Christ, The Matchless Master

Christ, The Matchless Master

Matthew 23:10

Prepared by W.H. Wood on January 28, 1947

Introduction: We speak in these moments about "Christ, the matchless master," using as a text the words in the twenty-third chapter of Matthew verse 10, "One is your master, even Christ." Christ is the Master in the spiritual realm. He has complete knowledge of all spiritual things. He has all authority in the spiritual realm.

I. Christ is master of self.
We hear him say, "I lay down my life, --I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again." Jesus knew what to do and how to do it under all circumstances. He knew how to do act before the multitude, on the stormy sea, in the sick room, in the presence of the mob, before Pilate, and in the hands of the soldiers. Jesus knew how to control himself. Amid all trials and tribulations, he kept his patience, his purpose, and his power. Jesus was Master.

II. Christ was master over sin.
Jesus lived such life before men that he could say to all men, "Which of you convinceth me of sin?" Jesus me the fierce temptations of the devil in the wilderness and overcame each trial. He lived in a world of sin among sinful men and yet without sin. He was Master over sin. He would not yield to sin for one moment. He not only had power to overcome every temptation that came to him but he had power to command the evil one and he would go and power to cast out sin form the hearts of others. This is the glory of the gospel of Christ.

III. Christ is master in the realm of sacrifice.
The apostle Paul wrote of Christ Jesus, " He humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." Jesus gave up his place in glory with the Father and came to earth as a man and a servant. While he was on earth, he lived a life like the poorest of the poor. He had no place he could call his home, no cross of his own on which to die, and no grave of his own in which to be buried. He gave himself for others. He made the supreme sacrifice. "He was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities."

IV. Christ was master in the realm of suffering.
Jesus knew how to suffer and yet overcome. The prophet said of him, "He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth" Isaiah 53:7. The friends of Jesus did not understand his suffering. The enemies of Jesus stripped him, dressed him with a scarlet robe, struck him with reeds, crowned him with thorns, and nailed him to the cross, and no word of complaint came from his heart. He bore it all for sinful men. "The Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all." Isaiah 53:6. Jesus knew how to suffer.

V. Christ was master in the realm of service.
Jesus went about doing good. He knew how to serve for the good of man and for the glory of God. He healed the sick, opened the eyes of the blind, comforted the sorrowing, preached the gospel to the poor, lifted up the fallen, saved the sinner, raised the dead, taught the believers, and blessed humanity with eternal hope and everlasting life. No other servant of the Lord can compare with the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the example and ideal for all men who desire to honor God with a life of usefulness.

Who is My Mother?

Who is My Mother?
Matthew 12:47

Sermon by W.H. Wood prepared May 10, 1939

I. Jesus was a devoted son.

1. Obedient to mother
2. Spent many years with mother.

II. Jesus was not ignorant concerning who his mother was...

1. His mother persuaded by her sons to accompany them to Capernaum to take Jesus if necessary.
2. Jesus busy in behalf of humanity
a. teaching people
b. would not permit interference

III. Jesus' Conception of motherhood

1. A challenge to motherhood
2. Bearing children only a part of motherhood

IV. Jesus said "he that doeth the will of God, his brother, sister and mother."

1. Jesus saw in motherhood the foundation of civilization.

2. Human relationships must not interfere with us doing the will of God.

V. Jesus loved his mother.

1. He expressed emotions in his speech.

2. His attitude toward mothers the example to mankind.

a. Lincoln - All that I am, or expect to be, I owe to my angel mother.

b. John Quincy Adams - All that I am my mother made me.

c. Napoleon - Let France have good mothers and she will have good sons.

Illustration: A lady who said she was engaged in the greatest business on earth, raising boys.

V. Mothers hold the key to the soul and stamps the coin of character.

1. Ezekiel 15:44 - As is the mother, so is the daughter.

2. A mother prayed all night for her son, resulting in his salvation.

3. The medal secured by a son in college placed on his mother.

4. Big Bill a great athlete owed it all to hi smother, she died that he might live.

VI. Jesus provided for the welfare of his mother while on the cross by committing her into the hands of John.

1. Surely we can ask the question with Jesus - who is my mother? and then hear the interpretative answer the King of Kings. " He that doeth the will of God is my mother."

The Case for Purity

The Case for Purity

by Estelle Nazary

I. Sexuality as a gift of God. Genesis 1:26-27; 2:18, 21-25; I Corinthians 1:1-7
1. Created by God
2. The place of sexual intimacies in marriage.

