Monthly Archives: April 2020

Conficence Builders

Sunday Evening Sermons

Confidence Builders

Pastor Don Carpenter / General

Today we are living during an unprecedented amount of fear, angst, distrust, and doubt. The world around us is afraid. They are afraid of death. They are afraid of poverty. They are afraid of oppression. Most of all they are afraid of the unknown. What in the world is going to happen next? Can we fix this? Who can we believe? Whom can we trust. If we are not careful, we as believers can get pulled into this same pit of anxiety, fear, and despondency.  

In our text verses, the Apostle John suggests that we as believers can possess a rare gem in these troubled times. We as believers can and must build a wealth of confidence. Really? Confidence now?

Believe it or not the Greek word translated confidence in your King James Bible comes up several times. Tonight we are going to study what the word means and how to find and implement Biblical Confidence builders.

????????, ?? f: a state of boldness and confidence, sometimes implying intimidating circumstances—‘boldness, courage.’ 

Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains (New York: United Bible Societies, 1996), 306.

Confidence Starts With Saving Faith

1 John 5:13 KJV

These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

John 3:16 KJV

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

Hebrews 3:6 KJV

But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.

Confidence is Built By Prayer

1 John 5:14 KJV

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:

 Several years ago one of the astronauts who walked on the moon was interviewed and asked, “What do you think about as you stood on the moon and looked back at the earth?” The astronaut replied, “I remembered how the spacecraft was built by the lowest bidder.”

We as Christians can rejoice that the work of salvation did not go to the “lowest bidder” but was performed by an infinite God. There will never be a deficiency in his work. Our salvation is as sure as the architect of that salvation, Almighty God.1

1 Michael P. Green, 1500 Illustrations for Biblical Preaching (Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Books, 2000), 310–311.

Confidence is Built By Abiding in Christ

1 John 2:28–29 KJV

And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. 

If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.

Confidence is Built By Showing Love to the Brethren.

1 John 3:19–21 KJV

And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 

For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. 

Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.

Confidence Brings Perspective to Temporal Loss.

Hebrews 10:34–35 KJV

For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance. 

Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.

 • Preventing us from making hasty pragmatic decisions.

Confidence is Built Throughout A Lifetime of Serving the King.

Acts 28:30–31 KJV

And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him, 

Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

An English woman had two daughters, one of which had died. She was on a ship bound for America for a visit with her other daughter. In a storm at sea it was feared that the ship might sink. All the passengers save this woman were in a state of near panic. When asked why she was so calm, she said: “Well, I have two daughters, one in America and one in heaven. I am on my way to see my daughter. If the ship survives, I will see the one in America. If not, I will see the one in heaven. So either way, I will see my daughter.”1

1 Herschel H. Hobbs, My Favorite Illustrations (Nashville, TN: Broadman Press, 1990), 143.

Exported from Logos Bible Software, 10:19 AM April 26, 2020.

Sunday April 26, 2020 Song Lyrics for CARantine

Uncategorized

“No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper;And every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn.This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord,And their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord.” (Isaiah 54:17, KJV)

I heard an old, old story,
How a Savior came from glory,
How He gave His life on Calvary
To save a wretch like me;
I heard about His groaning,
Of His precious blood’s atoning,
Then I repented of my sins
And won the victory.

Chorus
O victory in Jesus,
My Savior, forever.
He sought me and bought me
With His redeeming blood;
He loved me ere I knew Him
And all my love is due Him,
He plunged me to victory,
Beneath the cleansing flood.

I heard about His healing,
Of His cleansing pow’r revealing.
How He made the lame to walk again
And caused the blind to see;
And then I cried, “Dear Jesus,
Come and heal my broken spirit,”
And somehow Jesus came and bro’t
To me the victory.

I heard about a mansion
He has built for me in glory.
And I heard about the streets of gold
Beyond the crystal sea;
About the angels singing,
And the old redemption story,
And some sweet day I’ll sing up there
The song of victory.

