Life is Fifteen Minutes of Vanity
|
|
- Claribel Douglas
- 5 years ago
- Views:
Transcription
1 W Life is Fifteen Minutes of Vanity Ecclesiastes 1:1-11 (text); Romans 8:18-25 Rev. Nollie Malabuyo April 28, 2013 hy should we live with such hurry and waste of life When we are unhurried and wise, we perceive that only great and worthy things have any permanent and absolute existence Things do not change, we change. Henry David Thoreau, 19th century American philosopher wrote this while he lived by a lake called Walden Pond in Concord, Massachusetts. During these two years, he pondered upon the meaning of life and simple living close to nature. Like Thoreau, we gather here this weekend at a place called Nature Discovery Camp to admire and enjoy the beauty of nature. But unlike Thoreau, we are not here in search of the meaning of life. We don't have to live close to nature to know that the meaning or purpose of life is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. While Thoreau was a 19th century philosopher who pondered the meaning of life, Andy Warhol was no philosopher, but merely a pop artist. Nevertheless, in 1968, he waxed philosophical in saying, In the future everybody will be world-famous for fifteen minutes. From this saying came the idiom, 15 minutes of fame. Warhol's venture from pop art to philosophy echoes what the writer of Ecclesiastes taught 2,500-3,000 years ago. The Preacher, as the writer of the book is often called, begins his book exclaiming, Vanity of vanities! All is vanity. The Hebrew word translated vanity is also translated as meaningless, futile, or useless. The Hebrew literally means vapor, breeze, wind, so it can refer to something very fleeting or disappearing very quickly. It could also point to the fleeting pleasures of life. Or it can be an expression of frustration, anger, or sorrow. Or maybe, life itself is vanity because it is hard to understand even with all wisdom; to try to understand it is useless, a striving after wind (1:14-15). Thus, the meaning of this word is similar to what James says about our lives, What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes (Jas 4:14). In this book is a catalog of meaningless things under the sun : wisdom, pursuit of pleasure, work, and life and death itself. In the first eleven verses, he speaks about life, from fallen man's point of view, as meaningless. Man's work is futile, with nothing to gain (verse 3). Life's cycles never change (verse 4). Creation itself, the universe and the earth, remain the same (verses 5-7). And there is nothing new under the sun (verses 9-10). Finally, old things will not be remembered. Even new things today will be old tomorrow, and will be forgotten (verse 11). This present generation is the best example of this. In the last several years, every time Apple came out with a new iphone, people would start to camp in long lines to buy the new version, even overnight. Now, some industry analysts say that Apple is on the decline. Some are even saying that Apple might be the next Atari or Compaq irrelevant and The Sixth Petition: The Word, Prayer and Spirit to Help 1 of 5
2 meaningless. Who remembers these two companies? Who remembers the Sony Walkman or those big, round, CD players? Andy Warhol was right: everyone and everything will be famous for 15 minutes. The Preacher of Ecclesiastes is even more right: life is meaningless and nothing is new under the sun. But does the Preacher really conclude that life on this earth is vain and meaningless? Today, we will meditate on the theme, Life is Fifteen Minutes of Vanity, under three headings: (1) From Human Point of View; (2) From God's Sovereign Decree; and (3) Life is All Vanity, Really? From Human Point of View Because the Preacher teaches in these verses that all life is vain and meaningless, there is no gain for man from anything in this life. So he repeatedly asks throughout the book, What does man gain? (3:9; 5:15; cf. 2:11; 6:11; 10:11) Is there any meaning to our lives? The first subject that he mentions as futile is man's toil or work, What does man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun? (verse 3) From the very beginning, as the builders of the Tower of Babel, man's desire was to make a name for himself. The Pharaohs of Egypt built those giant pyramids so they will be remembered. Nebuchadnezzar built his majestic hanging gardens for his own glory. Alexander the Great conquered almost all of the known world, and built great cities named after him, including Alexandria in Egypt and Kandahar in Afghanistan. The Roman emperors surpassed all of those before them in power and in conquering most of the world. Where are all of these empires, emperors and their magnificent cities, buildings and monuments now? All are gone, except for the ruins and the faded memories. Churches today are not immune from these 15 minutes of fame phenomenon. Youth leaders would come back from a creative worship seminar or camp bringing new songs for the church. After a few months, these new songs are set aside for still newer new songs. Most socalled Christian bands and personalities, like their secular counterparts, vanish after their 15 minutes of fame. Although megachurches are still popular, there are signs of decline after four decades of dominating evangelicalism. Robert Schuller's Crystal Cathedral, one of the first of these megachurches, is now gone. Our old home church in California has declined by more than half. Most membership increase is not because of new converts, but because of transfers from other churches. Because a great majority of these churches are not true churches preaching false gospels, dishonoring the sacraments, and no church discipline they will falter in the end. Only true churches will remain steadfast, even if they remain small, because they are not after 15 minutes of fame, but for faithfully preaching the true gospel of Christ. The second subject the Preacher mentions as meaningless is the cycle of life itself, A generation goes, and a generation comes, but the earth remains forever (Eccl 1:4). Some scholars believe that the generations refer to the human cycle; others concluded that they refer to the natural cycles of creation. In contrast to the coming and going of time and cycles, the earth remains permanent. The Sixth Petition: The Word, Prayer and Spirit to Help 2 of 5
