The Great Day

The Great Day
Luke 2:11

Sermon by Jack Nazary
Ebenezer Baptist - 2003

A Saviour! Everything in this announcement of the angels gathers around that precious word!

Seven features are supplied:
1. Who He is - Christ the Lord
2. How He came - unto you is born a saviour
3. Where He was born - in city of David
4. When He was born - this day
5. Why He was born - a savior - sin, death, hell
6. Unto whom He came - unto you
7. What feeling - should be ours in reaction to the joyous tidings - Luke 2:10 "For" refers to verse 10; "fear not"; "fullness of joy"

Who it was who came? "Christ the Lord"
Long predicted Messiah
Long expected Messiah
God appointed, God anointed one "the Lord" Jehovah
That word "the Lord" would startle the shepherds beyond measure and it should in like manner effect you and me!

See how He came - "unto you is born...a savior"
How this sanctifies human motherhood!
How it honors motherhood! In contrast to non-christian religious and present day tendencies.
What dignity it confers on our race! For it links God Himself with it!
How it proves the real manhood of Christ!
If He was born then He is truly human as will as divine - think of it God the Son was humanly born - O' the mystery of it!

See where He was born - "the city of David"
what historical connections - Bethlehem had for those shepherds. It was there that Jacob's beloved Rachel died; where gentle Ruth became the wife of Boaz. It was the city of the mighty warrior Joab. But above all it was David's city, born there, there learned to sling his stones, play his harp, sing his psalms. and it was David's messiah, successor for whom all were waiting.

Remember when He was born "this day" - what joy to the shepherds, How condemning it is to us. This day was 2000 years ago, yet there are millions who have never heard.

We see why He was born - "unto you is born a saviour"
Would they have come with the same excitement to announce the birth of a ...philosopher, a statesman, a warrior, a reformer????
No, nothing could have brought such joy and gladness except the saviour from Sin, Death, and Hell!

Observe "unto whom He came" - "unto you"
Unto you - shepherds
Unto you - people of Israel
Unto you - human beings as distinct from angles

What feelings should be ours in reaction to the joyous tidings? "Fear not" - "Great Joy"

History Repeats Itself

History Repeats Itself

Sermon by Jack Nazary
Ebenzener Baptist - 2003

No room for Jesus in the inn.
No room for Him in the world today.
Some things are sure - when there is no room for Jesus:

I. When there is no room for Jesus - there is no righteousness for the sinner
a. May be self-righteousness as the Pharisee - "Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess." Luke 18:10-12

b. Must have Jesus to have God's righteousness. "For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth." - Romans 10:4; "But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. - I Corinthians 1:30.

c. Many will find out too late that self-righteousness is no good. "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in they name have cast out devils? and in thous name done many wonderful works? and then will I profess unto them, I never knew you; depart from me, ye that work iniquity." - Matthew 7:21-23.

II. When there is no room for Jesus - there is no rejoicing in the soul - Jesus brings rejoicing!
a. The angel bears this out - "Bring good tidings of great joy" - Luke 2:8-13
b. The experience of Paul and Silas in jail bears this out - "prayed and sang praises unto God." - Acts 16:25
c. The Ethiopian Eunuch in the chariot bears this out - "went on his way rejoicing" Acts 8:39.

III. When there is no room for Jesus - There is no rapture by the saviour.
a. Notice what our saviour promises. "Let no your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." - John 14:1-3

b. No person will be raptured who has not been saved. "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; then we which are alive and remain will 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." - I Thessalonians 4:16-17

c. Many will be left when He does rapture His own. "Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two women shall be grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come." - Matthew 24:40-42

IV. When there is no room for Jesus - there will be no reward for faithfulness.
1 Corinthians 3:13-15; 1 Corinthians 4:5; 11 Corinthians 5:10 - "For we must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

V. When there is no room for Jesus - there will be no relief from hell's suffering.
a. All who reject Him, will suffer - Luke 16:25-28 - "But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot: neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house; For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment."

b. All who believe (COMMIT) will be saved. "And the Spirit and the bride say, Come, and let him that heareth say, Come and let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." Revelation 22:17

c. Those who reject Christ will face God in Judgement for rejecting. "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgement." Hebrews 9:7.

Do you have room for Jesus today? Have you asked Jesus to come into your heart and be your Savior? Do you put Him first in your life? Is he your Lord? Do you have peace and joy at this Christmas season because of the gift of life from God the Father?

The Growing Life

Paul prays for growth in Philippians, Colossians, and Ephesians

"The Growing Life"

Introduction: Tragedy of child that never grows up - 1 Corinthians 3:1 - Tragedy of those who fail to grow up spiritually. 6 ways to Grow - Grow in love, true knowledge, and perfect judgement.

I. By allowing Holy Spirit to fill your life and give you power - Ephesians 5:18. Holy Spirit to be everything to Disciples that He was while on earth - Galatians 5:16; 3:3. Your friend- John 15:14; your guide, teacher- John 14:26; director- Acts 13:2; your assurance of Salvation - Ephesians 1:13; partner in prayer - Romans 8:26-27; source of power - Ephesians 3:16.

II. By keeping His commands - John 14:15; 14:21a - Most commands are 1. to love people; 2. to evangelize.

III. By following Christ in Baptism and serving Him in fellowship with believers. Acts 2:41-42 (believers, baptized and shared together in worship, prayer, fellowship, and witnessing)

IV. By daily Prayer and Study of God's Word - 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Matthew 4:1-10; Philippians 4:6-7

V. By Being a Faithful Manager of all the gifts God gives to you. 1 Corinthians 4:2. It is required of stewards that a man be found faithful. 1 Peter 4:10 - Good for all.

VI. As you share your faith by your life and your words - Acts 1:8.

Can others tell that you're different?
Do others hear from your lips what Jesus Christ has done for you?
There is no road to Spiritual growth that neglects your personal witness for Jesus Christ.

At Jesus' Feet

At Jesus' Feet
Philippians 2:9-11

Sermon by Jack Nazary
Midway Baptist - 1991
West Carthage Baptist Mission - 1997

For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name,so that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE WILL BOW, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

I. For Forgiveness - Luke 7:36-38 - She stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment.

II. For Healing - Luke 9:11 - And the people, when they knew it, followed him; and he received them and spake unto them of the kingdom of God, and healed them that had need of healing. Matthew 9:23 - And when Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the minstrels and the people making a noise. 9:20 - And, behold, a woman which was diseased with an issue of blood 12 years, came behind him and touched the hem of his garment. 9:21 - For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. 9:22 - But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole from that hour.

III. For Instructions - Luke 10:38-39 - And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard His word.

IV. In Distress - John 11:28-32 - Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thous hadst been here, my brother had not died.

V. In Prayer - Luke 8:41 - And behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue; and he fell down at Jesus; feet, and besought him that he would come to his house.

VI. For Worship - Matthew 28:9 - And behold Jesus met and greeted them. And they came up and took hold of His feet and worshiped Him.

Psalms 23

Psalms 23
by Estelle Nazary

This little psalm is a message of great beauty, describing the peace and calm delight which dwell with one whose trust is wholly in God. David's thoughts are happy thoughts - he lacks nothing, has no fear. God's mercy and goodness are with him and he feels assured that they will continue to be with him all his life. He has but one desire for the future and that is to dwell in the presence of God forever.
As we think of this scripture, we would like to consider it as a bouquet of sweet peas.
1. Psalm of great beauty, sweetness, of purpose and of happy thoughts.
2. "The Lord is my Shepard" Provision - This is the key note of the whole Psalm. This is the voice of personal experience. Christ is the shepherd. He seeks and saves the lost, ruling and feeding each one who follows him laying down his life for the flock. Can you say, "The Lord is My Shepherd"? I shall not want that is therefore can I lack nothing. He gives everything one needs.
3. Plenty - (verse 2) - gives food and rest. He provides spiritual food and rest. Waters of refreshment for us spiritually. He revives the soul and reinvigorates it when it is exhausted and weary.
4. Paths (verse 3) - He leadeth me in paths of pleasantness and peace to magnify his name as a gracious and merciful God.
5. Protector (verse 4) - Give assurance of God's presence with us when we need help and strength. He will not fear because the same gracious God will be with him, leading him, guiding his steps, keeping him from evil. The rod and staff comfort me. However long and dreary the way through the dark valley, I shall still have guidance and protection.
6. Power (verse 5) - God prepares his table laid before his enemies. His whole life full to overflowing with blessedness. His cup is not only full to the brim but runs over with happiness.
7. Peace (verse 6) - David has no doubt that God's goodness and mercy shall continue to cling to him all his life. Perfect peace and blessedness is his to enjoy.
8. Praise (verse 6b) - To live with God forever to behold his beauty. This expresses the longing of the soul for the continual presence of God and communion with him forever. Lifelong and everlasting companionship is his blessing.

