PHBC June 1, 1997

Series: First Peter, Sermon #19 

JESUS CHRIST AND THE FAITH OF THE PILGRIM

Scripture: I Peter 1:18-21 

TEXT: I Peter 1:21 

INTRO: I don’t think that I will ever cease to wonder at all the benefits which are ours through the Lord Jesus Christ. In our text I particularly call your attention to the first part of this verse in which we are told that it is by Christ that we do believe in God who raised up Christ from the dead.

       We usually tend to think of Christ as the object of faith, but not the source of it. This verse indicates he is also the source of our faith. It is by him that we do believe in God.

       I want to speak to you this morning on the subject, Jesus Christ and the Faith of the Pilgrim. 

I.           JESUS CHRIST IS THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF THE PILGRIM’S FAITH

A.       Paul set’s him forth as the author and finisher of our faith in his epistle to the Hebrew Christians. Hebrews 12:2 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.

1.        The Greek word for author is archgos which means “the one leading, the first cause or occasion; one that takes the lead and thus affords an example.

2.        The word is translated “captain” in Heb. 2:10. Hebrews 2:10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

3.        The word is translated “prince” in Acts 3:15. Acts 3:15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.

4.        It is translated Prince in Acts 5:31 where Peter is speaking of the exaltation of Christ by God. Acts 5:31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.

5.        The root of the word is found in the word “archangel” which has the idea of a lead angel, a chief angel, the first angel in rank. 1 Thessalonians 4:16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Jude 9 Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.

6.        The root of the word is also used in the word that is translated “beginning.” John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

B.       This fact that Christ is the author of our faith is set forth in our text. 1 Peter 1:21 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.

C.       Jesus seems to infer this same truth in John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

D.       It appears the apostles were aware of this great truth, that Jesus is the source of our faith. Luke 17:5 And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.

E.       The father of a sick child also considered Jesus to be the source of faith. Mark 9:24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

F.        It is in behalf of Christ that we are given faith. Philippians 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.

II.         JESUS CHRIST IS MEDIATOR IN THE FAITH OF PILGRIMS

A.       It is by him that we believe in God that raised him up from the dead. 1 Peter 1:21 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.

B.       He alone is the one mediator between God and man. 1 Timothy 2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.

C.       It is he who has manifested the name of the Father to us who are his children. John 17:6  I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.

D.       It is he who is the daysman between us and God. Job 9:32-33 For he is not a man, as I am, that I should answer him, and we should come together in judgment. 33 Neither is there any daysman betwixt us, that might lay his hand upon us both.

E.       It is he who stands in the breach between guilty sinners and an offended God. Psalm 106:23 Therefore he said that he would destroy them, had not Moses his chosen stood before him in the breach, to turn away his wrath, lest he should destroy them.

F.        Absolutely no one comes to God except by Jesus Christ. John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

G.       There is no salvation in any but Jesus. Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

H.       The only way could ever have known the Father was for the Son to reveal him to us. Matthew 11:27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.

I.           It is only through Jesus Christ that we are able to see the Father. John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.

J.         One cannot honor the Father unless he also honors the Son. John 5:22 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son.

III.       THE FATHER RAISED HIM UP AND EXALTED HIM TO THIS PREEMINENT POSITION SO THAT OUR FAITH AND HOPE MIGHT EVER BE IN HIM

A.       God has been pleased to place Christ in this position of mediator in the faith of his people. 1 Peter 1:21 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.

B.       God has determined that Christ will stand between himself and the world so that all who would honor God must honor the Son. John 5:22-27 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: 23 That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. 24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. 25 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. 26 For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself; 27 And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man.

C.       It is God who has determined that in all things Christ shall have the preeminence. Colossians 1:18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

D.       It pleased the Father that all fulness should dwell in the Lord Jesus Christ. Colossians 1:19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell.

E.       It is the Father that determined that all spiritual blessings, including the faith of God’s elect, should be ours through 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.

F.       It pleased God that in Christ should be all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, including knowledge of himself, so that our faith and hope would be in God. Colossians 2:3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 

CONC: We cannot overly magnify Christ in the great scheme of salvation. It is the pleasure of the Father that he have preeminence. It is not the preacher, not the church, not anyone but the Lord Jesus Christ who is our one and only mediator and through whom we receive the faith to believe the things of God and in God himself. There is no true faith in God that does not center in the Lord Jesus Christ.

PHBC May 11, 1997

Series: First Peter, Sermon #18 

PILGRIMS, THE BLOOD OF CHRIST BY WHICH WE ARE REDEEMED IS PRECIOUS

TEXT: I Pet. 1:18-20 

INTRO: I seem to be staying on these verses longer than planned. In reviewing what I have preached thus far, I realized I had not spent but a few moments on the fact that the blood of Christ is precious. In this message we are going to look at some of the reasons Christ’s blood is precious.

       Let me point out that blood, all blood, be it human or animal, has from the beginning been regarded by God as precious. Certainly not to the degree that the blood of Christ is precious, but all blood is precious.

A.    When Cain killed Abel, God said to Cain, the voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the ground. God had regarded with favor the sacrifice of Abel because it was a blood sacrifice; he had rejected the sacrifice of Cain because it was not a blood sacrifice. And because Cain killed Able, God said to Cain, "Now art thou cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother's blood from they hand."