3 The third subject is creation itself, which runs its course daily, monthly, yearly, and for many millennia, but does not change. This seemingly endless cycle of nature has continued since the beginning of time when God created the sun, moon and stars, and the seasons on earth. The sun rises and sets at specific times daily. The wind blows wherever it will, and it blows in never-ending circles. The rains fill the rivers, and the rivers flow to the sea. But the sea never changes its level in minute amounts that the change is measurable only by sensitive equipment. The only time changes in sea level are visible is when a tsunami comes after an earthquake. These natural cycles of creation does seem to have no purpose, in vain, and meaningless because they do not have any lasting effect on anything. From God's Sovereign Decree Because of the utter meaningless of man's toil, the cycles of human life, and the seasons of natural world, the Preacher continues, All things are full of weariness; a man cannot utter it; the eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing. All of the things in the previous verses human and natural cycles continue in endless repetition. When we look at these things, we sometimes say in exasperation, Same old, same old, or Been there, done that. The Preacher says these things are wearisome, and we run out of words to describe it. Our eyes see and our ears hear these things, but we are never satisfied. No matter what new things we see or hear, we want to see and hear more newer things. This is why the Preacher says that always seeking new things under the sun is all meaningless. It is because there is nothing new under the sun (verse 9). Is there a thing of which it is said, 'See, this is new'? It has been already in the ages before us (verse 10). The world has always been obsessed with the new and improved. Adam and Eve were given an obsession by the serpent: to touch, eat and taste that beautiful, delicious-looking forbidden fruit. The builders of the tower of Babel were obsessed to build a new, great structure to make a name for themselves. If nothing is new under the sun, what shall we call space travel, the most advanced computer and communications technologies, and weapons of mass destruction unknown to man until 70 years ago? They might be new things, but the people who make them are only as intelligent and as sinful as all previous generations. Even heresies in the church are merely recycled heresies from the ancient days. All new insights and doctrines are just heresies of the past because of man's sin. Since man's fall into sin, the world has been full of its tragic consequences: war, disease, oppression, hard labor, grief and hopelessness. The Preacher has a very pessimistic statement, What has been is what will be, and what has been done is what will be done (verse 9). The tragic past, present and future effects of sin will always be present, even unto the end of time. At the end of our text, the Preacher writes a sad conclusion, There is no remembrance of former things, nor will there be any remembrance of later things yet to be among those who come after (verse 11). Why do we call some ideas new when there is nothing new under the sun? Because we have either forgotten them or ignorant of them. We have very short memories. The Sixth Petition: The Word, Prayer and Spirit to Help 3 of 5
4 If we have a hard time remembering people, events and things just a few years back, how do we remember these things from 10, 20, 50 or 100 years ago? Look at the church today. Evangelicals have no idea what, why, and how they came to be, or why there is a Roman Catholic Church and evangelicals who both claim the truth from the Bible. It is because they are ignorant of the history of the church beyond their own local church. Heretics of old Montanus, Pelagius, Donatus, Jacobus Arminius, Charles Finney, to name a few are their heroes. Not only are they ignorant of church history, they are ignorant of the Holy Scriptures itself! Very basic doctrines such as original sin, substitutionary atonement, justification, sanctification, and the end times are rarely taught, preached or discussed. Evangelicalism has made its choice of entertainment over doctrine, experience over Scripture, resulting in widespread Biblical illiteracy. The march of people from one generation to the next, the cycles of the created world, and the obsession with new things that are actually old: all of these seem to be meaningless and in vain. Life is All Vanity, Really? In these first eleven verses, the Preacher's thoughts dwell on the human perspective. And from the human perspective alone, everything under the sun is meaningless. But what does the rest of Scripture tell us about these things? First, man's toil was established by God already in the Garden of Eden, The LORD God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it (Gen 2:15). Since this command was given to Adam before he fell into sin, work is not a result of sin. Man was created by God to work and to guard his own created world. But after sin, work has become hard labor, with blood, sweat and tears. Paul tells us about the importance of honest work, Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need (Eph 4:28). He condemns those who are lazy, If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat (2 Thess 3:10). He judges them harshly, But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever (1 Tim 5:8). Work is not meaningless, for we have a higher goal for our labors, not just for ourselves and our families, but to help those who are needy, especially among the household of faith (Gal 6:10). Secondly, human and natural cycles are not meaningless, endless repetitions, because God has decreed before the creation of the world all things that will come to pass, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose, (Isa 46:10). Not only did he ordain everything that will happen, he has made all of his decrees of creation happen: "He set the earth on its foundations, so that it should never be moved" (Psa 104:5); and The mountains rose, the valleys sank down to the place that you appointed for them. You set a boundary that they may not pass, so that they might not again cover the earth" (Psa 104:8-9). From the fourth day of creation, God set the courses of all the cosmic lightbearers the sun, moon and stars [the sun] runs its course with joy. Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them" (Psa 19:5-6). The Sixth Petition: The Word, Prayer and Spirit to Help 4 of 5
