Author: GinoCascieri

Text: I Samuel 15:22-28; 16:6-12

We live in a day when folks are trying to impress people. There is far more emphasis put on Reputation than there is Character.

A.        Character is WHAT YOU ARE.

B.      Reputation is WHAT FOLKS THINK YOU ARE.

But the sad truth is that many people are not only doing their best to impress people, they are trying to impress God. But GOD IS NOT IMPRESSED.

1.         By our outward appearance…I Sam. 16:7

2.         By our offerings & sacrifices…I Sam. 15:22-23

3.       By what we say.

4.       By what we do.

5.         By how we act.

God is more concerned about WHAT WE ARE, than any of the things mentioned above.

Saul was a man of reputation, but David was a man of Character… Notice what God saw in David.

I.          GOD SAW IN DAVID A FAITHFUL SHEPHERD…16:11; 17:34-37

A.    He fed the flock when no one was watching.

B.    He fought the foes when no one was watching.

        Character is faithful when no one is looking.

II.         GOD SAW IN DAVID A FAITHFUL SON…

A.        He was yielded to his Father’s business…16:11

B.    He was yielded to his Father’s bidding…17:17-20

III.    GOD SAW IN DAVID A FEARLESS SOLDIER…17:26-51

A.        To David, there was a Principle worth defending. Notice v 26 & 29.

B.        To David there was a Power worth displaying. V 38~9; 4345; v 47

IV.   GOD SAW IN DAVID A FORGIVING SPIRIT…

A.        David’s opposition by his enemy. 18:11,17; 19:1 & 11

B.        David’s opportunity to get even…24:1-12

1.       His chance…v 1-3

2.       His choice…v 4-10

3.       His crown…v 16-17, 20

The crisis in Saul and David’s life did not make Saul a coward, nor did it make David the conqueror. It only revealed what they already were.

GENESIS 18:27

Intro:

Self-esteem is rarely found in the heart of a true man of God, for the more virtuous a saint becomes, the less satisfied he will be with himself.

Increasing love for God means increasing hatred of the self-life.

The Bible has many examples of this fact.

Abraham. “I am but dust and ashes “-Genesis 18: 27.

Abraham was the friend of God, and the greatest character in the ancient world.

Divine secrets were shared with the illustrious patriarch, and in a sense unknown by ordinary men, he walked with God.

Yet Abraham despised himself and became increasingly conscious of his shortcomings.

He considered himself unworthy to commune with God and said he was dust and ashes.

Job. ” Behold, I am vile “-Job 40:4.

We are left in no doubt as to the true greatness of this man.

It is recorded that the Lord said of him ” … there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil ” (Job 1: 8).

When Job’s friends declared him to be a hypocrite ; that secret sin had brought about his misfortunes, he maintained that his heart was clean before God.

Yet when he came face to face with his Maker, he whispered,“I am vile.”

David.”Behold, I was shapen in iniquity “-Psalm 51: 5.

The sweet psalmist of Israel was a man after God’s own heart, and although certain indiscretions marred his fine record of devotion, his integrity and true consecration were always beyond question.

Yet this great man sadly shook his head and denied his own virtue.

Psalm 51 is a heart-throb in which we hear tears of anguish, cries of disappointment, and the moan of a man who feels that he is a complete failure.

Ezra.” I blush to lift up my face “-Ezra 9: 6.

Ezra was one of the greatest men of his day.

He held an honorable place among the spiritual aristocracy of the nation.

His courageous example at a time when Israel needed spiritual leadership, lifted the nation to new heights of achievement.

He and Nehemiah were the greatest men of that generation; yet Ezra’s confession claimed his unworthiness to God.

He said,” O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift up my face.”

Isaiah. ” … I am undone … I am a man of unclean lips” – Isaiah 6:5.

Isaiah was one of the Major Prophets, who gave counsel and guidance to a stumbling nation and at the same time provided unerring information concerning the coming of the Messiah.

He was a friend of the king, a father to the nation, and a trusted servant of the Most High ; yet of himself he had nothing good to say.

Simon Peter. “I am a sinful man” – Luke 5:8

There is something delightfully human about Simon Peter, for at all times he was unquestionably honest.

Sometimes strong emotions and fierce temptations upset his equilibrium; but within minutes, the real man appeared again.

He was a great man, an excellent preacher, and a brother beloved.

Yet all who read the New Testament realize how very much Peter abhorred himself.

The Centurion. “I am not worthy “-Luke 7:6.

This Gentile soldier won a place among the great immortals, for his spiritual perception enabled Christ to say, “ I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.”

Although he was an officer in Caesar’s army, and occupied a position of importance, he felt that his home was unworthy of a visit from the Carpenter of Nazareth.

Paul. “I am the chief of sinners “-I Timothy 1:15.

Paul was undoubtedly the greatest of all Christian missionaries.

He was the first to look beyond the narrow bounds of Israel’s horizons, and with determination of purpose to penetrate into the unknown.

His indomitable spirit and untiring energy took the Gospel to millions of heathen, and with God’s help he established the Christian Church.

Yet Paul claimed to be the greatest sinner in the world.

Conclusion:

God has strange ways of estimating the greatness of men.

Sometimes the first are last, and the last first.

Those who are great in their own estimation are far from the will of God, while others who are overwhelmed by a sense of unworthiness are ready for the Master’s use.

Although, these men saw themselves unworthy before God saw them vessels to be used unto honor.

Each one these men because they humble themselves under the might hand of God, God exalted them and was able to use them in a mighty way for His honor and glory.

Because these men were humble God gave them the grace they needed to accomplished things they need for Him.