B.     God showed his high regard for blood again when he commanded that men are not to eat blood which is the life of the flesh, and when he required the death sentence for any who shed another's blood intentionally. Gen. 9:4‑6 "But flesh with the life thereof, which is the blood thereof, shall ye not eat. And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it, and at the hand of man; at the hand of every man's brother will I require the life of man. Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.”

C.    God's estimation of blood and its preciousness is seen again in the land of Egypt. He did not deliver Israel by the power of the plague of frogs. He delivered them by the blood of the Passover lamb. And they shall take of the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses, wherein they shall eat it. And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt. For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when he seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you. (Ex. 12:12‑13, 23)

D.    The preciousness of blood in the sight of God is again set forth by Solomon when he declares that God hates "hands that shed innocent blood.” Proverbs 6:16-17 These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 17 A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood.

E.     The preciousness of blood is seen again in the book of Revelation.  "For they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and thou hast given them blood to drink; for they are worthy" (Rev 16:6). "And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs of Jesus: and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration" (Rev. 17:6). "And in her was found the blood of prophets, and of saints, and of all that were slain upon the earth" (Rev. 18:24). "For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand" (Rev. 19:2).

Many other things could be cited to show the importance God attaches to blood, even the blood of beasts. But, super abounding above the blood of beasts, the blood of man, the blood of the most godly saint, is the blood of Jesus Christ, THE PRECIOUS BLOOD OF CHRIST.

My subject is PILGRIMS, THE BLOOD OF CHRIST BY WHICH WE ARE REDEEMED IS PRECIOUS. We could not possibly enumerate all the reasons in one message. In fact, I am convinced that we will learn much more about the preciousness of the blood of Christ as God unfolds the riches of his grace throughout the eternal ages. 

I.   HIS BLOOD IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE IT IS THE BLOOD OF THE GOD-MAN

A. Everything about Christ is precious to the believer. 1 Peter 2:7 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,

1. The human face from which they plucked his beard is precious.

2. The human hands and feet through which the nails were driven are precious.

3.  The unjointed human bones are precious.

4. The human back which was given to the smiters is precious.

5. The human head that was crowned with thrones is precious.

6.  The human soul which was made an offering for sin is precious.

7.  The human blood which he shed for our redemption, our justification, our reconciliation, and our cleansing is precious.

B. The union of deity and humanity in the person of Jesus Christ elevated the worth of every thing about him.

1.  He is the eternal, glorious Word made flesh and tabernacling among. us. John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

2.  He is the express image of the person of God. Hebrews 1:3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.

3.  He is the fulness of the Godhead bodily. Colossians 2:9 For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.

4.  He is God manifest in the flesh. 1 Timothy 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

5.  He is God blessed forever coming to the earth in human flesh. Romans 3:9 What then? are we better than they? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin.

6.  He is the son of David who is also declared to be the Son of God. Romans 1:3-4 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; 4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:

7.  He is God made in the likeness of man. Philippians 2:5-8 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: 6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: 7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: 8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

8.  He is the man Christ Jesus who is alone able to serve as mediator between God and man. 1 Timothy 2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.

9.  He is the Son of God sent forth and made of a woman, made under the law. Galatians 4:4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

10. He is the virgin born son of Mary and the only begotten Son of God. Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.  John 3:16 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.

11. He is God's Son sent in the likeness of sinful flesh. Romans 8:3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:

12. He is Jesus Christ come in the flesh. 1 John 4:2-3 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.  2 John 7     For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.

13. He is Jesus, Lord of the angels who is made a little lower than the angels so that he could tasted death for his people. Hebrews 2:9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.

14. He is our great Goel, our kinsman redeemer, partaking of our flesh and our blood so that he might bring us to glory and deliver us from the fear of death. Hebrews 2:10-17     For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. 11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, 12 Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee. 13 And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me.    14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; 15 And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. 16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. 17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.

15. He is the man Christ Jesus whose very person is so precious that when he died on the cross the most amazing thing to ever accompany a man's death happened. The veil  of the temple was rent in twain from top to bottom, the earth quaked and the rocks were shattered in pieces, graves were opened and the bodies of sleeping saints arose. Those hardened soldiers who had plucked off his beard and smote his face and gambled for his garments, exclaimed, "Truly this was the Son of God." Matthew 27:51-52 And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent; 52 And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,

16. No wonder his blood is precious; he is eternal God but dying the death of a man, for he is truly a man. 

II.    THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE OF ITS MARVELOUS REDEEMING POWER

A.    It has been the one single means of redemption since the foundation of the world. Hebrews 9:26 For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself.

B.    It is the blood of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. Revelation 22:8 And I John saw these things, and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things.

C.   It is the blood of the foreordained Lamb of God. 1 Peter 1:18-20 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you.

D.   It is the blood of which every last saint in heaven shall happily sing. Revelation 5:9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.  

III.   THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE OF ITS ATONING EFFICACY

A.    It is the blood that makes atonement for the soul. Leviticus 17:11 For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.

B.    Apart from blood there can be no remission of sin. Hebrews 9:22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.

C.   I may make many sacrifices, I may mortify my body and give it to be burned, I may be baptized and join the church, I may receive the blessing of the pope, and say a thousand "Hail Mary's" per day, I may constantly pray on my knees until they have calluses like the knees of a camel, I may speak in the tongues of men and angels, I may read the Bible through and through many times, I might teach and work and prophesy in the name of Jesus, but I can never come before God in peace, until I come on the grounds of the blood, the precious blood of Jesus Christ. 