5 Therefore, what seems from our human perspective as endless, repetitious cycles of work, life, and natural seasons are not meaningless and futile as we might think. Because God has ordained them for his good purpose for his creation. God rules over all his creation as the King of the universe, The LORD has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all (Psa 103:19; 1Tim 6:15). Not only does he rule over all his creation, God guides man to act according to his purpose, fashion[ing] the hearts of men (Psa 33:13-15), even turning the king s heart wherever he will (Prov 21:1). As Christians, one of our favorite encouraging texts is Romans 8:28, And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. All good things are sent to his people by God. And even temptations, sufferings and persecutions that come to us are also under God's sovereign plan. We commonly hear that history repeats itself, but God is leading all history from a seemingly endless and meaningless cycle to a dramatic end and into an eternal age. Ever since Jesus ascended into heaven, Christians have eagerly awaited his return to gather his people into the new heaven and new earth. Jesus and his disciples promised his return in his Word, and we trust that he will fulfill his Word now, as he did in ages past. And the day of his coming is also the Day of Judgment. A t the end of his book, the Preacher anticipates this Judgment Day, God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil (Eccl 12:14). Evildoers do not believe in Christ's return and a Day of Judgment, saying that the world is in an endless, repetitious, meaningless cycle of seasons, so they mock, Where is the promise of his coming? For ever since the fathers fell asleep, all things are continuing as they were from the beginning of creation (2Pet 3:4). The world has always been in a meaningless merry-go-round, so why worry? But God's wrath will destroy all the mocking, scoffing sinners who are being kept until the day of judgment (2Pet 3:7). But although God is wrathful towards sinful man, God is also merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love (Psa 103:8). God was not slack in giving the Ninevites a 40- day reprieve from destruction if they repented of their wickedness (Jon 3:10). The world is not in an endless, meaningless spin, but is swiftly moving to an end. You usually hear that God would completely vaporize the universe and create a completely new one. But the end is not of destruction, but of restoration to what God had originally intended: an eternal kingdom of a new heaven and a new earth. This is why Paul says that even though creation was subjected to futility, or meaninglessness or vanity, it will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. Even though the whole creation has been groaning together... we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies (Rom 8:20-23). As Christ is the Son, so you are also adopted children with an eternal inheritance. As you depart from this beautiful creation that God has prepared for you this weekend, remember that this world is not spinning endlessly and meaninglessly forever. Your lives are also not a meaningless cycle of birth and death, but of work ordained by God. As you await our Lord's return, strive to live godly and holy lives in your homes, work, schools, and in the church. The Sixth Petition: The Word, Prayer and Spirit to Help 5 of 5
As we begin, I d like to ask you a question. The
As we begin, I d like to ask you a question. The question is, What is your life all about? I don t know how you answered that question, but how you answer the question reveals whether or not you are truly
More informationThe First Petition: Hallowed Be Thy Name
The First Petition: Hallowed Be Thy Name Psalm 105:1-11 (text); Revelation 15:1-8; HC LD 47 Rev. Nollie Malabuyo March 3, 2013 Last Sunday, we studied the introduction to the model prayer that Jesus our
More informationEarthly Wisdom Versus Heavenly Wisdom
Earthly Wisdom Versus Heavenly Wisdom Ecclesiastes 1: 12-18; 2: 12-17; 1 Corinthians 1: 18-31 (texts); Ecclesiastes 9:13-16 Rev. Nollie Malabuyo May 12, 2013 Beloved congregation of our Lord Jesus Christ,
More information12/15/15. Ecclesiastes 1-2
1 2 12/15/15 Ecclesiastes 1-2 We begin in our journey through Ecclesiastes and pray that God will give us understanding that will produce wisdom in our lives lest we think ourselves the exception to the
More informationCATECHISM Christ Fellowship Bible Church
IMPLEMENTATION CATECHISM Christ Fellowship Bible Church Catechizing: a method of teaching using question & answer format 1. The duty falls upon all Christian parents to diligently teach their children
More information"THE FUTILITY OF LIFE; THE IMPORTANCE OF FEARING ELOHIM"
Analysis of ECCLESIASTES "THE FUTILITY OF LIFE; THE IMPORTANCE OF FEARING ELOHIM" "Vanity of vanities," says the Preacher, "Vanity of vanities! All is vanity." "The conclusion, when all has been heard,
More informationThe Blessings of Justification
The Blessings of Justification Scripture Readings: Psalm 25:1-5; Romans 5:1-11 (text) By Rev. Nollie Malabuyo November 14, 2010 Introduction Today, we begin a mini-series on Romans Chapters 5-8. Why these
More informationArticles of Faith The Triune Gode
Articles of Faith The Triune Gode a. We believe that the one and only true God is Spirit: self existent, infinite, personal, unchangeable, and eternal in His being; perfect in holiness, love, justice,
More informationRev. 21:1, Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea.
Rev. 21:1, Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. Isa. 65:17, For behold, I create new heavens and a new earth; and
More informationIs WorkVanity? Ecclesiastes 2:18-26 (text); Ephesians 6:5-8. Rev. Nollie Malabuyo May 19, 2013
B Is WorkVanity? Ecclesiastes 2:18-26 (text); Ephesians 6:5-8 Rev. Nollie Malabuyo May 19, 2013 eloved congregation of our Lord Jesus Christ, we began our study of the Book of Ecclesiastes with an introduction
More informationECCLESIASTES. "Vanity of vanities," says the Preacher, "Vanity of vanities! All is vanity."