• Text:         Hebrews 10:23-25
• Intro:
  • Christians often say, “Why does the preacher, preach so much about being in church?”
  • Well, one of the reason is because Christians are not in church like the Lord would have them to be.
    • Notice, I said, “The Lords wants the Christian to be in church.”
    • But, the way Christians talk, you would think that the preacher was picking on them and being in church was a requirement of the preacher and not the Lord.
  • What I want us to look at is why “the assembling of ourselves together” is so important.
• We want to notice what it shows.
• I.    “the assembling of ourselves together” shows “COMMITMENT”.
  • V23 – “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering.”
    • “hold fast” means to keep sure.
    When we go to church we show commitment.
    • When your neighbors see you leave out the house with a Bible tucked under your arm on Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Wednesday night, you are giving a testimony of commitment!!!!When folks know enough not to try to reach you by telephone during these times, it shows commitment.When you do this week in, week out, month in, month out, year in, year out, you show a testimony of “commitment”.
    Folks see that what you are committed to is not some fad or craze, or just a stage of life you are going through.
    • You show a commitment. A commitment to the cause of Christ.
    A commitment to a faith that says –
    • Ro. 10:13 – “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”
    A commitment to a faith that says –
    • 1 John 5:13 – “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the son of God.”
    A commitment to a faith that says –
    • John 3:36 – “…he that believeth not the son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”
    A commitment to a faith that says –
    • Rev. 20:15 – “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
    “the assembling of ourselves together” shows “COMMITMENT” – it shows we mean business for God!!!The Bible says in I Cor. 8:3 – “But if any man love God, the same is known of him”
    • Going to church shows outwardly to others that you love God.
    Christians show their commitment for God by assembling together.
    • The Christian’s lack of commitment is evidenced by what it takes to keep them in church.
      • Special activities and fellowships.
      In other words, something to satisfy the old vile and wicked flesh.Often times a Christian won’t come out to church unless they are going to get something.
      • Example – “full belly”- fellowship dinner.Have a fellowship and you will see folks that you haven’t seen for the last year, Amen!!
      Entertainment by preachers who tell lots of funny stories and does very little Bible preaching.We see everything in our churches today from clowns, puppets, magicians to tootsie rolls and ice cream sundaes to get people in church.
  • The problem today is Christians are more committed to their hobbies, jobs, families, friends, sports, TV, soap operas – then they are to Christ.
• So, the assembling of ourselves together shows, “COMMITMENT”.
• II.   “the assembling of ourselves together” shows – “CONSIDERATION”
  • Vs. 24 – “And let us consider one another.”We live in a day and an age that lacks good old fashion consideration.Very few today, consider anymore how their actions is going to effect the other person.The Bible tells us “one sinner destroyeth much good”
    • This unfortunately includes Christians who do not consider how not being in church effects their brothers and sisters in Christ.
    -How their not being in church would be a stumbling block to a newly saved Christian.
    • The Bible says –
      • Romans 14:13, “…but judge this rather that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way.”I Cor. 12:26 – “And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.”-Romans 14:7 – “For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.”
    Christian, we have to realize how we live our life effects others.
    • We must be aware of our sphere of influence.”the assembling of ourselves together” shows – “CONSIDERATION”.
  • The next time the devil works on you and tries to keep you out of church.
    • Consider the effect of you not being there on the brethen.
• So, the assembling of ourselves together shows, “CONSIDERATION”.
• III.  “the assembly of ourselves together” shows – “CONCERN”
  • Vs. 24 – “to provoke unto love”

-When we go church we show concern or love for one another.

-At church, especially on Wednesday Night, Prayer Service, we get to hear the needs of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

-One of the purposes of prayer service is so we can come together and

show concern and comfort the brethen who may be burden.

-So, we can agonize and intercede in prayer for them.

-Maybe a brother or sister’s need comes known and leads you to help that brother or sister anonymously through the church.

-1 John 4:21 – “And the commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.”

-We should look forward to coming to church to find out what our brothers and sisters concerns and cares are.

-“the assembling of ourselves together” shows not only concern but is also a catalyst for that concern or love.

-Vs. 24 says – “provoke unto love” – or to excite unto love.

-In other words,”the assembling of ourselves together” is like lighting a fire underneath a brother or sister.

-You see the average Christian spends most of his time in the world and involved with the things of the world.

-Some of this involvement is necessary – i.e. our jobs.

-Alot of it unnecessarily – i.e. TV, socializing with the unsaved, etc.

-What happens is the Christian’s love for Christ and the things of Christ grows cold.

-The ember taken from the fire soon goes out and grows cold.

-The Christ grows cold in his prayer life. Bible reading and study.

-He grows cold in his burden for the lost, which is evidenced by his lack of witnessing.

-So, When we assemble together – it provokes us unto love – concern for the things of the Lord.

-The once dying ember, reunited with fire (church members) becomes a blaze again!!!

IV.       “the assembling of ourselves together” shows – “CONSECRATION”

-Vs. 24 – “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works” – “and to good works”

-“consecration” – means to set apart as holy.

-The Lord did not save you so you could continue in sin and live for the world, the flesh, and the devil.

-Romans 6:15 – “What then? shall we sin because we are not under the law; but under grace. God forbid.”

-Most Christians are familiar with Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”

-But Christian often forget why they were born of God, or born-again for.

-Ephesians 2:10, reminds us – “For we are his workmanship created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”

-We are set apart after we are saved unto good works.

-Why?

-Matthew 5:16 – Tells us so God will be glorified!!!

“Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

-Paul, the Apostle knew of the importance of good works in a Christian’s life.

-In Colossians 1:10, Paul prayed the Colossians would be “fruitful in every good work”

-Paul tells us in Titus 2:7, that the Christian in all things is to show himself “a pattern of good works.”

-A pattern is something to follow.

-Like ladies follow a pattern in making dresses.

-Paul lists some things that this includes – See Titus 2:7-8.

-The reason that the Christian is to show a pattern of good works in all things is so that no one contrary to them (unsaved) can have cause to say an evil thing about them.

-Paul continues in Titus 2:14, that our Saviour Jesus Christ redeems us from all iniquity and purify unto himself a peculiar people, (the reason for this – so we would be) “zealous of good works”

-James reinforces this in James 2:17-18 – Read.

-Since only the Lord can see a person’s heart, good works show outwardly to man that a person has placed faith in Jesus Christ for salvation.