What is your story? Can we truly say the Lord is MY shepherd?

Worship Experience

Worship Experience
Psalm 95:6-7

by Estelle Nazary

The worshiper fails when he does not worship. Worship means an encounter with God. How to learn to worship better!

I. Recognize importance of worship
1. What is worship? bow down ..show reverence..appreciation of God..quicken the conscience by presence of God.. Expression of reverence in body, soul, and spirit.

2. We need to worship. We are to worship our maker, our Lord, our God, not anything He has made. It is a privilege and responsibility. We need to rid ourselves of our guilt, emotional or spiritual needs. God is the only one who can take away our guilt.

3. It gives direction and understanding. How to live our life and He gives us guidance.

4. We need to be renewed. We are a spiritual being.

II. Imperatives of Worship
1. Attention - requires our attention. We don't worship because we don't settle down. "Be still and know that I am God." Calm and quiet voice. God must have our attention.

2. Acknowledge God is God..He is above man.

3. Activity - God speaks. Person confesses sin to God. Lets God heal a hurt. Forgives someone who has hurt. Rededicates life to God.

III. Imparting of Worship
1. Discernment - Psalm 73 - Bitterness toward God. In worship experience, you recognize what is SO very important.

2. Direction - We are confused and need direction. Need someone to guide and this is what we find in worship. Example: A girl is lost and simply says "If you take me to my church, I can find my way home!

The Crisis of Nineveh

The Crisis of Nineveh
Jonah 1:1-3; 3:1-3

by Estelle Nazary

God's impending judgment. A messenger of God came to warn the people of impending judgment. The people repented and God saved the city. "Jonah" is a book of God.

I. The crisis - People chose to sin. Jonah was God's messenger. The city was sinful and terrible. God is about to judge and destroy the city. They have 40 days to repent. The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now God has established judgment. Judgment is a reality. It is appointed that man is to die and after that judgment. Repent means to turn around.

II. The Concern of God. Jonah 4:11
120,000 people who are lost. God is concerned about us even as he was in Nineveh. God came walking in the cool of the days in the Garden of Eden to fellowship with Adam and Eve. "Adam sinned and tried to hide from God." Jesus came to seek and save those who are lost. Adam, where are you? God knew where he was. "Adam, do you know where you are?"

Revelation 22
The spirit and the bride say "come". God declares his concern for people. God demonstrated his concern. He called Jonah and sent him and gave him the message to carry to Nineveh so they could be saved. Never enough to say you care unless you are willing to demonstrate your concern. "no one came today" every day for 6 months a woman who lived alone wrote in her diary. God's keenest desire is to have everyone saved. Jesus died for all. He died to keep us from hell.

III. His Commission - Jonah 2:1
Jonah was already a preacher. He preached to Jews, but God wanted him to go to Nineveh. The Lord got Jonah's attention. Matthew 28:19-20 - Then God gave him a commission. We know where the lost people are, but we aren't doing anything. The urgency, emergency of the commission - 40 days. The work of the church should be with urgency, enthusiasm and love for God and people. Same gospel, same God, same message, same commission....

Renew our commitment - Rededicate my life - Lost

Love

Today, my dear grandmother would have been 85 years old. I am sure she is much happier in heaven, but days like this are always for remembering. I can't help but wish she was here so we could have a huge 85th birthday party for her that she would have hated. I wish she could have met my wonderful husband and of course, her granddaughter Olivia. I wish she could have been here longer, but I have the assurance that she is flying high in heaven with our Lord even as I write these words.

I miss you Grandmother! Happy Birthday!

Love
by Estelle Nazary

"God's love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit." Romans 5:5

Characteristics of love:
Love is very patient and kind, never jealous or envious, never boastful or proud, never haughty or selfish or rude. Love does not demand its own way. It is not irritable or touchy. It does not hold grudges and will hardly even notice when others do it wrong. It is never glad about injustice, but rejoices whenever truth wins out. If you love someone you will be loyal to him no matter what the cost. you will always believe in him, always expect the best of him and always stand your ground in defending him.

Romans 12:9 - "Let love be real"

The Christian Home

The Christian Home

Ephesians 5:22-26

Sermon by Jack Nazary
West Jackson Baptist - 1963
Colonial Hills - 1966 & 1971

Introduction: The future of our nation is very decidedly at stake. J. Edgar Hoover says "As goes the Christian homes of America, so goes our nation."

Over five million of the more than thirty million public school age boys and girls come from broken homes. 150,000 additional boys and girls go to psychiatrists each year for mental treatment - their difficulties arising from the broken home situation, resulting in a lack of love, care, and security.

Divorce rate in America is 3 1/2 percent higher than that of England, 3 % higher than that of France (the percentage is now almost one out of 2 marriages goes on the rocks). The divorce rate is over 800% since the Civil War. Yet the majority of marriages succeed.

I. Reasons for Divorce

A. Contractual attitude toward marriage - this influenced largely by Hollywood. Marriage is a commitment for life, not a contract to be broken by either party. Most people who get divorces should never have married at all.

B. They marry for physical attraction alone. Love at first sight...Love Story magazine...Love story book.

C. Failure of the home, church, and school to prepare for marriage. Little do we care for the marriage of our children inside the will of God.

II. Responsibility of parents to children

A. A cordial welcome
1. Genesis: "Be fruitful and multiply"
2. Psalm 127: "Children are an heritage of the Lord."
3. The Home should: want children, expect children, and plan for children
4. God's will should be considered in the number of children.
5. Some couples lavish love on a dog or a cat instead of children. Twice as much is spent in America on dog food as on preacher's salaries. (two preachers to one dog)
6. It is good for both to work for a while - provision for children (going on to school)

B. Careful Protection
1. Babies are helpless
2. They need protection from:
a. loneliness
b. Hunger
c. Harm
d. Disease
3. Teenagers need to be protected from:
a. Temptation
b. Trouble
c. Harm
4. Teenagers need good recreation:
a. Fellowship
b. Shuffleboard
c. Badminton
5. The blindest people to the problems of teenagers are the parents of teenagers.
6. The homes should be congregating places for teenagers.
7. People can be brought to Christ through a recreational program.
8. "The Devil as a roaring lion walketh about seeking whom he may devour"
9. A seven day ministry is needful for the church today.

C. Christian Affection
1. Example - Newlywed and "hen pecked" husband meet. Newlywed: "I have the sweetest wife." I've named her after a flower - Rose." "Hen - pecked": "I named my wife after a flower too - Snap dragon."
2. Some husbands and wives use crude common expression to refer to their mates "My ol man" "my ol woman" Children use these terms also in referring to their parents.
3. Terms of love, affection, and deep respect should be used.

D. Corrective Discipline - not police action
1. Example - a 16 year old once said, "mother was always on talking terms with God and spanking terms with me."
2. Susan Wesley, the mother of 19 children said: 1. "I always broke a child's stubborn streak by the time he was one year old" 2. "I never gave a child anything that he continued to cry for."
3. Psychiatrists have said that all sex deviates have one thing in common, they were spoiled, pampered children.
4. Some say don't spank a little child; you will warp his personality.
5. The child should not be expected to make decisions on his own at an early age. He needs help from his parents in making them.

E. Christian Example
1. Example: A man, his wife and two teenage children came on profession of faith one Sunday (First Church, Dallas). 16 year old son had died in a car wreck the week before and gone to hell because of the influence of his mother and father.
2. Boys and girls will go to hell because parents tell them to - by their example.
3. Example: A farmer was asked if his son could go to the Training Union Assembly. He replied, "I don't have to make a crop, but I sure got to make a man out of that boy."
4. Example: A mother had led her daughter to the Lord. When the preacher came to visit, the daughter ran out to meet him and said, "Brother Williams, I have the dearest mother in the world. She has always loved and cared for me, and now she has led me to Christ and I am a Christian."
5. Example: The 11 year son of a dedicated Memphis lawyer was in the hospital and doctors had reported that he was soon to die. When the dad went in to see his son, the son said, "Dad, I'm not going to live long, but if God's anything like you, I'm not afraid to die."

