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1 Timothy    Message 16

In review of chapter two, we have learned of Paul’s instruction to Timothy on the –

2. Conduct of the church.  1 Timothy 2:1-3:16

We have seen the instructions about –

1. Prayer,  beginning with supplications, prayer, and intercessions, with  thanksgiving,  and about those to be prayed for: the –
2. People – for all men, kings, and those in authority –

1 Timothy 2:2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

The theme is –  “…that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty…”   We have learned –

1. The Purpose Why should we pray? – that we may carry out the commandments of God in –

1).  Peace   We are to work at living in –

a).  Peace from the government.  “…quiet and peaceable…”

b).  Peace toward fellow men.   “…in all godliness and honesty.”

And that we might carry out the commandments in a manner –

2).  Pleasing unto God  –  1 Timothy 2:3,4

We learned that when our desire is the same as the Lord’s desire, and seek the salvation of all men, we will find that it is –

3).  Profitable to reason in atmosphere of peace –  1 Timothy 2:5,6

For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

Isaiah 1:18  Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

And we learned –

a).  The resulting dangers of reasoning in an atmosphere of anger.

Along with –

b).  The resulting blessings of reasoning in an atmosphere of peace

The Truth is Good news and should be declared as much as is possible in an atmosphere of peace that –

            (1).  There is One God

            (2).  There is One Mediator

            (3).  There is One Payment for sin

            (4).  There is One Message      and that it is to be –

4).  Proclaimed unto all the world –  1 Timothy 2:7

We then asked the questions –

Are you saved?  If you are saved –

Are you praying?

Are you proclaiming

Today we are going to make clear a portion of this letter that can be a bit confusing.  It is motivated by the theme –

1 Timothy 2:2,4 …that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty …. Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

In order to accomplish the purpose of God we must believe and follow these –

5).  Practical actions of the believer –

We must learn –

a).  The Responsibility of men in submission to the Lord –

1 Timothy 2:8-15  I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.

(1).  We are to be public, not ashamed of our relationship with the Lord  “…that men pray everywhere…”

The Lord’s command –  Matthew 5:14  Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

(2).  We are to be pure  “…lifting up holy hands…”

The warning to those that are not pure –

Psalm 66:18  If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me:

Can you imagine finding yourself in a state of extreme danger and in need of help – dialing 911 or 999 only to find that your number has been blocked because of your disdain and disregard for authority.

Are you then without hope and without help?  No – God has instructed that if we call upon Him, confessing our sin and asking forgiveness, He will restore, He will hear, and He will help –

1 John 1:9  If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Now, look at the wonderful benefits of being pure –

• See good in God, His Word, His Work, and His will : Titus 1:15  Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.
• Serve wholeheartedly: Colossians 3:1,17  If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God……..And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
• Sleep peacefully: Proverbs 3:24 When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet.

(3).  We are to be peaceable  “…without wrath…”

Philippians 2:13-14  For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings:

(4).  We are to be positive   “…without doubting.”

Without uncertainty or anxiousness, be sure of the message and stay with it  “Ye must be born again”

And we must learn –

b).  The Role of women in submission to the Lord –

(1).  Their Dedication

“In like manner also…”, in other words, as men are to respond to God, revealing their love and submission to Him by their lives publicly, in purity, being peaceable and positive in their attitudes and actions,  women are to also respond to Him by showing their love and submission to Him through –

(2).   Their decency   (The dictionary definition of ‘decent’ is – marked by moral integrity, kindness, and goodwill)

“…that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;

(3).  Their determination

“…But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.”

(4).  Their desire

“…Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection.”

(5).  Their deference

The dictionary definition of this word is:  respect and esteem due a superior or an elder.  The word is used here accurately because the respect and esteem is primarily toward God and then to those He has placed in positions of responsibility and accountability to Himself.

“But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.”

We will see in them –

c).  The result of submission to the Lord –

Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

God is not telling us here that just because a woman has children, she is going to heaven.  This statement defines the woman that loves God, is submissive to His will, and does not just accept her role in life, but delights in the role God has created her to fulfil.

This woman wants to trust and obey God, and a large part of her submission to God involves her relationship with man.  We all must remember that God created woman to complete man –

Genesis 2:15  And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.

Genesis 2:18-25  And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof. And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him. And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man. And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.

