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7/25/10: Future Grace

Sermon Text: Philippians 1:19-30

Cross References: Philippians chapter 1

Sermon Outline:

By Grace Christ’s Spirit Is Given to Magnify Him- vs. 19-20

1. By God’s grace we shall be delivered

  • Through prayer (Col. 4:2-4)
  • Through the indwelling Spirit of Christ (Rom. 5:5

2. By God’s grace we shall not be ashamed (Rom. 1:16)

  • To be bold to magnify Christ in our body by life (Rm.12:1, I Cor. 6:19-20)
  • To be bold to magnify Christ in our body by death (Rm.14:7-8)

By Grace Christ Is Gained in Life & Death – vs. 21-26

1. By grace we live by Christ for Christ (Col.1:6)

  • To gain fruit from our labor for Christ’s glory
  • To remain is best for the progress & joy of others faith in Christ

2. By grace we gain Christ in death (2 Cor. 4:16-18)

  • To depart is far better than to remain (Phil. 3:20-21)

  • To be present with Christ is the ultimate pleasure of heaven

By Grace Christ Grants Strength to Stand Fast – vs. 27-30

1. By grace we shall conduct ourselves worthy of the gospel

  • By standing fast together in one spirit for the faith of the gospel
  • By standing fast without fear against our adversaries (2Thes. 2:13-15)

2. By grace Christ granted us two privileges:

  • To believe in Him (Eph. 2:8,9)
  • To suffer for His sake (3:10)

Discussion Questions:

  1. What is the difference between the pleasure sin promises by the devil’s deceit and the pleasure God promises us by His grace? Why does the gospel make much of God’s grace (past, present, future)? Why can grace take away our shame before God? How are we to magnify Christ in our body by life and by death? What does it mean, “we are invincible until our life work is finished”?
  2. Why will being in Christ’s presence be the ultimate pleasure of heaven for you? How is the hope of gaining Christ a motivation in your life?
  3. Why should our conduct be worthy of Christ if we call ourselves Christians? What are specific things you are willing to take a stand for or against today? What difference should it make in our lives if we really believed it was God who granted us the capacity to believe in Christ? What difference should it make for Christians today to believe God has also granted us to suffer for Christ’s sake?
  4. How shall we then live if we believe “to live is Christ and to die is gain”?

Additional Resources:

  1. Philippians 1 from the NET Bible
  2. Philippians 1 from the IVP New Testament Commentary on Philippians
  3. Philippians 1 from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
  4. Philippians 1 from John Calvin’s Commentary
  5. Philippians 1 from Jamison, Faucett, & Brown Commentary
  6. Misc. Philippians Resources

Posted in Philippians Series.

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By Matt – July 25, 2010

7/18/10: The Advancement of the Gospel of Grace

Sermon Text: Philippians 1:12-18

Cross References: Philippians chapter 1

Sermon Outline:

  1. The advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ in all circumstances (1:12-14)
    1. The providence and sovereignty of God in chains of purpose (1:13)
    2. Boldness and confidence under fire ( 1:14)
  2. The advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ in His name and word (1:15-17)
    1. The truth trumps even motive
  3. The advancement of the gospel as our central aspiration brings joyful living (1:18)
    1. Enduring for the cross: Paul and us

Discussion Questions:

  1. Paul’s concern for the Philippians is like Jesus’ concern in the gospel of John for his disciples (John 13:21 & 14:1), more concerned for others than His own comfort.  How is Paul able to find joy rather than wallow in his circumstances, be concerned for others rather than self, and see blessings in trial and difficulties?  HOHow and where have we seen this take place in our own lives?
  2. In verses 13 and 14 we learn that Paul’s circumstances have actually served to advance the gospel, in light of these passages (Matthew 28:18-20; John 13:7, 2 Timothy 2:9, and Isaiah 55:11), and Paul’s circumstances here and in Philippi in Acts 16:25-34, how can we be confident that the gospel will advance under trials and difficulties?  Where have you seen the gospel advance in the least likely of places and under the most difficult circumstances?
  3. In verses 15-17 we learn that there are two different groups preaching the same gospel, with two different motives, yet we find Paul in verse 18 rejoicing regardless of the motive.  Why is this so?  What does this teach us about where the power in any ministry, or sharing of the gospel, actually lies (meditate on 1 Corinthians 2:1-14 as a group before discussing)?  How can this be an encouragement to us as we share the gospel?
  4. Human beings aspire for many different things in life, what are they?  How does placing the advancement of the gospel at the center of our aspirations make this passage, Paul’s attitude, and our calling to share the gospel, understandable and possible?