II. The Wrong Use of Sex - Matthew 5:27-30; I Thess. 4:3-5, 8
1. Outside marriage
a. Lust
b. Permissiveness
2. Within Marriage - Exodus 20:14; 1 Thess. 4:5-6

III. Source of Christian Values - 1 Thess. 4:1
1. Life Pleasing to Christ
2. Sanctification
a. We are under the authority of Jesus Christ
b. We are to control our own bodies.
c. God's standard is purity.

Hightlights in the Life of Jesus

Highlights in the Life of Jesus

by Estelle Nazary

I. The Birth of Jesus - Matthew 1:18-25
1. Divine origins of Jesus
2. Jesus "for He shall save his people from their sins."

II. The Baptism of Jesus - Matthew 3:13-15
1. Jesus was the sinless Son of God
2. Baptism linked Jesus with John in preaching repentance

III. The Purpose of Jesus' life - Matthew 20:28
1. He came to earth, not to be saved, but to serve.
2. To give His life to free mean from sin.

IV. The Death of Jesus - Matthew 27:35, 45-46, 50, 54
1. "They crucified Him." verse 35
2. Agony of Jesus caused from his taking the sins of the world.

V. The Resurrection of Jesus - Matthew 28:1-6
1. The empty tomb
2. The risen Lord

VI. Truths for "me"
1. What does Jesus' resurrection mean in my life?
2. Have I accepted the authority of Jesus in my life?
3. Is my purpose to serve or to be served?

The Prayer of God's Two or Three

The Prayer of God's Two or Three

Matthew 18:19-20

by W.H. Wood prepared on April 19, 1947

revised by Estelle Wood Nazary

preached by Jack Nazary - West Jackson Baptist 1988, West Carthage

Baptist 1995 and 1998

Introduction: The world has yet to see what God can do through one person wholly given over to Him. But God in a special way, recognizes and honors and puts his power upon two or three who have covenanted together in prayer. Let us now observe the simple sublime truths taught in this great passage of scripture.

I. The kind of a "two or three" whom God honors.
1. They are a "burdened" two or three, real burdens on their hearts.
2. They are covenanted "two or three", pledging themselves to God that they will never cease until this soul is saved or this blessing is realized.
3. They are a separated two or three, no one else, just these will go alone and pray.
4. They are dedicated, giving themselves over to God for this one thing.
5. They are a praying two or three - persons who believe God will answer and will go to Him.
6. They are willing for God to take and use them to bring it to pass.
7. They are bold.

II. What God promises to do..
1. Promises to meet with them. - as they are present so God will be present also.
2. He recognizes and proposes to honor the agreement.
3. He promises to grant the prayer - "It shall be done unto them." There are no exceptions and no failures of his word.

III. Who will be God's two or three?
1. Some people will be lost forever unless God finds two or three.
2. God is the living God and is ready, willing, and anxious to honor his two or three.
3. Who will covenant together to pray for objects for God's glory, definite people and the purpose of the church?

W.H. Wood's Notes - God wants to show this church and community that He is the living God and is ready and able and anxious to honor His two or three in this community if they will covenant themselves together in prayer. I wonder who will come together as God's two or three in this church and covenant themselves together that they will not let the work of our God go down in the future, but will continue to see lost souls saved, grow, mature, and obey and let God work through them for the glory of God.

The Pearl of Great Price

The Pearl of Great Price

Matthew 13:45-46

Sermon by Jack Nazary - Pleasant Hill Baptist Church Elkin, NC - 1983

The popular and common interpretation of this parable - Christianity is likened to one who earnestly desired and diligently sough salvation. Ultimately his efforts were rewarded by his finding Christ, the pearl of great price. Upon finding him the sinner sold all that he had, that is forsook all that the flesh held dear, abandoned his worldly companions, surrendered his will, dedicated his life to God and in that way secured his salvation. This interpretation is generally preached, taught in Sunday school periodicals and in Sunday school classes.

3 objections to the common interpretation:

1. Not a single sinner has ever taken the initiative in seeking his salvation as this interpretation claims. He ought to. He is commanded to "Let the wicked forsake his way!" Seek the Lord while He may be found." - But in his fallen state he never has and he never will.

A. First Sinner - Adam

B. Abraham

C. Luke 19:16 - "The Son of Man is come to seek"

D. Can't deny there was a time I sought the Lord, but what caused me to seek - The Shepherd. Romans 3:33 - "There is none that seeketh after God."