The woman was created to complete the man.  In Genesis chapter 4 we read of Eve changing her role from one of completion to one of competition.  She took the leadership in the family and Adam submitted to her leadership, introducing sin into the world –

As we read –

For Adam was first formed, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.”

Yet Adam was held accountable to God because he was placed in the role of leadership, which he did not perform –

Romans 5:12  Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

Do you see this morning that we are not saved by public prayer and praise, having children, or any other thing we do?  We are saved by faith, trusting in God through His Son Jesus Christ – the death, burial, and resurrection that all men might be saved.

That which Paul stated here is how believers, praying that we might lead quiet and peaceable lives in all godliness and honesty, live in submission and obedience, willingly and happily unto the Lord.

A man or woman who say that they will trust God for salvation, but nothing else, they will choose how they will live their lives, is not a saved person.

A man that says that he does not have to live a holy life, a public testimony for the Lord, does not need to pray, does not need to be kind to others, had better examine his salvation!

A woman that says she will be married, but will not submit to her husband’s leadership, does not have to help him accomplish God’s will for his life, will go to church but does not have to listen to the men because she knows more than they do, had better examine her salvation.

Anyone that states “I will accept your salvation, but I will do what I want when I want”, is not saved!

This is not be judgmental, this is being honest –

Matthew 7:20-21  Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Hughes wrote –

This is not about suitability for leadership. It is a statistical fact that American women read more Christian books than men and attend church in greater numbers.  Women are more relationally oriented and more naturally empathetic. They are more intuitive about knowing where people are. They are more verbal, natural communicators.

This is not about power. Church leadership is not about strength; it’s about dying. That’s how Paul defined the New Covenant ministry as “always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. For we who live are constantly being delivered over to death for Jesus” sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death works in us, but life in you” (2 Cor 4:10–12).

This is about fidelity to God’s Word. This is about inviting God’s Word to shape the life of the church, rather than the intrusive winds of culture. And make no mistake about this—if the Bible does not direct the church, culture will!

This text is about living out the creation order which comes from the character of God’s goodness. We must exult with Paul, “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?” (Rom 8:31, 32). When we live out our salvation, we can expect everything we need spiritually. When we live out His creation order—it is a joyous venture.

Are you rejoicing in the Lord today?  We pray that you are.

Are you saved and obedient to God?

Are you seeking others to tell them the truth of the Gospel?

1 Timothy Message 15

In chapter two, we have been looking at Paul’s instruction to Timothy on the –
2. Conduct of the church. 1 Timothy 2:1-3:16
We have seen the instructions about –
a. Prayer, supplications, prayer, and intercessions, with thanksgiving, and about those to be prayed for: the –
b. People – for all men, kings, and those in authority
Today, we will begin to look at a number of things brought out in the following verses. Read –

1 Timothy 2:2-7 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.

The theme is – “…that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty…”

c. The Purpose Why should we pray? – that we may carry out the commandments of God in –

1). Peace We are to work at living in –
a). Peace from the government. “…quiet and peaceable…”
(1). Knowing the Lord will prosper His people in times of peace.
(2). Knowing the Lord’s protection upon His people in times of trouble, and –
(3). Knowing the Lord’s peace and strength in times of tragedy –

We have been instructed that it is God’s will that we be at peace with governments and those in authority. Also God’s Word instructs us in living in –
b). Peace toward fellow men. “…in all godliness and honesty.”

We learned the –

(1). Reason for this command –

It seems unbelievable, but at times people will use their position as leaders in the church to hurt believers that they do not like! And some believers will even tell people about the Lord Jesus Christ, knowing beforehand that it will make them angry, provoking them and causing trouble.

We learned that we must have the –

(2). Right attitude, (humility) as taught by the Lord through Paul in –

Philippians 2:5 “…but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

And we are to –

(3). Remember the attitude of God –

Even toward those that ignore, reject, and despise Him –

Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

– Then we will have a better understanding about praying that we might lead a quiet and peaceable life which is –

2). Pleasing unto God – 1 Timothy 2:3,4
For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

The questions we are faced with now are –

a). Do you want to please God?
“For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour…”

b). Do you want to present the Gospel to the world?
“…Who will have all men to be saved…”

c). Do you want to preach truth?
“…and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”

Message 15

Today we continue to learn that when our desire is the same as the Lord’s desire, and seek the salvation of all men, we will find that it is –

3). Profitable to reason in atmosphere of peace – 1 Timothy 2:5,6

For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

Isaiah 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

a). The results of reasoning in an atmosphere of anger.