Additional Resources:

  1. Philippians 1 from the NET Bible
  2. Philippians 1 from the IVP New Testament Commentary on Philippians
  3. Philippians 1 from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
  4. Philippians 1 from John Calvin’s Commentary
  5. Philippians 1 from Jamison, Faucett, & Brown Commentary
  6. Misc. Philippians Resources

Posted in Philippians Series.

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By Matt – July 18, 2010

7/11/10: A Gracious Promise

Sermon Text: Philippians 1:3-11

Cross References: Philippians chapter 1

Sermon Outline:

  1. Prayer and Partnership (Phil. 1:3-5)
  2. Promise and Perfection (Phil. 1:6)
  3. Participation and Perspective (Phil. 1:7-8)
  4. Provision and Praise (Phil. 1:9-11)

Discussion Questions:

  1. The Apostle Paul is under house arrest, and he knows that he’s likely facing what we would call “death row” – yet these dire circumstances seem to encourage Paul’s joyful and hopeful prayer life!  Read Psalm 90:12.  Why do you think that joyful optimism was the reality for Paul in these circumstances?
  2. Paul seems to derive pleasure simply from thinking about the Philippian church (Verses 3 and 4).  Is it okay for Christians to find pleasure in this life?  Elaborate.
  3. When Paul calls the Philippians “partners” in the gospel (Verse 5), what do you think he means?  Why is this important?
  4. In Verse 6, Paul expresses absolute certainty in the ultimate perfection of the Philippian believers.  How can he be so sure?
  5. In Verses 7 and 8, Paul expresses gratitude that the Philippians have stood with him through thick and thin.  How does their being “partakers of grace” with Paul impact their faithfulness to him?  Who are those faithful friends in your own life?  Make a promise to let them know this week how grateful you are to God for them!
  6. Clearly, Paul believes that God is sovereign (Ephesians 1:11).  Why does he still pray?
  7. Read Verses 9-11.  If God would help us number our days, would that fuel our praise?

Additional Resources:

  1. Philippians 1 from the NET Bible
  2. Philippians 1 from the IVP New Testament Commentary on Philippians
  3. Philippians 1 from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
  4. Philippians 1 from John Calvin’s Commentary
  5. Philippians 1 from Jamison, Faucett, & Brown Commentary
  6. Misc. Philippians Resources

Posted in Philippians Series.

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By Matt – July 11, 2010

7/4/10: A Gracious Introduction

Sermon Text: Philippians 1:1-2

Cross References: Philippians chapter 1

Sermon Outline:

  1. Perspective
  2. Position
  3. Profession

Discussion Questions:

  1. Read Acts 16.  What were the most significant events surrounding Paul’s first visit to Philippi (Macedonia)?  How do these events serve as important backdrops for our current study?  Since we know that Paul wrote this letter from prison, what themes do you think will emerge from our study?
  2. Why do you think that Paul and Timothy would think of themselves as servants (or bondservants) of Jesus Christ?  How is a bondservant different from a typical slave?  Are we called to be bondservants of Christ?  Please cite support for your answer from the New Testament.
  3. Who would have been among the “saints” to whom Paul directed this epistle?  Define “saint” using your own words.
  4. What is the difference between an overseer and an elder, if any?  What is the difference between a deacon and a servant, if any?  How does an elder function differently from a deacon?
  5. Define “grace” and “peace” in your own words.  Can you find this kind of salutation in any other letter written by Paul?  Why do you think that Paul chose these particular words, and why do you think he used them together?

Additional Resources:

  1. Philippians 1 from the NET Bible
  2. Philippians 1 from the IVP New Testament Commentary on Philippians
  3. Philippians 1 from Matthew Henry’s Commentary
  4. Philippians 1 from John Calvin’s Commentary
  5. Philippians 1 from Jamison, Faucett, & Brown Commentary
  6. Misc. Philippians Resources

Posted in Philippians Series.

