, we find ourselves confronted with the ultimate question of purpose.
Why did God create the universe, the earth, and all that dwells within? Our study reveals a Creator who delights in His creation, who establishes order, beauty, and life, and who desires to display His glory and share His love with beings created in His image.
The timeline of creation is a topic of much debate and discussion. Yet, as we stand firm on the foundation of Scripture, we see clearly the testimony that the world was crafted by the divine Word in six literal days.
This understanding not only aligns with the historical reading of Genesis but also affirms the power and authority of God’s Word. In a mere six days, the Lord brought forth all that exists, demonstrating His infinite power and sovereign will.
Day Two of Creation - sees the formation of the firmament, separating the waters above from the waters below. This act of divine separation and organization sets the stage for the habitation of life, showcasing God's meticulous care in preparing the earth for His crowning creation.
Day Three of Creation - unfolds with the gathering of waters and the sprouting of vegetation. Here, God introduces diversity and abundance, filling the earth with plants and trees, each according to its kind. This day speaks to God's provision and foresight, ensuring that every need of His creation is met even before bringing forth life.
Day Four of Creation - marks the appointment of the sun, moon, and stars to govern the day and night, to mark seasons, days, and years. The celestial bodies stand as constant reminders of God’s faithfulness and the ordered rhythm of life designed by His hand.
Day Five of Creation - witnesses the teeming of life in the waters and the skies. Fish and birds, created in a vibrant array of forms and functions, declare the creativity and care of the Creator, each reflecting His glory in unique ways.
Day Six of Creation - culminates in the creation of land animals and, ultimately, mankind—created in the very image of God. This final act of creation before the day of rest underscores the special place humanity holds in God’s heart and plan, entrusted with stewardship over the earth and commissioned to live in relationship with Him.
As we journey through these divine acts of creation, let us be stirred by the majesty and mystery of our God. Let us marvel at His power, wisdom, and love. And let us respond with worship, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to live according to His purposes, bearing His image in a world that desperately needs His light.