Acts 5:30-33 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.

Now I would have you listen to the same truth with your mind and hearts set on knowing the truth –

b). The reasoning in an atmosphere of peace

The Truth is Good news and should be declared as such –

(1). There is One God

“For there is one God…..”.

God has declared –

Isaiah 45:5-6 I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me: That they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the LORD, and there is none else.

Isaiah 46:9-10 Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure:

(2). There is One Mediator

“…and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus…”

How Job cried out for help in his time of distress –

Job 9:32-33 For he is not a man, as I am, that I should answer him, and we should come together in judgment. Neither is there any daysman betwixt us, that might lay his hand upon us both.

Job knew that he needed someone that would be able to intercede for him with God. He knew that no matter how good he tried to be, no matter how clean he tried to make himself, he could not approach unto the Holy God on his own merit, Job knew the truth, he needed someone who could stand for him in the presence of God.
There was no one on earth who could stand in that place – until Jesus, the Son of God, came.

John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

(3). There is One Payment for sin

“…Who gave himself a ransom for all….”

1 Peter 1:18-21 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.

(4). There is One Message

“…to be testified in due time.”

Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Romans 10:9-14 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

And Paul declared that this message would be –

4). Proclaimed unto all the world – 1 Timothy 2:7

Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.

Praying to prepare to proclaim! Always remember –

1 Peter 3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers…..

Are you saved? If you are saved –
Are you praying?
Are you proclaiming

1 Timothy Message 14

In chapter two, we have been looking at Paul’s instruction to Timothy on the –
2. Conduct of the church. 1 Timothy 2:1-3:16
We have see the instructions about –
a. Prayer, and about those to be prayed for: the –
b. People
Today, we will begin to look at five things brought out in the following verses. Read –

1 Timothy 2:2-7 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.

The first thing is – “…that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life…”

c. The Purpose Why should we pray? – to carry out the commandments of God. In –

1). Peace We are to work at living in –
a). Peace from the government. “…quiet and peaceable…”
(1). The Lord prospering His people in times of peace.
(2). The Lord’s protection upon His people in times of trouble.
(a). Prisoner
(b). Preacher
(c). Prince
(3). The Lord’s peace and strength in times of tragedy –

This past week we were reminded that it is God’s will that we be at peace with governments and those in authority. Today we will learn what God’s Word instructs us in living in –

b). Peace toward fellow men. “…in all godliness and honesty.

We need to look at the –

(1). Reason for this command –

Would Christians act in an evil way to others? It seems unbelievable, but there are times that people will use their position as leaders in the church to hurt believers that they do not like!

Others will tell people about the Lord Jesus Christ knowing beforehand that it will make them angry, provoking them and causing trouble.

It seems strange to us, but it does happen. Let us hear what Paul wrote about those he encountered in his ministry that did not live in “…all godliness and honesty.” Note the –

(a). Ungodly preaching written about to the church in Philippi –

Philippians 1:15-16 Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:

Philippians 2:3-11 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory…

The problem was not only found in one city or nation – look at the –

(b). Ungodly problems that could occur in the church in Corinth –

2 Corinthians 12:18-21 I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? walked we not in the same steps? Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying. For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.

We are to learn the –

(2). Right attitude we should have toward others as taught by the Lord –

Philippians 2:4 “…but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

(3). Remember the attitude of God –

Even toward those that ignore, reject, and despise Him –

Ezekiel 33:11 Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?

Romans 5:8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

When we remember the attitude of God and that we are to represent Him on earth with our lives –

2 Corinthians 5:17-20 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.

– we have better understanding about praying that we might lead a quiet and peaceable life which is – 1). Peace and then also –

2). Pleasing unto God – 1 Timothy 2:3,4

For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

How is it that by being prayerful and peaceful, we are pleasing God? The answer is simple – we live each day according to what the Word of God teaches. In simple terms, we practice what we preach, and this is a testimony that cannot be denied by anyone. They can ignore it, they can reject it, but being honest, they cannot deny it. As Jesus taught –

Matthew 5:14-16 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Paul spoke to this in his letter to the Corinthians –

2 Corinthians 4:1-7 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

The questions we are faced with now are –

a). Do you want to please God?

“For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour…”

b). Do you want to present the Gospel to the world?