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In the 45 years since my Granddaddy preached this sermon, things have gone from bad to worse. It is sad to think of the trend in our country. At age 9, I was a child of divorce. I was in the minority. Most of my friends lived with both mom and dad. I lived with mom and step-dad. It is weird to think how things have changed just in my lifetime. It is so evident in working with teenagers everyday that most of the problems they face are directly related to home. Almost all of our students come from broken homes.

Here are some of the statistics I found on-line:

"Half of all children will witness the breakup of a parent's marriage. Of these, close to half will also see the breakup of a parent's second marriage."
Furstenberg, Peterson, Nord, and Zill, "Life Course," 656ff. Cited on page76 ofThe Abolition of Marriage, by Maggie Gallagher

"The number of children involved in divorces and annulments stood at 6.3 per 1,000 children under 18 years of age in 1950, and 7.2 in 1960. By 1970 it had increased to 12.5; by 1975, 16.7; by 1980, the rate stood at 17.3, a 175 percent increase from 1950. Since in 1972, one million American children every year have seen their parents divorce. "
Brian Willats, Breaking Up is Easy To Do, available from Michigan Family Forum, citing Statistical Abstract of the United States, 1993.

"The number of children living with both parents declined from 85 to 68 percent between 1970 and 1996. The proportion of children living with one parent has grown from 12 percent to 28 percent during this same time span."
Quoted from Census Bureau's release about its report on MARITAL STATUS AND LIVING ARRANGEMENTS

When A Man Meets God

When A Man Meets God
Isaiah 6:1-9a

by Estelle Nazary

It's one thing to know about God. It's an entirely different thing to know God. Isaiah was writing to people who understood those symbols. It was hard to put into words an experience with God, even salvation experience.

I. When a man meets God, he sees his condition.
1. He was a sinner.
2. He was a religious and moral person. In the midst of a personal crisis, he saw God. "Woe is me, I am lost" and he saw himself as he really was. A person doesn't really know himself until he sees God. A low concept of self. Person others think we are. Person God knows we really are. He saw himself when he saw Jesus and all He is.

II. When a man meets God, he experiences salvation.
Nicodemus - "You must be born again, " said Jesus. Greatest need is need for Jesus. We can't change our heart. Man need change from the inside out, not outside in. Only God can change the heart of a person. It's being born all over.

III. When a man meets God, he receives a commission.
Uzziah had ruled 52 years and had given security and stability to the people. He had died with leprosy. In the same type of feeling in our current time, 11-22-1963 - "They shot the president"... Americans felt sick because of the death of their leader and Isaiah felt sick because of the death of his leader, Uzziah. Isaiah went to church in this sick hour. Isaiah saw himself and was converted. He realized that God needed him. When I (we) meet God, he gives us a commission for life. Critical time in which we live - God says "Who will go for me?" Crisis affords us opportunity.

Do you know the Lord? John 17:3
Eternal life is knowing the living God.

When we meet God
We see ourselves -
We cry out for His help
We say what can I do?

A Happy, Wholesome Life

A Happy, Wholesome Life
Philippians 4:4-9

Author Unknown - Too Good to Not Post!

1. Keep your emphasis upon what the Lord has done for you. Be positive!

2. Don't be insisting upon your own rights all of the time. Have a "sweet reasonableness".

3. Jesus is coming back! He'll set everything right, so let Him straighten out the inequities.

4. Stop Worrying. The things you have no control over - leave them to God.

5. Pray a lot more than you do. "When all is said and done, more said than done."

6. Fill your mind with good thoughts! Clean, beautiful, pure and sweet ought to be the things we focus our minds on.

7. Keep busy doing the things of God! Inactive church members aren't the happy ones, or the healthy ones.

Philippians 2:1-4

Philippians 2:1-4
Sermon by Jack Nazary - Calvary Baptist 1984

Philippians 1:27 is an exhortation to unity that is elaborated upon in verse 2:2. This exhortation is given in view of 4 facts that should be heeded. The word "if" refers to a fulfilled condition. "Since" or "in view of the fact".

4 Facts are mentioned:

1. Certain Consolation - a certain thing - meaning supplication, entreaty, exhortation, admonition, encouragement, consolation, comfort, solace. The meaning determined by context. Here, exhortation, in view of the lack of unity among them. "A ground of appeal that exhorts" - be likeminded.

2. Comfort of Love
A word which comes to the side of one to stimulate or comfort him. "incentive, encouragement" Comfort has an element of tenderness and persuasion. Love - God's love - John 3:16;
1 Corinthians 13 - From God's love for them - that reached down and saved them - thus urges them to unity. The divine love produced in hearts of saints by Holy Spirit should cause them to so love each other with a love that impels one to sacrifice one's self for the one loved, that their differences will be ironed out, and will live in unity.

3. Certain Fellowship of Spirit
Fellowship - common, interest and a mutual and active participation in the things of God as joint participants. This results from the Spirit's work of regeneration and His control of those subjected to Him. If the saints are interested in the things of the Spirit - thus the same things - naturally follow a unity among the Philippians. The Holy Spirit by controlling each saint produces this unity and accord. (His Control)

4. Bowels of Mercy
Bowels - tenderness
Mercies - Compassionate yearnings and actions. these graces are present in saints - produces peace with one another, difference resolved, estrangements healed, bickerings ceased.

Complete, Fill, Full

Philippians 2:2 - Be likeminded - Think the same thing - General accord should exist among them.
A. Having the same Love - Unity of affections - heart agreement
B. Being of one accord - Soul with soul - Unity of sentiment
C. Of one mind - Thinking the one thing

Philippians 2:3 - Strife - factiousness
A. Vain glory
B. Empty, vain, to no purpose, futile
C. Opinion - empty pride -
Lowliness - humble, humility, does not exalt itself
Esteem - belief that rests
Better - having above - to excel or surpass

Philippians 2:4 - Look - to fix attention upon - with desire for and interest in - "to consult one's own interest" No one having an eye for his own interests alone, but for the interests of others.

The Secret of a Great Life

The Secret of a Great Life
Philippians 3:13-14

Introduction: Someone has well said, "the greatest study of man on earth is the study of man on earth." The study of biography is a fascinating and helpful study. We are interested in lives of men who have succeeded. We would know all we can about them, their beginnings, their struggles, their habits, their viewpoints in life. Today, I would direct your attention to the most remarkable Christian of the centuries, the Apostle Paul. In a burst of confidence when writing to the Philippian Church he lets us into the secret of his great life. "This one thing I do... forgetting the things which are behind, reaching forth unto those things that are before...I press toward the mark..."

We will do well to look into that secret today.

I. The first element is whole-hearted concentration. "This one thing I do" No life can be very great, happy or useful without this element of concentration. Everyone should have his work to do, know what it is, and do it will all his might. Decision is energy and energy is power and power is confidence, and confidence to a remarkable degree contributes to success. Many have failed in life not because of lack of ability, but lack of concentration. The whole world is witness to its power.

One must be our master - Jesus. He says if you would be my disciple "I must come first", before father, mother, brother, or dearest love one. "No man can serve two masters", "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God", "Ye shall seek me and find me when ye search for me with your whole heart".... I must come before business, property, own life. "I must be Lord of all or not Lord at all"

Paul knew the 1st element of a successful life was indispensable to success.. "This one thing" Not a dozen, not two BUT ONE!

