The Master And The Servant

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Scripture: Luke 17:7-10  The Parable of the Master and Servant
 "Will any one of you, who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep, say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come at once and sit down at table'? 8 Will he not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, and gird yourself and serve me, till I eat and drink; and afterward you shall eat and drink'? 9 Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? 10 So you also, when you have done all that is commanded you, say, `We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.'
Jesus used this parable of the dutiful servant to explain that we can never put God in our debt or make the claim that God owes us something. We must regard ourselves as God's servants, just as Jesus came "not to be served, but to serve" ( read Matthew 20:28). Service of God and of neighbor is both a voluntary free act and a sacred duty.  God gladly accepts the  free-will offering of our lives to him in service to him.  What makes our offering pleasing to God is the love we express in the gift of self-giving.  True love is sacrificial, generous, and selfless. How can we love others selflessly and unconditionally?  God himself is Love (read 1 John 4:16) and he fills our hearts with the boundless love that gives what is good for the sake of others. If we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us (read 1 John 4:12).  God honors faithful servants who love generously, and seek to do his will. He is ever ready to work through and in us for his glory. God can never be indebted to us, He is our master, and we his servants. We have no claim on him. God does not owe us anything, even though he is creator of all that exists, and has given us his best. His love compels us to give him our best!  And when we have done our best, we have simply done our duty.
 (read 1 Peter 2:18-21).
Masters: the Greek word is “despotes” from which we get our English word “despot.” The master had absolute ownership and power, over his servants.  His servants were not considered people with rights, but living tools, things. Peter mentions 2 kinds of Masters:
1) Good and gentle: some masters were kind, gracious, and generous. They had their servant’s best interests at heart and loved them as part of their extended family. They took care of them well. In those days the servants lived in the same home, and were well dressed, most were better off than freemen in that day.
2) Unreasonable: that word means “harsh, perverse, or crooked.” In verse 20 Peter speaks of some servants who are “harshly treated.” Some masters were harsh, unkind, unloving, and cruel. The Biblical responsibility toward masters remained the same, no matter whether they were good or evil. Their servants were to submit to them.
Servants:1 Peter teaches workers to be submissive to their employers, whether they are good or evil; whether they treat us right or wrong. When they treat us wrongly, we are to patiently endure it. We must never take it upon ourselves to get revenge. We must never lose our Christian testimony. Our duty is to serve with willing and loving hearts.
1) Act in a manner becoming a loved and respected family member, with no deceit or self serving action or motive, but only the truth.
2) Dependable and passive, not aggressive nor slothful. Put God’s Family first even if it means putting self last. Honor and respect are your character traits. Endure mistreatment without malice or vengeful thought word or deed. Return good for evil. Speak ill of no one.
Read 1 Corinthians 15:58


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"Will any one of you, who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep, say to him when he has come in from the field, `Come at once and sit down at table'?
Christ's servants, when they are to wait upon him,  must free themselves from every thing that is a distraction or an encumbrance and they must not expect to be considered for release from the duty to serve God in every way all to the completeness of it. When we have prepared for duty as Christ’s servant and  have made ourselves ready and  committed to the act of serving Him, it is no more than what is expected from servants, and indeed Christ might require it from us, but he does not insist upon it. There is no one bound by birth or by document to do it. It is your choice
Read Philippians 2:3-5
Q.1  In Jesus’ day what was a proper relationship between a master and his servants?
Q.2  What relationships are here being described?
Q.3  Why was Jesus using this master / servant parable?

8 Will he not rather say to him, `Prepare supper for me, and gird yourself and serve me, till I eat and drink; and afterward you shall eat and drink'?
Our principal care here must be to do the duty of our relationship towards our master, and leave it to our Master to give us the comfort of it, when and how he thinks fit. No servant expects his master to say to him, Go and sit down, rest and eat; it is time enough to do that when we have done our day's work. Let us be attendant to finish our work, and to do that well. There is promise in servitude, so there is promise in serving Christ, and we as his servants must do well to attain it. The Promise will be fulfilled in the fullness of God’s time.
Read Galations 1:10
Q.1  If our duty is to become a servant of God why is it that man tries so to exalt himself?
Q.2  What is the proper attitude for one who intends to serve God?
Q.3  What does one gain by becoming a servant of God?