IV.   THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE OF ITS PURGING POWER

A.    It can purge the conscience from dead works and equip us the serve the living God. Hebrews 9:14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?

B.    It is able to cleanse us from all sin. 1 John 1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

C.   This is the fountain that has been opened for sin and uncleanness. Zechariah 13:1     In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.

D.   He has washed us from our sins in his own blood. Revelation 1:5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood. 

V.    THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE IF ITS WONDERFUL PRESERVING POWER

A.    It is the blood of the everlasting covenant. Hebrews 13:20 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant.

B.    It is the blood by which Christ obtained eternal redemption for his people. Hebrews 9:12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

C.   It is the blood by which we have been perfected forever. Hebrews 9:14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?  

VI.   THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE OF ITS PLEADING POWER

A.    The blood of slain Able cried out to God from the ground for vengeance.

B.    The blood of Jesus Christ cries out from the ground of Golgotha's brow for the salvation of every one of the sheep. John 10:11-18 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. 12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. 13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. 15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. 17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again. 18 No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.

C.   His Father loves to grant the plea of his blood and grant salvation to all for whom he laid down his life and shed his blood.

D.   And the Father loves him because he shed that blood. John 10:17 Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.

E.    His blood does not cry for vengeance, it speaks of better things such as justification, expiation, reconciliation, sanctification, salvation, and glorification. 

VII.  THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE OF ITS MELTING INFLUENCE ON SINNERS

A.    It will the melting influence of the blood that shall bring about the salvation of the elect remnant of Israel one day. Zechariah 12:10-12 And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn. 11 In that day shall there be a great mourning in Jerusalem, as the mourning of Hadadrimmon in the valley of Megiddon. 12 And the land shall mourn, every family apart; the family of the house of David apart, and their wives apart; the family of the house of Nathan apart, and their wives apart;

B.    In the days of my own conviction when God was preparing my heart for his call to salvation, some of the sermons that I recall most clearly were sermons on the blood. 

VIII.   THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE OF ITS PROPITIATING POWER

A.    The satisfaction was accomplished at the cross. Isaiah 53:10-11     Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put him to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand. 11 He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.

B.    The propitiating work of Christ is applied to the sinner when he trusts in the blood of Christ. Romans 3:25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God.  

IX.   THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE OF ITS JUSTIFYING POWER

A.    It is God who justifies. Romans 8:29-33     For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. 31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 32 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? 33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.

B.    He justifies on the grounds of the blood of Jesus Christ. Romans 5:9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.  

X.    THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE OF ITS INVIGORATING POWER

A.    There is no life without drinking the blood of Christ. John 6:53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.

B.    His blood is drink indeed. John 6:55 For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.  Superior, invigorating drink. When you are discouraged, down, depressed, sorrowful, drink of the blood of Christ. Think of the value and worth he has put on you that he would shed his blood for you. 

XI.   THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE OF ITS OVERCOMING POWER

A.    God has assured us that Satan will be bruised under our feet. Romans 16:20 And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.

B.    Our victory is in the Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

C.   Many will glory in the precious blood of Christ because by it they overcome the enemy. Revelation 12:11 And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.  

XII.  THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE OF ITS ENMITY SLAYING POWER

A.    At one time all Gentiles were cut off from the covenants of promise, being aliens and strangers to these blessings. Ephesians 2:11-12 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world.

B.    In our minds and hearts we are by nature still enemies to these blessings and the God who supplies them. Romans 8:7-8 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. 8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.

C.   The precious blood of Christ has slain that enmity, it has torn down the wall of alienation, and we are made nigh by that precious blood. Ephesians 2:13-16 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.    14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; 15 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; 16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

D.   Through Christ, his finished work, his precious blood we now have access to God. Ephesians 2:17-18 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh. 18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.  

E.    Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace because the way has been opened up by the precious blood of Christ. Hebrews 4:14-16 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. 15 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. 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.  

XIII.   THE BLOOD OF CHRIST IS PRECIOUS BECAUSE OF ITS CONFIRMING  OR RATIFYING POWER

A.    God's covenants have always been ratified  by blood.

B.    When he instituted the Lord's Supper Jesus spoke of the ratifying power of his blood. Luke 22:20 Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.  1 Corinthians 11:25 After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.

C.   Jesus is the mediator of the covenant of grace. Hebrews 11:24 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; .

D.  As mediator of the covenant he has ratified the covenant by shedding the blood of the everlasting covenant. Hebrews 13:20 Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant.  

CONC: Certainly we can sing, "Oh precious is the flow/ that makes me white as snow. No other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus."

       Is he precious to you? Have you trusted him as your Savior? Is his blood precious to you?

rwcamp@camps-computer.com

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PHBC April 27, 1997

Series: First Peter, Sermon #17 

THOUGH PILGRIMS WE CAN REJOICE THAT WE ARE REDEEMED BY THE BLOOD OF GOD’S FOREORDAINED LAMB

Scripture: 1 Peter 1:18-20 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you. 

TEXT: 1 Peter 1:20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you. 

INTRO: Last Sunday morning I spoke to you from this same passage. In that message I did not deal very much with the fact that Christ Jesus was God’s foreordained Lamb. 