II. A second secret of his marvelous life is that he cultivated a wise forgetfulness of the past. Some things we are to remember
Some things we are to wisely forget

What are some of the things we ought to wisely forget...
1. Our blunders
2. Our losses - Losses of all kinds come to us. We need to learn how to get past them and forget them.
3. Life's injuries - In a world of competitions, frictions, and alienations it is difficult to get past the injuries that come in human life. But if you have hate in your life, you have lost the highest perspective of life as long as the poison of hate is allowed in your head and life. Big men do not cherish resentments - They put them out of their lives.
4. Our successes - More men have been spoiled by success than we can measure. There's danger in success anywhere for any man. If he can bear success he can bear anything.
5. Our sorrows - Sooner or later they come to us. We need to learn how to take these sorrows to the great refining, overruling master, and ask him to dispose, to rule and overrule in them and with them that we may come out of them all refined and disciplined, and better educated, and more useful because of such sorrows.
6. Our sins - If Paul had not learned how to forget his sins, he would have been crippled utterly to his grave. Paul consented to the death of Stephen, persecuted the church, was a ringleader in sin, and called himself the chief of sinners. If had not learned how to forget them they would have defeated him. "Where sin abounded - grace did much more", "As far as the east is from the west", "The blood of Jesus Christ cleaneth us from all sin" Jesus paid it all - All to Him I owe - Sin had left its crimson stain - He washed it white as snow.

III. Paul had a right anticipation - "reaching faith"
Paul had the right forward look - Forgetting and reaching forth
May I ask you what is your aim in life?
How are you using your life?
How are you investing your life?
What is the aim of your life?

I Met the Master

I had walked life's way with an easy tread,
Had followed where comforts and pleasures led.
Until one day in a quiet place,
I met the Master face to face.

With station and rank and wealth for my soul,
Much thought for my body but none for my soul.
I had entered to win in life's mad race,
When I met the Master face to face.

I met Him and knew Him and blushed to see
That his eyes full of sorrow were fixed on me;
And I faltered and fell at His feet that day,
While my castles melted and vanished away.

Melted and vanished and in their place
Naught else did I see but the Master's face
And I cried aloud, "Oh, make me meet
To follow the steps of Thy wounded feet."

My thought is now for the souls of men.
I have lost my life to find it again,
E'er since one day in a quiet place
I met the Master face to face.

Set Your Mind On Right Things

Set Your Mind on Right Things

For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he...

Introduction: Minds are always set on some thing. It is important what a man thinks of...He should always set his mind on fine things.

1. Things that are true - Many things in the world are deceptive. they promise what they can never perform. They offer , but do not deliver. Man should set his mind on things which he can rely, things which will not fail him or let him down.

2. Things that are honest - Honorable, venerable, worthy, that which has the dignity of holiness -
There are things in the world which are flippant and cheap - attractive to the light minded, but the Christian must set his mind on the great, serious and dignified.

3. Things that are just - The righteous or just man is the man who gives to men and to God their due. Some set minds on pleasure, comfort, easy things, and easy ways, but the Christians thoughts are on duty to God and duty to man.

4. Things that are pure - That which is morally pure, undefiled, things that have been cleansed and fit to be brought into the presence of God and used in service of God. This world is full of things that are sordid, shabby, soiled and smutty. Many men get their minds on such a state that it soils everything of which it thinks - The Christian thoughts are to be so clean that they can stand the scrutiny and observing eye of God.

5. Things which are lovely - Things that are attractive, winsome, that which calls forth love. There are those whose minds are so set on vengeance and punishment, that they call forth bitterness and fear in others. There are those whose minds are so set on criticism and rebuke that they call forth resentment in others. The mind of the Christian is set on the lovely things: kindness, sympathy, forbearance, love so that the Christian is such a winsome person that to see him is to love him.

6. Things of good report - gracious, high toned, whatever has a good name, fair speaking, the things that are fit for God to hear - There are ugly words, false words, impure words, and far too many in this world.

7. Things of Virtue - Excellence of all things - could describe the ground of a field. Excellence of a tool for its purpose. Physical excellence of an animal. Excellence of the courage of a solider - the virtue of a man = "Think of your past life at its highest" to spur you on to new heights of the Christian way of life - The world has its impurities and degradation, but it also has its nobilities and chivalrous and it is of the high things that the Christian must think.

8. Things of Praise - In a sense the Christian should never think of the praise of men, but in another sense it is true that every good man is moved and uplifted by the praise of good men. The Christian should live in such a way that he will not desire or seek the praise of men, nor will foolishly despise the praise of men whose praise is a thing to be desired. Not praise of men, but Praise of GOD!

The Christ

The Christ
Philippians 2:5-11

Sermon by Jack Nazary - Colonial Hills 1970

I. He entered the world miraculously - Matthew 1:18-23; Luke 2:1-7

II. He stayed in the world briefly

III. He died for the world willingly - Matthew 26:36-46; 27:24-38

IV. He arose from the world victoriously - Matthew 28:1-7

V. He is saving the penitent world freely

VI. He will rule the world eventually - I Timothy 6:13-16

What Christ Means to the Christian

What Christ Means to the Christian
Philippians 3:1-21

Sermon by Jack Nazary - Ebenezer Baptist 2002

"I count all things but lost for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord."

Introduction: To know Christ was Paul's determined purpose not only for his own edification, but that he might make Him known - Acts 16:10 - It could not be otherwise for those that truly know the Lord in the intimate way expressed in these verses must inevitably lead to a deep seated purpose to make him known to a needy world.

I. Christ is our confidence - Philippians 3:1-6
1. Paul repudiates sacramental efficacy - verse 2
2. Paul repudiates the religious import honored parent age - verse 5
3. Paul repudiates religious authority - verse 5b
4. Paul repudiates intense earnestness - verse 6
5. Paul repudiates the worth of ceremonial blameness - verse 6b

II. Christ is our hope - Philippians 3:7, 8
1. The paradox of losing in order to gain
2. Hope is not in things but in Christ

III. Christ is our righteousness - Philippians 3:9
1. Righteousness through Christ
2. Righteousness by faith
3. Righteousness of God

IV. Christ is our inspiration - Philippians 3:10-14
1. Inspiration of knowledge - verse 10-11
2. Inspiration of attainment - verse 12-14
a. There is obliteration of the past "forgetting"
b. There is consecration of all energies "this one thing I do"
c. There is untiring activity "I press forward toward the mark"

V. Christ is our Savior - Philippians 3:15-20
1. Salvation changes our companions - verse 15-19
2. Salvation changes our conversation - verse 20
3. Salvation changes ultimately our bodies

VI. Christ is our trust - Philippians 3:21
Trust means assured participation
1. He is our trust for Salvation
2. He is our trust for services
3. He is our trust for the second coming

Conclusion: Christ is all and in all for the Christian.

5 Signs of Salvation

5 Signs of Salvation
Philippians 2:12-16
Sermon by Jack Nazary

Calvary Baptist - 1984 West Jackson Baptist - 1987 Yockanookany Baptist - 1989
Midway Baptist - 1992 West Carthage Baptist - 1995

Introduction: Evidence of Salvation - not in you and me. We're lost or in rebellion against Laws of Christ - Ephesians 2:8-10

1. Progress - Verse 12 (growing in grace)
2. Caution - Verse 12 (afraid will grieve the Holy Spirit, afraid to hurt one of God's children) - 'with fear and trembling'
3. Harmony - Verse 14 - "do all things without grumbling or questioning"
4. Purity - Verse 15 - "be blameless and innocent without blemish"
5. Witnessing - Verse 15b - 16 - "among whom you shine as lights in the world"

Verse 13 - God is energizing in you to will and to do.

I. Progress - In: Let's talk about progress
Do you....
Love word of God?
Read word more? Regularly?

Is your ....Prayer - sweeter than it has been

Do you...- enjoy private time - as opposed to group praying

Are you .....more loving - patient - tender - gentle - more understanding - more forgiving - tolerant - kind to those who spitefully use us - good to those who are nasty to us - love the unloving - love the unlovely - feel compassion for the lost?

Are we progressing? Most are not...

People in this world are getting nastier every year...more suspicious, more envious, more prejudiced, more ignorant, more ruptured relationships, less involved in the Lord's work, are harder and harder to get along with, fight at home - on the job - at church...

II. Caution - Verse 12 "with fear and trembling"
Do we have caution in our lives?
Are we afraid we will grieve the Holy Spirit?
Are we afraid we will say something that will dishonor God?
Word of God says - not to mention evils of gentiles - not even be named among you.

Are we more concerned with Grammy Awards - Oscars - who won the ballgame - go away on the weekends - instead of faithfulness to the Lord...

Do you talk about secular things all the time - is it unusual for a Christian to talk of the Bible and Christ???

What sins grieve the Holy Spirit? Where? - Ephesians 4:24-32

God gave do's and don'ts that our lives might be fruitful and powerful. We have a choice to submit to His authority or live in rebellion against God.

