SERMONS IN OUR SONGS (Lesson 6)

SERMONS IN OUR SONGS (Lesson 6)
“JUST AS I AM” (By Charlotte Elliott)
MATTHEW 11: 28-30

Intro:
Charlotte Eliot suffered from illness for much of her life. A deeply spiritual woman, she longed to serve the God whom she loved so much. In 1836, her brother H.V. Elliot was raising funds for a new school to be built. Charlotte wanted to help in some small way, but owing to her infirmity, she felt that she was worthless to the cause.
Finally, she decided to take advantage of one of her great talents. She sat down to compose a poem for others who were physically limited. As she pondered the words which she would write, the words of a preacher some 14 years in the past returned to her. The preacher had said to her: “Come to Jesus, just as you are.”
The poem was completed, and published without Mrs. Elliot’s name. Some years later, she was handed that same poem in leaflet form by her doctor, who had no idea that she was the author. The doctor informed her that the poem was being distributed in many places, and that the proceeds’ were to be given to the school which her brother had been working to build. In the end, she had contributed mightily, just as she was.
Here in the beautiful words of Mrs. Elliot’s poem, we see an awesome concept. It is the idea that you and I, flawed though we are, can still come to God. We can come to him, because he has already reached out for us. In the world in which we live, it is a novel idea that someone would accept a person, with all their flaws and imperfection. It is a hard notion for us to grasp, yet in this song, we find it said with true elegance.
This morning, we want to continue with our series entitled, “”SEEING THE SERMONS IN OUR SONGS.” The next song which we will examine is found on page number 924, “JUST AS I AM.” There are two ideas that are expressed in this well-known hymn. These concepts are designed to aid both the follower of God, as well as those who are outside of the body of Christ in understanding the fact that you are valuable to the Lord! You are important despite yourself. Join me for a few moments, and let’s look at those who can come to God.

I. JUST AS I AM, WITHOUT REGARD TO PHYSICAL APPEARANCE

1. We as people are often consumed by physical appearance, yet it is frequently this same obsession which leads to our problems.
A. II Samuel 11: 2 Bathsheba was beautiful, nevertheless she led to one of the darkest periods in David’s life.
B. Genesis 13: 10-11 likewise Lot also chose beauty over substance, and paid for that choice.
2. However, there are also those who are not chosen because of physical appearance.
a. James 2: 2-3 what about those who are discounted because of a perceived lack of social standing?
b. Mark 10: 46-48 what about those who are discounted because of a perceived lack of physical ability?
c. First Samuel 16: 7 the key word here is “PERCEIVED”, because man only knows what is on the outside, but God understands what is in the heart of man!
3. The wonderful news is that God has said to his creation, “Come! Just as you are, come to me!”
A. First Samuel 17: 37 those who are of limited physical presents, God bids them come!
B. Mark 3: 3 those who are of limited physical resources, God bids them come!
C. Regardless of your current physical position in this world, God invites you to come to him, “Just as you are!”

II. JUST AS I AM, WITHOUT REGARD TO WHAT I'VE DONE.

1. Have you noticed how often we hold others pre-Christian life against them?
A. We never truly let go of the past, but instead use it as a weapon.
B. Matthew 13: 54-58 Jesus himself ran into this form of prejudice.
2. However, God cares not for the past, but instead calls sinners to repentance!
A. Genesis 20: 1-2 God can use a lire.
B. Exodus 2: 11-12 God can use a murderer.
C. I Samuel 11: 4, 24 God can use an adulterer and a murderer.
D. John 21: 15-21 God can even use those who shamefully try to reject him.
E. Matthew 11: 28 God can use the sinner who's tired of carrying their load of sin.

SERMONS FROM OUR SONGS (Lesson 3)

SERMONS FROM OUR SONGS (LESSON 3)

“LIVING BY FAITH” (By James S. Wells)

 

I.                    LIVING BY FAITH IN JESUS

 

“Living by faith, in Jesus above, trusting confiding in his great love. From all harm safe, in his sheltering arms, I’m living by faith, and feel no alarm.”  When inspecting a hymn, it is always interesting to notice the chorus.  In most songs the chorus contains the heart of the message which the author wishes to express.  In the song currently under our investigation this statement holds true. 

                Over and over again James Wells states the in arguable fact that our faith should be based upon Jesus The Christ, the one and only Son of the Living God, who has his current dwelling place at the right hand of the thrown of God. (Hebrews 12: 2)  Mr. Wells stands firm on the conviction given to us in Hebrews 11: 39-40.  As the eleventh chapter of Hebrews is coming to an end, Paul has been pointing out those who lived their lives “by faith”, “through faith”, and “in faith.”  The interesting revelation is found in the idea that those amazing men and women who are spoken of in that great chapter of faith obtained outstanding reputations because of their faith, but they never saw the fulfillment of the promise which they were working toward.  However, as verse 40 points out to us that “God having provided something better for us”, which is his son.  In fact, Paul would point out in Hebrews 12: 2 that Jesus now and forever stands as both “the author and finisher of our faith.”   He is where it begins and ends.  It isn’t about trusting a preacher, elder, deacon, parent, child, husband, wife, best friend, or anyone else who walks upon the face of this earth.  Instead we put our faith in the one who paid it all for our salvation.