9 Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? 10 So you also, when you have done all that is commanded you, say, `We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.'
God thanks us daily. He delivers to us the same abilities as is inherent in his character. We are created in his image, and have been given God’s best. What better thank you is there? He is both loving and generous and at the same time he administers justice with absolute fairness. Some do not deserve what God gives, some choose to refuse his gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. God knows what to expect from his servants, and he rewards them accordingly. When the day is done he gives us rest. Some take it as earned, some take it as deserved, some rejoice in it. But just as our salvation is a gift, so is God’s rest given freely to all who will accept it, but there is none worthy, no not one. Our eternal rest cannot be won by our words thoughts or deeds, It can only be attained by doing as our duty, the will of God  read 2 Corinthians 4:1-5
Q.1  Does humanity experience the gifts that God has bestowed upon us?
Q.2  Do we as Gods Children realize the great goodness of His gifts?
Q.3  How does humanity recognize God’s gifts?
Q.4 Since none of us are worthy of God’s grace, how is it such that we are blessed with it?
Read Jeremiah 31:33-34


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Mat 20:28  just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

1Jn 4:16  And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them.

1Jn 4:12  No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.

1Pe 2:18- 21  Slaves, in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh. 19  For it is commendable if someone bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because they are conscious of God. 20  But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. 21  To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps.

1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

Philippians 2:3-5 Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus,

Galatians 1:10  Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

2 Corinthians 4:5 For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake.

Jeremiah 31:33-34  "This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time," declares the LORD. "I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people. 34  No longer will they teach their neighbor, or say to one another, 'Know the LORD,' because they will all know me, from the least of them to the greatest," declares the LORD. "For I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more."

"Lord, fill our hearts with love, gratitude and generosity. Make us to be faithful and zealous servants for you. May we generously pour out our lives in loving service for you and for others, just as you have so generously poured yourself out for us." Help us to remember that we live in
a world that is blessed with your continual care and concern, and in your debt we will always remain your faithful servants. . We pray now for those who need your healing touch ___________Please bring them confidence and strength to endure and bring mercy and healing to their lives, and ours as well. In Jesus name we pray AMEN."

Opening prayer

Father God we assemble here this evening to learn more about your Son Our Savior Jesus Christ. We have no capacity to learn of how he lived except we study the Bible, Your Sacred Word. We ask that you would impart to us that knowledge that you would have us know from this study. We know that throughout Jesus’ Ministry here on earth, he called on many persons for their help in his quest to spread the word of Salvation to all who would hear it. Make us worthy servants in your service Oh God that we too might be called Disciple, and live up to that calling. In Jesus name we pray Amen

The Closed Door

                                            Parables,23 The Closed Door                                              Pg.1                                    
Scripture:   Luke 13:22-30 He went on his way through towns and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. 23 And some one said to him, "Lord, will those who are saved be few?" And he said to them, 24 "Strive to enter by the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able. 25 When once the householder has risen up and shut the door, you will begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, `Lord, open to  us.' He will answer you, `I do not know where you come from.' 26 Then you will begin to say, `We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.' 27 But he will say, `I tell you, I do not know where you come from; depart from me, all you workers of iniquity!' 28 There you will weep and gnash your teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God and you yourselves thrust out. 29 And men will come from east and west, and from north and south, and sit at table in the kingdom of God. 30 And behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.          Read Matthew 7:13-14

The thing that prompted Jesus teaching with this parable was a simple question. “Will those who are saved be few”? A curious question from an individual who wanted to know the parameters of God’s salvation. Then instead of a quantifying number, Jesus gives an answer that gives us pause. Eleven phrases and all of them related to the Judgment of God. God is a merciful God, and Jesus has a sincere love for everyone regardless of our calling, But there is a limit to God’s mercy, and one day the door will shut. This is not to say that as a friend Jesus will cease to help us, Jesus will come to our aid, but we must seek him, call out to him, strive to live Godly lives. Have a heart for Godly ways, thoughts and deeds…. But as Jesus here teaches, God’s mercy has a cutoff date.
                                                                                                                                           
24 Strive to enter by the narrow door; for many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.
Q.1 From this parable it appears that getting into Heaven will be difficult, why is that so.?
Q.2 What in our recent studies best describes entering by the narrow door?
Q.3 What best describes one who will not be able to enter?

25 When once the householder has risen up and shut the door, you will begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, `Lord, open to  us.' He will answer you, `I do not know where you come from.'
Q.1 Who do you suppose Jesus meant as the householder?
Q.2 What is meant by the phrase “I do not know where you come from”?
Q.3 Read Luke 11:5-10*-
Q.4 What is different about this parable from the one in Luke 11:5-10?
Q.5 What is different about knowing who someone is, and actually knowing their heart?
 