This morning I want to especially deal with the wonderful proclamation of Peter that Christ is the foreordained Lamb of God who shed his precious blood for our redemption. I want to call your attention to the wonderful fact of it: God did before the foundation of the world ordain the death of Christ to redeem us from our sins.  Second, I want us to notice the marvelous implications of it: God did, before the foundation of the world, very graciously foreordain the death of Christ to redeem us from all our iniquities. Third, I want to consider the blessed accomplishment of it: Christ did accomplish the redemption of all those for whom he was the eternally foreordained Redeemer. Fourth, I want us to rejoice in the wonderful present realization of it: God has brought us to the saving knowledge of the Lamb whom he did foreordain before the foundation of the world. Finally, I want us to glory in the blessed prospect of it: Christ will surely bring to glory all those for whom he was the foreordained Redeemer. 

I.           THE WONDERFUL FACT OF IT: GOD DID BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD ORDAIN THE DEATH OF CHRIST TO REDEEM US FROM OUR SINS

A.       God’s foreordination of Christ as the Redeemer is set forth in our text. 1 Peter 1:20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you.

B.       God’s foreordination of Christ as the Redeemer is obvious in the fact that names were inscribed in the his book of life from the foundation of the world. Revelation 17:8 The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is.

C.       God’s foreordination of Christ as the Redeemer is obvious from the fact that he is the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. Revelation 13:8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

D.       God’s foreordination of Christ as the Redeemer is obvious from the fact that upon the first occasion of sin God did proclaim Christ as the remedy for sin. Genesis 3:15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.

E.       God’s foreordination of Christ as the Redeemer is apparent from the fact that he was set up from eternity as wisdom.

1.        Wisdom in Proverbs eight is a figurative way of speaking of Christ. Proverbs 8:23 I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was.

2.        Paul says that Christ has been made unto all the called, wisdom. 1 Corinthians 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:

F.        God’s foreordination of Christ as our Redeemer is revealed in the proclamation of Micah concerning his birth. Micah 5:2 But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.

G.       God’s foreordination of Christ as our Redeemer is evident from that fact that his coming to do that is called a mystery that has been hidden from the foundation of the world. Romans 16:25-26     Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, 26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith.

H.       God’s foreordination of Christ as our Redeemer is clearly set forth in the declaration that his work is something which God prepared before the foundation of the world for our glory. 1 Corinthians 2:7-9 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: 8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

I.          God’s foreordination of Christ as our Redeemer is apparent in Paul’s words to the church at Colosse. Colossians 1:25-27 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; 26 Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: 27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

J.        God’s foreordination of Christ is clearly set forth by the fact that he infallibly promised eternal life before the foundation of the world. Titus 1:2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began.

K.       There are several other declarations in Scripture which establish the wonderful fact that God did, before the foundation of the world, foreordain Christ to be the Redeemer of his people, but these should suffice to firmly establish this truth beyond doubt and those other verses will be cited in other points in this message.

II.        THE MARVELOUS IMPLICATIONS OF IT: GOD DID, BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD, VERY GRACIOUSLY FOREORDAIN THE DEATH OF CHRIST TO REDEEM US FROM ALL OUR INIQUITIES

A.       The very fact of redemption implies that those whom Christ would redeem would be sinners yet he foreordained the death of Christ for that purpose. Titus 2:14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

B.       The fact that we could not be redeemed from our iniquities by silver and gold implies that we were in a very real bondage that was more than the bondage into which a Jewish person might be sold to satisfy a debt. 1 Peter 1:18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers.

C.       The fact that we were such sinners that God must foreordain the death of his beloved Son so that we might be redeemed by his blood implies that our sins and our iniquities were of the worst possible and were against an infinitely holy God. 1 Peter 1:19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.

D.       The fact that God did, before the foundation of the world, ordain Christ as our Redeemer, implies that He is truly gracious, wonderfully gracious.

1.        He had not created us and could have never done so had he so pleased.

2.        Yet, he purposed our creation, knowing we would fall, and foreordained for us a Redeemer in the person of his own Son.

E.       The fact that God did, before the foundation of the world, foreordain our redemption by the blood of the foreordained Lamb, also implies the foreordination of a people that would be redeemed.

1.        It implies that some were ordained to eternal life before the foundation of the world. Acts 13:48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.

2.        It implies that some were given to him to redeem before the foundation of the world. John 6:37 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.  John 17:2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

3.        It implies that some were chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world to be redeemed by the foreordained Redeemer.

a.        We were blessed in the heavenly places in Christ before the foundation of the world.  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.

b.        We were chosen in him before the foundation of the world. Ephesians 1:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love.

c.         We were predestinated unto the adoption of children before the foundation of the world. Ephesians 1:5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will.

d.        We have been made accepted in him who was foreordained for us before the foundation of the world. Ephesians 1:6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

e.        We have redemption in the blood of him who was foreordained for us before the foundation of the world. Ephesians 1:7 In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace.

4.        It implies that our redemption was given us in Christ Jesus before the foundation of the world. 2 Timothy 1:8-9 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; 9 Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began.

F.        The blessed fact that Christ was foreordained before the foundation of the world to be the Redeemer of sinners implies that his principle purpose for coming into the world was the redemption of those sinners whom God had foreordained to eternal life.

1.        This is set forth in the declaration of an angel. Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.

2.        It is declared by the Apostle Paul. 1 Timothy 1:15 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.

3.        It is proclaimed by Jesus. Matthew 9:13 I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

4.        It is obvious from another statement by Jesus Christ. Luke 19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

5.        It is apparent from the cry of John the Baptist. John 1:29     The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.