 

II.                  CONCERNS ARE CANCELED

 

Cares, concerns, worries or whatever you want to call them are one of the biggest obstacles that we as Christians have to overcome in our service to God.  We spend so much time worrying about what will go wrong tomorrow that we forget to enjoy the day that is at hand. 

            World famous New York Yankees manager Connie Mack was one of the best team leaders to ever set in the dugout.  There were a number of qualities that made Connie a good manager, but none was more important than his ability to cast off worry.  Mack once told a reporter: “worry was threatening to wreck my career as a baseball manager. I saw how foolish it was and I forced myself to get so busy preparing to win games that I had no time left to worry over the ones that were already lost. You can't grind grain with water that has already gone down the creek."

            Obviously it is the second phrase that we want to talk about in this lesson, but I want you to notice that part of what helped Mack to avoid worry was staying busy.  He was so occupied with PREPARATION for the next game, that he didn’t have time to think about the failures of the past.  As Christians, if you want to avoid worry, then keep yourself so busy preparing for the future, that you don’t have time to worry over the mistakes of the past. 

            The idea that Connie Mack expresses in saying that you can’t grind grain with water which has already gone down the creek is very close to a Biblical concept.  In Matthew 6: 27 Jesus asks the question: “Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to your stature?”  Christ is pointing out to us the meaningless nature of worry. 

            Mr. Wells suggests to us that it doesn’t matter what comes our way because “the Lord I know ruleth over everything, and all of my worry is vain!”  We know that there are good days and bad days, and that good things happen to bad people, and bad things happen to good people. (Matthew 5: 45)  We know that in this life we will have trials and tribulations. (John 16: 33   what we need to do is come to the same point and understanding that the Psalmist David arrived at in his own life.  “O my God I trust in Thee!”   Set aside worries and embraces your faith in the plans which God has for your life!”

 

III.                GUIDANCE IS GIVEN

 

As many of you know, I love college football.  In particular, I am the biggest University of Tennessee fan you will ever meet.  If you don’t believe me, then just ask me and I will tell you.  I love my Vols.  As I was preparing for this lesson, I began to think of one of the traditions on the campus at UT.  In the early 30’s, a group of students and faculty joined together to come up with a symbol which would represent the university.  They finally settled upon a statue which is referred to as The Torch Bearer.  It has served as a mainstay on the campus in Knoxville for more than 70 years. 

                The part of the statue that pertains to us is the maxim which is written upon the base.  “The one that beareth a torch standeth in shadow to give light to others.”  As I listen to that statement, it reminds me of the savior. 

                Jesus stands holding the light of salvation, lighting our path, and providing us guidance and direction in our daily walk.  For some reason, when I sing this second verse, I think of mankind standing on the deck of a great ship.  The wind is blowing, and the waves are crashing all around us.  In some cases, there are those who have chosen to jump overboard and try to swim on their own.  But, for those who are Christians, we stand behind the captain of our ship.  He stands at the bow, guiding and showing us what to do.  He calms the waves, and brings the peace that only he can, just as he did for the disciples so long ago. (Mark 4: 37-39) 

                Let’s ask this; if Jesus serves as our example (1Peter 2: 21), then what is it that he is guiding us to do?  First, he encourages us to be the salt of the earth. (Matthew 5: 13)  Second, we should be the “light of the world.” (Matthew 5: 14)  This charges us with providing light to all who are both inside and outside of the house of God. (Matthew 5: 15)  In short, Jesus directs and guides us to “let our light shine before men, that they may see our good works, and glorify our father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5: 16) 

 

IV.                FEAR IS FORGOTTEN

 

I want to begin this final point with a statement that I feel to be unquestionable.  Life is scary.  There are so many days and nights in the life of the average person that leave us shaking in the corner.  There are so many moments of sheer terror in our lives that sometimes it is hard to function.  Think about how hard it becomes when we read a passage such as 1Peter 5: 8.  There we are told that we are out here walking around in the world, and there is a lion on the prowl!  As a matter of fact, he is walking around looking for his next meal.  His name is Satan.  He wants to find and destroy the children of God. 

        However, here in verse 3, James Wells indicates that thanks to the faith we can have in Jesus fear can be forgotten.  He states: “I know that he safely will carry me home, no matter what evils betide. Why should I then care though the tempest may blow, if Jesus walks close to my side?”   I love when he asks, “Why should I then care?”  In other words, he wants to know, “If the savior of mankind walks by my side, why should I be afraid?”  