“…Who will have all men to be saved…”

c). Do you want to preach truth?

“…and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”

If not, you need to take some time with God, asking for Him to reveal what is holding you back from giving yourself to Him completely. What are you afraid of? It is time to pray, asking the Holy Spirit to search your heart, reveal truth to you from His Word, desiring to be the child of God that you know you should be.

Are you saved?

1 Timothy Message 13

2. Conduct of the church. 1 Timothy 2:1-3:16

We have see the instructions about –

a. Prayer, and about those to be prayed for: the –
b. People

Today, we will begin to look at five things brought out in the following verses. Read –

1 Timothy 2:2-7 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.

The first thing is – “…that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life…”

c. The Purpose Why should we pray? – to carry out the commandments of God. In –

1). Peace

The Bible, the Word of God, teaches us that Peace is blessed of God –

Psalm 34:14-15 Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it. The eyes of the LORD are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry.

And is twofold –

a). Peace from the government. “…quiet and peaceable…”

We read of three aspects of peace –

(1). The Lord prospering His people in times of peace.

Acts 9:31 Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.

The church enjoyed a time of peace when the government ignored them and the Jewish leadership waited to see what would happen next. The believers took the opportunity to grow in spirit, knowledge, and in number.

These times do not often last and we see next –

(2). The Lord’s protection upon His people in times of trouble.

Notice how Paul’s attitude of trust in the Lord and peace toward the government was blessed by God at this time in his life as a –

(a). Prisoner

Acts 27:1 And when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion of Augustus’ band.

As a prisoner, he submitted to God, trusting in the Lord’s placing him in the ministry, that no matter what his situation in life was, he was an Apostle and a –

(b). Preacher

As the ship sailed to its destination, Italy, they were caught up in a terrible storm which threatened to break the ship up. Following weeks of struggle in this storm, we read of Paul’s message to those on the ship –

Acts 27:22-25 And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man’s life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.

Acts 27:42-43 And the soldiers’ counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim out, and escape. But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land:

Because of Paul’s service unto the Lord and to those who he met along the way, the people saw him as a –

(c). Prince

Acts 28:15-16 And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appii forum, and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage. And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him.

Acts 28:30-31 And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him, Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.

Notice how God protected Paul and those with him, they escaped from the danger, all safely reaching land.

Acts 27:44 And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.

– Because they listened to the man of God –

We have no idea how many times have men been rescued from an untimely death because a child of God was in their midst.

If we can use our imaginations and picture the Apostle Paul lying on that beach, the wind still howling and the waves still pounding, wet, exhausted and thanking God for His deliverance, we may ask ourselves this question – Why the storm?
God had promised Paul that he would reach Rome and that he would testify of the Lord there. We would have expected a simple cruise across the sea and a safe march up the Italian road to Rome. Remember God’s promise in –

Acts 23:11 And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome.

And also in Acts 27:24 “… Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar:”

We learn again that the Lord will bring glory to Himself by working through His children.

Because of this storm Paul went from being an ordinary prisoner to being feared and favoured. On this ship were three faithful servants of the most High God. The other 273 people – soldiers, sailors, merchants, and prisoners, people from all walks of life, listened to the preaching, heard the promises, and saw the power of God through the life of His witnesses. The truth is that –

We do not look forward to storms in our lives, but God has promised to bring us through them unto Himself. We have a sure destination – it is the journey that holds trials and tribulations. Luke, through the leadership of God, penned down this account to encourage us in our journey – to trust God in the storms, and to praise Him for the testimony we may have for Him and to pray for the peace of our generation.

And then, at times of God’s choosing and according to His will we find we will need –

(3). The Lord’s peace and strength in times of tragedy –

Sometimes the government will not remain peaceable with the believers in matters of faith in God. When this is the case, the believers need to remain quiet and peaceable to the government.