6.        And, it is abundantly evident from another declaration from Paul. Romans 3:24-26 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.

7.        It is very evident from Jesus statement that he came to die and give his life a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.

8.        That our redemption from sins was the principle purpose for which Christ was foreordained to come into the world is seen again in Peter’s declaration to the Jews. Acts 3:26 Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.

9.        This fact is again seen in Paul’s declaration to the Roman congregation that Christ came to die for the ungodly. Romans 5:6-10 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

G.       There are other things implied in the blessed truth that God did, before the foundation of the world, ordain that Christ come and die to redeem his people from their awful slavery in sin, but these will suffice to show us that it was a very gracious thing that God did in this matter.

III.       THE BLESSED ACCOMPLISHMENT OF IT: CHRIST DID ACCOMPLISH THE REDEMPTION OF ALL THOSE FOR WHOM HE WAS THE ETERNALLY FOREORDAINED REDEEMER

A.       His accomplishment of it is seen in the very positive declarations concerning his purpose in coming. Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.

B.       His accomplishment of it is evident from the assurance that he would not lose one of those sheep given to him by the Father but would raise every one of them up at the last day.

1.        Consider his bold and clear statement in John 6:37-40 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. 38 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. 39 And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. 40 And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day

2.        Consider his certainty expressed in his message the God Shepherd and his sheep. John 10:27-30 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. 30 I and my Father are one.

C.       The confidence of Jesus that he was completing the work given him by the Father is seen in his mediatorial prayer.

1.        He had been given sufficient power to endure the suffering and complete the work to which he had been foreordained. John 17:2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

2.        He had finished to work given him to do. John 17:4 I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.

D.       The confidence of Jesus that he was completing the work to which he was foreordained before the foundation of the world is found in his sovereign declaration of his will that all those given to him be with him to behold his glory. John 17:24     Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.

E.       The certainty that Christ accomplished this work to which he was foreordained is evident from God’s exaltation of him after the death of the cross. Philippians 2:8-11 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

F.        The certainty that Christ did accomplish the redemption for which he was foreordained as God’s Lamb is evident from Paul’s declaration that he is able to save to the uttermost them that come to God by him. Hebrews 7:25-26 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. 26 For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens.

G.       This accomplished redemption secured by Christ is evident in the declaration that he has obtained eternal redemption for us. Hebrews 9:12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.

H.       This accomplished redemption is evident from the fact that there is no more offering for sin. Hebrews 10:12-18 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; 13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. 14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. 15 Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before, 16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; 17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. 18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.

I.          Though I could give many more evidences that Christ did accomplish the redemption that he was foreordained to accomplish, I will cite only one more proof—the song of redemption that is sung in heaven. Revelation 5:9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.

IV.     REJOICE IN THE WONDERFUL PRESENT REALIZATION OF IT: GOD HAS BROUGHT US TO THE SAVING KNOWLEDGE OF THE LAMB WHOM HE DID FOREORDAIN BEFORE THE FOUNDATION OF THE WORLD

A.       He has called us so that we have seen Christ as the power and wisdom of God. 1 Corinthians 1:23-24 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.

B.       He has brought us to the wonderful realization that we are sons of God. 1 John 3:1-2     Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

C.       He has caused us to know that we have eternal life. 1 John 5:13 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.

D.       He has caused us to know and be persuaded that nothing and no one can ever render him incapable of keeping what we have committed unto him. 2 Timothy 1:12 For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

E.       Our realization that Christ has truly redeemed us is assurance that he will also keep us from falling. Jude 24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,

V.       GLORY IN THE BLESSED PROSPECT OF IT: CHRIST WILL SURELY BRING TO GLORY ALL THOSE FOR WHOM HE WAS THE FOREORDAINED REDEEMER

A.       That God has foreordained redemption by the blood of Christ whom he foreordained as the Redeemer-Lamb is assurance that he will also bring us to glory. 1 Peter 1:20-21 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, 21 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.

B.       That God has foreordained Christ to be our Redeemer is assurance that we shall be presented faultless before the presence of his glory. Jude 24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy.

C.       The same Lord who was foreordained to be our sacrifice for sin is foreordained to return and receive all those saved by his redeeming sacrifice. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.

D.       His redemptive work assures our presence with him in glory. Colossians 3:4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

E.       The same One who was foreordained to be our Redeemer is also foreordained to by the object of our praise when we are with him in glory. Revelation 5:9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.  

CONC: Yes,

I will sing of my Redeemer,

With his blood he purchased me, On the cross he sealed my pardon,

Paid the debt and made me free.

rwcamp@camps-computer.com

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PHBC June 1, 1997

Series: First Peter, Sermon #19 

JESUS CHRIST AND THE FAITH OF THE PILGRIM

Scripture: I Peter 1:18-21 

TEXT: I Peter 1:21 

INTRO: I don’t think that I will ever cease to wonder at all the benefits which are ours through the Lord Jesus Christ. In our text I particularly call your attention to the first part of this verse in which we are told that it is by Christ that we do believe in God who raised up Christ from the dead.

       We usually tend to think of Christ as the object of faith, but not the source of it. This verse indicates he is also the source of our faith. It is by him that we do believe in God.

       I want to speak to you this morning on the subject, Jesus Christ and the Faith of the Pilgrim. 