        You see, what Mr. Wells knew, and what you and I also know, is that Matthew 28: 20 makes us a promise like no other.  “And lo I am with you always, even to the end of the world.”   That comes straight from the mouth of Jesus himself.  He has just told me that he is there at all times, and in all ways.  Folks, fear can be forgotten.

SERMONS IN OUR SONGS (Lesson 5)

SERMONS FROM OUR SONGS (Lesson 5)

“IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL” (By H.G. Spafford)

Psalm 57: 1-3

 

Intro:

                In the early 1860s, there was a man by the name of Horatio G. Spafford, who lived in Chicago along with his wife and five children.  Mr. Spafford worked as a practicing lawyer, but more importantly he served his community as a faithful child of God.  The generosity, kindness, and compassion of the Spafford family were well-known in the Chicago area.  The truth of the matter is that for the most part, the Spafford’s lived what might be called a charmed life, until 1870 when Scarlet Fever claimed the life of four-year-old Horatio Jr.

                In 1871, financial tragedy struck as the Great Chicago fire destroyed many of the Spafford’s rental properties.  Despite the hard-times upon which the family had fallen, Horatio continued to display his faith for all to see.  The Spafford’s reached out to those in need, and provided physical, emotional, and financial support to those in need.  Again, they allowed those around them to see the faith which they had in God.

                Horatio had served as an elder in the Presbyterian Church, and counted DL Moody and Ira Sankey as close personal friends.  In 1873 the whole family decided to join Moody and Sankey on their European mission work.  The plan was for Haratio, Anna, Annie, Maggie, Tanetta, and Bessie to travel on the French steamer Ville Du Havre.  As the family was preparing to leave, a business related issue came up which prevented Horatio from departing at the scheduled date.  In an attempt to please his family, Spafford told his wife to take the girls, and make the trip as planned, and he would follow as soon as possible on another ship.

                ON November 22, 1873, the Ville Du Havre was struck by a British ship called the Lockhearn.  The steamer sunk in 12 minutes, and took with it 226 of the 307 people aboard.  The spot where the ship went down is estimated to be at least three miles deep.

                Mrs. Spafford was one of the 81 who were rescued from the waters that night.  Unfortunately all four of the daughters lost their lives that night.  In point of fact, Tanetta, the youngest of the girls was actually snatched from her mother’s arms as the ship went down.

                Mrs. Spafford was taken to Wales, where she drafted a telegraph to her husband which simply read: “Saved alone. What shall I do?”  In those few words you can feel the pain and anguish of a mother who is directionless. 

                Upon receiving the telegraph, Mr. Spafford boarded ship, and made his way to his wife.  One night as they traversed the ocean, the captain of the ship called him to the deck, and reported that they were at the spot where the Lockhearn crashed into the Ville Du Havre.  Upon hearing this news and surveying the Atlantic, H.G. Spafford returned to his cabin, sat down, and wrote:

“When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.”

                Today we want to continue with our series in which we are taking a closer look at the sermons in the songs we sing.  This morning we come to one of the most beautiful hymns ever written.  It is beautiful because of the words, but it is also captivating because of the story behind the song.  The idea that a man can come through the horrific events which Mr. Spafford and his wife endured, and not only maintain, but grow in their faith is awe inspiring.  The notion that a father can suffer the loss of his children, and one week later write to his wife’s half-sister: “On Thursday last we passed over the spot where she went down, in mid-ocean, the waters three miles deep. But I do not think of our dear ones there. They are safe, folded, the dear lambs.”

                The question which the Spafford’s were asked over and over again I’m confident was the same thing we ask each other today when hard times occur.  “Are you ok?”  Judging by the amazing verses of this great song, the Spafford family’s answer was a resounding “YES!”  

                What about you?  Are you ok?  This morning I want us to take apart the verses of this amazing song, and help you to decide whether or not you are ok in your relationship with God.

 

I.                   WHEN LIFE HAPPENS, ARE YOU OK?

 

Have you ever noticed that in the first verse, Mr. Spafford establishes the two great contrasts in human existence?  He reminds us that there are those times in life when peace travels with us like a gently flowing river, and other moments when sorrow like great gusts of wind blow us about on the seas of life.  Let me ask you, are you ok despite the different extremes of life? 

                There are many who would say that in times of great peace it is easy to say they are “ok” in their walk with the Lord.  Consider Joseph in Genesis 39.  There we find that the favorite son of Israel has been thrown into bondage, yet finds that he has landed in a place of honor in the house of Potiphar.  What is interesting is that we see from the text of Genesis 39: 2, that not only was he “OK”, but he was “prosperous.”  Verse 3 offers great insight as to why Joseph was “OK.”   “And his master saw that the Lord was with Joseph.”   It was obvious from both the results of Joseph’s work, and the evidence of his actions that the Lord was with Joseph, but also that Joseph was with the Lord.  He wasn’t arrogant, haughty, full of himself, and boasting in his own abilities.  When this time of peace flowed through Joseph’s life, Joseph was ok.