  3. Encamped along the hills of light,
    Ye Christian soldiers, rise,
    And press the battle ere the night
    Shall veil the glowing skies.
    Against the foe in vales below
    Let all our strength be hurled;
    Faith is the victory, we know,
    That overcomes the world.
    • Refrain:
      Faith is the victory!
      Faith is the victory!
      Oh, glorious victory,
      That overcomes the world.
  4. His banner over us is love,
    Our sword the Word of God;
    We tread the road the saints above
    With shouts of triumph trod.
    By faith, they like a whirlwind’s breath,
    Swept on o’er every field;
    The faith by which they conquered death
    Is still our shining shield.
  5. On every hand the foe we find
    Drawn up in dread array;
    Let tents of ease be left behind,
    And onward to the fray.
    Salvation’s helmet on each head,
    With truth all girt about,
    The earth shall tremble ’neath our tread,
    And echo with our shout.
  6. To him that overcomes the foe,
    White raiment shall be giv’n;
    Before the angels he shall know
    His name confessed in heav’n.
    Then onward from the hills of light,
    Our hearts with love aflame,
    We’ll vanquish all the hosts of night,
    In Jesus’ conqu’ring name.
  1. Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
    Thou art the Potter, I am the clay.
    Mold me and make me after Thy will,
    While I am waiting, yielded and still.
  2. Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
    Search me and try me, Master, today!
    Whiter than snow, Lord, wash me just now,
    As in Thy presence humbly I bow.
  3. Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
    Wounded and weary, help me, I pray!
    Power, all power, surely is Thine!
    Touch me and heal me, Savior divine.
  4. Have Thine own way, Lord! Have Thine own way!
    Hold o’er my being absolute sway!
    Fill with Thy Spirit till all shall see
    Christ only, always, living in me.

Final Hymn

  1. All to Jesus I surrender,
    All to Him I freely give;
    I will ever love and trust Him,
    In His presence daily live.
    • Refrain:
      I surrender all,
      I surrender all;
      All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
      I surrender all.
  2. All to Jesus I surrender,
    Humbly at His feet I bow;
    Worldly pleasures all forsaken,
    Take me, Jesus, take me now.
  3. All to Jesus I surrender,
    Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
    Let me feel the Holy Spirit,
    Truly know that Thou art mine.
  4. All to Jesus I surrender,
    Lord, I give myself to Thee;
    Fill me with Thy love and power,
    Let Thy blessing fall on me.
  5. All to Jesus I surrender,
    Now I feel the sacred flame;
    Oh, the joy of full salvation!
    Glory, glory, to His Name!

Belief That Changes You

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Belief That Changes You

Pastor Don Carpenter / General

Not From Around Here: The Complicated Life of a Sojourner / Salvation; Offend; Blindness / 1 Peter 2:6–8

 Have you ever tried to explain your passionate belief to someone who is not yet saved only to have them shake their head and wonder what in the world is wrong with you? Perhaps you try to give them a book by Lee Stroebel in order to have an expert explain why it is logical to believe the way we do. Perhaps if folks could just see what we see, or experience what we experience. We wonder what we are doing wrong… perhaps if only we could explain our faith better folks would believe.

As we continue our study through 1 Peter, we see the Apostle explaining that it is belief in Jesus that opens our eyes and changes our very foundation of understanding and interpretation of everything. Once we have trusted Christ and seen Him through the eyes of faith. We are no longer citizens of this country because we have become members of a celestial kingdom and it is the belief in Christ that changes you.

Belief Does Not Change The Truth.

King James Version Chapter 2

Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious:

Isaiah 28:16 KJV

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, A tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: He that believeth shall not make haste.

Ephesians 2:20 KJV

And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

Psalm 118:22 KJV

The stone which the builders refused Is become the head stone of the corner.

 • Truth IS whether or not you believe it.

 • It is foolish to refuse to believe something because you do not like some of the implications of it. Your unbelief does not make it go away, it just makes you wrong.

Belief in Christ Changes Your Perspective.

You will not be confounded.

and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.

(translation wheel)

The Holy Bible: King James Version, Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version. (Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 2009), 1 Pe 2:6.

25.194 ??????????: to cause someone to be much ashamed—‘to humiliate, to disgrace, to put to shame.’ ?? ???? ??? ?????? ????????? ? ???? ??? ?????????? ???? ?????? ‘God purposely chose what the world considers nonsense in order to put wise men to shame’ 1 Cor 1:27.1

1 Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains (New York: United Bible Societies, 1996), 309.

1 Corinthians 1:27 KJV

But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;

Christ has precious to you.

King James Version Chapter 2

Unto you therefore which believe he is precious:

1. time (????, 5092), primarily “a valuing,” hence, objectively, (a) “a price paid or received,” e.g., Matt. 27:6, 9; Acts 4:34; 5:2, 3; 7:16, rv, “price” (kjv, “sum”); 19:19; 1 Cor. 6:20; 7:23; (b) of “the preciousness of Christ” unto believers, 1 Pet. 2:7, rv, i.e., the honor and inestimable value of Christ as appropriated by believers, who are joined, as living stones, to Him the cornerstone; 1

1 W. E. Vine, Merrill F. Unger, and William White Jr., Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words (Nashville, TN: T. Nelson, 1996), 310.

Unbelief Poisons One’s Perspective

1 Peter 2:7–8 KJV

Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, 

And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.

If you are disobedient (unbelieving)

The word “disobedient” is the translation of a word literally meaning “disbelieving.” “Disallowed” has the same meaning as in verse 4, which please see1

1 Kenneth S. Wuest, Wuest’s Word Studies from the Greek New Testament: For the English Reader, vol. 11 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1997), 54.