I.           JESUS CHRIST IS THE AUTHOR AND FINISHER OF THE PILGRIM’S FAITH

A.       Paul set’s him forth as the author and finisher of our faith in his epistle to the Hebrew Christians. Hebrews 12:2 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.

1.        The Greek word for author is archgos which means “the one leading, the first cause or occasion; one that takes the lead and thus affords an example.

2.        The word is translated “captain” in Heb. 2:10. Hebrews 2:10 For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.

3.        The word is translated “prince” in Acts 3:15. Acts 3:15 And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.

4.        It is translated Prince in Acts 5:31 where Peter is speaking of the exaltation of Christ by God. Acts 5:31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.

5.        The root of the word is found in the word “archangel” which has the idea of a lead angel, a chief angel, the first angel in rank. 1 Thessalonians 4:16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Jude 9 Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.

6.        The root of the word is also used in the word that is translated “beginning.” John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

B.       This fact that Christ is the author of our faith is set forth in our text. 1 Peter 1:21 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.

C.       Jesus seems to infer this same truth in John 5:24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

D.       It appears the apostles were aware of this great truth, that Jesus is the source of our faith. Luke 17:5 And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.

E.       The father of a sick child also considered Jesus to be the source of faith. Mark 9:24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

F.        It is in behalf of Christ that we are given faith. Philippians 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.

II.         JESUS CHRIST IS MEDIATOR IN THE FAITH OF PILGRIMS

A.       It is by him that we believe in God that raised him up from the dead. 1 Peter 1:21 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.

B.       He alone is the one mediator between God and man. 1 Timothy 2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.

C.       It is he who has manifested the name of the Father to us who are his children. John 17:6  I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.

D.       It is he who is the daysman between us and God. Job 9:32-33 For he is not a man, as I am, that I should answer him, and we should come together in judgment. 33 Neither is there any daysman betwixt us, that might lay his hand upon us both.

E.       It is he who stands in the breach between guilty sinners and an offended God. Psalm 106:23 Therefore he said that he would destroy them, had not Moses his chosen stood before him in the breach, to turn away his wrath, lest he should destroy them.

F.        Absolutely no one comes to God except by Jesus Christ. John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

G.       There is no salvation in any but Jesus. Acts 4:12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

H.       The only way could ever have known the Father was for the Son to reveal him to us. Matthew 11:27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.

I.           It is only through Jesus Christ that we are able to see the Father. John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.

J.         One cannot honor the Father unless he also honors the Son. John 5:22 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son.

III.       THE FATHER RAISED HIM UP AND EXALTED HIM TO THIS PREEMINENT POSITION SO THAT OUR FAITH AND HOPE MIGHT EVER BE IN HIM

A.       God has been pleased to place Christ in this position of mediator in the faith of his people. 1 Peter 1:21 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.

B.       God has determined that Christ will stand between himself and the world so that all who would honor God must honor the Son. John 5:22-27 For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: 23 That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. 24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. 25 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. 26 For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself; 27 And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man.

C.       It is God who has determined that in all things Christ shall have the preeminence. Colossians 1:18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

D.       It pleased the Father that all fulness should dwell in the Lord Jesus Christ. Colossians 1:19 For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell.

E.       It is the Father that determined that all spiritual blessings, including the faith of God’s elect, should be ours through 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.

F.       It pleased God that in Christ should be all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, including knowledge of himself, so that our faith and hope would be in God. Colossians 2:3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. 

CONC: We cannot overly magnify Christ in the great scheme of salvation. It is the pleasure of the Father that he have preeminence. It is not the preacher, not the church, not anyone but the Lord Jesus Christ who is our one and only mediator and through whom we receive the faith to believe the things of God and in God himself. There is no true faith in God that does not center in the Lord Jesus Christ.

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I. WHAT IS THIS TRUTH WHICH, IF OBEYED, PURIFIES THE SOUL

A. It is the truth of the word of God. John 17:17 Thy word is truth.

B. It is the truth which was given by the inspiration of God and upon which there could and can be no improvement. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

C. It is the pure word of God. Proverbs 30:5 Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.

D. It is the word of God that is purer than silver that has gone through the refining fires seven times. Psalm 12:6 The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.

E. It is the word of God that has been tried and proven. Psalm 18:30 As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried.

F. It is the word of God that is right. Psalm 19:8 The statutes of the LORD are right.

G. It is the word of God that is very holy. Romans 7:12 Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.

H. It is the truth which must be acknowledged. 2 Timothy 2:25-26 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

I. It is the truth which is the perfect law of liberty. James 1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

II. WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF THIS TRUTH WHEN IT IS OBEYED?

A. This truth will cleanse. John 15:3 Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Psalm 119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

B. This truth will set one free from the dominion of sin. Romans 6:16-18 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? 17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. 18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

C. This truth of God’s holy word will help one to be delivered out of the snare of the Devil. 2 Timothy 2:25-26 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

D. This truth will purify the soul. 1 Peter 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently.

E. This truth will sanctify the believer. John 17:2 As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

F. This truth is an instrument in the salvation of the elect. 2 Thessalonians 2:13 But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth.

G. This truth regenerates. 1 Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

H. This word, when believed, is instrumental in giving life. John 20:31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name. John 6:63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

I. This word, especially the gospel of Christ which it sets forth, is the power of God unto salvation. Romans 1:16 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. John 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

III. HOW IS THIS TRUTH MADE EFFECTUAL?

A. It is effectual through the power of the Holy Spirit. 1 Peter 1:22 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit.