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By Matt – July 3, 2010

6/27/10: Soli Deo Gloria

Sermon Text: Exodus 40:1-38

Cross References: Exodus cross references

Sermon Outline:

Everything pointed to the Lord Jesus Christ!

the gate

the golden lampstand (menorah)

the bread of the Presence

the veil (curtain)

the holy of holies

the altar of incense

the ark of the covenant (testimony)

the mercy seat

the bronze basin

the altar of burnt offering

the high priest

the Tabernacle

Discussion Questions:

  1. Read carefully Verses 2 and 17.  Do you think there is any spiritual significance in the timing of the dedication of the Tabernacle?
  2. Verse 3 mentions a veil (curtain).  Is there any possible connection between this veil and the veil referenced in Matthew 27:51?  Likewise, Verse 5 references an altar for the burning of incense.  Read Hebrews 7:25 and note any vital spiritual parallels.
  3. When Moses set up the altar of burnt offering, he was teaching the people that our holy God is unapproachable by ordinary means – that entrance into God’s presence requires a blood sacrifice.  Read First John 2:1-2.  How has Christ provided for us?
  4. The bronze basin signified the people’s need for cleansing.  Do the words of Jesus in John 15:1-5 speak to this same need?  How?
  5. Read Verses 34-38.  What do you think it would have been like to have witnessed God’s glory filling the Tabernacle?  What has God brought His people through to get them to this point?  What has He brought you though in our study of Exodus – how has He changed you, by His Word, in ways that are unmistakable and forever?

Additional Resources

1. Exodus from A.W. Pink’s Gleanings in Exodus

2. Exodus 40 from Matthew Henry’s Complete Commentary

3. Exodus 40 from the Geneva Study Bible

4. Exodus Sermons by Ligon Duncan

Posted in Exodus Series.

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By Matt – June 29, 2010

6/20/10: Seven Truths that Transform

Sermon Text: Exodus 35:30-35 (Exodus 35, 36, 37, 38, 39)

Cross References: Exodus cross references

Sermon Outline:

1.  I was put on this planet _____________________.

2.  My mission requires _____________________.

3.  Even when my mission feels natural, it requires _____________________.

4.  My mission employs God’s unique blend of _____________________.

5.  My mission _____________________.

6.  Because my mission is sacred, _____________________.

7.  I labor for _____________________!

Discussion Questions:

Because this is such a lengthy portion of Scripture, we will focus the bulk of our attention on Exodus 35:30-35.

1.  Why do you think it is important that Bezalel is filled with the Spirit of God to do his artistic work?

2.  Do you think it was significant that Bezalel had to teach others his craft?  Why?

3.  Verse 31 distinguishes between skill, intelligence, knowledge, and craftsmanship.  Is the Bible teaching that all of these come from God, or that just some of these come from God?  What is the difference between skill and knowledge?

4.  Read 38:22-23 and 39:22-41.  Could a skill like weaving be a divine (spiritual) gift?  Why or why not?

5.  Matthew Henry wrote: “Skill, even in worldly employments, is God’s gift, and comes from above.”  Do you think that Henry was correct?  Why or why not?

6.  How do we know that there is no room in the Christian life for laziness?  (Please cite specific Bible texts to support your answer.)

7.  What God-given gifts, skills, or responsibilities have you been squandering, and how is God calling you to change TODAY?

Additional Resources:

1. Exodus from A.W. Pink’s Gleanings in Exodus

2. Exodus 35 from Matthew Henry’s Complete Commentary

3. Exodus 35 from the Geneva Study Bible

4. Exodus Sermons by Ligon Duncan

Posted in Exodus Series.

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By Matt – June 23, 2010

6/13/10: Seven Words of Hope

Sermon Text: Exodus 34:1-35

Cross References: Exodus cross references

Sermon Outline:

1. Compassion

2. Grace

3. Patience

4. Love

5. Faithfulness

6. Forgiveness

7. Justice

Discussion Questions:

1. Read carefully Verses 1, 27, and 28.  Who wrote the commandments this time: God or Moses?  What is the relationship between God’s authorship of the Bible and the Bible’s human writers?  If the Bible had human writers, can we really trust it?  Why or why not?  (Meditate on Second Timothy 3:16-17 before you answer!)

2. Though Moses wanted to see God, why do you think that he actually heard more than he saw?  How are Verses 6 and 7 such a beautiful description of the Lord?  Find any other place in the Bible where these same attributes of God (at least in part) are repeated.  What do you learn by comparing the two passages of Scripture?

3. Read Psalm 103:13.  How does our knowledge of a father’s compassion (mercy) help us understand God’s compassion?  Read Second Peter 3:9.  How would you describe the patience of God?  (Can you think of other relevant, helpful passages?)

4. How did the Lord Jesus Christ, in the ultimate sense, display the justice of God?  Please cite at least two New Testament Scripture passages that illumine this truth.

Additional Resources:

1. Exodus from A.W. Pink’s Gleanings in Exodus

2. Exodus 34 from Matthew Henry’s Complete Commentary

3. Exodus 34 from the Geneva Study Bible

4. Exodus Sermons by Ligon Duncan

Posted in Exodus Series.