26 Then you will begin to say, `We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.' 27 But he will say, `I tell you, I do not know where you come from; depart from me, all you workers of iniquity!'
Q.1 Why will there be those who know who Jesus is yet will be turned away?
Q.2 What would you say properly describes a worker of iniquity”?
Q.3 Again Jesus repeats the phrase “I do not know where you come from” Why does he
       emphasize that point?



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28 There you will weep and gnash your teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God and you yourselves thrust out.
Q.1 Reminds us of the rich man and Lazarus, Who was Jesus speaking to at this time?
Q.2 We thought we had it made, why will there be weeping and gnashing of teeth?
Q.3 When Jesus returns do you suppose there will be those that call on him in this fashion?
Q.4 The possibility of an appeal might cross the minds of those who are shut out. What is the likelihood of an appeal?

29 And men will come from east and west, and from north and south, and sit at table in the kingdom of God. 30 And behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.
Q.1 Do we have any idea what this verse means, What difference is first compared to last?
Q.2 Read first and last comment.
Q.3 What if anything is different about these comments than what you already knew?
Q.4 Read the conclusion.


Questions?
1.What is meant by” strive to enter by the narrow door? Is there another way? Do some believe there is another way?

2. Was this parable a surprise to the Jews? Why? Why did Jesus deliver this parable?

3. What did Jesus mean  “some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last?

4. Who are the workers of iniquity Jesus refers to?

5, Does being a church member entitle one to be invited into Gods Kingdom?

6. Does being a church member help us in this struggle? How?

Christianity is an exclusive religion. There is no salvation apart from Jesus. There is no forgiveness of sin apart from Jesus. There is no eternal life apart from Jesus. The path to salvation, the door of salvation, it is, in fact, narrow. In that regard, it is exclusive. There is no hope for sinners other than Jesus Christ. But Christianity is also the most inclusive. All are welcome to pass through the narrow door.
My exhortation, is this: Do not be too smart. Do not be too clever. Do not be too affluent. Do not be too busy. Do not be too critical. Do not be too moral. Do not be self-righteous and fail to recognize that you too are a sinner lacking in all things that Jesus brings to your aid. There is no peace for any who refuse Him, and no condemnation for any who take Him to heart and depend upon Him for eternity. We should make a desperate run for the strait way, and seek with all our heart the narrow door.



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Mattthew 7:13  "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14  But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

Psalms 112: 6-10 Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice. 6  Surely the righteous will never be shaken; they will be remembered forever. 7  They will have no fear of bad news; their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the LORD. 8  Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes. 9  They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor, their righteousness endures forever; their horn will be lifted high in honor. 10  The wicked will see and be vexed, they will gnash their teeth and waste away; the longings of the wicked will come to nothing.

Luke 11:5-10  Then Jesus said to them, "Suppose you have a friend, and you go to him at midnight and say, 'Friend, lend me three loaves of bread; 6  a friend of mine on a journey has come to me, and I have no food to offer him.' 7  And suppose the one inside answers, 'Don't bother me. The door is already locked, and my children and I are in bed. I can't get up and give you anything.' 8  I tell you, even though he will not get up and give you the bread because of friendship, yet because of your shameless audacity he will surely get up and give you as much as you need. 9  "So I say to you: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 10  For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.

First and last comment:  Our Savior came to guide men's consciences, not to gratify their curiosity. Ask not, How many shall be saved? But, Shall I be one of them? What shall I do, and what will become of me? Strive to enter in at the strait gate. Those that would enter in, must strive to enter. By knowledge of the strait way, don’t depend on good fortune. Here are awakening considerations, to enforce this exhortation. Oh that we may be all awakened by them! They answer the question, Are there few that shall be saved? But let none despond either as to themselves or others, for there are last who shall be first, and first who shall be last. If we reach heaven, we shall meet many there whom we little thought to meet, and miss many whom we expected to find.
Conclusion: Genuine repentance and faith toward Christ is the only avenue of escape from perishing. Nothing can be expected concerning barren and hypocritical lives except that they should be cut down and cast away. Not all who say “Lord, Lord” will find entrance to His kingdom, and to be bidden by Him that day to “depart” means hell. Those who would be saved must enter in at the strait gate, having undergone a change of heart.