-So, “the assembling of ourselves together” shows – “CONSECRATION”.

-The Lord has set us apart as holy “unto good works”

V.        “the assembling of ourselves together” shows – “COMMUNION” or Fellowship.

*Communion with the Saviour

-Matthew 18:20 – “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

-When we assembly ourselves together – it is centered around the Lord, Jesus Christ.

-There should be a difference is us, after we have been in church.

-We should be changed from when we first entered the doors.

-The reason is we have been in communion and fellowship with the Lord.

-We have had some of the world knocked out of us through the preaching and the teaching of the word of God.

-We have had some of the world knocked out of us because while in church we have been “speaking to ourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in our heart to the Lord” (Eph. 5:19).

-We have the testimony-because we have been in communion with the Lord.

-People should be able to observe you and say, “that you have been with Jesus.”

*Communion with the Saints

-When we assemble together, it shows not only communion with the Saviour but also communion/fellowship with the Saints of God around the Saviour.

-This is evidenced in the ordinance of the Lord’s Supper’s (1 Cor. 10:16).

-You see we come together because we have something in common.

-We are sons of God through faith the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ.

-Every time we come together it is in essence a family reunion.

-We have fellowship through the blood of Jesus Christ.

-We are told in 1 John 1:7.

-So, “the assembling of ourselves together” shows – “COMMUNION”

VI.       “the assembling of ourselves together” shows – “COMMUNICATION”

-Vs 25. “exhorting one another”

-When we go to church we show communication through exhortation.

-Exhort has several meanings.

-“Urge strongly” – You know sometimes you and I need a push or a nudge to serve God and be involved in the things of the God.

-When we go to church and assemble together it is a time when we communicate.

-When we get a push or a nudge from a brother or sister in Christ or the pastor to serve God to do more for God.

-Exhort – also means “Propel”.

-You know a bullet is useless unless it has gun powder to propel it toward its intended target.

-Sometimes we need to be that gun powder in another Christian’s life to propel him toward the intended target, “serving God”, “Going on for God”, “Not Giving Up or Quitting”.

-When we assemble together, we need to exhort one another or communicate with one another in the spirit of love.

-Sometimes we have to be spiritual cheerleaders for one another.

-Exhorting one another as we run the race that is set before us.

-Sometimes that exhortation takes on the form of a warning or advice, or an urgent appeal.

-What a better place to get exhortation but in church through the preaching of the word of God or counsel from the Pastor or through your brothers and sisters in Christ.

-So, “the assembling of ourselves together” shows – “COMMUNICATION”.

VII.      Lastly -“the assembling of ourselves together” shows a “CALLING-OUT”.

-Vs. 25 – “and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching”

-“the day approaching” – The Lord’s return, – The Rapture.

-“Church” means – called-out assembly.

-When we assemble together and meet, in a sense we are “called-out” of the world here on earth.

-When you were saved, you were “called-out” from the bondage and wages of sin.

-When we go to church we show the next prophetic event on God’s calendar, the rapture of the body of Christ, the church made up of all believers in Jesus Christ.

-Where we will be literally taken out of this world from the grave if died in Christ before his return or alive at his return.

-See 1 Thess. 4:13-18.

-We are listening for the shout to us up and out!!!!!!!!

-We have seen why the “the assembling of ourselves together” is so important.

-It shows – COMMITMENT-CONSIDERATION-CONCERN-CONSECRATION-COMMUNION-COMMUNICATION-CALLING OUT.

SAUL – A MAN WHOM JEALOUSY AND PRIDE DESTROYED

SCRIPTURE: I Samuel 9-31

INTRODUCTION: Saul, Israel’s first king, is one of the most pathetic men in the Word of God. Few, if any, men of the Bible had such opportunity to make a success of life, and none ever messed it up so. Saul not only missed great opportunities to be used of God, he deliberately abused them. His sun rose in bright and splendid anticipation, but set in a tragic night of failure and despair. The downward slide of his life is the old familiar story of pride, self-will, and self-sufficiency that lead to moral and spiritual destruction. Let us consider and learn from Saul’s steps down the ladder,

HE WAS A MAN ANOINTED WITH THE SPIRIT- I Sam 11:6-12

Samuel was directed of God to anoint Saul as the new (and first) king of Israel. Note that he prophesied that the Spirit would come upon Saul, and that he would be turned into another man – v 6. This came to pass just as Samuel promised, and with the Spirit upon him, Saul prophesied among a company of the prophets. What a wonderful experience! This reminds us that we must have the power of the Holy Spirit upon us to energize and direct our service for God.

AT FIRST, SAUL WAS HUMBLE AND PRACTICED SELF-CONTROL – I Sam 10:22,27; 11:3Even though a man of great physical stature, Saul was naturally shy and unassuming.

His humility was sincere and refreshing in a ruler. God is pleased with the humble but will bring down the proud. (Teachers: find and share some Scriptures with your students about humility and pride–James and Proverbs would be good places to look. Jesus also addressed this in His teaching, e.g., Luke 14:7-11.)

BUT SELF-WILL SOON SURFACED-I Sam 13:7-13

Saul had only reigned for two years when self-will began to surface in his life. It seems that his promotion from donkey-finder to king sort of “went to his head.” How true it is that success and honor are more difficult for most men to handle than opposition, hardship, and even failure! We have here a bashful, “good ole country boy” who is now the king of a great nation. Under stress, he soon steps over his bounds and presumes to offer a burnt offering to the Lord. (He was intruding into the office of the priest!) After this incident, Samuel announces the divine rejection of Saul.

SAUL THEN BECAME DISOBEDIENT TO THE DIRECT COMMAND OF GOD-   Sam 15

Notice the downward progression: self-will led to out-and-out disobedience. (But it did not have to be this way–consider the mercy of God upon one of the most wicked  men who ever lived: I Kings 21 :25-29!) But the underlying weakness of Saul’s character begins to show as he attempts to shift the blame for his disobedience to others.