                On the other end of the spectrum however, Joseph also seems to have been ok during time when “sorrow like sea billows roll.”  Notice in Genesis 39, how quickly things changed during the course of Genesis 39.  Joseph is down because he was sold into slavery, but then he’s up because God is with him and he prospers, but then he’s down because by the end of the chapter he fined himself in prison.  Despite all these emotional ups and downs, Joseph was “OK”, because he remained with the Lord.  When he was cast into jail, we are told in Genesis 39: 21: “But the Lord was with Joseph.”   Here’s the thing, we also know that Joseph was with the Lord.  If you examine the exchange between Pharaoh and Joseph when the latter is called to interpret a dream, you cannot help but conclude that in spite of all that was going on, Joseph was “OK.”   Notice Genesis41: 16, when Pharaoh asks Joseph to provide an interpretation of the dream which he had, Joseph states: “It is not in me; God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace.”  

                Think about it, Joseph has spent time in jail, and could have easily grown disillusioned with God.  Yet, here we see him saying that it isn’t any skill found within him that will offer interpretation, rather it is God above.  When the sorrows blew, Joseph was ok.

                What about you?  Have you reached the stage that the Apostle Paul obtained?  It seems to have been the same level which Horatio Spafford reached.  It is the idea expressed in Philippians 4: 12.  There Paul says that he has learned to be content in whatever state in which he may find himself.  In fact he mentions that he is “OK” learned both “to abound and to suffer need.”   He goes on in verse 13 to tell us how this is possible.  We can be OK when life happens because “I can do all things through Christ which gives me strength.”   I can maintain humility in the highs, and find comfort in the lows because at both times my God is with me!

 

II.                WHEN SATAN PURSUES, ARE YOU OK?

 

 “Though Satan SHALL buffet, though trials should come, let this blessed assurance control; that Christ hath regarded my helpless estate, and hath shed his own blood for my soul.”   Those first words of verse 2 catch me every time.  When you know the history of this song as you now do, you can’t help but agree that H.G. Spafford knew of the buffeting blows of Satan.  I actually took time to look up the definition of the word “BUFFET.”   I found the following information.

BUFFET: “A meal consisting of several dishes from which guest serve themselves.

A blow, typically of the hand or fist.

Of wind or waves, strike repeatedly and violently.”  (American Online Dictionary.) 

                Consider the description which Mr. Spafford is giving us here.  He is letting us know that Satan will deliver a blow to our lives, and that blow will strike repeatedly and violently.  Certainly this was true in the life of the Spafford family. 

                However, this lesson can also be seen in the life of a man by the name of Job.  We first meet this awesome example of patience under fire in Job 1: 1.  There we are told: “There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.”  This was a God-fearing man who made the Lord a priority in all he did.  Unfortunately for Job, (fortunately for us), God pointed Job out to Satan, and the devil then took an interest in the life of this “perfect and upright” man of God. 

                God speaks of how good Job is, and the devil says: “Have You not made a hedge around him, around his household, and around all that he has on every side?”  (Job 1: 10)  In other words, Satan asserts that Job is good because God doesn’t allow bad things to happen to this good man.  So, the Lord, displaying great confidence in Job replies: “Behold, all that he has is in your power.”  (Job 1: 12)  In other words, God is saying, hit him with your best shot, just don’t lay your hand upon his person.  You know the account; the devil took all that this good man had.  He took possessions, homes, fields, and family.  When that didn’t work, Satan asked permission to touch his person, and the Lord responded: “Behold, he is in your hand.” (Job 2: 6) 

            There you go; Satan shall now buffet the life of Job.  What amazes me is what we read in Job 2: 10.  There we are told: “In all this, Job DID NOT SIN WITH HIS LIPS.”   Job didn’t stray.  When Satan pursued, Job was “OK.”   When the devil struck, Job was able to say, “It is well, it is well, with my soul!”

            Brethren, make no mistake about it, there will come a time in your life when Satan should buffet, and trials will come.  Revelation 2: 10 remind us that we need not fear, though we will suffer tribulation at the hands of the Devil himself.  “Don’t Fear?”   Yes, that is what the text says, but how can we do it?  Allow me to offer you a combination of answers.  Mr. Spafford writes: “let this blessed assurance control; that Christ hath regarded my helpless estate, and hath shed his own blood for my soul.”   Also, over in 1John 2: 2 we are told: “And he himself is the propitiation for our sins.”  The simple answer is that we can withstand the blows of the devil because King Jesus fights our battles.  He died that you might live!  His blood provides all the victory you will ever need! 