What could be the foundation is instead is a stone of stumbling

The words “a stone of stumbling” are the translation of lithos (?????), “a loose stone in the path,” and proskommatos (????????????) meaning “to cut against,” which altogether mean “an obstacle against which one strikes.1

1 Kenneth S. Wuest, Wuest’s Word Studies from the Greek New Testament: For the English Reader, vol. 11 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1997), 56.

-stumble at the word

proskomma (?????????, 4348), “an obstacle against which one may dash his foot” (akin to proskopto, “to stumble” or “cause to stumble”; pros, “to or against,” kopto, “to strike”), is translated “offense” in Rom. 14:20, in v. 13, “a stumblingblock,” of the spiritual hindrance to another by a selfish use of liberty (cf. No. 1 in the same verse); so in 1 Cor. 8:9. It is used of Christ, in Rom. 9:32–33, rv, “(a stone) of stumbling,” and 1 Pet. 2:8, where the kjv also has this rendering.¶ Cf. the Sept. in Ex. 23:33, “these (the gods of the Canaanites) will be an offense (stumblingblock) unto thee.” 1

1 W. E. Vine, Merrill F. Unger, and William White Jr., Vine’s Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words (Nashville, TN: T. Nelson, 1996), 441.

rock of offence

6.25 ?????????a, ?? n: a trap, probably of the type which has a stick which when touched by an animal causes the trap to shut—‘trap.’ ???????? ? ??????? ????? … ??? ????????? ‘let their table become … a trap’ Ro 11:9. In Ro 11:9 ????? (6.23), ???? (6.24), and ????????? would all seem to be completely parallel in structure and meaning. As a result, in a number of languages the three terms are reduced often to two, for example, ‘snare’ and ‘trap.’ If there are three different kinds of traps, then, of course, three terms can be used. In some cases, however, it may be preferable to use verbs to express the catching and trapping, and thus one may translate ???????? ? ??????? ????? ??? ?????? ??? ??? ????? ??? ??? ????????? as in tev, “may they be caught and trapped at their feasts; may they fall.”1

1 Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains (New York: United Bible Societies, 1996), 55.

 The words “rock of offence” are from petra (?????), “a ledge rising out of the ground,” and skandalou, “a trap set to trip one.” Our word “scandal” comes from the latter word. These who are disobedient (the literal Greek has it “non-persuasable”) are appointed to stumble at the Word, which is the penalty for refusal to believe it. “By faith we understand” (Heb. 11:3), is the God-ordained way. Thus, unbelievers find the Living Stone, which is precious to believers, an obstacle against which they strike, and a scandal, that which offends them.

____________

Some time ago I was reading about the 18th century German sculptor Johann Heinrich von Dannecker. His skills were impressive. He could bring stone to life with his tools. At the height of his powers, he wanted to do something special with his gifts — he wanted to shape a statue of Christ that would stand out as a witness to his world. For two years he chiselled and scraped and polished the marble, till he was certain that it carried the likeness of his Lord. But he wanted to test his work on eyes that wouldn’t lie. So he went out to the street, and brought in a young girl. He took her into his studio, and he set her down in front of the shrouded stone. Uncovering it, he asked her, Do you know who this is? No, sir! she replied. But he must be a very great man. And Dannecker knew that he’d failed. The statue was good enough for kings and nobles, but it wasn’t good enough to speak the word about Christ.

He was discouraged. He was disheartened. He was depressed. But he knew that he had to try again. So he set his hand to the task. Six years it took him this time! Every day, painstakingly, shaping and carving. Finally it was done. And again, he brought in a child as his first critic. He took off the shroud, and asked her gently, Who is that? Legend has it that tears came to her eyes as she recognized Jesus. It was enough. Dannecker had finished his task. He had created his masterpiece. He had given visible shape to his faith. And later, to a friend, he told the secret of those last six years. It was as if, he said, Christ had joined him daily in his little room. He felt the nearness of his Lord. He sensed the glory of his Presence. All Dannecker had to do, really, was to transfer the vision of Christ that he received to the block of marble.

It’s a powerful story, isn’t it? But there’s more to it. There’s another chapter that comes later, one so striking that it actually makes John’s vision come alive.

Some years later, the French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte saw Dannecker’s work. He was very impressed. He sent for the sculptor, and he had a commission for him — Make me a statue of the goddess Venus for the Louvre! he said. Quite an honor! To be chosen as the creator of a work of art like that! Who could refuse? But you know what?! Dannecker did! He refused the commission. He gave up that honor. And you know why? This is what he told Napoleon:

“A man who has seen Christ can never employ his gifts in carving out a pagan goddess!”

Exported from Logos Bible Software, 6:27 PM April 22, 2020.