JEALOUSY PROMPTED SAUL TO HUNT & HARM DAVID – I Sam. 18:8, 19:1

We marvel at the progressive hardening of Saul and his steadily worsening spiritual condition. How could someone who started so well descend to such a malicious state?! But remember the words of 15:22-23 — once a rebellious attitude begins to grip a person, he will be open to all manner of gross sin. None is more destructive than the green-eyed monster of jealousy.

HE EVEN CONSORTED WITH A WITCH – I Sam. 28:7

There has been an alarming increase in occult activity of all kinds in recent years, and many are taken up with board games, horoscopes, palm. readers, and other forms of prognostication. NOTE: any desire to know about the future, other than what God has revealed in His Word, is both unholy and unwholesome.

WOUNDED IN BATTLE, SAUL ENDED HIS LIFE AS A SUICIDE! – I Sam 31:4

Having already come to moral and spiritual ruin, Saul finally destroyed his physical life. Two verses come to mind: Num 32:23; Gal 6:7. Unless the cancer of sin is excised from one’s life, it will, sooner or later, result in destruction. The sad truth is that Saul’s tragic story of defeat by sin is being repeated in countless lives today!

LESSONS FROM SAUL’S LIFE

• Partial obedience is, in fact, DISobedience

• Each person must take responsibility for his own actions. We have a society overrun today with people like Saul–no matter what the situation, they always find someone else to blame. Paul reminds us (Rom 14:12) “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.”

Unless the “root of bitterness” is properly dealt with, it will lead to trouble and defilement — See Heb 12:14-16.

The destructive and certain effects of sin. Someone has aptly observed:

“Sin will take you farther than you want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay, and cost you more than you want to pay.” (A classic example of this little axiom is found in the life of Lot.)

SAMSON – THE MAN OF CONTRASTS

SCRIPTURE: Judges 13, 14, 15, 16

INTRODUCTION: SAMSON was one of the most renowned, and no doubt the most amazing, of the Hebrew judges. He was a Danite, son of Manoah, and judged Israel for twenty years.

Endowed with supernatural strength, he killed a lion with his bare hands, thirty Philistines, and then 1,000 men with the jawbone of an ass! He broke the strongest bands, carried off the gates of Gaza, and pulled down the temple of Dagon! The latter was his greatest feat (at least three thousand were slain in the crumbling ruins) but it resulted in his own death – see16:30.

Samson was unconquerable (in spite of his carnal appetite) as long as he remained a Nazarite. He was the only one of the judges who worked single-handedly. Samson never called the armies of Israel together; he asked no assistance. His total ministry was done alone in his God-given, unconquerable strength.

His life was one of striking contrasts. Let us consider these:

1. He was separated as a Nazarite (Judges 13:5) …

YET he dabbled with evil associations (14:1-3, 10-11, 16:1).

2. He was occasionally Spirit-endued (13:25, 14:6, 15:14) …

YET he yielded to carnal appetites (16:1-4).

3. He was mighty in physical strength (15:15, 16:3, 9, 12, 14) …

YET he was weak in resisting temptation (16:15-17).

4. He had a noble beginning (13:24-25) …

BUT he came to a sad end (16:30).

The deadly results of Samson’s self-indulgence and the final breaking of his Nazarite vow are seen in order in the narrative:

1. Self-confidence – “I will go out” – 16:20

2. Self-ignorance – “He wist not” – 16:20

3. Self-weakness – “The Philistines laid hold on him” – 16:21

4. Self-darkness – “They put out his eyes” – 16:21

5. Self-degradation – “They brought him down to Gaza – 16:21

6. Self-bondage – “They bound him with fetters” – 16:21

7. Self-drudgery – “He did grind in the prison house” – 16:21

8. Self-humiliation – “Call for Samson, that he may make us sport” – 16:25, 27

LESSONS FROM SAMSON’S LIFE:

1. The evils of mixed (SAVED/LOST, SPIRITUAL/CARNAL) marriages – chap 14, 15:1-6. [In the Teen and Singles classes, here is a good opportunity to discuss the importance of finding the right mate of God’s choosing from the right religious background and family life. Compatibility in spiritual matters should have top priority.

2. The tragic effects of playing with sexual temptations.

3. The tragedy of unfulfilled potential. In spite of his unlimited physical strength and his ability to slaughter the Philistines at will, Samson is the only judge who did not set Israel free from the oppressing enemy. And the reason Samson never fully conquered the Philistines was because he never conquered himselt1

4. Sin always brings judgment – James 1 :13-15; Num 32:23.

5. One of the most significant lessons: When Christians sin openly, it brings reproach on the name of God – 16:23-24. The celebrating Philistines praised their gods saying, “Our god hath delivered into our hands our enemy … ” Oh NO! NO! It was not the lifeless, impotent image of Dagon that delivered Samson into the hands of the Philistines–it was his own sins!!! Cf. 1 Sam 31 :8-10. Nathan told David that because of his deeds (in the matter of Bathsheba and Uriah) he had “given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme … “

RUTH – DEVOTION TO DUTY IS CROWNED WITH BLESSING AND HONOR

SCRIPTURE: Book of Ruth; Matt 1:5

INTRODUCTION: The events recorded in this book took place during the time of the Judges and present a marked contrast to the enemy oppression, intertribal jealousy, and other turbulent events characteristic of that period of Israel’s history. Instead of violence and lawlessness, we see love, tenderness, and sacrifice. The book contains just four brief chapters, but it has a mighty message–in fact, several of them.

HER NAME

“Ruth” is one of the most popular girl’s names. Several years ago a statistician ranked Ruth seventh in the list of the 100 most popular female names in America, with almost 1.5 million bearing the name. It may mean either “something worth seeing,” or “friendship.” No doubt both meanings were true of this beautiful girl of Moab. She was certainly a sight worth seeing, and she was capable of loyal friendship seldom equaled in the annals of human history.

