Author: Alan Holden

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,…

The Saints’ Crowns Introduction The Apostle Paul compares the Christian life to an athlete preparing for the Olympics. An athlete trains for years for the opportunity to represent his country at the Olympics. They submit to their coaches to prepare them for the qualifying races. If they lose a race or break any of the…

The Holy Ghost and Tongues, vv. 1-7 A. The Baptism of John looked forward to Messiah. B. Christian baptism looks back at the finished work of Christ and forward to His kingdom on earth. C. The Seal of the Spirit, see Romans 8:9; Ephesians 1:13, tongues served to witness to the Jews. The Holy Ghost…

Leadership by Example Introduction Christians often feel like we are drifting along with the currents, knowing all the while that the current can lead in the wrong direction. So we feel like we are either at the mercy of all leaders or we are distrustful of everyone. We do not know how to recognize a…