Listen to the testimony of these five Baptist believers in England in the year 1575 as they were arrested for meeting to worship and serve the Lord, and were not holding to the articles of faith of the Church of England – We have the following account written at the time -cx

“What reason you have thus to think of us we know not; nevertheless, we can assure you that we seek with our whole hearts to serve the one God, and Christ, in a good conscience, and to edify our neighbor as far as in us lies. Therefore we gladly receive what the Holy Scripture testifies, and wish to be permitted to adhere to the plainness and simplicity of the Word of God, and not to be urged farther with subtle questions, which our feeble understandings are not able to comprehend, nor by Scripture to justify.”
The prisoners transmitted to the Queen a confession of their faith, accompanied by a “supplication,” from which we take the following extract: —
“We testify before God and your Majesty, that were we in our consciences able by any means to think or understand the contrary, we would with all our hearts receive and confess it; since it were a great folly in us, not to live rather in the exercise of a right faith, than to die, perhaps in a false one. May it also please your majesty in your wisdom and innate goodness to consider, that it were not right, but hypocrisy in us to speak otherwise than with our hearts we believe, in order to escape the peril of temporal death; that it is impossible to believe otherwise than we in our consciences think; and also that it is not in our power to believe this or that, as evil-doers who do right or wrong as they please. But the true faith must be implanted in the heart of man by God; and to Him we daily pray, that he would give us His Spirit, to understand His Word and Gospel.

“Above all, it is evident to your majesty that we have not sought to stir up any rebellions or seditions against your Majesty; but much more, have daily besought the Lord for your happy reign, and the welfare both of your soul and body….”

All was in vain. The Baptists remained firm. The Queen would not relent. On the 15th of July she signed the warrant for the execution of two of them, commanding the sheriffs of London to burn them alive in Smithfield while the others were exiled from the country –

They kept to their faith in God and His Word by their actions.

We not only trust the Lord for peace with and from the government, but also –

b). Peace toward fellow men. “…in all godliness and honesty.”

(We are not to be aggressive in attitude – sometimes people witness in anger toward others – wanting to condemn them! The old nature rises up and tries to control us) –

We must remember the attitude of God –

Ezekiel 33:11 Say unto them, As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die, O house of Israel?

We must again remember that the Lord has commanded us to love people as He loves them! And so, live a quiet and peaceable life among them.

We have read today about praying that we might lead a quite and peaceable life…

Will you think about your prayer life this morning – Are you praying that you and all believers might live quiet and peaceable lives and be steadfast in any situation in life, trusting God in times of peace, in times of prosperity, in times of problems; in times of temptation, trials, tribulation – will we trust God in all things?

I ask you also about your salvation? Have you trusted God through his Son Jesus Christ for salvation, that Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day to prove His power, providing salvation to all who will call upon Him –

As we have said so many times “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved”.

We pray that you will be saved today and if you are saved, will you be steadfast unto the Lord in all things.

1 Timothy 2:1-7 Message 12

2. Conduct of the church 1 Timothy 2:1 – 3:16

a. The Prayer How are we to pray? 1 Timothy 2:1

1 Timothy 2:1-2 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks,

Paul has instructed in how to pray. He then instructed them who to take before the throne of God in supplications, prayers, and intercession, with thanksgiving…

b. The People Who are we to pray for? 1 Timothy 2:1b, 2a

…be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority…

1). All men 1 Timothy 2:1b

Some people are easier to pray with thankfulness for than others, but we are commanded to be thankful in prayer for –

a). Those that love us.

Galatians 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

It is easy, a blessing to our souls to pray for and be a help to those who are likeminded and love the Lord! Even so, we are also to pray for –

b). Those that hate us –

The church faced adversity from early in the ministry of the gospel in Ephesus. Paul wrote of an attack he endured but we were not given the specifics.

1 Corinthians 15:32 (KJV) If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die.

The Lord did lead Luke to record the opposition in Ephesus from –

(1). The Jews

Acts 19:8-9 And he went into the synagogue, and spake boldly for the space of three months, disputing and persuading the things concerning the kingdom of God. But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.

And also –

(2). The Gentiles

(a). Turned against the Christians –

Acts 19:23-41 And the same time there arose no small stir about that way. For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen; Whom he called together with the workmen of like occupation, and said, Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth. Moreover ye see and hear, that not alone at Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, this Paul hath persuaded and turned away much people, saying that they be no gods, which are made with hands: So that not only this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia and the world worshippeth. And when they heard these sayings, they were full of wrath, and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of the Ephesians. And the whole city was filled with confusion: – and having caught Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia, Paul’s companions in travel, they rushed with one accord into the theatre. And when Paul would have entered in unto the people, the disciples suffered him not. And certain of the chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring him that he would not adventure himself into the theatre…..

(b). Turned against the Jews who they associated with Christians –

The Jews tried to protect themselves, choosing Alexander to speak on their behalf, claiming they were not associated with Paul!