ECCLESIASTES "THE FUTILITY OF LIFE; THE IMPORTANCE OF FEARING GOD" "Vanity of vanities," says the Preacher, "Vanity of vanities! All is vanity." "The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and
More informationGrowing in Grace and Knowledge of the Lord Lesson #13
THEN COMETH THE END 1 Cor. 15:24-28 I. INTRODUCTION: 1 1. 2 Several weeks ago we began a series of lessons with the general theme of grow[ing] in the grace and knowledge of the Lord. (2 Pet. 3:18) A. These
More informationThe goal is orthopraxy (right living), through orthodoxy (right teaching). -- Cultivating the heart.
This catechism is a simple a tool for parents to teach essential Christian doctrine to their children. Many of these questions have been around for a very long time. I have chosen the best, added a few,
More informationLIFE-STUDY OF ECCLESIASTES
LIFE-STUDY OF ECCLESIASTES PAGE MESSAGE ONE VANITY OF VANITIES (1) Scripture Reading: Eccl. 1:1-11 In this message we will give an introductory word to the life-study of Ecclesiastes and then begin to
More informationRecognizing Christian Workers Text : II Thessalonians 3: 1-15
Sermon : Recognizing Christian Workers Page 1 A. This is the Labor Day weekend. Recognizing Christian Workers Text : II Thessalonians 3: 1-15 1. In most countries Labor Day is May 1, but in America it
More informationEcclesiastes 1:1-18 ESV
Ecclesiastes 1:1-18 ESV 1 The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem. 2 Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher, vanity of vanities! All is vanity. 3 What does man gain by all the toil
More informationFAMILY MEMBERSHIP COVENANT
FAMILY MEMBERSHIP COVENANT OVERVIEW Park Community Church exists to be and make disciples of Jesus by living as a family of sons and daughters who pursue God, brothers and sisters who practice his commands,
More informationINTERMEDIATE BIBLE SOUND OFF
INTERMEDIATE BIBLE SOUND OFF 1. Who made you? God 2. What else did God make? God made all things. 3. Why did God make all things? For His own glory. 4. Why do things work as they do? God has so decreed
More informationTHE PROBLEM OF SUFFERING AND THE PRESENCE OF OUR SAVING SHEPHERD: A SERMON FROM ECCLESIATES Jason S. DeRouchie, PhD BCS Chapel, September 18, 2014
1 THE PROBLEM OF SUFFERING AND THE PRESENCE OF OUR SAVING SHEPHERD: A SERMON FROM ECCLESIATES Jason S. DeRouchie, PhD BCS Chapel, September 18, 2014 Yesterday some of my family s dearest friends from the
More informationGETTING TO KNOW GOD. Bible Class Series Newton Church of Christ Newton, North Carolina
GETTING TO KNOW GOD Bible Class Series - 2007 Newton Church of Christ Newton, North Carolina GETTING TO KNOW GOD The enclosed series of lessons will be used as a format for the in-class teaching of adults
More informationEcclesiastes: Life Under the Sun Bro. Kory Cunningham
Ecclesiastes: Life Under the Sun Bro. Kory Cunningham Before we get started, I want you to imagine with me for a moment. Tomorrow you go through your normal day, and at some point, you check in with your
More information6/6/14 Searching for meaning the jaded life
6/6/14 Searching for meaning the jaded life And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Rom 8:28 Readings: Ecclesiastes 1.1.18
More informationGrowth Group Study Booklet. Living for Jesus By making, maturing and mobilising disciples For His Glory
Growth Group Study Booklet Living for Jesus By making, maturing and mobilising disciples For His Glory Growth Group Study Booklet Diary Dates - Page 2 Introduction to Ecclesiastes - Page 3 Recommended
More informationGod's Full Salvation - Lesson Book 1
God's Full Salvation - Lesson Book 1 Lesson Outline Titles and/or Lesson Book Chapters 1 God's Eternal Purpose and His Economy (Ch. 1-2) 2 God s Creation of Man as a Three-part Vessel to Contain God as
More informationGETTING TO KNOW GOD. Bible Class Series Winter Park Church of Christ Wilmington, North Carolina USA
GETTING TO KNOW GOD Bible Class Series - 2018 Winter Park Church of Christ Wilmington, North Carolina USA GETTING TO KNOW GOD The enclosed series of lessons will be used as a format for the in-class teaching
More informationGENESIS 5:24; 6:9; HEBREWS 1:1-7; 2 CORINTHIANS 5:7 HEIDELBERG CATECHISM Q&A 21 AND
C Living by Faith GENESIS 5:24; 6:9; HEBREWS 1:1-7; 2 CORINTHIANS 5:7 HEIDELBERG CATECHISM Q&A 21 AND 22 Rev. Nollie Malabuyo March 26, 2017 ongregation of Christ: I am a Christian. That is my faith But
More informationTHE GRACE OF GOD. DiDonato CE10
THE GRACE OF GOD THE PURPOSE OF GRACE 1. God created man in His image and likeness as a perfect human being above all other earthly creatures. As God's most beautiful creature, man was formed with a soul,
More informationGOD We believe that our God is Solitary and Holy. (Ex. 15:11; 1Kings 8:23; 1Sam. 2:2; Is. 45:5-6; 1Pet. 1:15-16.) We believe that our God is
GOD We believe that our God is Solitary and Holy. (Ex. 15:11; 1Kings 8:23; 1Sam. 2:2; Is. 45:5-6; 1Pet. 1:15-16.) We believe that our God is Sovereign and Omnipotent. (Ps. 135:6; Dan. 4:35; Matt. 19:26;
More informationDO YOU HAVE AN IMMORTAL SOUL?