Look at our relationship to one another - are you cautious about what you think and say? or do you just say what you think..

We think we have a right to our feelings, opinions.. you may say you don't like choir - choir director, pastor, deacons...you run your mouth with negative talk and cause little ones to stumble. You just simply don't give a rip. But you better not hurt one of God's children...

Do you criticize God's child? "to his own master he standeth or falleth"

III. Harmony - Verse 14 - "without grumbling or questioning" - What about it?

Do we like harmony?
Do we like it when everything is going well?
Do we like it when things are not going well? - things dragging and you "Have you heard about Sally? then everything comes alive! I just want us to pray for her you may say but you lie! I love Sally..etc... If you did love her you would keep your trap shut and go to her - Galatians 6:1 to restore.. Is everyone only interested in shady conversation?

Flesh not Godly and doesn't like harmony. Flesh thrives on disharmony and dissention = on confusion and delights in controversy.

That is why we must be on our toes! That is why Paul says "Do all things without grumbling or questioning" or KJV refers to murmuring and disputing.

Murmurers are not aware of the importance of harmony. murmuring - gossip - fuss broken fellowship - after affecting the entire body of believers.

Anything that does not have harmony is not of God. God not author of confusion. Where is the difference? Much needed prayer.
When two disagree one or both is wrong - Holy Spirit does not vote No and Yes on the same issue.

IV. Purity - Verse 15 - "blameless, harmless, and without rebuke" Moral and ethincial purity - Can anyone blame us for their stunted spiritual growth?

"I'm not going back to that church because of __________ and what he said or because so and so got on the telephone and rallied a bunch to support him on some issue. Or showed lack of self- control in front of church.

Are we blameless by way we live?
Have we harmed anybody? Do you pay your bills?
Revival would break out it in _____ if every Baptist would pay bills...
I owe you a bill and I haven't paid it. Forgive me - I'm going to do without lunch every day...

Other areas: Bull-headiness, our stubbornness, ugly spirits, our desire to take advantage of someone - get back at someone!!!

What about the smokers hardly off church grounds before "lighting up" - liquor in cabinets...Tithe in our bank account - our car...Angry to someone...Grudge against someone.

V. Witness - Verse 16 "holding forth Word of life"
Being in cafe - thanking God for food
-talking about favorite team - loved
- talking about Jesus

Conclusion: If these signs are not in our lives we are lost or in rebellion against Lordship of Christ.

Verse 13 - For it is God that worketh in you both to Will and to do of his good pleasure. Pleasure refers - Ephesians 2:10 did - God has ordained the accomplishment of his work in us - predestined!

Predetermined to occur!!

"Whosoever will" to lost
But to saved - we preach salvation by sovereign will of God.

We are God's purchased possession.

Verse 13 - teaches that God is energizing us both to will and to do. He tells us what to do and performs it in us.

No excuse to say, "I cannot help being as I am" Weakness of my flesh - God is working in us to mold and make us in energy of his Son!

Philippians 1:21 - "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain"

Your Own Salvation

Your Own Salvation
Philippians 2:12

Sermon by Jack Nazary

Colonial Hills -1967
Trinity Baptist, Carthage - 1967
Colonial Hills - 1971
Calvary Baptist - 1985

Introduction: Concern of and all important to all. Pray - Holy Spirit

I. The matter under consideration - Salvation
1. Deliverance from the guilt of past sins
2. Deliverance from the power of sin
3. Deliverance from present wrath of God. Sinners in gall of bitterness - condemned already.
4. Deliverance from future wrath of God. "Where death leaves us, there judgement finds us; where judgement finds us, eternity will hold us forever and forever."

What a comprehensive word - Salvation - triumphal deliverance from guilt of sin, from the curse of it, the punishment of it, power, and ultimately from the presence of it..

Most pressing of all subjects
God thinks highly of it - he sent his Son
Jesus thinks highly of it - he suffered, bled, etc.
Holy Spirit thinks highly of it - works continually
Church thinks highly of it
Ernest men and women praying for salvation
Angels think highly of it - "See rejoicing in heaven"
Devil thinks highly of it - "Goes about seeking whom he may devour"
Lost souls - rich man - "send someone"

Salvation more important than health, wealth, honor, reputation..

II. Whose matter is it
"Your own salvation"

1. Personal matter
sin is yours
guilt is yours
consideration is yours
need personal pardon

You must repent, believe, be washed in his blood or else there is no forgiveness, no acceptance, no adoption, no regeneration for you.

Reflect personally
- you must personally die
- tempted to forget your own salvation by thoughts of other people
- but now look at home - Yourself
- Thoughts of dead - asleep in Jesus neglect not to think of yourself.
- Death of those who lived in sin and blasphemy - think not carelessly

Some who need to think of own salvation
1. Official Christians - preacher, deacons, teachers, ...
2. Lookers for erroneous doctrines
3. Curious speculations - minimum - Antichrists - day when Jesus will return, etc.
4. Those who are always criticizing others - faultfinders, false bearers..

III. Objections concerning "own Salvation"
1. "But don't you believe in predestination"
2. Don's you believe in full assurance
3. Isn't this selfish "own salvation"

IV. Assistance to those who would be right "Have Salvation"
2 questions
1. Am I saved, if so - the subject of a work within you.
2. Does your salvation rest wholly upon Christ?
3. How can I be saved?
Repent - turn, forsake, change mind. "Repentance toward god
Faith - trust, believe, surrender, willingness to obey

You must work out, cultivate, carry out to the goal and fully complete your salvation.

With fear and trembling - reverence and awe and trembling (self distrust)

With serious caution, tenderness of conscience, watchfulness against temptation, timidly shrinking from whatever might offend God and discredit the name of Christ.

Learn to be Content

Learn to be Content
Philippians 4:10-13

by Estelle Nazary

The joy letter... Paul was in prison when he wrote the letter of Philippians.

I. Negative
1. We should never be content with our achievements. God always has something for us to do.
2. We should never be content with our level of education.
3. We should never be content with our Christian maturity. Life can never be what it ought to be without some sense of contentment.

II. Paul said he had learned to be content.
1. Realistic view of life. People expect more of themselves than they can produce. We need to know what our limitations are. We expect more of others than they can produce. All of us have feet of clay.
2. A proper order to life's priorities. There is more in life than we can possibly do. Determine most important things in life. Approve--to put to the test. Excellent--the very best. Use your life for the best things. Planned neglect...Determine to do the best things first - ex. Martha is always busy in New Testament - Luke 10.
3. We must practice the Lord's presence. (We are never alone. He will never leave me)
"In Christ"
I've found confidence, joy, peace, hope in Christ. We received strength in Christ. I felt God's presence. I heard God's voice. Jesus is right here. "Another comforter or counselor to be with you." Always - "Thou art with me"

Forgiveness

Forgiveness
Matthew 18:21-35

by Estelle Nazary

Forgiveness is not easy. The Christian life is very difficult. It is not easy to forgive someone who has wronged us. It is hard to go to someone we have wronged. However, it is impossible to be right with God and not have our sins forgiven. It is impossible to be right with God be wrong with our fellow man.

Learning how to forgive!!!
There are 6 words in the Bible that mean forgive-
1. to send something away - "scapegoat"
2. to lift a burden
3. to cover or cleanse, to cancel
4. to blot out
5. to lift from my heart a heavy burden and send it away - I John 1:9 "to admit what God already knows" confess
6. grace - Ephesians 4:32 - to treat someone graciously as God in Christ has treated us. Christ is our example!

We are so unkind to one another!

I. The first thing involved in forgiveness is gracious treatment. Makes a great deal of difference. Our sins do make a great difference and it does matter.

II. Reconciliation - restoring a broken relationship. Sin digs a ditch. Sin separates. Isaiah 59
Joseph - ego - brothers hated him then the famine in Genesis 45 a reconciliation with his brothers. If there has not been a reconciliation there has not been complete forgiveness. Some people will not live at peace. God always forgives us when we ask Him.

III. Forgetfulness
God knows everything.
God will not hold sin against us when we as for forgiveness. We don't have a resurrection service for sins. We forgive and forget our sins when we confess.