…..And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defence unto the people. But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out, Great is Diana of the Ephesians.

The leaders of the city were afraid that the riot would cause the Romans to send soldiers and take control of the city, so the town clerk spoke to the people –

….we are in danger to be called in question for this day’s uproar, there being no cause whereby we may give an account of this concourse. And when he had thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly.

The church members would have remembered all of the evil acts committed against them by these people – would they want to pray for them?

Are there some people that are very difficult for you to pray for their good?

Paul commanded that the believers overcome their prejudices against those that opposed them and hold them up before the Lord in prayer, seeking their salvation.

The example of their most zealous persecutor becoming their greatest defender through salvation was seen in the transformation of Saul of Tarsus to Paul the Apostle.

He experienced in his life the truth that he wrote in his second letter to the Corinthian church –

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

Paul knew the power of God that worked in his life could work in the lives of their enemies. They should be prayed for!
When those that hate you turn to the Lord for salvation, they become part of the beloved.

The Lord also commands us to pray for –

2). Authorities 1 Timothy 2:2a

“For kings, and for all that are in authority…”

Daniel 2:21 And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:

Romans 13:1-2 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.

How can we pray for those governments that stand against God and His people? Know that God is keeping the account and He will repay. Therefore knowing the terror of the Lord, we should pray for them to be saved –

Psalm 37:37-38 Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace. But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off.

Romans 12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.

Notice the effect of the Lord’s admonition on the early churches, even when they were under extreme persecution from the Roman governments.

A well-known passage in the Apology of Tertullian, written about a century and a quarter after St. Paul sent his first letter to Timothy, shows how well and carefully this charge of the great teacher, written to the Church in Ephesus, was kept in distant Carthage:—”We Christians. . . . do intercede for all the emperors that their lives may be prolonged, their government be secured to them, that their families may be preserved in safety, their senates faithful to them, their armies brave, their people honest, and that the whole empire may be at peace, and for whatever other things are desired by the people or the Cæsar.”

These are things desired of citizens seeking the best for the neighbors and their nations.

A difficult question has been asked by God’s people from the time He established governments. What should I do if my government orders me to not obey God?

What if they command that I worship them or their god? You continue to worship God only!

What if they command that I cannot pray to God? You continue to pray!

What if they command that I cannot tell others the truth about God? You be a witness unto God!

The testimony of faithfulness to God is set forth clearly in His Word and we know what we must do because of His love for us and our love for Him –

Remember –

Worship –

Daniel 3:17-18 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

Prayer –

Daniel 6:7 All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellers, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions.

Daniel 6:10 Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.

Testimony –

Acts 4:18-20 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.

We need to pray that we do not face opposition as they did, but if we do, be strong and of good courage – be faithful to God!

Trusting God in your prayer begins with trusting God for salvation. Have you turned to God in faith, believing His Son Jesus Christ died for your sins on the cross, that He was buried, and that He rose from the dead on the third day, satisfying the will of God and providing the way of salvation for all men, any that will call upon Him in faith.

Message 11

1 Timothy 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

This morning we are going to look at the importance of being thankful unto the Lord. Being thankful to God, like loving God, is the basis of being able to be thankful to others. If we do not love God, we do not know how to love others, and if we are not thankful to God, we do not know how to be thankful to others.

4). Thanksgiving

Paul instructed Timothy to begin the work ahead of him with prayer. We have seen that the communication of Timothy to God through the Lord Jesus Christ’s name, and with the aid of the Holy Spirit was threefold – “…supplications, prayers, and intercessions…”. The past few weeks, We have learned of each and today turn to a most important ingredient – thanksgiving. When we come before the Lord with thanksgiving, our attitude will not be focused on self, but will be one of worship, understanding that the reason we can even come to God and stand before Him to present our prayers unto Him is that He has made us able, offering us the invitation to come to Him in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 4:15-16 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Are we thankful that we can cry unto Him – supplications?
Are we thankful that we can pray unto Him – seeking His wisdom and leadership?
Are we thankful that we can intercede for others?
How often do we go to God without being thankful in our hearts? We can approach God, appearing to be thankful, but actually are full of pride and desiring that our will be done! We see this by example in the actions of Cain, the firstborn into the world –

Notice Cain chose to seek praise of God instead of give praise to God!

a). Cain was not thankful to God for His blessings.