2. After seeking and finding the pearl of great price, we are told that he went and sold all he had and bought it. But - the sinner has nothing to sell.

Isaiah 64:6 - Righteousness is as filthy rags.

Romans 3:12 - No goodness - "There is none that doeth good."

Ephesians 2:8 - Faith is a gift of God.

Isaiah 55:1 - Salvation is without money and without price.

3. Sells all and buys pearl (Christ) is awful. He is not for sale! That is blasphemy! Titus 3:5 - "Not by works of righteousness which we done." Romans 3:23 - "Gift of God is eternal life."

I. The correct interpretation! Read text! Merchant man - Christ - as in other parables in Matthew 13 Notice the things concerning the man.

1. He desired the goodly pearl. His heart was set on it! Pearl - the church in its entirety. that passes our understanding, that He wanted sinners like us - seemed good in God's sight. Notice - Psalm 45:11 - "so shall the king greatly desire thy beauty." John 14: - "place for you - shall be also." Revelations 3:20 - "Behold, I stand at the door." Ephesians 5:25 - "husbands, love your wives..."

2. He regarded this pearl as being of great price. That staggers commentators. Isaiah 55: "My thoughts are not your thoughts." The redeemed world never thought it, if God's word had not said so. Proverbs 8:31 - His mind, his heart, his affection was fixed on us.

3. Merchant Man "sold all that he had." "He who was rich, for your sake became poor."

4. The Merchant man sought the pearl. "Seeking" Acts 15:14; Ephesians 2:17

5. The Merchant Man "bought the pearl" I Peter 1:18-19

II. The Pearl Itself

1. Its unity - Galatians 3:28 - unity cannot be broken without destroying it. A diamond cut, it is two. I have 2 diamonds. A lump of gold - divide it in two. I have 2 lumps of gold. But when I divide a pearl, I destroy it.

2. A pearl is the product of a living creature, result of suffering - a type of the church.

3. An object that is formed slowly and gradually.

4. The lowly origin of that which is a type of the church. Ephesians 2:21; Ephesians 4:16; Colossians 3:3

5. In God's eyes the church is an object of value and beauty. II Thessalonians 1:10 - Type; Ephesians 5:27 - Type - presented to Himself. An object of admiration to all who behold it.

6. An imitation of the honorable and exalted future that the church is yet to enjoy. Colossians 3:4 - Type; Ephesians 2:7

Closing: To the Lost! To the Saved! I Corinthians 6:20

Don't Lock Yourself Out

Don't Lock Yourself Out

Matthew 25:1-14

Introduction: One of the most exasperating experiences in everyday life is to be locked out. Blame another if he's responsible - That's bad - but if you're responsible - terrible. Example: Locked out of your car, Locked out of your house, or Locked out of motel room.

I. The parable narrated - Background of marriages of that day:

3 parts - a. engagement b. The betrothal - 1 year before wedding which is absolutely binding - If man died during this time, young woman was considered a widow. c. The wedding itself - time of rejoicing, feasting, and entertainment - the wedding date not definitely set - Wedding took place when the groom arrived at the Bride's house. Now we have a wedding when the bride wants it, or when her mother wants it. Wedding day centered in the groom and his arrival rather than in the bride. In practice, a wedding might come one day or the next, or next week. Everyone waited for the groom to arrive for festivities began with his appearance.

This is the background of the parable of 10 virgins. They were friends of the Bride and were waiting for the groom's arrival. Went to sleep! OK! For herald came announcing loudly, "Behold the bridegroom cometh, come out to meet him!"

Matthew 25:8-9

"24 hour place?" While gone for oil - door shut - "Lord, Lord open up for us"

Interpretation: Bridegroom - Messiah

Messianic Kingdom - wedding those who received

Messiah - part of others shut out

Apart from primary lesson of story there are meaningful applications to those who seek Christ.

II. Parable applied - Parable teaches us to be -

1. Spiritually alert

We need to seize whatever opportunity comes to us. 5 expected to wake up and join wedding party - 5 just went to sleep. Example: a. mother slept beside sick child b. stage play - star sick- understudy ready? c. football team - 1st string quarterback injured, 2nd string man hurt, sophomore brought in - good in high school, excellent in freshman team, and the team wins d. Some may have worked under another man - you watched, learned the work - when he was promoted or retired you were asked, can you do the work, and you say I can and you did.