Matthew 18:23-35
Peter's question - How often shall I forgive my brother?
7 times
70 times 7 = limitless times of forgiveness - no ending

1. Parable teaches us what we have done against God is so much worse than anything anybody has done against us. Unpayable debt...

2. God is so much more gracious to us than we are to each other.

3. We are to forgive because God has forgiven us. Unforgiving is unforgiven because he is unforgivable.

Philippians 4:13 - I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.

The Christian Race

The Christian Race
Hebrews 12
Philippians 3:1-14

Sermon by Jack Nazary - Colonial Hills Church 1966, 1968;
Fellowship Baptist 1994

Introduction: The Christian life compared to:
Putting off old clothes and on new
Fighting the good fight of faith
Following Jesus
Walking in the Light
Running a Race

1. The Christian Race
-a new race
-a race in which there will be testing
-a race with challenging opportunities
-a race with adequate provisions: faith, God's help, encouragement, & interest, The Bible, Holy Spirit's power and wonderful Christian examples of yesterday and today.
-a race with many uncertainties ahead: wealth, health, friendships, honor, etc.
-a race with wonderful certainties such as: Jesus Christ - the same, Church - the gates of heaven (2 Corinthians 5:1 - "For we know that if our earthly house"), Love, Hope, Faith.

Christian warfare - a certainty
Enemy is - the prince of the power of air
Press toward the mark
Run with persistence

II. The Christian race has much to offer.
1. It furnishes us with a beginning again.

I wish there was some wonderful place
In the land of beginning again
Where all our mistakes and all our heartaches
And all our poor selfish grief
Could be dropped like a shabby old coat at the door
and never be put on again

2. It furnishes safeguards that human hands cannot provide. We will have trials, conflicts, losses, and disappointments, but he can make all things work together for good.

3. The privilege of earning eternal rewards

III. Some incentives for running the race well
1. The purpose of God for me
2. The host of witnesses
3. The needs of men
4. The glory of God
5. The love of Christ constrains

IV. Some unnecessary things that need to be discarded.
1. weights
2. sins
3. lack of purpose
4. eyes off the world
5. "Those things behind"

V. How to run this race well - Hebrew 12
1. According to God's instructions
2. With eyes upon Jesus - 12:2
3. With patience - endurance - 12:1
4. With assurance of wonderful victory - 12:12

Who is on the Lord's Side?

Who is on the Lord's Side?
Exodus 32:25-26

by Estelle Nazary

Who is on the Lord's side...Come unto Me...

I. Moses recognized that not everyone is on the Lord's side.
Not everyone here is on God's side -
tither, workers, worshippers
For him or against Him..
Pretend to be on God's side when they are really not -
Not everyone who says Lord, Lord will enter into the Kingdom of God.

II. Moses couldn't tell who is on the Lord's side and who is not
A Christian is to be different, and that difference is distinguishable.
Jesus requires us to live a life of holiness.
Live differently, have different attitudes and disposition as a Christian. Demonstrate by the way we live that we have been with Jesus.

III. Everyone of you should be - whoever is on the Lord's side, come to me...
1. Being on the Lord's side teaches us how to live. Medical profession can help a man to walk, but only God can teach a man to live.
2. God wants the best for each of us. God will not bless sin. He will bless us, if we confess sin.
3. Only by being on God's side can we meet Him someday. We will stand before Him and give account of our lives. There is nothing to hold on to, but Jesus. If you are not on the Lord's side, you will have nothing to hold on to when you die and through eternity.

Peace of God

Peace of God
Philippians 4:1-11

Sermon by Jack Nazary at 16 different churches from 1984-2003

Imagine a life where there is never worry, never upset, never loses his cool, do not get intimidated, always rejoice and are happy, nothing goes wrong. It's possible! The Bible says so!!

"Keep" - to stabilize and keep it level - emotions and mind - to all be born again!

Conditions to be met - result in Peace of God

Read the Word, pray, witness, gives, attendance, love each other...

I. Consistency (4:1) - "Continue steadfast in apostles doctrine"
Vance Havner said, "Most of God's people are so subnormal that if they ever got normal, we think they are abnormal."

"Steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord" I Corinthians 15:58 - More than conquerors

Roller Coaster lifestyle - devil and demons mess up our lives by getting us disobedient to the word of God.

II. Unity (4:2) Euodias, Syntyche
"Do good unto all men, especially unto those of household of faith"

III. Service (4:3) Go to work for God - use your spiritual gifts that have been given to you. Romans 10:17 - Faith cometh
God expects us to work, serve, and minister.
Let's get up and go to work as long as we have life!
All men are hungering for God - none that doeth good Romans 3:10-19. We are saved by good pleasure of God's will.

IV. Praise (4:4)
Do it whether you feel like it or not. God is not as interested in our sincerity as our obedience.
The steps of a righteous man are ordered of the Lord.

V. Moderation (4:5)
"The Lord is at hand"
Gentleness, goodness, kindness - what is your home like?

VI. Thanksgiving (4:6)
Difference in giving thanks and being thankful. In everything give thanks, then you'll get thankful.

II Corinthians 3:17 - "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty"

The Bliss of the Sufferer for Christ

The Bliss of the Sufferer for Christ
Matthew 5:10-12

by Estelle Nazary

Jesus came not to make life easy, but to make men great.

I. First Christians had to suffer

1. Their Christianity might well disrupt their work.
A. Suppose a man was a stone mason. His firm received a contract to build a temple to one of the heathen gods. What was that man to do?
B. A Christian was a tailor who was asked to produce robes for heathen priests. What would he do?
c. There was hardly any job which a man might not find a conflict between his business interests and his loyalty to Jesus.
D. Tertullian answered a man with this problem, "What can I do? I must live?" "Must you?," asked Tertullian.
E. If it came to a choice between a loyalty and a living, the real Christian never hesitated to choose loyalty.

2. Their Christianity would certainly disrupt their social life.
A. Most feasts were held in the temple of some god. Could a Christian share in these?
B. Even an ordinary meal began with a cup of wine poured out in honor of the gods.
C. The Christian must cut himself off from his fellows rather than by his presence give approval to such a thing. A man had to be prepared to be lonely in order to be a Christian.

3. Worst of all, their Christianity was liable to disrupt their home life.
A. Often the door was shut for ever in the face of the one who had accepted Christ.
B. It was literally true that a man might have to love Christ more than he loved father or mother, wife, or brother or sister.
C. Christianity involved a choice between a man's nearest and dearest and Jesus Christ.

4. Penalties which a Christian had to suffer were terrible beyond description.
A. Christians were flung to the lions or burned at the stake.
B. Nero wrapped the Christians in pitch and set them on fire as living torches to light his gardens.
C. Nero sewed them in the skins of wild animals and set his hunting dogs upon them to tear them to death.
D. Eyes were torn out. Parts of their bodies were cut off and roasted before their eyes.

II. Why the Romans persecuted the Christians?

1. Certain slanders were spread about the Christians.
A. Christians were accused of cannibalism - The words of the Lord Supper "This is my body" "blood"
B. Christians were accused of immoral practices.
C. Christians were accused of being incendiaries.
D. Christians were accused of tampering with family relationships.

2. The great ground of persecution was political.
A. The worship of the Emperor was compulsory - This the Christian refused to do - Christ was Lord.
B. The only crime of the Christan was that he set Christ above Caesar; and for this loyalty they died by the thousands and faced torture.

III. The Bliss of the Blood Stained Way

1. To have to suffer persecution was an opportunity to show one's loyalty to Jesus Christ.

2. To have to suffer persecution is, as Jesus Himself said, the way to walk the same road as the prophets and the saints and the martyrs have walked.

3. To have to suffer persecution is to share in the great occasion.
A. When a man suffers for his Christianity that is always a crucial moment. It is a great occasion.
B. It is the clash between the world and Christ.

4. To suffer persecution is to make things easier for those who are to follow. We enjoy liberty and freedom because men were willing to shed blood, sweat, and tears.

5. No man ever suffers persecution alone. Christ will be nearer to him than at any time. This is closest possible companionship to Christ.
Illustration of Shadrach, Mashach, and Abed-nego who refused to move from their loyalty to God.

IV. Why is this persecution so inevitable?
1. It is inevitable because the church when it really is the Church is bound to be the conscience of the nation and the conscience of society.