Genesis 4:4-8 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell.

Cain wanted God to be thankful to him for his offering – ‘Cain did not well’.

b). Cain was not thankful for the instruction from God – he was given a chance to do right.

And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.

Notice that God still instructs us to do right by warning us about what we are doing wrong and then telling us how to do right –

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

We also need to know that God would have been pleased with the offering that Cain brought if he first offered a lamb for an blood offering. When God gave the Law, He set forth the offering of the fruit of the land, but it must follow the offering of blood, the innocent for the guilty. Cain did not admit his sin, his guilt before the Holy and Righteous God.

c). Cain was not thankful for his brother’s example – He was jealous!

And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.

1 John 3:12 Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.

The fact is that –

d). Cain approached God in an appearance of worship and humility, but he was not truly thankful to God and his rebellious heart was revealed by his actions through –

(1). The displeasure at being rejected.
(2). The death of Able, His attack on his brother, killing him.

And –

(3). The disobedience of God’s command – Cain established a city to dwell in.

Genesis 4:12 When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth.

Yet we learn –

Genesis 4:16-17 And Cain went out from the presence of the LORD, and dwelt in the land of Nod, on the east of Eden. And Cain knew his wife; and she conceived, and bare Enoch: and he builded a city, and called the name of the city, after the name of his son, Enoch.

His rebellious heart led to –

(4). The degeneration of his family.

God gave us the account revealing the results of man’s continual rebellion against God from generation to generation. Society without God does not improve through creating a stable and prosperous living environment. Refer to –

Genesis 4:19-24 And Lamech took unto him two wives: the name of the one was Adah, and the name of the other Zillah. And Adah bare Jabal: he was the father of such as dwell in tents, and of such as have cattle. And his brother’s name was Jubal: he was the father of all such as handle the harp and organ. And Zillah, she also bare Tubal-cain, an instructer of every artificer in brass and iron: and the sister of Tubal-cain was Naamah. And Lamech said unto his wives, Adah and Zillah, Hear my voice; ye wives of Lamech, hearken unto my speech: for I have slain a man to my wounding, and a young man to my hurt. If Cain shall be avenged sevenfold, truly Lamech seventy and sevenfold.

As we see the improvement of life through man’s inventions, we also see that they are used continually for evil. We note that Cain’s family introduced domestication of animals, entertainment through music and poetry, and working of metals to create utensils and weapons into their society.

Lamech rejoiced in all of these things, boasting of the favour that God would show him if he killed someone as Cain had killed Able –

Genesis 4:23-24 And Lamech said unto his wives, Adah and Zillah, Hear my voice; ye wives of Lamech, hearken unto my speech: for I have slain a man to my wounding, and a young man to my hurt. If Cain shall be avenged sevenfold, truly Lamech seventy and sevenfold.

Instead of condemning Cain for the murder, he viewed Cain’s actions as simply the justified actions of a man who had been misunderstood by God and provoked to anger by his brother. Men without God have no standard of right and wrong. Everything becomes relative to their own desire and situation. They do not understand that they are already living under condemnation and judgment of God. Men have no ability to improve themselves spiritually or morally which was again proved through Cain by –

(5). The destruction of his family by God’s judgment.

By “going …out from the presence of the Lord…”, Cain left his family the legacy of rebellion against God. Their refusal to submit to God eventually led to the total corruption of society and the judgment of God upon all living except for Noah’s family as recorded in Genesis chapter six.

You might ask the question “Do you mean that the complete destruction of mankind was caused by unthankfulness”? The answer is ‘Yes’, this was the attitude of the heart that led to the anger that ignited rage in Cain,
resisting the instruction of God,
rising up against his brother,
and rebelling against God’s mandate for him by establishing a city and a name honouring himself through his children and not God.

We see that an unthankful heart leads to arrogance and anger against God and man.

We must develop a thankful attitude to God for all things, understanding that the things in this life are temporary and will pass very quickly and that even in the very worst of times, God is with us giving us His grace, mercy, and peace. Remember what Paul told Timothy in the introduction to his letter –

1 Timothy 1:2 Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.

You may say that your situation is so terrible that you cannot thank God. You need to write these verses in the back of your Bible where you can find them when you need help –

Philippians 4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Ephesians 5:20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

Romans 8:27-28 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

We are told that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made… –

Without thankfulness we begin demanding, directing, and determining what God should be doing for others.

