Author: Alan Holden

The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, vv. 21-24 A. The Naming of Jesus, v. 21 B. The Nature of the Law, vv. 22-24 The Proclamations about Jesus in the Temple, vv. 25-28 A. The Words of the Prophet Simeon, vv. 25-35 The Man His Character, v. 25–>just and devout His Conviction, v. 26–>he would…

Introduction The first televised presidential debate revolutionized American politics. For the first time, Americans elected a person to office based on his appearance and composure. Appearance Kennedy He rested the day of the debate and reviewed his notes. He wore a dark suit. He wore makeup for the TV cameras. He spoke authoritatively and calmly….

Jeremiah’s Persecution, vv. 1-6 A. The Priest Pashur = freedom Governor in 3rd year of Jehoiakim, just before Nebuchadnezzar came against Jerusalem the first time, see 2 Kings 24:1. B. The Prophet Jeremiah scourged and placed in stocks by Pashur for his treasonous words in chapter 19. “The stocks (MT mahpeket, from a root ‘to…

Introduction The name “Jephthah” means “opened or opener.” Jephthah Was a Fugitive, v. 3 His presence opened his family to ridicule. A. He was an illegitimate child. B. He was ill-treated. C. He was disinherited. Jephthah Was a Leader, vv. 3-11 He opened his own opportunities. Jephthah Was Hasty, vv. 30-31 He opened his mouth…

The Importance of Baptism Introduction We live in an age of convenience and sophistication: Pay-at-the-pump gasoline; ATMs; time management; online shopping. Sophistication breeds contempt for time-honored traditions and values. Convenience and sophistication now rules some churches. Baptism is looked upon as an option and a bother. Baptism in the New Testament was one’s public profession…

A Prayer for the Heart, v. 9 A. Love abound or overflow B. In knowledge C. In Judgment-discernment between good and evil A Prayer for the Mind, v. 10 A. Discernment between good and better B. The Question: Not: Shall I serve God or not? But: Shall I serve God at home or overseas? A…

A Fellowship Begotten in Love A. “I have you in my heart” Better than “on my mind”–>our thought can be full of: anxiety assurance Better than “on our lips”–>praise or blame Better than “on our nerves” We must have people “on our hearts,” then: their weaknesses and shortcomings are allowed for; their daily needs are…

Two Faithful Men Introduction Background of Epaphroditus’ ministry to Paul. Thesis: God wants you to be faithful.   How? Be Ready to Go Anywhere A. “To send Timotheus,” v. 19. B. “To send Epaphroditus,” v. 25 C. Others who were ready to go anywhere: Moses went back to Egypt, Exodus 4:18. Elijah went back to seek…

Rejoice in the Lord! Introduction Every person has two basic needs. First is the need to be loved and accepted. Second is the need to feel valuable and of great worth. The Judaizers taught the Philippians that they needed to do more than trust Jesus to become Christians. Paul warns them to beware of them….

Enjoy Your Citizenship! Introduction Paul appeals to the spiritually mature Christians to continue living by the Spirit and not be deceived by legalist false teachers. Thesis: God wants us to continue living by the Spirit.  Why? You Are a True Christian, v. 3 A. You worship God in the Spirit. B. You rejoice in Christ,…