Sunday Morning Hymns April 19, 2020

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“And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7, KJV)

  1. The Lord’s our Rock, in Him we hide,
    A Shelter in the time of storm;
    Secure whatever ill betide,
    A Shelter in the time of storm.
    • Refrain:
      Oh, Jesus is a Rock in a weary land,
      A weary land, a weary land;
      Oh, Jesus is a Rock in a weary land,
      A Shelter in the time of storm.
  2. A shade by day, defense by night,
    A Shelter in the time of storm;
    No fears alarm, no foes afright,
    A Shelter in the time of storm.
  3. The raging storms may round us beat,
    A Shelter in the time of storm;
    We’ll never leave our safe Retreat,
    A Shelter in the time of storm.
  4. O Rock divine, O Refuge dear,
    A Shelter in the time of storm;
    Be Thou our Helper ever near,
    A Shelter in the time of storm.
  1. Far away in the depths of my spirit tonight
    Rolls a melody sweeter than psalm;
    In celestial-like strains it unceasingly falls
    O’er my soul like an infinite calm.
    • Refrain:
      Peace, peace, wonderful peace,
      Coming down from the Father above!
      Sweep over my spirit forever, I pray
      In fathomless billows of love!
  2. What a treasure I have in this wonderful peace,
    Buried deep in the heart of my soul,
    So secure that no power can mine it away,
    While the years of eternity roll!
  3. I am resting tonight in this wonderful peace,
    Resting sweetly in Jesus’ control;
    For I’m kept from all danger by night and by day,
    And His glory is flooding my soul!
  4. And I think when I rise to that city of peace,
    Where the Author of peace I shall see,
    That one strain of the song which the ransomed will sing
    In that heavenly kingdom will be:
  5. Ah soul, are you here without comfort and rest,
    Marching down the rough pathway of time?
    Make Jesus your friend ere the shadows grow dark;
    Oh, accept this sweet peace so sublime!
  1. Tempted and tried, we’re oft made to wonder
    Why it should be thus all the day long;
    While there are others living about us,
    Never molested, though in the wrong.
    • Refrain:
      Farther along we’ll know more about it,
      Farther along we’ll understand why;
      Cheer up, my brother, live in the sunshine,
      We’ll understand it all by and by.
  2. Often when death has taken our loved ones,
    Leaving our home so lone and so drear,
    Then do we wonder why others prosper,
    Living so wicked year after year.
  3. “Faithful till death,” saith our loving Master;
    Short is our time to labor and wait;
    Then will our toiling seem to be nothing,
    When we shall pass the heavenly gate.
  4. Soon we will see our dear, loving Savior,
    Hear the last trumpet sound through the sky;
    Then we will meet those gone on before us,
    Then we shall know and understand why.

God is so Good, God is so Good, God is so Good, He’s so Good to me.

Final Hymn

  1. Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
    Let me hide myself in Thee;
    Let the water and the blood,
    From Thy wounded side which flowed,
    Be of sin the double cure,
    Save from wrath and make me pure.
  2. Not the labor of my hands
    Can fulfill Thy law’s demands;
    Could my zeal no respite know,
    Could my tears forever flow,
    All for sin could not atone;
    Thou must save, and Thou alone.
  3. Nothing in my hand I bring,
    Simply to Thy cross I cling;
    Naked, come to Thee for dress;
    Helpless, look to Thee for grace;
    Foul, I to the fountain fly;
    Wash me, Savior, or I die.
  4. While I draw this fleeting breath,
    When my eyes shall close in death,
    When I rise to worlds unknown,
    And behold Thee on Thy throne,
    Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
    Let me hide myself in Thee.

Jesus’ Parting Gift

Sunday Morning Sermons


Jesus’ Parting Gift

Pastor Don Carpenter / General

Peace; Anxiety; Trust / John 14:27

Alcohol consumption is up over 50%. Suicides, domestic violence and crisis calls are also on the rise. Last weekend I was driving through a residential neighborhood in Torrington and heard two separate domestic disturbances that had spilled out the door into front yards. Around another corner I saw police officers with a combative person flattened down on the ground face down with their knees in his back. The longer folks endure this COVID trial, the shorter fuses seem to be getting.

I must confess that I have had some dark moods this week as well. As I was praying for the right message to share with you this week during these troubled times, the Holy Spirit directed me to our text for this morning. In John chapter 14, Jesus was preparing His disciples for the events of Calvary and beyond. In the midst of conflict and uncertainty, Jesus left a parting gift for His disciples, and leaves that same gift for believers today. The gift of peace.

John 14:27 KJV

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

Peace – The Absence of Conflict.

john 14 27

Peace I leave with you…

No more conflict with God over our Sin.

Romans 8:6–7 KJV

For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 

Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.

Romans 5:1 KJV

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

No more condemnation of the Law.

Ephesians 2:15 KJV

Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;

The message of the Gospel is peace.