1. It is through the Spirit of God that we are able to believe the truth. Matthew 13:11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. Philippians 1:29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake.

2. It is through the Spirit of God that we are able to obey the truth. Philippians 2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

B. It is through the Spirit that we are able to believe the truth. 2 Thessalonians 2:13 But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth.

C. It is through the power of God that we are able to see Christ as the son of the living God. Matthew 16:15-17 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.

D. It is through the drawing and teaching of God that the word is made effectual in purifying our souls. John 6:44-45 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. 45 It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.

E. It is God who opens the door of faith so that we can believe and obey his word. Acts 14:27 And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.

F. It is through the word of truth that God begets us. James 1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

IV. WHAT SHOULD BE OUR REACTION TO THIS BLESSED TRUTH THAT OUR SOULS ARE PURIFIED THROUGH OBEDIENCE TO THE TRUTH?

A. We ought to believe it without question.

B. We ought to obey it without hesitation.

C. We ought to proclaim it without shame.

D. We ought to stand by it without disengagement.

CONC: C. H. Spurgeon said, "I became a Baptist through reading the New Testament ... especially in the Greek ... If I thought it wrong to be a Baptist, I should give it up, and become what I believed to be right. The particular doctrine adhered to by Baptists is that they acknowledge no authority unless it comes from the Word of God."

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HBC July 6, 1997

Series: First Peter, Sermon #22

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LAY ASIDE THE SIN OF MALICE.

Definitions by scholars.

According to Strong, Malice, Greek-kakia {kak-ee'-ah} means, malignity, malice, ill-will, desire to injure, wickedness, depravity. It can be so deep that the one harboring malice is not ashamed to break laws or the Word of God, to follow this malice to its goal.

According to Webster’s Dictionary, it means a malicious desire to see someone injured or bring injury to someone.

According to Vine it denotes a person with an evil character.

Admonitions concerning malice.

Paul admonishes the church at Corinth to be certain they did not come to the Lord’s Table with malice in their hearts. 1 Corinthians 5:8 Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

Children rarely carry grudges so Paul admonished that we be childlike in the matter of malice. 1 Corinthians 14:20 Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.

Paul exhorted the Ephesian congregation to put away all malice. Ephesians 4:31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice.

Paul called on the Colossians to put away any malice they harbored. Colossians 3:8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.

Paul reminded Titus that malice belongs to the old nature, not the new. Titus 3:3 For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.

Instances and illustrations of malice.

It was malice that caused Cain to kill Able. Genesis 4:8 And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.

It was malice that caused Esau to go after Jacob. Genesis 27:41 And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him: and Esau said in his heart, The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob.

It was malice that caused Haman to seek the death of Mordecai. Esther 3:5-15

It was malice in the heart of Herodias which caused John the Baptist to lose his head. Matthew 14:3-10 For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife. 4 For John said unto him, It is not lawful for thee to have her. 5 And when he would have put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet. 6 But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod. 7 Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatsoever she would ask. 8 And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptist's head in a charger. 9 And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her. 10 And he sent, and beheaded John in the prison.

These are but a few instances which clearly explain why Peter said that Pilgrims who have been born again should lay aside all malice. 1 Peter 2:1 Wherefore laying aside all malice.

LAY ASIDE ALL GUILE.

Definitions of guile.

According to Strong, it means to be crafty and deceitful.

According to Webster it means to be deceitful, cunning or duplicitous.

According to my Thesaurus in has several synonyms such as chicanery, duplicity, deceitful, etc.

According to Vine it has the idea of putting out bait or setting a snare.

Admonitions to put away guile.

The Psalmist admonished that we keep our lips from speaking guile. Psalm 34:13 Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.

Enjoying the Christian life requires that we refrain from the use of guile in our dealings with one another. 1 Peter 3:10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile.

Illustrations of guile both good and bad.

Jesus praised Nathaniel for being a man in whom there was no guile. John 1:47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!

Paul referred to his not being financially burdensome to the Corinthians when he preached to them as being crafty and using guile to catch them. 2 Corinthians 12:14 Behold, the third time I am ready to come to you; and I will not be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours, but you: for the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children.

He declares that he did not use guile in evangelizing the Thessalonians. 1 Thessalonians 2:3 For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile.

One of the characteristics of Jesus was that he was without guile. 1 Peter 2:22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth:

LAY ASIDE ALL HYPOCRISIES.

Definitions of Hypocrisy.

Strong say the Greek word translated hypocrisy means "the acting of a stage player, dissimulation."

Vine says, "play-acting, pretence.

Webster says "a feigning to be something one is not, or to believe something one does not believe."

Admonitions to avoid hypocrisy.

James declares that the wisdom which God gives is free of hypocrisy. James 3:17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

Beware that you not think and purport yourself as something you are not. Galatians 6:3 For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.

Paul warns of those who have a form of godliness but deny God’s power. 2 Timothy 3:5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

Paul warned about those who judge others but do the things they condemn in others. Romans 2:1 Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things.

Instances and illustrations of hypocrisy.