"Lord, help us to always trust in your saving grace, especially when tempted and put to the test.  Help us to be faithful to you and give us the courage and strength to resist all temptation, especially temptation to compromise or to be indifferent to your word." And Lord, manifest it in our hearts, the desire to go on the strait way that leads to the narrow door and strengthen our belief, lead us there and keep us mindful of our need for Jesus, so that we do not come to  a closed door to eternity. We pray now for those of our acquaintance who need your healing touch___________Please bring them confidence and strength to endure and bring mercy and healing to their lives, and ours as well. In Jesus name we pray AMEN."


                                                                                                                                             Pg.4
"Meditation: Jesus' story about the door being shut to those who come too late suggests they had offended their host and deserved to be excluded. It was customary for teachers in Jesus' time to close the door on tardy students and not allow them back for a whole week in order to teach them a lesson in discipline and faithfulness.  Jesus told this story in response to the question of who will make it to heaven.  Jesus doesn't directly answer the question, however; but his response is nonetheless unsettling on two counts.  First,  Jesus surprised his listeners by saying that one's membership as a covenanted people does not automatically mean entry into the kingdom of God. Second, Jesus asserts that many from the gentile nations would enter God's kingdom. God's invitation is open to Jew and Gentile alike.  But Jesus warns that we can be excluded if we do not strive to enter by the narrow door.  I am the door; if any one enters by me, he will be saved (John 10:9).  Through the cross Jesus opens the way for us to enter into his kingdom.  But we must follow Jesus in the way of the cross.  The word strive can also be translated agony.  To enter the kingdom of God one must struggle against the forces of temptation and whatever would hinder us from doing the will of God (even apathy, indifference, and compromise).  The good news is that we do not struggle alone.  God is with us and his grace is sufficient!   As we strive side by side  for the faith of the gospel (Php 1:27  Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel…..Jesus assures us of complete victory!

The Pharisee And The Tax Collector

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   Parables, 26 The Pharisee and the Tax collector
Scripture: Luke 18:9-14 He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others: 10 "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, `God, I thank thee that I am not like other men, extortionists, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.' 13 But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, `God, be merciful to me a sinner!' 14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.

Why study this parable? Jesus says: "I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." He proclaims His purpose is to call sinners to repentance. Repentance, meaning, to turn away from sin. At this calling, sinners then make a choice. They either recognize that they're living in sin, and then begin to follow Jesus Christ in order to learn how to repent, and change from a sinful to a righteous lif,e or they choose to reject Jesus and his teaching.
 In this parable the Pharisee is righteous in his opinion of himself. He justifies his righteousness by his own standards, even in his prayers. He by doing this has also psychologically elevated himself above this tax collector, whom he has judged to be less righteous and holy than he. Yet here is this tax collector who has realized his sins cannot be erased by  any amount of righteous living. He has humbled himself before God and asks for mercy And he has not formed an impression of the Pharisee, whom he could have judged to be a self righteous hypocrite. He has described only his own self worth, and by his humbling himself before God, he has been justified.  

What impression did the Pharisees, scribes, teachers of the law, and Sadducees  have of Jesus?

Mar 2:15-17  While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. 16  When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: "Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?" 17  On hearing this, Jesus said to them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."

What impression did Jesus have of the Scribes and the Pharisees?

 Mat_23:23  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
Mat_23:25  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
Mat_23:27  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.
Mat_23:29  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous





                                                                                                                 Pg.2
10 "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.
Q.1 Why did Jesus make this distinction of a Pharisee, and a tax collector?
Q.2 Could Jesus have mentioned a Jew and a Samaritan?
Q.3 What is the basis for making such comparisons?

11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, `God, I thank thee that I am not like other men, extortionists, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.'
Q.1 It would appear that this Pharisee is not doing to bad, he avoids the immoral sins that he knows about, he tithes and he fasts twice a week, on a scale of 1 to 10 how would you rate his practicing his faith?
Q.2 Do you notice anything about him that would deserve Jesus’ criticism?
Q.3 In what way has he already given his position away?

13 But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, `God, be merciful to me a sinner!'
Q.1 Why would Jesus use the image of a tax collector for this comparison?
Q.2 Why was Jesus a friend to publicans and tax collectors?
Q.3 What is it about this tax collector that we recognize immediately?

14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but
Q.1 Who do you think might be a good example of humbling oneself ?
Q.2 What gives man the urge to exalt himself ?
Q.3 What does Jesus mean by the phrase  he who humbles himself will be exalted.?