Ephesians 6:15 KJV

And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

Peace – The Presence of Tranquility.

Jesus gives HIS peace.

John 14:27

my peace I give unto you…

The legacy of legacies:—The Earl of Dundonald fought with his solitary ship a line of formidable forts in South America, whose fire proved so raking that his men could not be got to stand to their guns. Calling his wife, he asked her to fire one of the guns, and show these men how to do their duty. She did so. Instantly they returned, burning with shame, to their posts, and soon the victory was theirs. The lady, in rehearsing the circumstance, said that the thing that was felt by her to be the most terrible, was not the din of battle, not the raking fire, but the awful calmness that sat fixed on her husband’s countenance, as it seemed to carry in itself the sure presage of victory. This we can all understand. Every moral nature feels that settled calmness in the face of dangers and deaths is the loftiest example of the sublime. Of this we have one peerless example in the man Christ Jesus, who, on the eve of His agony, utters these words.1

1 Joseph S. Exell, The Biblical Illustrator: St. John, vol. 2 (London: James Nisbet & Co., n.d.), 584.

Jesus’ peace is genuine, not just a distraction like the World gives.

John 14:27

…my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you

Not as the world. 1st. Not as the objects which men commonly pursue—pleasure, fame, wealth. They leave care, anxiety, remorse. They do not meet the desires of the immortal mind, and they are incapable of affording that peace which the soul needs. 2d. Not as the men of the world give. They salute you with empty and flattering words, but their professed friendship is often feigned and has no sincerity. You cannot be sure that they are sincere, but I am. 3d. Not as systems of philosophy and false religion give. They profess to give peace, but it is not real. It does not still the voice of conscience; it does not take away sin; it does not reconcile the soul to God. 4th. My peace is such as meets all the wants of the soul, silences the alarms of conscience, is fixed and sure amid all external changes, and will abide in the hour of death and for ever. How desirable, in a world of anxiety and care, to possess this peace! and how should all who have it not, seek that which the world can neither give nor take away!1

1 Albert Barnes, Notes on the New Testament: Luke & John, ed. Robert Frew (London: Blackie & Son, 1884–1885), 334.

Peace- Protection from Trouble and Fear.

John 14:27

…Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

2 Timothy 1:7 KJV

For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

John 14:1–2 KJV

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 

In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

When I was a struggling new student pastor, one night I was too stressed to sleep. I got up and went to watch dairy farmer Hall Phillips milk his dairy herd. There in the barn at 4:30 AM, that brand new Christian gave me help getting through the various crises causing stress in my life. Hall commented, “Leo, Stress is when we try to control, what we should let God control.”

Do you tremble over what will happen next? Jesus has offered a parting gift to be used in times of trouble. He has offered Peace: An Absence of conflict, The Presence of Tranquility in the midst of a storm, and the protection from Trouble.

Exported from Logos Bible Software, 2:33 PM April 18, 2020.

The New Testament Temple

Wednesday Evening Sermons


The New Testament Temple

Pastor Don Carpenter / General

Not From Around Here: The Complicated Life of a Sojourner / Temple; Body of Christ / 1 Peter 2:5

Have you ever shopped at Home Depot? Lowes? Or some other home repair-improvement type store?

If you have you’ve inevitably seen the piles of lumber tossed aside that are broken, cracked, warped, crooked, or just plain look bad. These piles of lumber go ignored as faithful builders go for the ‘perfect’ building materials. After all, who in their right mind would ever use “bad” materials to build a house? You just don’t do that – you don’t start with a bad foundation because you know it won’t last.

So it’s funny that Jesus builds a very different way. He uses the crooked sticks, the broken sticks, the lame lumber, the stuff that everyone else is looking past and in many cases tosses aside. It’s almost like he DELIGHTS in using materials that everyone else thinks are ‘useless’. It’s almost like he’s loading up his proverbial cart with all the crooked, broken, and warped wood that he can and he’s parading it around – inviting others to question his decision making.

“How are you going to build a house with THAT!?!”

“Are you blind? That wood is warped, you’ll never pass inspection!”

“There is a huge pile of perfectly good material over there, use that.”

You can almost hear Jesus’ voice, “No, I’m going to build my house. And nothing is going to stop me.”… “These crooked, warped, broken pieces of wood are perfect and they’re are all mine.” And off he goes, building the spiritual house, one broken stick at a time. One warped 2×4 at a time. One rotten floor joist at a time. And believe me, IN CHRIST we will all pass the inspection as we stand redeemed and justified in HIM alone. What a beautiful picture of the grace of God through the redemption of His son.