It took a real measure of grace to befriend a bitter woman such as Naomi became, but Ruth was bound to her mother-in-law by the cords of love! One

HER ADULT LIFE

l . As A Young Widow — When we first meet Ruth, she is a young wife married to one of Elimelech’s sons. In the very next verse we find Ruth (and Orpah as well) prematurely and unexpectedly losing her husband through death. The root cause is the chastening hand of God upon Naomi (Ruth’s mother-in-law). First, her husband died. Then both her sons, Mahlon and Chilion, who had sinned by marrying women of Moab, also died. (See Deut 7:3, 23:3 for prohibition of such marriages.) We have no information about the spiritual life of this Hebrew family while out of the will of God in Moab. However, it is safe to conclude from the context ( 1:16-17) that at least Ruth had been significantly influenced by her exposure to the one true God, Jehovah. She seems to have weathered the family’s shock of losing all the men much better than Naomi.

2. As A Faithful Daughter-in-law — The three widows–Naomi, Ruth, and Orpah—were no doubt bound together by their grief. But since Naomi’s sons died childless, when the famine in Bethlehem passed, she decided to pull up stakes and go back home. Ruth and Orpah were deeply attached to their mother-in-law and decided to go with her.

But on the way back to Bethlehem, Naomi urged them to go back to their own country and people. (What a sad testimony for one of God’s people to be urging others to stay in their idolatry!) For Orpah, ties of kindred and her own idolatry won out, and she went back to her people and to her gods ( and to an eternity without Christ!)

But with Ruth it was different. In the words of Alexander Whyte, “Ruth’s love for her dead husband’s aged mother is as pure gold and as strong as death. Many waters cannot quench Ruth’s love. And her confession of love . .is the most beautiful confession of love in all the world.” What pure and unselfish devotion! What beauty of character when Ruth cried, “Entreat me not to leave thee.” What a contradiction to modem flippancy and fickleness, especially in view of traditional attitudes toward “;mother-in-law.”

3. As A Determined Convert — In spite of her heathen background in the degenerate tribe of Moab, Ruth became a true worshiper of the true God! The last words of Ruth 1 :16 are the song of a new life! (See Psa 40:1-3) Now with God in her heart, Ruth longed _to live with those people “whose God is the Lord. “What a miracle in the heathen heart of Ruth, especially in light of Naomi’s poor testimony (urging her to stay in Moab) But wanting to be with God’s people is the “norm” for those who become new creatures in Christ–“old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

4. As A Humble Gleaner — Ruth realized that Naomi could not work, so she volunteered to do the only profitable thing, and that was to go glean. It was the time of barley harvest, and she was directed by the providence of God to the field of Boaz.

Ruth was not ashamed of her menial task as she took her place with the poor and outcast gleaning in the barley fields. Because of her character, she was more concerned about providing for Naomi than about the impression she might make with the public. She was determined not to eat the bread of idleness, and God rewarded her with the immediate favor and kindness of Boaz. Little did she dream that she would soon become the much-loved wife of this great, good and wealthy man! How wonderful the workings of God! Boaz was one of Naomi’s near relatives, one of the few remaining kinsmen of her husband’s family.

The nearest relative was unable ( or unwilling) to function as kinsman redeemer (“goel”) but Boaz, next of kin, willingly took the responsibility. This not only provided a home and husband for Ruth, but brought ample provision and security for Naomi.

Ruth was lifted out of obscurity into a happy union with Boaz, the mighty man of wealth, and permitted to join the ancestry of our Savior! God smiled on the marriage of honorable Boaz and virtuous Ruth, and blessed them with a son, “Obed,” (meaning “a servant who worships”) who became the grandfather of David. This experience is one of the first in world history of a rise from rags to riches, from poverty to plenty!

LESSONS

1. Naomi had told Ruth, while still in Moab (1 :9), that she would find rest among her own people, but she finally learned that there is rest only with the people of God and in the will of God. (See Matt 11 :28-30)

2. The virtues of unselfishness and loyalty are the only foundation upon which true happiness can be built. Unfortunately, multitudes today–including many professing Christians–are actively seeking happiness for themselves. The simple truth is that one will never experience true happiness until he forgets about himself and learns to live for others!

3. “Opportunity is met on the road to duty.”

4. The ways of God are past finding out! Only an omniscient and merciful God could orchestrate the events recorded in the book of Ruth, such that a heathen Moabite girl would be brought into the human lineage of the Lord Jesus Christ. Surely, as said the Psalmist,” .. His mercy endureth for ever.” (See Psa 136; Lamentations 3:22-23)

NOAH – THE MAN WHO BUILT AN ARK

Scriptures: Gen 6, 7, 8; Heb 11 :7

INTRODUCTION: One of the best known men in all the Bible is Noah. (His name means “rest.”) He was the son of Lamech, a descendant of Seth. He was tenth from Adam, and lived to the amazing age of 950 years! Nothing is known of Noah’s early life, for he appears on the Bible stage when he was already 500 years old. Apparently his father was a godly man and not only gave Noah a fitting name, but from Gen 6:9 it is also safe to conclude that he brought up his son “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” One thing we can be certain about: Noah lived in a time when men were universally corrupt, so much so that God was moved to destroy the human race! But, praise God! in the midst of that age of moral and spiritual darkness, Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. He lived a righteous life and was in such close contact with God that God revealed to him His plan to destroy mankind. God gave him the strange and almost impossible task of building a seaworthy vessel large enough to shelter not just his family, but also a pair of all the birds and beasts living on the land at that time! Noah believed God and set about the tremendous task of constructing the ark. No doubt every day Noah had to endure the ridicule and scorn of his godless neighbors, but he was steadfast and faithful to the great task God had given him.

NOAH WALKED WITH GOD – Gen 6:8-12 Noah was a just and perfect (upright, sincere, mature, balanced) man in his generation. This is commendable in any age and culture, but Noah’s life is even more amazing in view of the abounding iniquity of his day. (See Gen 6:5-7. Teacher, you may want to review briefly from the lesson on Enoch what is required in walking with God.) Note the command given in Phil 2:15–this is certainly appropriate for Christians today in the USA! We have an opportunity much like Noah had.