2. Where there is good the church must praise; where there is evil the church must condemn, and inevitably men will try to silence the troublesome voice of conscience.

3. It is not the duty of the individual Christian to find fault, to criticize, to condemn, but it may well be that his every action is a silent condemnation of the unchristian lives of others and he will not escape their hatred.

4. Insult awaits the man who insists on Christian honor.

5. Mockery awaits the man who practices Christian love and Christian forgiveness

6. Christ still needs his witnesses.

7. Christ needs those who are prepared not so much to die for Him as to live for Him.

8. The Christian struggle and the Christian glory still exist.

Some Things I Remember about Brother Wood

Some Things I Remember about Brother Wood
by Jack Nazary

(From Aunt Nell's book- "The Ups and Downs of our Lives" by Ora Rachel Gregg Wood and William Henry Wood)

Not long after Estelle and I met, I learned that she loved her dad very dearly. Then after I was around him, I learned something of his devotion to our Lord and his desire to serve and glorify Him. And I came to love, trust, and appreciate him, too!

Soon after (just days), I returned from overseas duty in the infantry at the close of World War II, I became convinced of God's call upon my life to preach His word. Estelle and I were in one of the rooms away from the family. She and I talked, shared, and prayed about God's calling me to the ministry. I asked her to get her dad to come and pray with us.

There, that night in the parsonage at Hephzibah Baptist Church, I came to know God's will concerning my life's work, and I have never doubted it since. God made His will so plain to me ant that conviction has stayed with me these fifty-one plus years.

After Estelle and I met at Clarke College and her dad learned of my sensing God's call into the ministry, he invited me to come and preach in one of his churches. I really did not know for sure that was what I should do, but I accepted the invitation to his church to preach on Sunday morning. Apparently, the church did not know that he was expecting me to speak, but when he went to the pulpit, among other things, he told the people what a great preacher I was going to be in the future.

Upon reaching the pulpit and reading some Scripture, I spoke - Yes - and what a message it was! I spoke for a least five or ten minutes and told a joke that fell flat. I wanted to run or fall through the floor.

I decided that day that I would never attempt to bring a message again until I knew for sure I had a call from God to preach His word. I stuck to that too!

Almost four years later, as mentioned, I became convinced and assured of His call. Brother Wood believed in me, encouraged me, and asked me to preach in both of his churches that week -- Hephzibah and Oakvale. I don't know what I preached about, but I did have the assurance that I'd been called and sent! I'm grateful to God that Brother Wood trusted me again (after I'd failed so miserably previously) and asked me to preach in both churches.

When I was called to pastor the Chapel Hill Baptist Church a few weeks later and was needing to be ordained, I asked Brother Wood to preach my ordination sermon. He graciously did the job and did it well!

Through the years until his death, we had a good fellowship together. Prior to his death, he asked if I would see that the arrangements for his funeral, which were made by him, were carried out. I assured him that I would. He had the place of burial, the preacher - Brother Compere, the songs to be sung - all written down and I followed his instructions.

Brother Wood was to help me in a revival at Calvary Baptist Church west of McComb, Mississippi, but was unable to come because of sickness. A few weeks later, God called him home.

Estelle grieved so very much upon his departure, but about two weeks after his death, she shared with me these words, "I miss him so very much, but I would not call him back if I could. He's out of his suffering and with the Lord. It would be selfish for me to want him back suffering as he did." Yes, he was at home with the Lord.

Brother Wood was a good man, a good husband and father, a lover of his wife and children, a committed Christian, a faithful servant of the Lord, and a loyal, devoted, endowed preacher of the Word.

Prescription for Blessedness

Prescription for Blessedness
Matthew 5:3-10

by Estelle Nazary

The Constitution guarantees every citizen the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These seemed basic rights to the Founding Fathers and surely without them we would be miserable.

Happiness is a sometime thing, here today and gone tomorrow. God offers us something far better - that includes all the good we could hope for in achieving happiness and infinitely more, a permanent joy that is not affected by the ups and downs of life - a condition called blessedness.

In Matthew 5:3-10, we have a prescription for blessedness from Jesus. We must first experience the new birth, regeneration, repentance and faith in redemptive work of Christ of the cross. When we have this experience and forgiveness of sins, we share this experience with others and are a blessed person. In order for this blessedness to reach its peak and become a unique experience we must fulfill certain conditions. Christ gives us 8 steps that we must climb in order to reach the summit of heavenly blessedness upon this earth. We must aim at growth, maturity, and a full expression of dormant qualities that lie within.

What the Lord is giving us here is guidance on how to grow to that mark He has set before us even though we cannot fully attain it down here.

Blessed - Here is the way to blessedness

The degree of our blessedness is determined by our meeting of the conditions laid down by Jesus here. They tell of the natural consequences of our attitudes as Christian in this life. Persian legend - certain king needed a faithful servant and had to choose between 2 fine men. They each had fixed wages and where to fill a basket of water from the well. He would inspect work in the evening. One decided it was useless and quit. Other worked all day until he drained the well. Looking down he saw something shiny - a beautiful diamond - "Now I see the use of pouring water in a basket. If the bucket had brought up the ring before the well was dry, it would have been in the basket. Our work was not useless - Remember when God's blessings does not coincide with your expectations wait until the well is dry. Think twice every time when you ask God to bless you. You are asking for his promises to be fulfilled in your life and they bring both sunshine and rain. Both are needed.

There are no accidents in our lives just providence and whatever touches us touches Him first.
--Great Christian injured in auto accident regained consciousness, nurse said don't talk you've been in a frightful accident. He said, "There are no accidents in the life of a Christian, just incidents of God's work within"

Theodore Roosevelt had 2 pair of glasses because he was near-sighted and he carried them in a heavy steel case. When he went to Milwaukee and was shot, the bullet was slowed by the case and his manuscript. He had always considered the case a burden to carry and here it saved his life.

We may need to thank God for some failure, loss, and sickness in our life. It may be more of a blessing than we realize. It may be that God is working within you instead of the devil working against you. To be blessed is to live in a dark world with the light of Christ within...

1. All Christians are to be like this:
Read Beatitudes and you will find description of what every Christian is meant to be. Jesus never intended that a chosen few should reach this height of the Christian life and the rest of us meant to live on the dull plains. We are all meant to exemplify everything contained in the Beatitudes.
2. All Christians are meant to manifest all of these characteristics. It is not that some would manifest one characteristic and some another...No, every Christian is meant to be all of them and to manifest all of them at the same time.
3. None of these descriptions refers to what we may call a natural tendency. Each is produced by grace alone and the operation of the Holy Spirit upon us. These are not natural tempers, but given to each by the Holy Spirit. We are born differently, some are born aggressive, others are quiet, some are alert and fiery, others are slow. We find ourselves as we are, but God's spirit can help us grow and develop each of these characteristics.
4. These descriptions indicate clearly the essential utter difference between the Christian and the non-Christians. The difference between the two has become blurred, the world has come into the church and the church has become worldly. The line is not as distinct as it was. Our ambition should be to be like Christ, the more like Him the better, and the more like Him we become the more we shall be unlike everybody who is not a Christian. Find out what each of us is seeking and what we really want and it will tell where we stand with God. We must be consistent.
5. The Christians and the non-Christians belong to two entirely different realms. 1st and last Beatitude promise the same reward, "for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven," Our Lord starts and ends with it because we must realize we belong to a different kingdom.

Do we belong to the kingdom? Are we ruled by Christ? Is He our King and our Lord? Are we manifesting these qualities in our daily lives?

Verse 3 - Blessed are the Poor in Spirit
This is key to all that follows, definite order in the Beatitudes. There is a spiritual logical sequence here. This one must come at the beginning for good reason that there is no entry into the Kingdom of heaven apart from it - There is no one in the Kingdom of God who is not poor in spirit. It is fundamental characteristic of Christian and all others are a result of this one. This one is an emptying, while the others are a manifestation of a fullness. We cannot be filled until we are first empty. Conviction always precedes conversion.

Poor in spirit does not mean nervous, retiring, weak, or lacking in courage. It's not those who stand in the background. I am a nobody, I don't count - not one who makes great sacrifice, nor retires out of life and its difficulties and responsibilities.