 

III.             WHEN REALIZATION SETS IN, ARE YOU OK?

 

There are two words that I want you to notice and attempt to wrap your mind around in verse 3.  “MY SIN, O, the bliss of this glorious thought; MY SIN, not in part, but the whole, is nailed to the cross and I bear it no more: praise the Lord, Praise the Lord, O my soul!”  The key words which I want to bring to your attention are the words: “MY SIN.”  These words are difficult to say, and even more difficult to mean.  These words bring with them the idea of decision, responsibility, and repentance.  These words bring to mind the idea of realization coming to one’s mind.  Once realization occurs, then a person is tasked with deciding what they will do, and whether or not they are “OK.”

            In Luke 5, we find Christ calling his disciples to come after him.  He came upon a family fishing business, and offered 4 young men the chance to give up casting for fish, and start casting for souls.  Here in this passage we see Peter, Andrew, James and John presented with a choice.  Realization stands at their door, knocks, comes in and has a seat at their table.  They must now decide what they will do about their guest.  Luke 5: 11 records: “they forsook all and followed him.”   The realization of a life lived with the savior came, and these men chose to follow.

            On the other end of this discussion we find Agrippa.  Paul, who had been a prisoner of the Roman government for quite some time appears before this leader.  In presenting himself before Agrippa, Paul is given the opportunity to preached Christ and him crucified to this lost soul.  When Paul had finished speaking, he wants to know where Agrippa stands.  Acts 26: 28 reports a sad bit of news: “Agrippa said unto Paul, almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian.”   Folks, realization was delivered from the mouth of the Apostle Paul, and Agrippa refused it.  O it was a close thing, and it ALMOST worked, but close only counts in horseshoes, not salvation.

What about you?  You are after all a sinner in need of a savior.  Church that is reality.  Realization has just taken a place at your table.  Jesus makes it clear that for the one who will heed realization, and declare himself to be a disciple of Christ, then he or she must: “deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9: 23)  The question that I have for you is: “Now that realization has set in, are you ok?”

 

CONCLUSION:

            Some of you might be wondering about the last verse of the song.  It doesn’t appear on the outline, and there is a reason for that.  The final verse is your invitation.  The question that I want to leave you with this morning is: “When the Lord comes, will you be OK?”   For some of us, that last verse is pure delight.  “And Lord, haste the day when the faith shall be sight, the clouds be rolled back as a scroll; the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, EVEN SO, it is well with my soul!”  Notice that final part.  The Lord has come, and I shall now stand before his judgment seat, and yet it is well with my soul.  In other words, “I am OK.”   Can you say that today?  If not, what will you do to make a change in your life?

            For those reading this online, if you need assistance, or would like to speak about some of the things you’ve read, please contact us through the comment section on this page, or through Facebook, or even call our offices at: (863) 422-5614.  If you are not OK, MAKE A CHANGE!

 

                                    Rusty Hilliard Minister  

SERMONS FROM OUR SONGS (Lesson 4)

SEEING THE SERMONS IN OUR SONGS (Lesson 4)
“DON’T YOU WANT TO GO TO THAT LAND”
NUMBERS 10 29-32

Intro:
In Numbers 11: 29; we find a rather interesting passage. The Lord has just concluded his instructions to Moses and Aaron as to how they are to construct and properly use the trumpets of silver, which he had commanded them to make.
Following these ordinances, the Children of Israel departed from the wilderness of Sinai, and moved to the wilderness of Paran. As they traveled, the children of Israel moved in a particular pattern. Beginning in verse 13, and concluding in verse 28; we are told the order in which they proceeded.
In verse 29, we read of an interesting exchange. It took place between Moses, and Hobab. Hobab was the son of Raguel, who was the father-in-law of Moses, which coincidently makes him the brother-in-law of the Lord’s chosen leader. The passage is interesting because the conversation which is taking place.
As they have from the moment they left Egypt, the Israelites are moving toward the Promised Land. Here we actually see that Moses is inquiring as to whether or not Hobab and his tribe will join them on this journey.
Notice with me the fact that Hobab actually refuses the offer to come to that long sought for territory.
“I will not go; but I will depart to mine own land, and to my kindred.” (Numbers 10: 30)
It is what follows this proclamation that I would have you notice. Moses states in Numbers 10: 31-32: “And he said, Leave us not, I pray thee; forasmuch as thou knowest how we are to encamp in the wilderness, and thou mayest be to us instead of eyes. And it shall be, if thou go with us, yea, it shall be, that what goodness the LORD shall do unto us, the same will we do unto thee.”
Did you catch it? Moses asked whether or not Hobab and his tribe would enter the Promise Land with the rest of the children of Israel. Hobab replied that they would not be making that journey. Moses then offers reasons as to why they should reconsider.
I want you to think about each and every time that you have invited someone to worship. I want you to recall every instance in which you shared the beautiful Gospel of Jesus Christ with a lost soul. I want to encourage you to call to mind those times in which you have sat across the table from a child, parent, family member, or friend, and begged them to obey God’s word. Now, allow me to ask you this: what were you really asking them? I would submit that you were asking the same question which Moses put forth to Hobab. I would propose that you were making the same inquiry, which we find in the first verse of number 969. You were essentially asking, “DON’T YOU WANT TO GO TO THAT LAND?” Another way of putting it would be: “Don’t you want to go to Heaven?”
Unfortunately, so many in the world today answer in much the same way that Hobab did. Therefore, it is up to you and me to act as their Moses. It falls to us to provide them with the reasons, which they need to see if they are to realize that if they don’t choose Heaven, they are in fact choosing Hell.
As we continue with our sermon series in which we are examining the messages in the songs we sing, we want to consider the reasons which are found in the song, “DON’T YOU WANT TO GO TO THAT LAND?” Contained in the verses of this beautiful song, is all the reason you and I need to desire to do all we can to reach that Heavenly abode.
Join me, and allow me to share with you the reasons why you definitely want to go to that land!