DO YOU HAVE AN IMMORTAL SOUL? Immortality How common is the teaching that we all have immortal souls? What does immortal mean? This belief or doctrine is probably believed by almost all Christian churches
More informationLife Savors: Ecclesiastes Ecclesiastes Part I. Rev. John Hill June 17, 2007 Contemporary Service
Life Savors: Ecclesiastes Ecclesiastes Part I Rev. John Hill June 17, 2007 Contemporary Service Do you remember your first love? My first love s name was Mary and we dated for several years in high school.
More informationJesus the Once-for-All-Sacrifice
C Jesus the Once-for-All-Sacrifice EXODUS 24:1-8; 1 TIMOTHY 2:5; 1 PETER 3:18; HEBREWS 9:11-28 Rev. Nollie Malabuyo March 5, 2017 BSCC ongregation of Christ: Did you ever notice that movies today that
More informationIntroduction. Why Does God Allow Suffering? Introduction. Introduction. The Problem Stated
Introduction Why Does God Allow Suffering? How can a loving omnipotent God allow intense pain, suffering and death in this world? The world is filled with all types of human suffering One example on 4/16/07
More informationLOOKING FOR THAT BLESSED HOPE THE NEW JERUSALEM
LOOKING FOR THAT BLESSED HOPE THE NEW JERUSALEM Tit 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Tit 2:14 Who gave himself for us, that
More informationA Redeemed Life is a Separated Life
H A Redeemed Life is a Separated Life Leviticus 20:22-26; 1 Peter 2:9-12 (text); Heidelberg Catechism Lord's Day 32 July 15, 2012 Rev. Nollie Malabuyo eaven became a happier place today. The angels will
More informationAn Argument Against the Belief in Generational Curses by Cher Bee Her. In the last few years, many prominent Hmong CMA pastors have espoused the
An Argument Against the Belief in Generational Curses by Cher Bee Her Introduction In the last few years, many prominent Hmong CMA pastors have espoused the view that generational curses exist. These curses
More informationTeach Us To Pray Bible Class Lesson One: An Introduction To The Subject of Prayer
Teach Us To Pray Bible Class 2015 Lesson One: An Introduction To The Subject of Prayer Luke 11:1-13 (NKJV) 1 Now it came to pass, as He was praying in a certain place, when He ceased, that one of His disciples
More informationAnger. Faith. Prov 19:11 The discretion of a man makes him slow to anger, And his glory is to overlook a transgression.
Anger James 1:19-20 19 So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Prov 19:11 The discretion
More informationVANITY OF VANITIES ECCLESIASTES 1
VANITY OF VANITIES ECCLESIASTES 1 A Scriptorium Study from The Fellowship of Ailbe T. M. MOORE Copyright 2015 T. M. Moore The Fellowship of Ailbe www.ailbe.org Except as indicated, Scripture taken from
More informationCRYSTALLIZATION-STUDY OUTLINES. Message Eleven (continuation)
LEVITICUS (2) Message Eleven The Jubilee (2) Scripture Reading: Lev. 25:8-17; Isa. 61:1-3; Luke 4:16-22; Acts 26:16-19; Rom. 7:24; 8:2 I. Announcing the gospel to the poor, proclaiming release to the captives
More informationAccountability. Understanding and Applying the Passage (read the passage listed above)
Week #1- Under the Sun- Meaningless Ecclesiastes 1 Pray for the Holy Spirit to help you understand and apply the truth revealed through this study in Ecclesiastes. Understanding and Applying the Passage
More informationGraduated Catechism Memory Program for All Ages
Compiled by Rev. John A. Bouwers September 1998, revised March 2001, January 2010 Graduated Catechism Memory Program for All Ages For centuries the Heidelberg Catechism has been used for the instruction
More informationIn this session we are going to talk about the theology of the gospel. Lived a perfect life, and died on the cross, thus fulfilling the law himself
In this session we are going to talk about the theology of the gospel. In the first session I gave an example of the gospel message. I said the following was one way to express the gospel: The good news
More informationSanctification: The Believer s Pursuit of Holiness. Without God we cannot; without us God will not. ~Augustine
Sanctification: The Believer s Pursuit of Holiness (Part 6) The Role of the Believer in Sanctification Teacher: Paul Lamey Sanctification is a cooperative venture; the Spirit blesses believers with sanctifying
More informationDAMASCUS COMMUNITY CHURCH Agreement with Doctrinal Statement
DAMASCUS COMMUNITY CHURCH Agreement with Doctrinal Statement Those involved in ministry at Damascus Community Church are required to support the DCC doctrinal statement found in the DCC Constitution. Employees
More informationCONSTITUTION OF CROSSROADS BIBLE CHURCH 855 OLD HUNTINGDON PIKE HUNTINGDON VALLEY, PA Phone: (215) Fax: (215)
l ARTICLE I. NAME CONSTITUTION OF CROSSROADS BIBLE CHURCH 855 OLD HUNTINGDON PIKE HUNTINGDON VALLEY, PA 19006 Phone: (215) 379-3096 Fax: (215) 379-4356 The name of this church shall be Crossroads Bible
More informationTHE COUNCIL OF ORANGE
THE COUNCIL OF ORANGE The Council of Orange was an outgrowth of the controversy between Augustine and Pelagius. This controversy had to do with degree to which a human being is responsible for his or her