Spiritual applications: Many opportunities to be seized and can by those spiritually alert. You can smile, give a warm handshake, a word of encouragement, a word of witness.. Example of pastor baptizing 14 year old boy, because young airman 3000 miles from home who led a Bible study saw concern in the boys face, took him aside, led him to Christ while others ate refreshments. He was alert to opportunities.

2. There are some things that cannot be borrowed

a. knowledge - facts

b. skills

c. Faith - we have lost our faith in ourselves, others, country, and God. Without faith - cannot break down barriers and be an overcoming Christian. Each must have faith for himself.

d. cannot borrow salvation

My thoughts....I have really been thinking about this message. I guess specifically about getting locked out. I can think of 3 very distinct times I have been locked out and my reaction.

1. Olivia was still a baby. We had been to Wal-mart. I decided to leave her in the car seat so I could unload the groceries. To keep her content while I was going back and forth, I gave her my keys to the car. I then proceeded to shut the car door so I could go around the other side. Immediately, she pushed the remote on the keyring and locked me out with her inside! I panicked of course! I pleaded with her to push the button again, but she just laughed still playing with the keyring. As luck would have it, that was our only key to the car! I called the police and they came and unlocked the door - laughing at me and her. Terrible experience - and it was summer! So, my child is sitting locked inside a hot car! Not good!

2. Again Olivia was small...That child...We had a small den that I closed off with a baby gate and we just hung out in the den most of the time. On this particular day, I had opened the front door and locked the storm door from the inside and proceeded to "hang out" down in the den. I had been wanting to paint a mirror so while Olivia was safely confined to the den and engrossed in Elmo, I stepped right outside (where I could watch her from the window) to paint my mirror. She decided to come to the door and watch me. She then decided to turn the deadbolt lock and lock me out of the house. Again, we only had one key to the front door and it was in the door. We kept the keys to the back door that she locked inside the house. So, here I am outside and there she is inside and I can't get in the door! I was completely locked out. I tried to get her to turn the lock and she just laughed and went back to Elmo. I had to call a locksmith to come. Thankfully, he was not far and came right away. Everyone laughed at both of us and Olivia just watched TV totally entertained.

3. As you know, we just got back from Hawaii. I love collecting magnets and had one in my purse. Brian and Olivia went to an aquarium and I was going to wash clothes at the hotel laundry mat. I put the key card to the room in my purse apparently right up against the magnet. When I returned to the room, my card would not work. It is true that the magnetic strips on the back of these things can be erased by none other than magnets. So.. here I am in Honolulu, Hawaii stuck and locked out of my room. To top it off, I could not get another key card because Brian had my ID card so I had to sit in the lobby until they returned. Crazy luck!!

In all 3 of the examples, I was completely helpless and unable to do anything without help. It is funny now, but truly I was not prepared in any case. I had to call for help. It is ironic, but a similar analogy to this message. You need to always be prepared.

Last of All He Sent His Son

Last of All He Sent His Son
Matthew 21:37

Sermon by Jack Nazary - Colonial Hills Baptist Church 1970

Introduction: Christ the master storyteller - The parable of the Vineyard - "I will send my Son and surely they will reverence him". What do you think the Lord of the vineyard will do to these wicked men? The application is to the Jewish Nation. "He came unto His own and his own received Him not." John 1:11. They slew him upon the cross. The Great Drama of Sin and salvation began in the garden of Eden and everything that God has done since has been in relation to sin and salvation.

I. Some of God's great strokes
1. He sent Noah and the flood and death.
2. He sent Moses and the Law and the idea of a blood sacrifice.
3. He sent David and his songs and the assurance of forgiven sins. Psalm 23:1 - "The Lord is..."
Psalm 46:1 - "God is our refuge and strength."
4. He sent Jeremiah and his tears. (the weeping prophet)
5. He sent Isaiah and his loving invitations.
a. Isaiah 55:1 - "Ho! Everyone that thirsts come to the waters."
b. Isaiah 1:18 - "Come now and yet us reason together."
6. He sent the kings of the earth and captivity and chastisement.

II. Last of all He sent His Son
Why?
1. God sent His son to reveal His own heart.
2. God sent His son to be a picture of God's power. (Sight-healing, leper-cleansing, dead to life, comfort for sorrowing, stilled storms, filled multitudes, etc.)
3. To teach a better way of living. Golden rule - Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Forgive!
4. To become a blood sacrifice. Hebrews 9:22 - "without shedding of blood", I John 1:7 - "The blood of Jesus Christ His son cleanses us from all sins.", Missionary story - Read Matthew 26-27
5. To be a new and living way. "I am the way" Men try various ways to get to heaven - large gifts, by works, do penance, go through various rituals, baptism, Lord's supper - There is only ONE WAY!
6. He will send His son again someday. 318 times spoken of the second coming - To live and reign forever. Shout, voice of Ark Angel.