NOAH WAS OBEDIENT – Gen 6:14-22 Noah’s task was extremely difficult, first, because of the huge dimensions of the ship (v 15). But, no doubt, an even greater problem was that Noah was a pioneer in the ship-building business! Remember, that before the flood the earth’s land mass had not yet been broken into continents and there was LITTLE, if any, NEED for shipping. Where would Noah go for the expertise required to build such a great maritime vessel?! But Noah obeyed without question and set out at once to carry out God’s command-see Gen. 6:22. It is safe to assume that God inspired Noah and his sons with the requisite building skills in much the same way as He gave the wisdom and understanding to Bezaleel and others to build the tabernacle and its furnishings (Ex 36:1-2). One thing is sure: when we obey God and make a sincere effort to carry out His work, He will provide the means of accomplishing it!

GOD REMEMBERED NOAH – Gen 8:1 Noah believed God and obeyed Him completely. Consequently, God was faithful and delivered Noah and all those in the Ark from death! God is always faithful (Lam 3:22-23) and will remember us when we obey Him fully. Examples: children of Israel at Passover in Egypt; three Hebrew children in Babylon; Naaman the leper.

NOAH “WORKED OUT” HIS SALVATION – Heb 11 :7 “Faith without works is dead.” (See also Phil 2:12.) Saving faith always produces works! The very fact that Noah believed God’s Word caused him to get to work. The Bible says that Noah was “moved with fear.” On the other hand, the fact that the multitudes to whom Noah preached God’s message of coming judgment did not get on the Ark proved that they did not believe his message. Noah believed that God was holy and infallible and, therefore, He would keep His Word. (If we believed God like we say we do, we would get to work, too!)

NOAH PREACHED JUDGMENT – 2 Peter 2:5 Noah not only built an ark, but he was faithful to warn the mass of humanity of the coming wrath and judgment of Almighty God! Compare Noah’s faithful witness with Ezekiel 33: 1-20, which teaches us of our responsibility to warn the unsaved all about us today.

NOAH BUILT THE FIRST ALTAR – Gen 8:20 Although Abel brought a blood sacrifice to God, we are not told that he built an altar. So Noah is the first person on record as having built an altar. The altar he built speaks of Noah’s gratefulness to and worship of God

NOAH WAS HONORED BY GOD WITH AN EVERLASTING COVENANT– Gen 9:12-17 Compare this with the wonderful truth that we are now partakers of a new Covenant – Heb 9:15-20.

LESSONS From NOAH’S LIFE:

God honors faith.

Obedience is often it’s own reward! (Think what would have happened to Noah had he not obeyed!)

From conditions in the world today, we must be near the Coming of the Lord!

Our great task is to warn the lost of coming judgment and point them to Christ!

JOSHUA – THE SOLDIER-SAINT

INTRODUCTION: The star of today’s lesson is the son of Nun, successor to Moses, and author of the book bearing his name. There are several forms of Joshua, e.g., Jehoshua, Jeshua, Jesus. He is even called Hoshea (Deut. 32:44). “Joshua” is the Hebrew name that is the same as the Greek name Jesus, and means “Jehovah is salvation.” Joshua has been appropriately called, “The first soldier consecrated by sacred history.”

We will study this great man by considering him in the following roles:

AS A SON—

Joshua was the son of Nun (which means “prosperity, durable”) and of the tribe of Ephraim. We are not told anything of his mother, but one usually finds a good, gracious, charactered woman behind any man who reaches a position of influence and honor as a servant of God. There is every reason to believe that Joshua’s parents feared the God of Israel and that Joshua was a good son who followed their teaching. (See Pro. 22:6)

AS A SLAVE—

Joshua was already an adult when Israel came out of Egypt and thus had personally experienced the sufferings of slavery under Pharaoh. No doubt he could remember the sting of the whip and the wellnigh impossible tasks in the brick-fields. Little did he realize then as a slave that he would rise to become Israel’s supreme leader and military commander-in-chief.

Even worse than the slavery, Joshua had also witnessed the moral degradation of his country-men brought about by the terrible idolatries of Egypt in which they indulged. No doubt that experience had something to do with the solemn commands he gave the people many years later. (Josh 24: 15-25)

AS A SERVANT—

Joshua is referred to as “the servant of Moses”–Num 11 :28; Josh 1 :1. No doubt the second most important segment of his life (after his upbringing by godly parents) was his long and faithful service to Moses. Joshua’s unswerving loyalty and devotion to Moses was a significant part of his preparation for leadership. Before one can be effective as a leader, he must learn to be a good and loyal follower, submissive to authority. In his service to Moses, Joshua was a good example of some very important principles for adults as well as young people:

Be loyal to leaders. The late Dr. Bob Jones, Sr., used to say, “If you ain’t loyal, you ain’t nothing!” These leaders include parents, teachers, supervisors, Pastor, and mostof all, Christ!

Be faithful to the task at hand.

Do well the small tasks and the behind-the-scenes jobs. Do not expect to be given greater responsibility until you have proven dependable and effective at doing the small things!

AS A SPY—

Joshua was one of the twelve chosen to search out the land of Canaan (Num 13: 1-16). It was at this time that Moses changed his name from Oshea or Hoshea, which means “help,” to Joshua, meaning “God’s help,” or “salvation.” This is significant for it suggests that Moses was trying to lift the thoughts of the people Godward and to lead them to rely upon God’s help.

Along with Caleb, Joshua brought back a faithful report of the land and encouraged the people to go up and take it. Their stand pleased the Lord, and because of this, they were the only ones of the first generation allowed to go into the Promised Land. Sadly, the children of Israel rejected the true report and turned back from Kadesh-bamea in unbelief. [No doubt Joshua learned a lesson about committees from this experience, for, years later when he is in command, he only sent two men over to reconnoiter Jericho!] We learn from Joshua’s actions at Kadesh that we must 1) have faith in God, and, 2) be willing to stand for right regardless or what others may do or say.