Jesus tells us of those who blew a trumpet to let every one see them give their alms to the poor. Matthew 6:2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

He also tells of those who pray to be seen of men. Matthew 6:5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

Jesus also spoke of those who put an a pious face when they fast. Matthew 6:16 Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

Jesus labeled those who drew near to him with their lips while heart was far from him as hypocrites. Matthew 15:7 Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying,

In Matt 23 Jesus repeated describes the hypocrisy of the Scribes and Pharisees. Matthew 23:13-29 But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in. 14 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation. 15 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves. 16 Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor! 17 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? 18 And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty. 19 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift? 20 Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon. 21 And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein. 22 And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon. 23 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. 24 Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. 25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. 26 Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also. 27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. 28 Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. 29 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,

There is also the person who is very critical of others while being very much in error himself. Luke 6:42 Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself beholdest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye.

Jesus said the leaven of the Pharisees was hypocrisy. Luke 12:1 In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.

LAY ASIDE ALL ENVIES.

Definition.

Vine says envy is the feeling of displeasure produced by witnessing or hearing of the advantage or prosperity of others.

Vine also says that evil always attaches to this word. This means the word never has a good connotation.

In other words, there is no way you can envy someone and that be of the Spirit of God.

Admonitions to avoid envy.

Peter admonished these Pilgrims to whom he wrote to avoid being envious. 1 Peter 2:1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and ENVIES, and all evil speakings,

The Psalmist cautioned against being envious of the wicked. Psalm 37:1-2 Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. 2 For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.

Again the writer of Proverbs 23 admonished us to avoid this sin of envy. Proverbs 23:17 Let not thine heart envy sinners: but [be thou] in the fear of the LORD all the day long.

Solomon gave this same good advice several times. Proverbs 24:19 Fret not thyself because of evil men, neither be thou envious at the wicked. Proverbs 24:1 Be not thou envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.

Paul admonished Christians at Rome to avoid this evil. Romans 13:13 Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

Paul admonished the Ga Galatians 5:26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Envy is sometimes evidence that a Christian has not grown in grace as he should. 1 Corinthians 3:3 For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?

Those who truly love the brethren will not envy the material or spiritual blessings that come on others. 1 Corinthians 13:4 Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

Envy seemed to be a real problem in the congregation at Corinth. 2 Corinthians 12:20 For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults.

Envy is never spiritual; it is a product of the flesh. Galatians 5:19-21 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, 20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, 21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.

Envying is sensual, earthy, and devilish. James 3:14-16 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.

Paul had a real good remedy for the eradication of envy among Christians. Philippians 2:3 [Let] nothing [be done] through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

This is the same idea he had in mind when he wrote to the Galatians. Galatians 5:26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Instances and illustrations of envy.

The Philistines envied Isaac because of his possessions. Genesis 26:14-15 For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him.

Rachel envied Leah when Leah bore children and she did not. Genesis 30:1 And when Rachel saw that she bare Jacob no children, Rachel envied her sister; and said unto Jacob, Give me children, or else I die.

Joseph’s brothers envied him because of Jacob’s love of him. Genesis 37:4 And when his brethren saw that their father loved him more than all his brethren, they hated him, and could not speak peaceably unto him. Acts 7:9 And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him,

The Jews envied Paul and Barnabas because of the many who followed them. Acts 13:45 But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.

In a time of spiritual coolness, David became envious of the wicked. Psalm 73:3 For I was envious at the foolish, [when] I saw the prosperity of the wicked.

LAY ASIDE EVIL SPEAKINGS.

Definitions.

Strong says it means a backbiter, or backbiting, defamation of another by saying evil things about them.

Vine and others give the same meaning.

It is translated railing two times and a railer is one who seeks to hurt another by false and malicious gossip about him or her.

Admonitions to lay aside all backbiting.

We should give an angry look to those who backbite. Proverbs 25:23 The north wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a backbiting tongue.

The Psalmist David encourages laying this sin aside by telling us that those who do not do it will abide in the Lord’s holy hill. Psalm 15:1-3 LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? 2 He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. 3 He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.

David warned that he would cut off from the Land those who were guilty of backbiting. Psalm 101:5-8 Whoso privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a proud heart will not I suffer. 6 Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me. 7 He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight. 8 I will early destroy all the wicked of the land; that I may cut off all wicked doers from the city of the LORD.

In listing the sins of men, Paul included backbiting. Romans 1:28-31 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, 30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:

Paul was fearful that some of the Corinthian congregation might be guilty of this sin. 2 Corinthians 12:20 For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults:

Instances of backbiting.

Potiphar’s wife against Joseph. Genesis 39:7 And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me.

Some accused Paul of teaching things he did not teach in an effort to hurt his reputation and diminish his influence. Romans 3:8 And not rather, (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just.

The high priest and leading Jews against Paul. Acts 25:1-3 Now when Festus was come into the province, after three days he ascended from Caesarea to Jerusalem. 2 Then the high priest and the chief of the Jews informed him against Paul, and besought him, 3 And desired favour against him, that he would send for him to Jerusalem, laying wait in the way to kill him.

There is probably more said in the Bible about this sin than any of the others named in this list. It is no wonder that James had so much warning about the tongue, the instrument used in evil speaking. James 3:1-10 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. 2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same [is] a perfect man, [and] able also to bridle the whole body. 3 Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. 4 Behold also the ships, which though [they be] so great, and [are] driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. 5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! 6 And the tongue [is] a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. 7 For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: 8 But the tongue can no man tame; [it is] an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. 9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. 10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.

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