How to Meet the Unexpected Trials of Life

How to Meet the Unexpected Trials of Life
Matthew 14:22-33

Sermon by Jack Nazary - West Carthage Baptist Mission 1996

Introduction: Do we trust God? Our trials tell...

I. How these trials come upon us?
1. Unexpectedly - not looked for.
2. Overtake us at our weakest point.
3. Finds us ignorant of God's will for us.
4. Reveals lack of understanding of teachings of Jesus.
5. Comes from the kind and far providence of God.
6. Come because we need them.
7. Come because God tests all his true servants.

II. What is God's purpose in them?
1. To actually test our faith - genuine
2. To develop us: give strength for greater tasks
3. To cultivate our courage
4. To teach us to trust God in all the emergencies of life.
5. To enable us to be helpful to others in trials.

III. How should we meet them?
1. Expect trials - all must have them.
2. Pray for strength to meet them - Jesus in the Garden.
3. Study Bible - Most of our blunders are caused by our ignorance of the plain teachings of Jesus.
4. Be daily surrendered to God's will - Ready to suffer or serve as he chooses.
5. Trust Him; trust Him always. Trust Him though he slay us- Job.

Hawaii

Our Trip to Hawaii
by J. B. Jones

I have just spent the last 7 days on the beautiful islands of Hawaii. I am even more in complete admiration of the glorious touch of God's hand on this earth. Not only were the surroundings and weather perfect, it was so great to "escape" with my family. I threatened to move there several times. I think my family thinks I have lost it! Yes, it is expensive, but there is no real reason I mean why not! I will work on Brian. Speaking of Brian, one of the most fascinating things about him that I love is his love of travel. I know that doesn't sound very fascinating but it is the whole process. From the inception of where we will go, actually making the reservations, and the planning, are always entertaining. He usually agonizes over where will go and once that is decided what will we do there, where will we stay, etc. My only concern is the hotel. I know I have a special case of OCD that I will not go into and we could save lots of money if I could stand it, but I can't so I have to pick the nicest hotel. Even then, it is never good enough. Next step for Brian is the purchase of travel books. From our honeymoon, I learned my first thing about him that he loves to consult the travel books. It was so bad on our honeymoon in Hawaii that we started referring to the book as the Kauai bible! Every trip is the same and this one was no different except he has developed a complete trust on these books that we can't do anything "they" don't recommend or eat anywhere "they" don't like. So, we had the Oahu bible this time. This got me to thinking one night about how much we rely on these books to help us go to the best places, eat at the best restaurants, etc. It is like the Holy Bible, but unfortunately we don't always do what it says. It is funny really how we work. The Holy Bible is God's word to us, but I am so guilty of not studying it thoroughly or truly knowing what I should do, where I should go, etc. I found that an interesting comparison of our complete ignorance at times. I have challenged myself to study the true word of God to guide me on my journey through life so I can know what is God's way to do life!

For now, I thought I would share some stories and pictures of our trip. We stayed in Honolulu which is great for people watching might I add. Lots of great shopping, very good restaurants and all within walking distance. We did take the bus several times to Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Ala Moana center, etc. There is so much to do in Honolulu, but some of the beauty is obscured with all the commercialism. But, no rental car - who can beat that! We did travel to Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii! We rented a jeep and were so excited to drive around. Of course, the weather couldn't have been worse - as you can tell from my plastic wear. To begin our trip, we ate at a McDonald's where a man prayed before his meal all by himself. I don't see that very much even here in the Bible belt. That image stuck with me the rest of the day - I knew I really liked the Big Island! It was very neat to drive through the Hawai'i Volcanos. A little disturbing sign when you enter - VISITOR ALERT: High amounts of dangerous sulphur dioxide gas are present in areas of the park. At times, it was like driving on another planet where the lava flows from years past on either side of the road. The black and gray formations were flanked by beautiful vegetation. The steam vents were neat too. It was so cold at about 3500 feet and the steam vents helped warm me up and I am sure were good for opening my pores. We didn't take a lot of pictures because of the weather. We did walk through our first rain forest to get to a lava tube formation. The drive down to the coast was interesting, but some of the most beautiful sites. There was a path to watch the lava flowing into the ocean, but we were all too chicken. We just walked around breathing in poisonous sulfur dioxide gas. I really wish the weather could have been better. We would have loved to hike some of the trails around the volcano. After our Volcano tour, we just drove around with the top completely secure on our "fun" jeep. Hilo has a really neat downtown. It is a very quaint little place without many "tourists". Most of the tourists stay in Kona where the weather is better. Our journey in Hilo took us to several waterfalls. And...The perfect ending to our time in Hilo came as we walked back from seeing our last waterfall and up at the top of the mountain was a hand made cross. A very beautiful island - I can't wait to move there!