AS A SOLDIER—

Joshua was one of the greatest military leaders of all time! He knew how to plan campaigns, discipline his troops, use spies, and, above all, pray and trust God. His strategies have been used in many modem military engagements and are still being studied in the war colleges. Read how he dis-comfited Amalek (Ex 17 :9-16) and note his devastating tactics against Ai (Josh 8).

It could be said of Joshua, “He was every inch a soldier and every inch a Christian.” Joshua was, above all, a good soldier of the Lord Whom he encountered and obeyed as Captain of the Lord’s host (Josh 5:13-15).

AS A SAVIOR—

Moses, representing the Law, brought the people to the border of the land, but it took a Joshua (God’s salvation) to take them into the land. He was probably about 85 years old when he assumed command at Shittim, and what a savior he was as he helped to roll away Israel’s reproach and to lead them to possess their possessions! His conquests and victories picture for us all that Christ has made available for believers today.

AS A SAINT—

Joshua’s saintliness marked him as the obvious successor to Moses (Deut 34:9). What a soldier-saint he was!

He was filled with the Spirit of God- Deut 34:9.

He enjoyed the presence of God – Josh 1 :5, 6:27.

He was indwelt by the Word of God – Josh 1 : 8.

He was obedient to the will of God – Num 32:12, Josh 5:14.

His example challenged others to serve God – Josh 24: 15.

No wonder his death at 110 years of age was deeply mourned and his outstanding service universally praised! His great spiritual influence outlived him, for Israel continued to serve the Lord all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua – Josh 24:3.

JOSEPH – THE MAN WHOSE DREAMS CAME TRUE

Scripture: Genesis 37-50

INTRODUCTION: Joseph was the eleventh son of Jacob, but the first of his mother, Rachel. He is one of the most outstanding men of the Bible, and it would take a book itself to fully detail all the virtues and victories over vicissitudes of Joseph. The story of this young man is so appealing to young and old alike, for it is the story of a man who went from a pit to a palace, from rags to riches, from being a slave to being a sovereign! But most importantly, it is the true story of a young man who stayed morally pure in the face of great temptation.

JOSEPH WAS A YOUTHFUL DREAMER – Gen 37:5-9, 41:42-44

It is not uncommon for a young fellow to be a “dreamer,” that is, to have his head in the clouds, daydreaming and wishing about one thing or another. If the adjective “lazy” can properly be placed before the noun (dreamer) then there’s not much hope for that person to amount to anything. But Joseph was different, his dream came true! [See Pro 23:7a. Discuss with your class the importance of dreams (goals for the future) and right thinking–Phil 4:8.] When we consider the nature of Joseph’s dreams and that the fulfillment of them resulted in the sparing, not only of his immediate family, but of the future nation of Israel as well, we are reminded of Solomon’s wise words in Prov29: 18a, “Where there is no vision, the people perish: … !”

JOSEPH LABORED AS A SLAVE – Gen 39:1-6, 20-23

Even though he was a slave, Joseph was faithful under hard circumstances and in unnoticed places. Here is a very important principle for living: There must be faithfulness in little responsibility in the obscure position before greater responsibility and a more prominent position will be given. When we learn to be faithful in the “little” things, God will give us greater things to do. You can be sure that if Joseph had complained and been a slacker in his work as a slave, he would never have been promoted to second ruler over the land of Egypt.

JOSEPH ENJOYED THE PRESENCE OF GOD – Gen 39:2-4

Because of Joseph’s attitude and his unbroken trust in God, God was with him and blessed him. (The theme of Joseph’s life could well be “Securing God’s Presence.”) Notice in v 3 that his master took note of God’s blessings upon Joseph. Because of the obvious presence of God in Joseph’s life, Potiphar had confidence in him.

JOSEPH RESISTED TEMPTATION – Gen 39:6-13

No doubt the most prominent and admirable thing about Joseph is the way he withstood every test that came his way. There are six of them in the divine record:’

1. The test of Adversity

2. The test of Prosperity

3. The temptation of sexual immorality

4. The test of False Accusation

5. The test of Broken Promises

6. The temptation to Get Even!

No. 3 is the subject of this passage. Joseph was a handsome, comely man (v 6) and, thus, became the unwitting and innocent target of his mistress’ wicked desires. It is hardly expected that a slave whose occupational background (shepherd) made him an abomination to the Egyptians would become the object of affection to the “high class” wife of Potiphar. A maid, a cook, or some other female servant, yes, but not Potiphar’s wife! Here is an important lesson: temptation often comes from unexpected directions. Joseph is to be commended for his response to her advances. Note specifically his words in v 9: Joseph understood that sin is against God and in this case would be “great wickedness.” He not only reproved his ungodly mistress, but he steadfastly resisted her advances. When he was “cornered,” he left his garment in her hand and fled! It would not be written till many hundreds of years later, but Joseph understood the principle Paul conveyed to young Timothy, “Flee also youthful lusts … ” (2 Tim 2:22) What an important lesson this incident in Joseph’s life is for us–when we are submitted wholly to God, we will allow neither shortcomings nor favorable traits to cause us to stumble in serving God. We also need to be reminded of the truth of 1 Cor 10: 13 and put it into operation when we are faced with temptation.

JOSEPH “ANSWERED NOT AGAIN” – Gen 39:14-20

This is the outcome of the incident dealt with above and comprises Joseph’s fourth Test. After Joseph had done that which pleased God by refusing to sin with his master’s wife, she, in her anger over being rejected, accuses him of trying to rape her. Without any effort to learn the truth of the matter, Potiphar has him thrown in prison! Joseph is a marvelous type of Christ in so many particulars of his life. But here is one of the most amazing–he was silent amid foul and false accusations and the appearance of guilt, and even to unjust imprisonment. No doubt there was some wisdom in this ( after all, what man would believe a slave instead of his wife) but there was also a great deal of Christlike humility. This is certainly not a merely human response. Jesus answered not again when he was falsely accused and then delivered up to die in total innocence.