More Questions
1. What is your opinion of people who have differing opinions than you of faith and religion?
2. Why do we seem to always have a first impression of those we meet for the first time?
3. Do we have “Pharisees” in society today? Where do we find them? Are they in our churches?
4. How did the Pharisee view himself as described by Jesus?
5. How did this publican view himself as described byJesus?
6. What was the result of their personal approach to God?
7. What did Jesus’ calling of Matthew ( a publican) show. And what did Matthew do about it?


Lord, may your love control our thoughts and actions that we may do what is pleasing to you. Show us where we lack charity, mercy, and forgiveness toward our neighbor.  And help us to be generous in giving to others what you have so generously given to us. We pray now for those of our acquaintance who need your healing touch___________Please bring them confidence and strength to endure and bring mercy and healing to their lives, and ours as well. In Jesus name we pray AMEN."



                                                             Meditation
Humble men, who abase themselves, are subject to God, and they shall be exalted. God has preferment in store for those that will take it as a favor, not for those that demand it as a debt. See how the punishment answers the sin: He that exalts himself shall be abased. He that humbles himself shall be exalted. See the power of God's grace in bringing good out of evil; the publican had been a great sinner, and out of the greatness of his sin was brought the greatness of his repentance. See, on the contrary, the power of Satan's malice in bringing evil out of good. It was good that the Pharisee was not immoral, nor unjust; but the devil made him proud of this, to his ruin.
What best describes the Pharisee?  That he trusted to himself that he was righteous. A great many good things he said of himself, which we will suppose to be true. He was free from gross and scandalous sins; he did not practice extortion, he was not a usurer, not oppressive to debtors or tenants, but fair and kind to all that had dependence upon him. He was not unjust in any of his dealings; he did no man any wrong; He was no adulterer, and lived a life of sanctification and honor.
Yet this was not all; he fasted twice in the week, as an act partly of habit and learning, and of devotion. The Pharisees and their disciples fasted twice a week, Monday and Thursday. Thus he glorified God with his body: yet that was not all; he gave tithes of all that he possessed, according to the law, and so glorified God with his worldly estate. Now all this was very well and commendable. Miserable is the condition of those who come short of the righteousness of this Pharisee: yet he was not accepted; And why was he not? (1.) His giving God thanks for this, though in itself a good thing, yet seems to be a mere formality. He does not say, By the grace of God I am what I am. He makes his boast of this, and dwells with delight upon this subject, as if all his business to the temple was to tell God Almighty how very good he was. He trusted to it as a righteousness, and not only mentioned it, but pleaded it, as if hereby he had merited at the hands of God, and made him his debtor. There is not one word of prayer in all he spoke. He went up to the temple to pray, but forgot his errand, was so full of himself and his own goodness that he thought he had need of nothing, no, not of the favour and grace of God, which, it would seem, he did not think worth asking.
He even then introduces to God, the miserable Tax Collector, It merely exposes that he despised others, and judged meanly of all mankind but himself: I thank thee that I am not as other men are. He speaks indefinitely, as if he were better than any. We may have reason to thank God that we are not as some men are, that are notoriously wicked and vile. But to speak at random as if we only were good, and all besides us were reprobates, is to judge by wholesale. Could not he just say his prayers? Or was this a part of his God, I thank thee? And was he as much pleased with the publican's badness as with his own goodness? There could not be a plainer evidence, not only of the want of humility and charity, but of reigning pride and malice, than this was.
We are to be very careful of our life motives, careful that we do not exalt our place or our duty. Just as Adam was to be the caretaker of all God had created, and just as Eve was formed to be Adam’s helpmate, errors in judgment were made, self gratification became more important than Gods Word.  Satan convinces man of his own way, and we exalt ourselves above what God has planned for us, and at great consequence we suffer. It is not to serve ourselves, but to serve others that we exist, and God takes note of that. We are consequently judged by our own actions words thoughts and deeds. So just as the tax collector humbled himself by his prayer, so are we to do the same, and as well, we are to uplift those in our midst who need such.