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By Matt – June 13, 2010

6/6/10: No Can Do

Sermon Text: Exodus 33:1-23

Cross References: Exodus cross references

Sermon Outline:

Authentic Christianity begins with a correct…

Vision of God’s glory

Intimate connection

Enduring desire

Worldview emanating from God-view

…of God!

Discussion Questions:

1. Consider carefully Verses 1-6. At this point, God doesn’t deny the children of Israel the Promised Land, and He promises His protection and power in a sense. But He says that He will withdraw His presence from them. Why is this news devastating to the people? Why do you think they strip themselves of their ornaments? Do you think that Israel is truly sorrowful for how they have sinned against the Lord?

2. In Verses 7-11, Moses leads the nation in worship. Do you think it is important that the place of worship is outside the camp? Why or why not?

3. In Verses 12-23, Moses intercedes on behalf of God’s people. What New Testament texts help underscore the role of Jesus Christ as the great Intercessor on our behalf?

4. God’s glory is “the shining forth of who God is in His essence”. Charles Spurgeon called Verse 18 “the greatest request a man ever made of God.” Do you think that Spurgeon was correct? Why or why not?

Additional Resources:

1. Exodus from A.W. Pink’s Gleanings in Exodus

2. Exodus 33 from Matthew Henry’s Complete Commentary

3. Exodus 33 from the Geneva Study Bible

4. Exodus Sermons by Ligon Duncan

Posted in Exodus Series.

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By Matt – June 6, 2010

5/30/10: Who Will Atone?

Sermon Text: Exodus 32:1-35

Cross References: Exodus cross references

Sermon Outline:

1. No amount of human determination or strength is great enough to keep God’s perfect standard.

Exodus 32:1-6

2. The only thing holding back the full unleashing of God’s wrath against sinners is his pleasure.

Exodus 32:7-14

3. God’s holiness demands that sin be punished.

Exodus 32:15

4. None but Christ can atone for sins committed against a holy God.

Exodus 32:30-35

Discussion Questions:

1. What was the attraction of a golden calf that made it more appealing to worship than a holy God? What makes modern day idols so attractive?

2. In Exodus 32:9 we find the first time in God’s word that Israel is referred to as a “stiff-necked” people. According to Philip Ryken, the phrase “stiff-necked” was used to describe a beast of burden that was too stubborn to wear it’s master’s yoke or follow it’s masters commands. In what way were the Israelites stiff-necked and in what ways do we tend to be stiff-necked today?

3. When many people read that God “relented” as is recorded in Exodus 32:14, they tend to believe that it means God changed His mind. What are the dangers of buying in to this understanding of Scripture? How should this text be interpreted? Why is it vitally important for our salvation that God is indeed the same yesterday, today and forever?

4. Was the punishment that Israel received just, or was it cruel and unusual? Explain.

5. Why was Moses unable to “atone” for Israel’s sin? How does this passage point us to Christ?

Additional Resources:

1. Exodus from A.W. Pink’s Gleanings in Exodus

2. Exodus 32 from Matthew Henry’s Complete Commentary

3. Exodus 32 from the Geneva Study Bible

4. Exodus Sermons by Ligon Duncan

Posted in Exodus Series.

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By Matt – May 30, 2010

5/23/10: The Sabbath Sign

Sermon Text: Exodus 31:12-18

Cross References: Exodus cross references

Sermon Outline:

1. What is the Sabbath?

2. What is the Sabbath sign?

- Jesus

- Paul

- the early church

3. Where does the Sabbath sign point?

Discussion Questions:

  1. Read Genesis 2:1-3 and Exodus 20:8-11.  Why do you think that the Sabbath is linked to Creation?  Does this elevate the Sabbath’s importance?  Why or why not?
  2. Read carefully Verse 13.  Who will need this “sign” to whom God is referring?
  3. Read Romans 11:11-24.  Do you think that Gentile believers in Christ are among “the people of Israel” to whom God is referring in Verse 17 of today’s text?  Must Gentiles observe the Sabbath?  Why or why not?
  4. Read Luke 6:1-11 and Colossians 2:16-17.  What does it mean that Jesus is “Lord of the Sabbath”?  Can some Sabbath “rules” actually circumvent the Gospel of Christ?

Additional Resources:

  1. Exodus from A.W. Pink’s Gleanings in Exodus
  2. Exodus 31 (click “next” to advance to c. 26-31) from Matthew Henry’s Complete Commentary
  3. Exodus 31 (click “next” to advance to c. 26-31) from the Geneva Study Bible
  4. Exodus Sermons by Ligon Duncan

Posted in Exodus Series.

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By Matt – May 23, 2010