Back in Honolulu... All I can say is Roy's! Hands down the best food on the planet! So good, that on our honeymoon almost 13 years ago, we ate at a Roy's in Kauai and have never stopped thinking about it. Not to mention, we ate there twice this trip! Butterfish and molten chocolate cake!!! Too good, there are no words. One of the most moving experiences I thought was our trip to Pearl Harbor. We toured the USS Bowfish (submarine), Battleship Missouri, and of course, the Arizona memorial. The park service begins the tour of the Arizona with a great 25 minute video about the events leading up to our involvement in WWII and then the events at Pearl Harbor - December 7, 1941. It was good to give the whole picture of what happened and why it happened. But, nothing could prepare me for the actual memorial. You ride a small boat operated by the Navy to get to the memorial. Once inside the white structure we are all familiar with seeing from TV and pictures, you can still see oil seeping from the ship. As you make your way through the memorial, you come to a door leading to a wall of all the names of the men who are entombed inside the ship. It hit me hard. Just seeing all the names seemed so much more than hearing the number that died that day on this ship. The picture doesn't even do it justice! It was neat that several survivors have chosen to make the ship there final resting place as well. Another interesting image at the memorial came from a man and his son leaning over the area inside looking into the bowel of the ship (I think that is what is called) praying. It brought tears to my eyes as they stood arm in arm praying! The Battleship Missouri was neat. I think guys would appreciate it more than us girls. After looking at the sleeping arrangements, I would definitely have to be an officer. They practically slept on top of each other - 4 sometimes 5 beds high. I was just freaking out about the sharing the toilet thing, but yuk! Brian loved watching a destroyer and submarine come into the harbor. And.. the huge aircraft carrier docked there.

One of the hardest things we did was climbing Diamond Head. It was hot and a little claustrophobic in the old tunnels inside the hill getting to the top and the stairs - goodness - very steep, but the view was incredible. Olivia did really well with all the climbing. It was well worth the effort as you can see.
The next saga began on a Catamaran. I will never ride on any type of boat again. Brian still makes fun of me for puking on our honeymoon when we went deep sea fishing. I agreed to ride this stupid thing thinking surely I would be okay. Olivia was terrified - at first! By the end of the ride, she had her legs dangling off the side and I was turning green staring at the horizon hoping I would not hurl all over everyone! Let's see...did I mention Roy's - yeah.. And the people... lots of interesting people. Very different from little ol' Senatobia. Olivia finally liked the beach the last day. She was so scared of the ocean water. The ways we screw up our children. I know it is because she has heard me say I don't like getting in the ocean because of all the critters swimming around. She is so like me it is scary. However, even the last day she wouldn't venture out very far. I am so thankful that she was able to enjoy her first trip to Hawaii. After the beginning of this summer, I didn't know what might happen next. We made sure she had tons of sunscreen on at all times and she wore her signature rash guard and shorts. We had to protect the burns! We all had such a good time after all in the rainbow state! "I set My bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a sign of a covenant between Me and the earth." Exodus 9:13.

God called the dry land earth, and the gathering of the waters He called the seas; and God saw that it was good. Genesis 1:10

Outline of Matthew

Outline of the Book of Matthew

by Estelle Nazary

Introduction - 1:1-4:11

1. Birth and childhood of Jesus

2. Preparation for the work of the Messiah

3. The work of John the Baptist

4. Jesus' baptism and temptations

A. Jesus' great Galilean ministry - 4:11-13:58

B. Jesus in retirement with the Twelve - Chapters 14-18

1. The crisis and rejection in Galilee

2. The founding of the church

C. Ministry in Perea on the way to Jerusalem - Chapters 19-20

D. Closing ministry in Jerusalem - Chapters 21-25

E. Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Appearances - Chapters 26-28

God's Word

I have finished with Genesis for right now. I thought since I started with the first book in the Old Testament that I should move on the the first book in the New Testament. Granddaddy had tons of sermons from the book of Matthew.