I. BECAUSE THERE'S NOTHING BUT LOVE IN THAT LAND!

Through the years, man has tried, and for the most part failed, to define love. "Love is passion, obsession, someone you can't live without. Someone you fall head over heels for. Find someone you can love like crazy, and will love you the same way back. (William Parrish, MEET JOE BLACK.)
"To love is to place our happiness in the happiness of another." (Gottfried Wilhelm von Leibnitz) "To love and be loved is like feeling the sun from both sides." (Author unknown) Finally, www.answers.com defines love as: "A deep, tender, ineffable feeling of affection and solicitude toward a person, such as that arising from kinship, recognition of attractive qualities, or a sense of underlying oneness."
Now, despite the plethora of definitions, we still don't seem to have grasped this concept. Take for example the fact that The National Center for Healthy Statistics released a report stating that 43% of all first marriages will end within the first 15 years. Well, those are just couples who couldn't make it through those first few difficult years. If they had been blessed with children they never would have divorced. That's the attitude of so many in our world, but the statistics do not support that notion. In fact, in 1997, research conducted by divorcemagazine.com, revealed that more than 1,000,000 children are drug through the pains of divorce each year.
It isn't just couples that are having a problem, but individuals are suffering as well. Each and every day more and more people are experiencing the pain of depression and loneliness. Many even take the ultimate step, and take their own lives. In 2004, the problem of suicide was so great that it actually rose to the number 11 leading cause of death in the US. In that year, just five short years ago, it claimed the lives of 32,439 people. Yes, you heard that right: 32,439 people determined that life just wasn't worth living.
Well, let's ask the question. Why are there all the divorce, separation, and suicide in our society today? I think the answer is alarmingly simple. We just do not understand this whole love thing. Oh sure, we give lip service to it, but according to statistics, we just don't get it. The truth is that we live in a world that for the most part has forgotten how to love. Even more than that, we have forgotten the need for love.
The good news, at least from a Christian perspective, is that God has not forgotten the need or the practice of love. When he saw his creation fall, he understood love enough that he was willing to plan and provide for their needs! (Genesis 3: 15) He understood love enough that even though his children repeatedly returned to evil, he continued to raise up a deliverer to guide them safely home! (Judges 2: 16)
Even today, though we are unworthy, though we have always been unworthy, God has revealed his amazing breath of understanding when it comes to the subject of Love so much, that he was willing to give us his son that we might have eternal life. (1John 5: 11)
Now, imagine with me for a moment, the awesome idea that this God, who understands love so completely, has created a land to which we can go and find nothing but love! That means that there will no longer be depression, tears, sadness, sorrow, death, suicide, loneliness, or pain in any form. (Revelation 21: 4) Instead, God offers us a place, which is lit by his love, without need of sun, or moon, or stars, or even candlestick. (Revelation 22: 5)
The reason for us as Christians choosing to follow the Lord is very simple. We want to see that land. We want to experience that love. The question is, don't you?

II. BECAUSE THERE'S NOTHING BUT JOY IN THAT LAND!

Joy is funny. Much like love, we as people have looked for it in almost every imaginable place. In fact, as someone once pointed out, it is easier to state those places where joy cannot be found.
Without question, true joy is not to be found in unbelief. The noted French Philosopher Voltaire, who while not an atheist, did live his life denying the need and essential nature of the Church; once wrote, "I wish I had never been born." That doesn't sound like joy to me.
The famous poet Lord Byron, author of the well-known narrative poem "Don Juan", lived a life of extravagant pleasure. He enjoyed multiple romantic relationships during the course of his 36-year existence. However, this man, this myth, this romantic legend once wrote: "The worm, the canker, and grief are mine alone." Again, I fail to see the joy in his life.
What about power? Surely there is true joy and happiness to be found there. Not according to Alexander The Great, who conquered the entire known world in his day, and was perhaps the most powerful man to ever live didn't find joy in military glory. Instead, he was overheard weeping in his tent, and saying: "There are no more worlds to conquer."
These men seemed to learn that which the Solomon, the writer of the book of Ecclesiastes already new. Whether you are talking about pleasure, romance, or labor: the summation is that there is no joy, only vanity. (Ecclesiastes2: 1, 11)
In that great Old Testament book, we do find the answer as to where joy can be found. In Ecclesiastes 1: 14, the writer reveals to us that: "I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit." The answer is that true everlasting joy is to be found above the sun. In a place where the sun’s rays are no longer needed. In fact, it is the land spoken of here in verse number three. We are told that in that land, "There's nothing but joy in that land!"
I love the imagery used in Revelation 21: 2. There we read: "And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband." Think back to your own wedding day. Husbands, do you remember seeing that woman come down that isle? Can you recall the feeling of joy, which sprang up within you? Wives, do you remember seeing that man standing there, looking at you as though you were the only woman to ever draw breath? Do you remember that feeling of unadulterated joy that you felt? Well, that is what we have to look forward too! It is joy everlasting! It is joy without boundaries! It is a land where joy never ends!