Look at the life of the Lord Jesus. He became a man. He was God, but he decided while on earth to live as a man though He was still God. He said, "I can do nothing of myself." I am utterly dependent upon the Father. Look at his prayer life. It is as you watch Him praying and realize hours he spent in prayer and you see his poverty of spirit and his reliance upon God. That is what is meant by poor in spirit. It means a complete absence of pride, a complete absence of self-assurance and of self-reliance. It means a consciousness that we are nothing in the presence of God. It is nothing that we can produce, it is nothing that we can do in ourselves. We look to God in utter submission to Him and in utter dependence upon Him and his grace and mercy. To experience what Isaiah did "Woe is me. I am a man of unclean lips."

The way to become poor in spirit is to look at God. Look at Jesus and his book. "Lord increase our faith" as the apostles prayed. You cannot truly look at Him without feeling your absolute poverty and emptiness.

Learn How to Live!!

Learn How to Live!!
Luke 11:1-13

by Estelle Nazary

Learn how to pray!
Jesus is our authority!

We need to learn how to pray-
Pray with me!
Pray for me!
Jesus intends for us to pray..

Four E's

I. Example of prayer
Disciples were impressed by Jesus' prayer life. they discovered Jesus in position and posture of prayer.
1. Jesus is our example in conduct
2. Jesus is our example in circumstances of life. He prayer life was normal and relaxed.
3. Jesus is our example in confidence. He knew God would answer his prayers. "I thank you, Father, that you have already heard me." Jesus prayed at Lazarus death.

II. The essentials of prayer life
Jesus gave us the model prayer.
1. Reverence - "Our Father, hallowed be thy name." Isaiah - temple - Holy, Holy is the Lord of hosts. Know who you are talking to!!!
2. Express concerns
"Thy Kingdom come" - Rule of God in our hearts
3. Expression of needs
Body - daily bread
Spirit - forgive our sins
God is concerned about us and our needs. - Philippians 4:6-7, 19

III. Earnestness of prayer
Man on outside knocking - Importunity - Keep on asking.

IV. Expectations of prayer
Ask, Knock, seek... God is good and He will answer prayers.

15 Steps to Financial Freedom

15 Steps to Financial Freedom
Sermon by Jack Nazary

Introduction: More about finances in the Bible than any other subject because of the connection between heart and treasure. (Matthew 6:21)

I. Transfer ownership to God (Rights vs. Responsibilities)
1. "no place to lay your head" I Corinthians 6:19-20

II. Tithe as a reminder with offerings above
1. To God - Malachi 3:10 (Tithe...Prove me..Windows...Blessing...Devourer)
2. To Saints - Romans 12:13 (Distributing to necessity of the Saints)
3. To Poor - Proverbs 19:17 (Giveth...Lendeth...Given...He will Repay)
4. Result will be - Luke 6:38 (Give...Given)

III. Make life goal to present Jesus and gear expenditures to that end. Matthew 6:33

IV. With above (Glory of God) in mind, control spending with 3 considerations:
1. Sales resistance (Proverbs 20:14)
2. Shopping (Proverbs 31:16)
3. Prompt Payment (Proverbs 3:28)

V. Give God a chance to provide it before you buy it
1. To demonstrate His power (II Chronicles 16:9) in providing it.
2. To allow God to answer prayer (Philippians 4:6)
3. To confirm direction (Philippians 4:19)

VI. Avoid tempting God (Matthew 4:6-7)

VII. Get out of debt (Romans 13:8 "owe no man anything but to love..." Proverbs 22:7 - "The borrower is servant to the lender") Debt: liabilities exceed assets condition
1. list expenditures in priority
2. discontinue all "not necessary"
3. sell depreciating items owed on
4. begin buying on a cash basis
5. eliminate credit cards
6. consider additional work

VIII. Never borrow on depreciating items (home not included)
1. presumes on future (James 4:13, 17)
2. places in bondage to man (Proverbs 22:7)
3. produces pressure (I Timothy 5:8)
4. limits God in providing (II Corinthians 9:8-11)
5. limits God in withholding (Isaiah 55:8-9)

IX. Never co-sign a note (Proverbs 6:1-5, 11:15, 17:18, 20:16, 27:13, 22:26)
1. Pray - give what God allows - no loan - no co-signing

X. Never loan for non-essentials, but give to basic needs. Proverbs 19:19
Romans 12:31 - distribute to necessity to saints

XI. Develop sales resistance - get the best buy. Proverbs 20:14

XII. Develop skills for home maintenance

XIII. Determine God's reasons for lack of funds

XIV. Discern needs and wants - I Timothy 6:6-10

XV. Prepare for financial breathing - Philippians 4:12 "Know how to abound and suffer need"
Prearranged schedule of priorities

XVI. Be sensitive to God's direction in giving.
a. Is organization communicating a message true to Scripture?
b. Are people responding positively to its message?
c. Are the lives of leadership illustrations of its message?
d. Is organization reproducing itself?
e. Is there a standard of excellence along with freedom of waste?

What it means to be financially free!!!

Financial freedom is:
1. Realizing that true prosperity comes from God. (Deuteronomy 8:18)
2. Committing ourselves to God's purposes for money. (Matthew 6:30)
3. Recognizing and rejecting false financial concepts. (I Corinthians 7:22) Concept - "Be your own boss"
4. Responding to God's reproofs for wrong financial decisions (Haggai 1:9) (Riches with sorrow or the devouring of our assets)
5. Choosing to serve God rather than money (Matthew 6:24) "No man can serve"
6. Giving God's tithes and offerings (Proverbs 3:9-10)
7. Keeping out of debt (Proverbs 27:1) "Boost not thyself of tomorrow"
8. Learning how to abound and to suffer need (Philippians 4:12)
9. Having sales resistance (I John 2:16)
10. Recognizing and rejecting swindlers (Proverbs 2:12, 16)
11. Keeping accurate and useful records (I Corinthians 4:2)
12. Getting the best buy (I Timothy 6:6)
13. Refusing to lend or co-sign (Proverbs 6:1-3)
14. Developing full potential of home (Proverbs 31:10) Early Education, medical recovery, care of elderly family members, partial production of food and clothing...The key - a wise, Godly, and virtuous woman.
15. Choosing a good name rather than great riches (Malachi 31:10) When Israel experience famine King David discovered and removed it - I Samuel 21
16. Knowing how to receive funds through prayer (II Chronicles 7:13-14; Ephesians 3:20)
17. Having the courage to avoid partnerships (Daniel 1:8) Purposed to do right
18. Detecting and conquering slothfulness (II Thess. 3:10; Genesis 3:17-19) Work for life of ease Luke 12:19 - "Take thine ease, eat drink and be merry)
19. Listening to the cautions of your wife (Proverbs 1:5)
20. Knowing how to pass on an inheritance (Proverbs 13:22; Proverbs 20:21)




Boy, if this does not get you to thinking. I believe my Granddaddy lived this out in his own life. Of course, we all made fun of him for being so "tight". I feel he was only trying to follow God's word on finances. He thankfully taught me a few things about being a good steward. I am not quite as bad as he was about spending money, but I can now happily proclaim by the grace of God I am debt free. I learned from the best who learned from the ultimate best - the good Lord!

Organs of the Body Used to Dishonor God

Organs of the Body Used to Dishonor God
Romans 3:1-23
by W. H. Wood

Prepared in his study at the Hepzibah Baptist Church on June 14, 1946

I. The throat is a place to gather and hold filth and unholy things.

II. The tongue of the unsaved person is used to speak things that are fraud and untrue.
1. The slanderer injures himself. "The tongue defiles the whole body"
2. Slander is uncontrollable. "The tongue can no man tame." It "sets on fire the wheel of birth;" that wheel "which catches fire as it goes, and burns with a fiercer conflagration as its own speed increases, you may tame the wild beast; but you can not arrest the progress of that cruel word which you utter carelessly; that will go on slaying, poisoning, burning, beyond your own control, now and forever.
3. Slander is unnatural. "These things ought not so to be." It is a contradiction to nature, as much as for a fig tree to bear olives, or for a fountain to produce both fresh and salt water.
4. Slander is diabolical - outrageously wicked in character. "The tongue is set on fire of hell." The very name of Satan is "the slanderer".

III. Poison is gathered under the lips of some so called Christians.

IV. The mouth is filled with cursing and bitterness.

V. The feet are used to dishonor God.

VI. Such people do not know the way of peace in God.