God's Word

Matthew 4:4

Sermon by Jack Nazary - West Jackson Baptist Church 1989 and

West Carthage Baptist Church 1998

I. What is does for Me?!

1. Quickens Me - Psalm 119:25

"Quicken thou Me according to Thy Word."

- to make alive, to endure with life, produce alive, preserve alive

Ephesians 2:1 - "You hath He quickened."

2. Sanctifies Me - John 14:17

Separation to God - Set aside

- the life befitting those so separated

Separation of the believer from evil things and ways

It's God's will and purpose for believers

It's taught by Word (by thy truth)

It's to be pursued by the believer as he is obedient to the Lord.

Holy Spirit is the agent of sanctification = "Saints" "Holy Ones"

3. Cleanses Me - Psalm 119:9

To make clean

Physically - from stains and dirt - utensils

Morally - from the defilement's of sin, to consecrate by cleansings

II. What it is to Me?!

1. Precious - I Samuel 3:1

2. Penetrating - Hebrews 4:12

3. Powerful - Jeremiah 23:29

4. Purifying - Jeremiah 23:29

5. Protecting - Ephesians 6:17

"Take the helmet of Salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God."

III. How it should be treated by Me?!

1. Love it - "How I love the law" - Psalm 119:97

2. Search it - "Search the scriptures" - John 5:39

3. Feed on it - "I did eat them" - Jeremiah 15:16

4. Hold fast to it - Titus 1:9

5. Preach it - II Timothy 4:2

6. Meditate on it - Psalm 119:15

7. Delight in it - Psalm 119:16

* Psalm 119:116 - "Great peace have they which love Thy law."

* Psalm 1 - Blessed

* Psalm 19:8 - "The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart."

8. Live by it - Luke 4:4, Deut. 4:4, Matthew 4:4

* Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word...

* Secret of answered prayer I John 3:22 - "And whatsoever...

* Keep commandments and do those things which are pleasing to Him.

Genesis 46 - 47

Genesis 46:1-34 to Genesis 47:1-31

by Estelle Nazary

I. The Journey - verses 1-7

1. God revealed Himself by a twofold name.

a. "I am El, The Mighty God."

b. "I am the God of thy father."

2. Fourfold promise of what should happen in Egypt

a. "I will there make of thee a great nation."

b. "I will go down with thee."

c. "I will also surely bring thee up again."

d. "Joseph shall put his hand upon thine eyes."

II. The Family - verses 8-27

III. The Meeting - verses 28-30

1. The greatness of God's purpose.

2. The reality of God's guidance.

3. The wisdom of God's love.

IV. The Necessary Arrangement - verses 31-34

V. The Complete Provision - Verses 47:1-6

VI. The Notable Interview - verses 7-10

VII. The Special Care - verses 11-12

1. The simplicity of Divine providence.

2. The splendour of honest toil.

3. The sacredness of family life.

4. The significance of ordinary life.

VIII. The Plan.

IX. The Wisdom of the Plan.

X. The Results of the Plan.

1. Three essential qualities of true life.

a. His discretion.

b. His promptitude.

c. His thoroughness.

2. The source of these qualities.

XI. The Solemn Requirement. - verses 27-31

Truths:

1. God works through everyday happenings to accomplish His will.

2. Many of the daily happenings of our lives are not mere accidents or coincidences; they are a significant part of God's purposes being accomplished through us.

3. God provides the personal guidance which his people need.

4. Not every opportunity that comes along is God's will for us.

5. Meaningful times of worship in which we offer our lives to do His will can result in better understanding the best course of action.

6. God blesses those who honor their parents.

7. There is a growing trend in society today to forsake old people, treating them as useless objects. Such a practice is contrary to biblical principles.

8. The scripture presents old people as those who are wise and worthy of great honor.

9. God's abundant blessings upon Joseph demonstrate the rewards which can come to those who honor their parents.

10. God desires to guide His children through decision-making, spiritual struggles with enemies with sickness and sorrow.

11. God provides guidance through such spiritual exercises as Bible study, prayer, and worship.

12. Half-heartedness in any work is useless and hopeless, and can bring trouble in its train.

13. Our life may be shadowed by sorrow and suffering, but the cloud will always have a silver lining, since God will never leave nor forsake His own.