III. BECAUSE THERE'S NOTHING BUT PEACE IN THAT LAND!

Have you ever stopped to consider what a fragile thing peace really is? Did you know that right now, as we speak, the United States is involved in 47 different conflicts around the world? Consider the fact that in our brief history, we have been involved in 15 declared Wars, not including those, which are classified as a military conflict or action.
This is not a new concept, which we are talking about. Think about the fact that the world "WAR" appears in the KJV 225 times, in 220 verses. Throughout our history, man has made war. We have killed and persecuted in every way imaginable.
Now, perhaps you are saying to yourself, "I've never fought in a war, therefore these things don't effect me." Oh brethren, the effects of war are felt far away from the battlefield. The truth of the matter is that the cost of fighting is felt on a personal, communal, societal, national, and even global level. Our aggressive nature has even been felt in our pocket books, as the price tag for our fighting comes due.
In verse number 4, we read of a place where war doesn't reach. We read of a land, which isn't scarred by long ago battles, or recent conflicts. Instead, we have an opportunity to live in the presents of one who believes in peace. Now, I'm sure that there are those who will say, "Yes, but God inspired man to speak of war 225 times, in 220 verses of his holy word." In fact, that is true. However, a search of the scriptures will also reveal that he inspired those "Holy men of God" to record the word peace 429 times, in 400 verses. Do you see the significance?
The idea of peace is preached twice as much as the idea of war. God wants us to know peace, to experience peace, to live in a land of peace! The question for you is, "Don't you want to go to that land where there is nothing but peace?"

IV. BECAUSE I'VE GOT A SAVIOR IN THAT LAND!

There was something about Jesus that often inspired people to want to be near him. For some of them, it followed after he had healed them in some fashion or another. (Mark 10: 46-53, Luke 8: 40-56) However, there are two times in scripture when a man and a woman seem to desire the presents of Jesus almost above bearing.
The first passage is found in Luke 10: 38-42. There we find where Jesus, along with his disciples, have come into a certain village. They then come into the home of Martha and Mary, who were friends of the Christ. When Jesus was come in, Martha began running around preparing the house for her company. However, Mary simply sat at the feet of Jesus. She didn't help, she didn't prepare, and she simply sat and absorbed his wonderful presents. When Martha complained, Christ said that Mary had, "chosen that good part which shall not be taken from her." She wanted to be in his presents so much so, that she was willing to forgo the customs of the day, and leave her home unprepared for her guests.
The second passage is found in John 21: 1-11. In the greater context, we find Christ returning to his disciples. He shows himself while they are out on the sea fishing. The part I want you to notice is found in verse 7. There we learn that the disciple whom Christ loved told Simon Peter that it was Jesus! Then we read: "Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea. And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,)"
Here Peter and the rest of the disciples are some 200 cubits from shore. That is roughly 91.44 meters, or 100 yards. Today we would say it was the length of a regulation size football field. Despite the distance, Peter couldn't wait to be back in the presents of Jesus, so he dove out of the boat, and swam for shore. Can you imagine the reactions of the other disciples? They would have surely called out and said, "Peter, we can take the boat!" But, he just couldn't wait any more.
One of the most amazing parts of Heaven will be the fact that Jesus, the Son of God, The King of Kings and Lord of Lord's will be there. How do I know that? Well, as the children's song says, "For the Bible tells me so."
In Acts 7: 55-56, Steven looks up, and sees Jesus at the right hand of the throne of God! What about Hebrews 7: 25, which reveals to us that Christ currently serves as our interceedant! Or, what about 1John 2: 1 which shares with us the amazing news that he stands, at this very moment, in the presents of God, acting as our advocate! Hebrews 9: 24 states that he isn't entered into a Holy place made with hands, but into Heaven itself, there to appear in the presents of God for us! What verse 5 is telling us, is the same thing we learn from Psalms 23: 6. Their David writes: "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." If it is indeed his house, and if we are privileged to spend eternity therein, then don't you believe that he will be there?
Allow me to level with you. If there was nothing else, no other reason, this should be enough for you to decide that you will live your life according to God's word. This should be enough to convince you that the rewards of Heaven far outweigh the pleasures of sin.
Let me conclude with this question. Don't you want to go to that land? That land where there is nothing but love, joy, peace? That land where you can spend eternity with the one who died for you?