Last week we talked about Jesus Christ being the Living Stone that was rejected only to be the foundation upon which He built the Church. Tonight as we continue Peter’s letter to the sojourners, strangers in a strange land, we see that we as believers not only have a foundation stone, Jesus, but we are living stones used by the Master Builder to make a beautiful Spiritual Temple. In that Spiritual Temple we are not only living stones but also believer priests offering sacrifices of praise in order to introduce the whole world to the One True God. We are the New Testament Temple.

1 Peter 2:5 KJV

Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

Believers are Living Stones

 The Christians are not naturally “living stones,” but become such as they are joined to Christ in conversion and baptism (cf.), for it is only as they come to him that this building is possible.

2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV

But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

Nor are they pictured as individually stones, lying apart in a field or building site, but collectively as part of God’s great temple. It is God, of course, who is building them together into this edifice of the end times; thus the verb (“are being built”) is descriptive, not imperative (“be built” or “let yourselves be built,” neither of which fits smoothly into the context).

Ephesians 2:1 KJV

And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;

Believers Together Are Built Into The Spiritual Temple.

1 Peter 2:5 KJV

Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

 • Built on the foundation of Jesus

 • Empowered to life by Jesus

 • Built together Believers interdependent upon each other.

Ephesians 2:20–22 KJV

And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 

In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 

In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

Hebrews 3:6 KJV

But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.

Believers Are A Holy Priesthood.

1 Peter 2:5 KJV

Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

But they are not only the stones that form the house, but also the priesthood that serves in it. The term for “priesthood” is found in the NT only here and in 2:9. The latter reference shows clearly that Peter sees the church in terms of Israel’s priestly function, for it alludes to Exod. 19:6. And other NT authors pick up the theme using different words (e.g., Rev. 1:6; 5:10; 20:6—such language is used elsewhere only of Christ as a priest in Hebrews and of the Aaronic priesthood in Jerusalem, e.g., Luke 1:9; Heb. 7:5). That Christians are a holy priesthood likely refers to their consecration and separation to God (similar to Aaron in Lev. 8–11) by their conversion and baptism (as in 1:15–23) rather than to their moral qualities per se, which would be implied secondarily. 1

1 Peter H. Davids, The First Epistle of Peter, The New International Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids, MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1990), 87.

Exodus 19:5–6 KJV

Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: 

And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.

The “spiritual sacrifices” themselves are surely praise and thanksgiving (Heb. 13:15–16) and practical loving service to one another (Rom. 12:1; Eph. 5:2; Phil. 4:18). 

Hebrews 13:15–16 KJV

By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. 

But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Easter Sunday Worship April 12, 2020

Uncategorized

“For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:” (1 Corinthians 15:3–4, KJV)

  1. On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
    The emblem of suff’ring and shame;
    And I love that old cross where the Dearest and Best
    For a world of lost sinners was slain.
    • Refrain:
      So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
      Till my trophies at last I lay down;
      I will cling to the old rugged cross,
      And exchange it someday for a crown.
  2. Oh, that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
    Has a wondrous attraction for me;
    For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
    To bear it to dark Calvary.
  3. In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
    A wondrous beauty I see,
    For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
    To pardon and sanctify me.
  4. To the old rugged cross I will ever be true;
    Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
    Then He’ll call me someday to my home far away,
    Where His glory forever I’ll share.
  1. Low in the grave He lay,
    Jesus, my Savior,
    Waiting the coming day,
    Jesus, my Lord!
    • Refrain:
      Up from the grave He arose,
      With a mighty triumph o’er His foes,
      He arose a Victor from the dark domain,
      And He lives forever, with His saints to reign.
      He arose! He arose!
      Hallelujah! Christ arose!
  2. Vainly they watch His bed,
    Jesus, my Savior;
    Vainly they seal the dead,
    Jesus, my Lord!
  3. Death cannot keep his Prey,
    Jesus, my Savior;
    He tore the bars away,
    Jesus, my Lord!

I serve a risen Savior, He’s in the world today;

I know that He is living whatever men may say;

I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer,

And just the time I need Him, He’s always near.

He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today!

He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way.

He lives, He lives, Salvation to impart!

You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart.

In all the world around me I see His loving care,

And tho’ my heart grows weary I never will despair;

I know that He is leading thro’ all the stormy blast,

The day of His appearing will come at last.

He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today!

He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way.

He lives, He lives, Salvation to impart!

You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart.

Rejoice, rejoice, O Christian, lift up your voice and sing

Eternal hallelujahs to Jesus Christ the King!

The hope of all who seek Him, the help of all who find,

None other is so loving, so good and kind.

He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today!

He walks with me and talks with me along life’s narrow way.

He lives, He lives, Salvation to impart!

You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart.

Final Hymn:

Because He Lives Lyrics

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus;
He came to love, heal and forgive;
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives!

Chorus
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives!

How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
And feel the pride and joy he gives;
But greater still the calm assurance:
This child can face uncertain days because He Lives!

Chorus
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives!