14. The guidance of God is as real, as certain, and as precious today as ever it has been, even in the time of Joseph and Jacob.

Genesis Outline Part 4

Genesis Outline Part 4
by Estelle Nazary

Genesis 4

I. Birth of Cain and Abel - 4:1-2

II. Cain and Abel worshipped God - verses 3-13

1. Abel's offering was acceptable because he worshipped in faith in the Lord. - Hebrews 11:4

2. God looked with favor on the man that brought the best that he had, but he did not accept the offering from the man who gave less than he should.

3. God's acceptance did not rest in the offering but in the offerer.

4. Abel was right with God.

5. Cain was out of fellowship with God.

6. Cain did not being out of God's favor.

7. Notice the progression of his sin.

a. Irreverence - verse 3

b. Anger - verse 5

c. Jealousy, deception and murder - verse 8

d. Lying - verse 9 "Am I my brother's keeper?"

e. Self-seeking - verse 13

III. Cain's cry of anguish - verses 11-14

1. Cain was cursed, the ground would not produce for him.

2. He would be a wanderer for the rest of his days.

3. In his guilt, Cain could not have fellowship with God.

IV. The mark of grace - verses 15-16

1. God gave Cain protection from the same violence that he inflicted on his brother.

2. God set a mark on Cain, a mark of grace signifying God's protective care.

3. Cain fled to Nod to get away from himself, his family, and even God.

4. God helped Cain build a new life in a new place.

Truths:

1. Man is accountable to God in two great areas of human life: in worship of God and in relationships with one another.

2. God is fully aware of the status of man's heart at all times.

3. As far as our offerings are concerned, the Lord expects what we are capable of giving.

4. Most of the time, we know the reason of our spiritual despondence.

5. Pride is the basic sin and dictates that we excuse ourselves from guilt, laying it at the feet of others, even God.

6. A godly life is the offering that God wants most.

7. A wrong attitude and a wrong relationship with God give sin an opportunity to drag one down.

8. If we could control our talk, we would not have nearly so many tense situations in our human relations.

9. We do not realize the widespread results of our sins.

10. No excuse can cover up or relieve our guilt in mistreating other persons.

11. Cain could have been forgiven and restored if only he had acknowledged to God his sinful heart.

12. We will have to give an account to God for what we have done on earth.

RENEW

RENEW

Isaiah 40:30-31

(From Grandmother's Notes)

Brown out but not burn out...How to avoid burn out...

R - Review your life, religion, prayer life, relationship to God...

E - Examine the possibilities, challenges, relationships, project, new goals...

N - Name the price your are willing to pay - heartache, study, emotionally...

E - Elect the best possibility, potential, go for the best...

W - Wait and work - Wait on the Lord, Wait in Prayer, Wait in scripture, Wait in Christian relationships...

Set New Goals...

Genesis Outline Part 3

Genesis Outline Part 3

by Estelle Nazary

Genesis 3:1-24

I. Temptation
1. Consider its source.
a. God is not the author of sin.
b. Sin came to man from without, Satan.

2. Mark its subtlety
a. The serpent excites the woman's curiosity by speaking to her.
b. He raises a suspicion of God.
c. He injects a threefold doubt of God.
1. His goodness
2. His righteousness
3. His holiness

3. Observe its success
a. She heeded the temptation.
b. Her curiosity was roused.
c. Her physical craving, her desire to eat.
d. She took and ate and gave to her husband and he ate.

II. Sin
1. Good for food.
2. Pleasant to the eyes.
3. Make on wise.
4. Eyes were opened.

III. Results of Sin
1. Sense of guilt - Fear
2. Sense of condemnation
3. Act of separation

IV. Punishment
1. Serpent
a. cursed above all animals
b. crawl and eat dust
2. Woman
a. condemned to sorrow
b. condemned to subjection
3. Man
a. sorrow, hardship, toil
b. death

V. Redemption -
1. pictured in word
2. pictured in deed

VI. Departure from Garden of Eden
1. flaming sword
2. Cherubims

Truths:
1. Temptation is not sin, but it can lead to sin.
2. Sin never gets better, only worse.
3. Sin destroys fellowship.
4. Sin drives a wedge between the sinner and God, and then it separates friends.
5. We cannot handle our guilt through our own efforts.
6. Man's natural impulse is to deny sin or blame someone else for it.
7. God has provided for man's forgiveness.
8. When God revealed his disapproval of the first sin, He also revealed His purpose to provide a remedy for sin.