The Rich Man And Lazarus

Why study this parable;

The general design of the parable, is to expose the wickedness and unbelief of the Jews, and to illustrate to them the danger for their contempt and rejection of the Messiah, and to warn them to change their ways or suffer the judgment of almighty God; It is particularly the Pharisees who are needful of this parable, who being covetous, had derided Christ for what he had been teaching and promoting.  they rejected and despised what he said about their injustice, in their stewardship; the calling of them to account for it; and concerning the true use of worldly riches, and the contempt of them; They, the Pharisees, though high in the esteem of men, were an abomination to God, Luk_16:14.
They were lovers of money and those things that wealth could provide.
They were being self righteous and indignant at this man Jesus calling himself the Son of God and of man, and announcing that he was the only way to salvation. They hated Jesus because of his disrespecting their faith, their lifestyle and for calling them hypocrites.  They were looking for ways to destroy him.
And here this parable then strikes at the heart of their conceit. They cared nothing for the poor and were constantly searching for ways to enhance their own wealthy position in society, at the peril of anyone who got in their way while appearing to be faithful and righteous.  It behooves us to know the poor and the needy among us And to help them while we prosper. There will come a judgment, and it will be too late then to change our fate. We learn from this parable How God views our relationships. What our fate will be and why. This rich man had every opportunity, every day, to repent and change his ways, but his lifestyle had made him clueless.  We are to be mindful of the less fortunate among us, and we are every day, given the opportunity to make that a part of our lifestyle. It is for our salvation that Jesus came and our faith is that which will give us our answer. For the Jews, teachres of the law, Sadducees and Pharisees Jesus was a thorn in their side, and even though he had resurrected the dead and would continue to do so, they still would not listen to him nor heed his warnings. There is no going back and there is no other answer to our salvation but Jesus Christ                                                                                                                              
It is a known impossibility of compelling men to listen to a divine message to which they do not wish to have spoken to them.  Recognition of the divinity of Jesus and the work of the Holy Spirit do not strike a true chord in the hearts of some, no matter how many there are to hear it, nor how many times it is spoken to them.












                                                                                                                                     Pg.1                

The Rich Man and Lazarus

Scripture: Luke 16:19-31  "There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. 20 And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, full of sores, 21 who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man's table; moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. The rich man also died and was buried; 23 and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes, and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 And he called out, `Father Abraham, have mercy upon me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in anguish in this flame.' 25 But Abraham said, `Son, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. 26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.' 27 And he said, `Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father's house, 28 for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.' 29 But Abraham said, `They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.' 30 And he said, `No, father Abraham; but if some one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.' 31 He said to him, `If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced if some one should rise from the dead.


19 There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day.
Ezekiel 16:49  "'Now this was the sin of your sister Sodom: She and her daughters were arrogant, overfed and unconcerned; they did not help the poor and needy.
Q.1 In describing this man, Aside from being rich, what else is mentioned?
Q.2 What is it about his lifestyle that is so attractive ?
Q.3What impression is given by how we dress and what we eat?

20 And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, full of sores, 21 who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man's table; moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.
1Samuel 2:8  He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor. "For the foundations of the earth are the Lord’s; on them he has set the world.
Q.1 What is the discerning feature of the description of Lazarus?
Q.2 What further emphasis is given how he must have suffered?






                                                                                                                   Pg.2

22 The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's bosom. The rich man also died and was buried;
Psalms 91:11  For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all  
your ways; 12  they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
Q.1 Why do you think Jesus made a distinction in their deaths?
Q.2 Both men died, what is the obvious difference?
Q.3 What did “Abraham’s Bosom” mean to people of that day?

23 and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes, and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 And he called out, `Father Abraham, have mercy upon me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in anguish in this flame.'
Q.1 What mental picture do you get from vs. 23?
Q.2 And what is your thought about vs. 24, Is there a possibility of relief?
Psalms 9:17  The wicked go down to the realm of the dead, all the nations that forget God.
James 3:6  The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

25 But Abraham said, `Son, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish.
Q.1 What good things did this rich man receive?
Q.2 What is the inevitable consequence that this rich man now faces?
Q.3 What is meant by the poor beggar now being comforted?
Jas 2:13  because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

26 And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us.'
Q.1 What is the great chasm and why is it “fixed” between them?
Q.2 What is meant by the phrase “none may cross from there to us?
Q.3 Can we describe the immutable decree of God, which has unalterably fixed the state of the damned, and of the blessed:                
Rev 22:11  Let the one who does wrong continue to do wrong; let the vile person continue to be vile; let the one who does right continue to do right; and let the holy person continue to be holy."











                                                                                                                             Pg.3

27 And he said, `Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father's house, 28 for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment.'
Q.1 What significance is implied by the mention of his five brothers?
Q.2 Warn them how, by words, by reason, by example ?
Q.3 Why is this not possible?
Psa 49:12  People, despite their wealth, do not endure; they are like the beasts that perish.
Psa 49:13  This is the fate of those who trust in themselves, and of their followers, who approve their sayings.