And then one day, I’ll cross the river,
I’ll fight life’s final war with pain;
And then, as death gives way to victory,
I’ll see the lights of glory and I’ll know He lives!

Chorus
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow,
Because He lives, all fear is gone;
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living,
Just because He lives!

Easter Conclusion: FEAR NOT

Sunday Morning Sermons


Easter Conclusion: FEAR NOT

Pastor Don Carpenter / General

Resurrection / Matthew 28:1–7

The early American Indians had a unique practice of training young braves.

On the night of a boy’s thirteenth birthday, after learning hunting, scouting, and fishing skills, he was put to one final test.

He was placed in a dense forest to spend the entire night alone.

Until then, he had never been away from the security of the family and tribe.

But on this night, he was blindfolded and taken several miles away.

When he took off the blindfold, he was in the middle of a thick woods, and he was terrified.

Every time a twig snapped, he visualized a wild animal ready to pounce.

After what seemed like an eternity, dawn broke and the first rays of sunlight entered the interior of the forest.

Looking around, the boy saw flowers, trees, and the outline of a path.

Then to his utter astonishment, he beheld the figure of a man standing just a few feet away, armed with bow and arrow.

It was his father. He had been there all night long.

We too live in a terrifying time. Never before in our lifetime has the who world been put on pause due to a virus. Never before have we as Americans just shrugged while surrendering right after right in the name of public safety. Fears cloud the Horizon, fear of sickness, fear for our loved ones, fear of an inept or opportunistic despotic government, fear of misappropriation of life saving materials, fear of nosy neighbors reporting each other to the distance police, fear of losing one’s job,ear of complete social and economic collapse.

It is no mistake that the virus is projected to peak today, on the day we celebrate the Resurrection. God is still in charge! God is still with us! The same Holy Spirit that raised our Lord out of the Grave is the same one that lives in the Heart of the believers. As we reflect on the absolute fact of the Bodily, physical resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Lord of Glory, let us visit the Gospel passage once again.

Matthew 28:1–6 KJV

In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. 

And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. 

His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow: 

And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men. 

And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. 

He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

The Easter Angel summarized the whole gospel message in two words that first Resurrection morning… FEAR NOT. God knows that we need this message today more than ever in our lives. Let us take a few minutes and trace this message as it echoes through out the Gospels….  FEAR NOT!

FEAR NOT, God Heard Your Prayer.

Luke 1:11–13 KJV

And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 

And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. 

But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.

 • This is the prediction of the Birth of the Messiah’s forerunner, John the Baptist.

 • These were also troubled and uncertain times especially for Jews…

 • The message starts to echo… FEAR NOT

 • God hears your prayers too… FEAR NOT

FEAR NOT you have found favor with God.

Luke 1:28–31 KJV

And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 

And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. 

And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. 

And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.

 • God uses sinful weak folks like us.

 • Grace covers our sins

Luke 1:46–47 KJV

And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, 

And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

 • No matter what storms blow, if you come to Jesus in faith, you have peace with God, you have found favor with Him… FEAR NOT.

Romans 5:1 KJV

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

Romans 8:1 KJV

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Romans 8:31–33 KJV

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 

He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 

Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.

FEAR NOT There is Good News of Joy For Everyone!

Luke 2:8–11 KJV

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 

And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

 • In spite of the fact that we deserve death.

 • There is a Savior who paid the price we deserved to pay.

 • No works rites or rituals will do it, but Jesus’ death paid the price for our sins.

1 Peter 1:19–21 KJV

But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 

Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, 

Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.

FEAR NOT Jesus Gives New Life and Purpose to a Hopeless Sinner.

Luke 5:7–11 KJV

And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink. 

When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord. 

For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the draught of the fishes which they had taken: 

And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee, which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon, Fear not; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. 

And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.

1 Timothy 1:15 KJV

This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

FEAR NOT Jesus has Power Over Sickness and Death.

Luke 8:49–55 KJV

While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler of the synagogue’s house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Master. 

But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole. 

And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the maiden. 

And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth. 

And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. 

And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise. 

And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat.

 • What if I get sick?

 • What if my family gets sick?

FEAR NOT! Jesus has power over sickness and death. The same message of hope given in the empty tomb by the Easter Angels is the same message for you. If Jesus conquered death… COVID is nothing… FEAR NOT!

FEAR NOT You Are of Great Value to God

Luke 12:6–7 KJV

Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? 

But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

 • The government may reduce you down to an inflated number, but God does not.

 • You may not know the real truth but God knows everything about your and still holds you to be of great value.

FEAR NOT God will Provide!

Luke 12:29–32 KJV

And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. 

For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. 

But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. 

Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.

 • Some have lost your lively hood in the past few days.

 • Some have become unemployed .