More informationGod Creates A New Heaven And New Earth
God Creates A New Heaven And New Earth Revelation 21:1 8, 22 27; 22:12 17 LESSON GOAL The child will be encouraged by what is to come and will prepare for the coming of Christ. LESSON OBJECTIVES Students
More informationSignificant Lessons From The Seemingly Insignificant #8 God s Sabbath Rest
Significant Lessons From The Seemingly Insignificant #8 God s Sabbath Rest What is meant by God s Sabbath Rest? We are not debating whether we should worship on Saturday or Sunday. As believers, we are
More informationTHEOLOGY V: SALVATION WEEK ONE
THEOLOGY V: SALVATION WEEK ONE INTRODUCTION This course offers a comprehensive study of salvation from election to glorification, including predestination, the decrees of God, regeneration, justification,
More informationStudies in Christianity Christian Living #7 Why Christians Read the Bible
Sermon : sic L19 Christian living #7 Page 1 Studies in Christianity Christian Living #7 Why Christians Read the Bible Text : II Timothy 3: 10-18 ; James 1: 16-25 S#1. S#2. A. God loves you so much He gave
More informationA. His Hebrew name is Qoheleth, his Greek name, Ecclesiastes. 1. It means one who assembles. a. But what does he assemble?
The King s Classroom: Studies in the Book of Ecclesiastes LESSON # 1 EVERYTHING IS MEANINGLESS Ecclesiastes 1:1-2:26 16 November 2008 Highway Church of Christ, Judsonia, AR I. VIDEO Ecclesiastes 2 (www.godtube.com).
More information14 - What Happens When You Die?
Heaven, Hell, or Nothing? 1 2 As we neared the end of 1999 and we were getting ready for that momentous year of 2000, we were told about who was the greatest person in the last century and what the most
More informationNORTH SHORE BIBLE CHURCH CONSTITUTION
NORTH SHORE BIBLE CHURCH CONSTITUTION Article I NAME The name of this church shall be North Shore Bible Church (NSBC), having its primary place of worship in Manson, Washington. Article II PURPOSE The
More informationThe Righteous and the Wicked
The Righteous and the Wicked Psalm 1 (text); Romans 5:12-21 Rev. Nollie Malabuyo July 7, 2013 The Psalter is an extremely important part of the church with its prayers, songs, emotions, and doctrine. During
More informationWHAT HAPPENS NEXT? SESSION 6. The Point. The Passage. The Bible Meets Life. The Setting. One day we will fully experience who God created us to be.
SESSION 6 WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? The Point One day we will fully experience who God created us to be. The Passage Revelation 21:1-8 The Bible Meets Life Over the course of my adult life, I ve owned five houses.
More informationAc.4:10-12; Eph.1:3 Ed Dye
IN NO OTHER ACCESS TO GOD BY PRAYER Ac.4:10-12; Eph.1:3 Ed Dye I. INTRODUCTION 1. Use #1 through #5 of first lesson in the series. 2. Use B of first lesson: The meaning of the frequently used and highly
More informationENTER THE CONFLICT. Rom. 11:36. Rev. 4:11
ENTER THE CONFLICT The battle that we face as Christians is part of a combat that has existed for thousands of years. It is a struggle for glory. Not our glory, but God s. Everything that is created exists
More informationVILLAGE CHURCH AT MIDLOTHIAN MEMBER COVENANT Explanation. What is the Church?
VILLAGE CHURCH AT MIDLOTHIAN MEMBER COVENANT Explanation Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be
More informationTrue Wisdom Versus the Wisdom of the World
True Wisdom Versus the Wisdom of the World Dean Moore Teach us to number our days that we might apply our hearts unto wisdom. Psalm 90:12 Someone has said: Mankind has acquired great knowledge, but has
More informationLessons From Ecclesiastes
Lessons From Ecclesiastes Student Workbook Prepared By: Orville Vaughn (651) 402-5011 www.northcountrylight.com Permission is granted to copy any portion of this material as long as the content is not
More informationJesus Saves. A doctrinal study of man, sin and salvation. Trinity Bible Church Sunday School Summer 2013
Jesus Saves _ A doctrinal study of man, sin and salvation 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. John
More informationSTATEMENT OF FUNDAMENTAL AND ESSENTIAL TRUTHS
STATEMENT OF FUNDAMENTAL AND ESSENTIAL TRUTHS Article 5 of the General Constitution and By-Laws Adopted by General Conference, 1994 PREAMBLE The Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada stands firmly in the mainstream
More informationRevelation 22: Stanly Community Church
Most cities are known for certain distinguishing characteristics. Perhaps it is the architecture, the culture, the social opportunities, or some combination of features that make it unique. Whether it
More informationFight Sin in your Life
DISCIPLESHIP - LEARNING TO CHANGE: Fight Sin in your Life Hebrews 12: 4 10 August 2014 Readings: Genesis 4: 1 7 Psalm 51 Hebrews 12: 1 4 Matt 5: 27 30 Our text for today is verse 4 in Hebrews 12: In your
More informationPRECIOUS THINGS Ed Dye
PRECIOUS THINGS Ed Dye I. INTRODUCTION 1. The word precious is often used in both OT. and N.T. with reference to several different things. 2. It s from an original Hebrew and/or Greek term sometimes translated
More informationTHE WAY OF THE GODLY AND BLESSED A.