JOSEPH WAS UNSPOILED BY SUDDEN PROSPERITY -Gen 41:14-20

This was possibly the greatest test of character Joseph experienced. Many a man who stood faithful through great opposition and hard trials has fallen when he met success. Joseph passed the “success test” with flying colors! When days of great honor followed days of servitude and humiliation, Joseph did not yield to pride.

JOSEPH KNEW HOW TO RETURN GOOD FOR EVIL- Gen 50:16-21

You would agree that this was a pretty big test also–after all, he had his brothers just where most of us would have wanted them!! But Joseph again exhibits great Christlikeness in his refusal to seek revenge. Consider Jesus’ teaching in Matt 5:43-48 and see how Joseph’s life compared to that. (How does your life compare?!)

CONCLUSION: We cannot have all the gifts of Joseph, who was such a complete type of Christ, but we surely ought to covet and strive to imitate all his graces. We will not achieve his greatness from a worldly perspective, but we can have his goodness reproduced in our lives by the Spirit of God!

Final Lessons from Joseph’s Life- The attitudes which helped Joseph secure the PRESENCE of Godare revealed in three scenes:

Scene #1: In Potiphar’s house – his attitude toward sin was fear – Gen 39: 1-13

Scene #2: In Prison – his attitude toward circumstances was faith – Gen 39:20-40: 14

Scene #3: In the Palace – his attitude toward people was forgiveness – Gen 50: 1-26

JONATHAN – THE MAN WHO WAS CONTENT TO BE SECOND

SCRIPTURE: I Samuel 13:15 – II Samuel 1:27

INTRODUCTION: One of the most unusual men in the Bible is Jonathan. (His name means “the Lord gave.”) He was the eldest son of Saul, first king of Israel. The most unusual aspect of Jonathan’s life is his close friendship with David, who was chosen of God to succeed Saul. The normal human reaction to this turn of events would have been great jealousy and even hatred on Jonathan’s part. (After all, Saul was insanely jealous of David and tried for years to kill him!) Even though he knew he would never succeed his father as king, with true humility Jonathan could say to David, “I shall be next to thee.”

After his lamentable death, he is only mentioned as the father of Mephibosheth. Also, is it not strange that Jonathan does not appear among the heroes of Hebrews 11; especially since he personified all the Christian graces Peter wrote about (II Pet 1:5-7)? Now let us consider some of the things that made Jonathan great.

JONATHAN WAS PREPARED FOR BATTLE – I Sam 13:22

How important it is to be ready when opportunity and responsibility come! In this band of 600 men, no one had a sword or spear except Saul and Jonathan. Young people need to prepare themselves to the fullest to serve the Lord. On a day-to-day basis, every Christian should prepare for service to the Lord by 1) Bible study, 2) prayer, and 3) yielding himself to the Holy Spirit.

JONATHAN HAD GREAT FAITH – I Sam 14:1-6

For a Samson this single-handed attack on the Philistines would have been child’s play; but for a mere man like Jonathan, this was an act of great faith–an utter and total dependence on God, believing He can do anything! Compare this with the faith mentioned in Heb 11:7, 30, 33-34. Although Jonathan had never read it, he certainly believed Jer 32:27 with Jer 33:2-3 !

JONATHAN’S COURAGE MATCHED HIS FAITH – I Sam 14:7-14

There is quite a difference between believing God can do something and believing He will do it! When you are personally facing a vastly superior enemy, that difference is courage. By the way, courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the determination to move ahead in spite of fear. Jonathan believed in his cause (against the uncircumcised Philistines, the enemies of God) and he believed in Almighty God Jehovah. So he fully committed himself to the battle. There is a great need for Christians today who, like Jonathan, will say, “Here am I, Lord, send me – use me.” Too many today are quick to say, “Send somebody, Lord, but not me or mine.”

JONATHAN WAS A FRIEND TO DAVID – I Sam 18:1-4, 19:1-7

There was a rare spark of divine inspiration in the love-bond between David and Jonathan. You will notice that it began before Saul became jealous of David. Jonathan’s love for David was certainly self-sacrificing, but make no mistake about it, David had a great love for Jonathan as well. This relationship surely equaled that between Ruth and Naomi.

The friend relationship is perhaps the most underrated of all human relationships. Friendship is a high and noble relationship. Few ever know its depth. Most people never have a true friend, and certainly, most are never a friend to someone else. The weighty nature of this relationship is evident from these two verses: “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” (Pro 18:24) & “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” (John 15:13) From this we can see that the word “friend” ought to be added to the words father, mother, son, daughter, and husband, wife.

Happy indeed is the man who has a friend. Happier still is the man who is a friend. And most blessed of all is the man who has a friend and is a friend! True friendship, as defined in the Bible, involves abiding love and endearment as typified by Jonathan and David. Our main concern should be being a friend rather than having a friend. (See Pro 18:24a) Thus, the place to start is by doing sacrificial things for others–learning to live for others. There is a great message for us in the song “Others” — first verse and chorus go like this:

“Lord, help me live from day to day In such a self-forgetful way,

That even when I kneel to pray My prayer shall be for others.

chorus: “Others, Lord, yes, others, Let this my motto be,

Help me to live for others That I might live like Thee.”

DAVID EULOGIZED HIS FRIEND UPON HIS DEATH – II Sam 1

There is nothing else in the Word of God comparable to David’s lament when he heard of the death of Saul and Jonathan in their last battle with the Philistines. Words like this come easy in describing a man who lived like Jonathan!

Of course God is not limited to means, but, humanly speaking, David owed his life to the intervention of Jonathan with Saul. In fact, on at least two occasions, Saul became so angry with Jonathan’s protection of David that he tried to kill him!!!

David never got over Jonathan’s sacrificial love for him, and after becoming king, he befriended Mephibosheth for Jonathan’s sake.

It is to be regretted that so few people ever experience such a relationship as that between Jonathan and David.

LESSONS:

o It is always right to do right, regardless of the consequences! Someone said, “It is better to be right than to be President.”

o No doubt, Jonathan will share in the rewards of David. Jonathan strengthened David’s hand and helped him escape the wrath of Saul.

o It is a great accomplishment in life to be a friend.