29 But Abraham said, `They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.' 30 And he said, `No, father Abraham; but if some one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.'
Q.1 “They have Moses and the prophets” What meaning?
Q.2 “let them hear them” what is implied here?
Q.3 What desperate suggestion does the man propose?
      2Ti 3:15  and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
      2Ti 3:16  All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,
      2Ti 3:17  so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

31 He said to him, `If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced if some one should rise from the dead.
Q.1 Should we as a nation, reconsider our laws regarding God?
Q.2 There are those who don’t believe to this day, how does this parable apply to our world today?
Q.3 Do you see Jesus anywhere in this parable?
2Co 4:3  And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing.
2Co 4:4  The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.


Closing Prayer
"Lord Jesus, you are my joy and my treasure. Make me rich in the things of heaven and give me a generous heart  that I may freely share with others the eternity in Gods Heaven that is promised to all who will call on Your name. Help us to  follow you bearing our yoke in this world, as an example to others. And May we cause you great joy as we share with others, your love as we have seen it in Jesus, in whose name we do pray.  AMEN
                                               



                                                                 
                                                                                                                                      Pg.4

 Meditation: What sustains you when trials and affliction come your way and how do you treat others in their affliction? In this story Jesus paints a dramatic scene of contrasts – riches and poverty, heaven and hell, compassion and indifference, inclusion and exclusion. We also see an abrupt and dramatic reversal of fortune. Lazarus was not only poor, but sick and unable to lift himself. He was laid at the gates of the rich man’s house. The dogs which licked his sores probably also stole the little bread he got for himself. Dogs in the ancient world symbolized contempt. Enduring the torment of these savage dogs only added to the poor man’s miseries and sufferings. The rich man treated the beggar with contempt and indifference, until he found his fortunes reversed at the end of his life! In God's economy, those who hold on possessively to what they have, lose it all in the end, while those who share generously receive back many times more than they gave way. The name Lazarus means God is my help. Despite a life of misfortune and suffering, Lazarus did not lose hope in God. His eyes were set on a treasure stored up for him in heaven. The rich man, however, could not see beyond his material wealth and possessions. He not only had every thing he needed, he selfishly spent all he had on himself. He was too absorbed in what he possessed to notice the needs of those around him. He lost sight of God and  the treasure of heaven because he was preoccupied with seeking happiness in material things. He served wealth rather than God. In the end the rich man became a beggar! Do you know the joy and freedom of possessing God as your true and lasting treasure? Those who put their hope and security in heaven will not be disappointed (see Hebrews 6:19)?
































Questions?
1. What perception do you draw from the description of the rich man?
Does he “Have it made”? Does it seem to you that some people are that way?

2. Conversely there is Lazarus, describe his misery, what was it like?
Are there places where you might find people like Lazarus?

3. Lazarus died and was in Abraham’s bosom, what does that Imply?
Do you feel it means he is in Heaven? Is there more than one Heaven- see 2nd Cor. 12:2

4. The rich man died and descended to Hades, what does that imply?
      Isn’t it obvious that he was sent to hell ?

5. If you have a choice of final destinations, which would you choose?
Is it possible some would choose other than Heaven?

6. The rich man was in agony, why was that?
It should be obvious, do you believe it? Do you know anyone that doesn’t

7. The rich man, in hell saw Lazarus, and asked Abraham for a favor, send Lazarus to me. For what? Do you suppose he thought he could get relief?

8.            Abraham’s response was what?
Is what Abraham said an indication that it is not possible?

9.       The rich man made a second request, about his 5 brothers, what meaning is conveyed?
And what was the answer given him?

10.       The last statement is very descriptive can you explain?
Was there salvation from sin in the time of Moses?


11.       So there you have it, what is the end result?
It is as if there is no way out , do you agree?

12. There is the reference of one being raised from the dead what’s that about?
Luke 16:31,  Is that a reference to the return of Jesus?  Jesus has already come to earth two times, the first was by natural birth and Immaculate  Conception. The second was his having been raised from the dead, all documented. There will be one more , but some do not believe yet, that he is the Son of God, our salvation. Jesus is explaining here that there is a way, but there are those who choose to ignore it. And they do so at their peril

False Prophets

False Prophets                                                                                                                             Pg.1

Mat 7:16  Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17  Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18  A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19  Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20  Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