 • Our economy may be in a free fall…. but none if this is greater than the One that Rose victorious… He will provide… FEAR NOT

FEAR NOT Jesus Is Alive!

Matthew 28:5 KJV

And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

Matthew 28:6 KJV

He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

A story is told of a child who had to walk each evening past a dark, spooky house. Some adults sought to give him courage. One handed him a good luck charm to ward off the ghosts. Another had a light put on the dreaded corner. Still another said earnestly, “It is sinful to be afraid. Trust God and be brave!” The advice was good, but he offered nothing more.

Then someone said with compassion, “I know what it is to be afraid. I will walk with you past the house.” He did nothing to remove the fear–except to lift it from the child’s shoulders and place it on his own.

Exported from Logos Bible Software, 6:50 PM April 11, 2020.

How Firm A Foundation

Wednesday Evening Sermons

How Firm a Foundation

Pastor Don Carpenter / General

Not From Around Here: The Complicated Life of a Sojourner / Foundation; Rock; Jesus / 1 Peter 2:4

 A sailor in a shipwreck was thrown upon a rock where he clung in great danger until the tide went down. Later a friend asked him, “Jim, didn’t you shake with fear when you were hanging on that rock?”

“Yes, but the rock didn’t,” was the significant reply. Christ is the Rock of Ages.

—Sabbath Reading

A building is only as stable as the foundation upon which it was built. Faith is only profitable if the object of that faith is truly trustworthy. It is all about the foundation.

As we continue our series “Not From Around Here: The Complicated Life of a Sojourner” we come to 1 Peter 2:1-4.

1 Peter 2:1–4 KJV

Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 

As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: 

If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. 

To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,

Last week the subject how to develop a healthy appetite for God’s Word by getting rid of the junk food of worldly cravings. Verse three Peter tells us that we should do that if indeed, or since, we have tasted that the Lord is Gracious.

The thought of the Lord Jesus and His grace causes the Apostle to go down a wonderful pathway of thought about Jesus, the foundation of everything that he has been discussing so far. Jesus is the author if salvation. Jesus is the one who secured eternal life and waits for us in Heaven. Jesus is the one who shed his precious blood for us. Jesus, THE WORD, is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Jesus is the reason we can and should lay aside the junk food of lust and feast on His perfect truth. Jesus is the reason for it all. Jesus is the bedrock upon which everything rests, and how firm a foundation it is!

Jesus, the Living Stone

1 Peter 2:4a

To whom coming, as unto a living stone…

Living Hope

1 Peter 1:3 KJV

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

Living Word

1 Peter 1:23 KJV

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

Constant Communion

The words “to whom coming” in the Greek text do not refer to the initial act of the sinner coming to the Lord Jesus for salvation, but indicate a close and habitual approach and an intimate association made by faith when the believer realizes the presence of and seeks communion and fellowship with his Lord.

Foundation Stone

1 Corinthians 3:11 KJV

For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

Matthew 16:18 KJV

And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

1 Corinthians 10:4 KJV

And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.

Jesus the Rejected Stone

1 Peter 2:4b

To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men

The word “disallowed” is the translation of a word that refers to the act of putting someone or something to the test for the purpose of putting one’s approval upon that person and thus receiving him, this act of testing being carried to the point where no further testing is needed, with the result that one comes to the settled conclusion that the one tested does not meet the requirements of the test and is therefore disapproved, repudiated. This Living Stone in the Person of God the Son became incarnate, lived for thirty-three years in the midst of Israel, offered Himself as its Messiah, was examined by official Israel for the purpose of approving Him as its Messiah, and then repudiated because He was not what official Israel wanted in a Messiah. What a commentary on the totally depraved condition of man’s heart.

John 1:10–11 KJV

He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. 

He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

Psalm 118:22 KJV

The stone which the builders refused Is become the head stone of the corner.

Acts 4:11 KJV

This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

Hebrews 4:15 KJV

For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

Jesus the Precious Stone.

1 Peter 2:4 KJV

To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious

The word “chosen” is not a verb in the Greek text but a noun, literally “a chosen-out one,” thus “elect.” “Precious” is the translation of a Greek word used in Luke 7:2, describing the centurion’s servant as “dear” to him. The word speaks of one being held in honor and as dear to another. “Of God” is literally “in the sight of God.”1

1 Kenneth S. Wuest, Wuest’s Word Studies from the Greek New Testament: For the English Reader, vol. 11 (Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1997), 53.

Isaiah 28:16 KJV

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, A tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: He that believeth shall not make haste.

The First Epistle of Peter 4. Christian Identity (2:1–10)

But the foundation, the cornerstone of the temple of God is Jesus, who, far from being rejected, is a choice or select stone, a precious or valuable stone, even if the world does not yet share that valuation. This is the one to whom they have come and whose dual fate they share.

Exported from Logos Bible Software, 4:31 PM April 8, 2020.