Psalm 1 Intro: Our study will be centered on Psalm 1. We have introduced for us two ways of life. The line drawn between them is not blurred. There are two ways, walked by two classes, toward two destinies;
More informationHebrews 11: Stanly Community Church
The Bible is the revelation of God s purpose and plan for mankind, but it also records the faith of those who trusted in Him as the Creator and Redeemer. More than just a list of those who professed to
More informationSTORY. God s story salvation history, My Story salvation applied to me, Our Story working out the implications of our salvation together.
STORY Everyone loves a good story. Many of our favorite movies and books are captivating stories that draw us in. Great plot, character development, good vs evil... reasons is that God created us for story,
More informationWelcome. Take time to read the verses over and over again. We are told in Proverbs to search and you will find.
Welcome I am so glad you are here! Before we begin this new session, I want to take the time and let you know that YOU have been prayed for! It is not a coincidence you are participating in this online
More information2. Regeneration (sometimes called being born again )
Living Way Church Adult Sunday School Program Introduction to Systematic Theology Lesson Four I. The Doctrine of the Application of Redemption A. Last week, the lesson focused on the person and work of
More informationOne Essential Article
In matters of doctrine you will find orthodox congregations frequently changed to heterodoxy in the course of thirty or forty years, and that is because, too often, there has been no catechizing of the
More informationAS IN THE DAYS OF NOAH (Matt 24:35-39) A. There is one N.T. prophecy that every faithful child of God truly longs to see fulfilled:
AS IN THE DAYS OF NOAH (Matt 24:35-39) A. There is one N.T. prophecy that every faithful child of God truly longs to see fulfilled: 1. Second Coming of Christ in judgment. B. In my view, all of Matthew
More informationCAPITAL BIBLE CHURCH July 7, Colossians Series: Journey to Spiritual Maturity. How to Have My Own Ministry. Colossians 1:24 29
CAPITAL BIBLE CHURCH July 7, 2013 SERMON NOTES PASTOR BILL HAKEN Colossians Series: Journey to Spiritual Maturity How to Have My Own Ministry Colossians 1:24 29 Before you ask me the question, Why should
More informationBalance between Achieving and Enjoyment 4:7 Again, I saw vanity under the sun:
Ecclesiastes 4 The World is Oppressive to Everyone 4:1 - Again I saw all the oppressions that are done under the sun. And behold, the tears of the oppressed, and they had no one to comfort them! On the
More informationCatechism SW 135 th Avenue Beaverton Oregon 97008
9100 SW 135 th Avenue Beaverton Oregon 97008 Phone: (503) 524-1866 Fax: (503) 579-9129 Email: info@cordeoacademy.org Website: cordeoacademy.org Principal: PJ Hanson 2 Questions about God, Man & Sin 1.Q.
More informationWhy did God create the world? God created the world for His glory. God created everything.
**Note to leaders: Use the tweets, status updates, and emails included in this document to keep parents informed of the Bible learning that their children are experiencing in the Gospel Project for Kids.
More informationCARE GROUP LESSON LESSON 10 REST IS GOOD
1 CARE GROUP LESSON LESSON 10 REST IS GOOD We have been learning that God is good. In our final lesson, we will look at the strong connection between good and rest and look at how prayer leads to our resting
More informationPsalm 6 - The Repenting Prayer of the Suffering Saint Wednesday, September 05, :01 AM
Psalms and Proverbs Page 1 Psalm 6 - The Repenting Prayer of the Suffering Saint Wednesday, September 05, 2012 9:01 AM Passages to Read: 1. Micah 7 Introduction 2. Matthew 5:1-11 Sermon Introduction 3.
More informationThe Five-fold Essence of the Church
The Five-fold Essence of the Church (5) The Church as the Army of God Series Themes 1. The Church as the Temple of God: Holiness Be a Confessing Church! 2. The Church as the Family of God: Love Be a Loving
More informationThe Invitation of Christ
The Invitation of Christ Introduction 1. Mankind reacts to certain invitations based upon the incentives that are afforded. A. Our hard work, long hours, and discipline are really not that difficult when
More informationSeven Words for Seven Churches
SESSION ELEVEN Seven Words for Seven Churches SESSION SUMMARY This session traces some of the key themes found in the letters to the seven churches in Asia Minor, beginning with God s call for His people
More information5.Q. Are there more Gods than one? A. There is but one only (Deut. 6:4), the living and true God (Jer.10:10).