Let’s seek God’s will by

a). Praying for others to know the Lord as their Saviour. Witnessing to them
b). Praying for others to grow in the Lord. Teaching them
c). Praying for others to serve the Lord. Partnering with them

Deciding this morning that will be thankful to the Lord for all things.

Are you saved, having turned to God for salvation?

Message 10

1 Timothy 2:1 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;

We have learned what Paul was commanding Timothy as he prepared for the ministry of God to the church in Ephesus. By this time, we should understand how necessary supplications and prayers are in order to prepare us for life and to encourage us in living out the truth of God as we are instructed in His Word –

Philippians 2:12-13 …. work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.

As we grow in the knowledge of God and His will, we are naturally brought to the next form of prayer – that of intercession. When we are seeking God’s will and His leadership for our lives, we will turn our minds to the needs of others. Constant communication with God will strengthen our love for Him –

Matthew 22:37-39 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment….

– and we will begin to understand what Jesus meant when He told us what these two most important commandments are –

And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

I was reminded recently by a message our son, James, preached teaching us that the responsibility to love others (our neighbor) has been increased beyond measure by the command of Jesus to us –

John 13:34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.

We must understand that Jesus’ commentary on the Old Commandment stated that we should love others as we love ourselves. The Lord Jesus Christ has given us a NEW COMMANDMENT, that we should love others as HE LOVED US. In order to fulfil this command, we must love them through Him, giving our lives wholly over to the Lord.

We must be ‘others minded’! We are living in a time that we do not want to know too much about our neighbors, our colleagues, our classmates, or even our family members. We do not want to “get involved”, but the Lord has commanded us to know about others, care about others, and pray for others.

A good example of interceding for someone is found in Acts 12. Notice how the church set their hearts to cry unto the Lord for their friend. This is what ‘intercession’ is – going to a higher power and asking favour for someone else. We see from the Bible that their brother in Christ, Peter, had been arrested by Herod and was set to be executed.

Acts 12:5-17 Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison:…

…and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly.

And his chains fell off from his hands. And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision. When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him. And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews. And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying….

The church interceded for Peter, calling upon God to help him in his time of need. Have you prayed for others, being their friend and asking for help on their behalf? This is the natural result of being in constant communication with God. We are to be in constant contact with Him. We will read again what Paul commanded us in –

1 Thessalonians 5:17 Pray without ceasing.

We see that interceding for others involves that which we have already learned, supplications – crying out to God to help someone, and prayer – seeking His will and following His leadership to be a help as He makes us able.

We will turn to God for others as we learn of their needs –

a). Pray for others to know the Lord as their Saviour.

I am so thankful that people were praying for me to be saved, to turn from life in death and darkness to true life and light – to call upon the Lord for forgiveness of sin and the gift of salvation! I knew that Bonnie loved me, but I had no idea that there were people who loved me as Jesus loves me and prayed for me –

John 17:20-21 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

The Lord prayed for me two thousand years ago and yet, the prayer was as fresh and immediate in 1972 as it was the moment Jesus prayed it for –

Hebrews 13:8 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.

And – “Seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them…”

When we join the Lord in this prayer for people to believe we are likeminded with Him and praying according to His will. With this in mind, having prayed for them, we must tell them –

Romans 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

b). Pray for others to grow in the Lord. Teach them –

1 Peter 2:2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

c). Pray for others to serve the Lord. Partner with them

We should show people how to know and do the Word of God. We should learn from the example of Jesus with the disciples “…follow me and I will make you fishers of men…”

d). Pray for others who are in need. Give to them
e). Pray for others who are in sin. Correct them –

(1). Love for others demands that we seek God’s mercy on them –

1 John 5:16 If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.

(2). Love for others demands more than just seeking God’s mercy, we must speak and reveal the sinful acts –

Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

Remember the New Commandment – will you love them as Jesus loves them –

a). Pray for others to know the Lord as their Saviour. Witnessing to them
b). Pray for others to grow in the Lord. Teaching them
c). Pray for others to serve the Lord. Partnering with them
d). Pray for others who are in need. Giving to them
e). Pray for others who are in sin. Rebuking and correct them.

And –

Pray for them because it is the will of the Lord for every believer –

1 Peter 2:4-5 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 2:9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

We can call unto the Lord for ourselves and for others –

Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.