SERMONS FROM OUR SONGS (LESSON 2)

SERMONS FROM OUR SONGS (LESSON 2)

“JESUS LOVES ME” (by Anna B. Warner)

1JOHN 4: 7-10

 

Intro:

        Around 2:00am, on August 2, 1943, Patrol Torpedo Motor Boat 109 (PT109) was standing watch with only one of her engines running in the Blackett Straits.  Her mission was to spot enemy war ships, and raise the alarm.  A brutal attack had taken place the day before which not only caused the loss of a number of other ships, but also knocked out radar for all ships in the area.

        As PT 109 floated along, the Japanese destroyer Amagiri blasted through and rammed into the much smaller motorboat.  Out of the crew, only 2 men lost their lives that night, and the remainder of the men, led by future President John F. Kennedy swam to safety.  For six days the men lived on coconuts, until they were finally rescued.  As the crew boarded the rescue boat and headed for safety, they joined with the natives who were with them, and sang the only song the group collectively knew. 

“Jesus loves me, this I know; for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to him belong, they are weak, but he is strong. Yes Jesus loves me, Yes Jesus loves me, Yes Jesus loves me the Bible tells me so.” 

        In 1860, Susan Warner released a book entitled, “SAY & SEAL.”   The book has long been out of print, but in the course of the book, Mrs. Warner included a poem written by her sister Anna.  During the story, one of the main characters reads a poem to a sick child.  The words to the poem are what we now know as “JESUS LOVES ME.”  In 1862 William Bradbury put the words to music, and over the years many have begun their walk with the Lord by singing those words.  Children learn “JESUS LOVES ME” even before they learn John 3: 16.  In point of fact, we often call this a “children’s song.”  However, the truth of the matter is that when we so quickly dismiss this beautiful work, we do ourselves an injustice.

        This is the second installment in our series in which we are examining the sermons or messages contained in the songs we sing.  You will hopefully remember that we began our study last week by acknowledging the importance of singing.  We pointed out that when we sing, we are proclaiming messages which are for ourselves, those around us, and most importantly, our God in Heaven. 

Today we will continue this series by looking at “JESUS LOVES ME.”   I want to help you to see the real audience, and hear the real message of these wonderful words.  The obvious lesson which comes from this song is that you are loved by the Son of God, but there is a sermon here that we need to acknowledge and live out in our day-to-day lives.

 

I.                    THE AUDIENCE

 

A.      First, let’s acknowledge the most obvious audience.

1.       “Jesus loves the children dear; children far away or near, they are safe within his care, every day and everywhere.”

2.        One of our primary goals in the church is to establish the idea to young people that Christ loves them, and wants a relationship with them.

3.        Matthew 19: 14 Jesus made it clear to the apostles that children weren’t to be rebuked, but allowed to come to him.  

4.        1Timothy 4: 12 young people, our encouragement to you is that you allow no man to cause you to swerve from serving the Lord now, but that you will instead let yourself be an example of a savior who loves you so.

B.      The other group for whom this song is so important isn’t always noticed.

1.       2Timothy 2: 3 in Paul’s letter to Timothy, we are called upon to be “a good soldier of Jesus.”

2.        The life of a soldier isn’t easy.

3.        We are on the frontline of the battle against Satan, and from time-to-time we need to hear that someone cares about us.

4.        Ephesians 5: 25 Christ cared so much that he gave his life for us.

5.        In the words to this beautiful song, the Christian soldier hears the message true and loud, that Jesus loves me, and therefore I can and will continue to fight!

 

II.                  THE MESSAGE  

 

A.      Once we see the audience, we can lend our ear, and hear the message of the sermon in this great song.

1.       There is actually a two part message that can be heard.

2.         There is a message of COMFORT and CONFIDENCE.

B.      Let’s first examine the message of comfort.

1.       “He will wash away MY SINS”, “Jesus take this HEART OF MINE, make it PURE.”  

2.        In these words we see the need for comfort, because without question these words outline for us the fact that we are sinners in need of a savior.

3.        Romans 5: 8 the comfort for us is that while we were in this sin-filled state, Christ died for us.

C.      Also, don’t miss the message of confidence which rings loud and clear.

1.       “Jesus loves me THIS I KNOW”, “He WILL wash away my sins!”

2.          The confidence is heard in the way in which the singer of this song believes that they belong to one who “WILL” see to all their needs.

3.        Hebrews 4: 16 it is the same confidence that we experience when we come before the thrown of grace with boldness.