Questions and Answers (with proofs) 1.Q. What is the chief end of man? A. Man's chief end is to glorify God (1 Cor. 10:31), and to enjoy him for ever (Ps. 73:25-26). 2.Q. What rule has God given to direct
More informationThe Third Petition: War of Wills
The Third Petition: War of Wills Psalm 103:20-21; Matthew 6:10 & Luke 22:42 (texts); Romans 7:14-25; HC LD 49 Rev. Nollie Malabuyo March 17, 2013 C hristian men, here's a line that's guaranteed to get
More informationWhat You Need to Know About Pain: Part 3
Liberty University DigitalCommons@Liberty University What You Need to Know About... Willmington School of the Bible 2008 What You Need to Know About Pain: Part 3 Harold Willmington Liberty University Follow
More informationSo Great Salvation. Sermon delivered on August 10th, By: Pastor Greg Hocson
So Great Salvation Sermon delivered on August 10th, 2014 By: Pastor Greg Hocson Text: Hebrews 2:1-3 You have heard the saying, "Ignorance is bliss." "What you don't know cannot hurt you." Which simply
More informationand klesis, a calling. Thus, the meaning is a calling out. In the English we get the word
Analysis of Ecclesiastes General Ecclesiastes gets its title from the Hebrew text, which is translated The words of the preacher in verse one. The Hebrew word for preacher (qoheleth) is a word that means,
More information7. What is man unable to determine about his life? (vv. 12; Job 8:9; 14:2; Ps 102:11; 109:23; 144:4)
1. What is the evil which is described in these verses? Why can this man not enjoy his wealth and honor? What would it take for him to find enjoyment? What is the significance of the statement about the
More informationThe Ten Commandments The Introduction. The First Commandment
The Ten Commandments The Introduction I am the Lord your God. 2010 Sola Publishing & ReClaim Resources. All rights reserved. Used by permission. 1 The First Commandment You shall have no other gods before
More information3. But thou, O LORD, [art] a for me; my glory, and the up of mine head. Psalm 3:3
1. Blessed [is] the man that walketh not in the counsel of the, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. Psalm 1:1 2. Serve the LORD with fear, and rejoice with trembling.
More informationwho works all things after the counsel of His will, Eph 1:11 Does God s comprehensive and detailed sovereignty give you peace?
Biblical Solutions for Life Issues Topic 18 Decision Making Randy Thompson Valley Bible Church www.valleybible.net Introduction As we read the Bible and grow in our knowledge and understanding of who God
More informationThrough the Bible G O S P E L S. In the beginning. Jesus: creator. Name: Date:
Through the Bible G O S P E L S In the beginning Jesus: creator Name: Date: 2010 Ronald Williams; 8306 James A Reed Rd; Raytown, MO; jrandms@sbcglobal.net M onday: Warning There are many people these
More informationTHE GOODNESS OF GOD gracious Savior. Psalm 103:8
Goodness of God 1 THE GOODNESS OF GOD gracious Savior Key question Is God really good? Key text Psalm 103:8 The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. Introduction 1. God
More informationLET S NOT GRIEVE GOD
LET S NOT GRIEVE GOD Eph. 4:26-30 26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 Neither give place to the devil. 28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour,
More informationAdvent: Joy to the World Various passages December 18, 2012
Advent: Joy to the World Various passages December 18, 2012 Introduction: One of the casualties of the holidays is the absence of the emotion so often associated with Christmas and that is the feeling
More informationCopyright 2012 Steve Locklair
Ephesians 4:26-27 "Be angry, and do not sin": do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil. World vs. Bible Depiction of Devil 1 Peter 5:8 Be of sober spirit, be on the alert.
More informationPleasing God How we should walk
Pleasing God How we should walk BibleTract.org 1Thessalonians 4:1 - Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you
More informationThe Traveling Pulpit Published By
The Traveling Pulpit Published By Covenant of Grace Ministries 2704 Fairway Drive Greensboro, NC 27408 Burley W. Moore-Bible Teacher e-mail: burleymoore@juno.com www.covenantofgraceministries.com Phone
More informationDOCTRINAL STATEMENT THE PERSON AND WORK OF GOD THE SON:
DOCTRINAL STATEMENT ARTICLES OF FAITH Each and every person, in order to become or remain a member of the church shall be required to subscribe to the following articles of faith: THE HOLY SCRIPTURES We
More informationECCLESIASTES 1. Trust Jesus He Cares Visit www. TrustJesusHeCares.org to download a free chapter by chapter quiz of the entire bible.
ECCLESIASTES 1 1. The writer of this book refers to himself as a. A lamb. b. The preacher. c. God s voice. d. Servant of man. 2. The writer is the son of a. David. b. Isaac. c. Saul. d. Reuben. 3. He says
More informationHis Faithfulness. God can be trusted as the One who reigns eternally.
Session 9 His Faithfulness God can be trusted as the One who reigns eternally. PSALM 146:1-10 1 Hallelujah! My soul, praise the Lord. 2 I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing to my God as long
More information