A  description of the intent of False Prophets, they do no good and it seems obvious to those who know God’s word that they are committing acts of chicanery and selfish intent. And since their acts are based on self gratification they cannot produce good results. But many people are attracted to them because they include in their false teaching some of the basic biblical truths. They preach the broad path and the wide gate philosophy. Get rich, get healed, get instant forgiveness without repentance, and send us a faith gift and we will pray for you. Does any of that seem familiar?
Even Satan has a good working knowledge of scripture, as did Jim Jones, David Koresh,  and many more who offer a feel good ministry, miracle cures a wealthy life, a pious life if properly funded.  They do not follow the strait and narrow. And their broad trail of lies and deceit attract many to enter through  the wide gate, and to their own destruction. (Jude 17&18)
 The best way to guard yourself against falsehood and false teachers is to know the truth. To spot a counterfeit, study the real thing. Any believer who “correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15)
 Satan masquerades as an angel of light, and his ministers masquerade as servants of righteousness (2 Corinthians 11:14 &15). Only by being thoroughly familiar with the truth will we be able to recognize a counterfeit.


Q.1 How does Jesus describe the differences that exist between the False Teacher, and the true disciple, doing God’s will?

Q.2 Why did Jesus use fruit trees as his teaching tool?

Q.3 What teaching tool would Jesus use today if he were warning us of False Teachers?

Q.4 What are some of the recognizable traits that follow “False  Teachers”?

Q.5 If they are recognizable by  those whom God has called, why are there so many?




                                                                                                                                                   



False Prophets                                                                                                                    Pg.2      

Mat 7:21  "Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.

Christ here shows that it will not be enough to call him Master, only in word and not so in deed. It is necessary to our salvation that we believe in Christ, that we repent of sin, that we live a holy life, that we love one another, and that we are committed to sharing our faith and our fortune. This is his will, and to this we must be committed. If not so, then we deceive ourselves.

 There are those, whose religion rests in hearing and in doing, but it is all in the interest of self promotion or self gratification, and it goes no further.  Their heads are filled with empty notions about how others perceive them. Such are the hypocrites.  They may even have convinced others to follow their path, But it is so, that “Only the one who does the will of my Father” will avoid eternal damnation. There will be none in heaven who do not love God with all their heart, all their soul, with all their mind, and with all their strength, and  their fellow man, and who are not willing to give their life for Jesus Christ.

Q.1 What about the rich young ruler, did he have the right answers?

Q.2 What could one do who believes as this rich man did?

Mat 7:22  Many will say to me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name and in your name drive out demons and in your name perform many miracles?'
Mat 7:23  Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'
So, on the Day of Judgment, known only by God. many will fail even though they will remind him that they were miracle workers, healers, preachers and prophets, Jesus will say “I never knew you evildoers”. What a disappointment to those, and there will be many of them who do not actually know Jesus in any way. They have heard of Him, they know him by his words and deeds, but have never become acquainted with him.

 Even though they did their work in his name. They were constant in their devotion (to themselves) Bringing fame and shame upon themselves by their actions. How good it is to be worshipped by men, how exhilarating, how self satisfying. And how deceitful Satan is to make us proud and boastful in doing so in Jesus’ name. Jesus does not know them, and they are many.

Q.1 How can they do all of that mentioned in Jesus’ name and not be known by Him?

Q.2 If Jesus does not know them, then who is it that does know them?

Q.2 I Know Elvis, I have been to his house, recommended his work, Spoke his name many times, even danced to his music, why does he not know me?


False Prophets                                                                                                                     Pg.3

Mat 7:24  "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.
Mat 7:25  The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.
Mat 7:26  But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand.
Mat 7:27  The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash."

Jesus makes it plain for those who are paying attention to his word, by presenting to them a parable,  comparing the building of a house. on a good solid foundation.  There is truth in God’s Word, it is trustworthy, and sound, it will weather the storms of life and one can rely on the providence of God even in the worst of conditions. God will sustain the believer who keeps the world in proper focus, and relies on their faith in God and the teachings of God to make their salvation real.
This comes by putting into practice, the lessons taught in God’s word and experiencing the Holy Spirits work in one’s life situations. I am sure that each of us can recall a time in our life, or a situation where we experienced one or more of the storms in life that happen to everyone at one time or another, when the Holy Spirit has been our advocate, and God’s teachings come into practice because we have relied on His promises, Standing on the promises of God. (Luke 11:28)

By comparison, using the same description of building a house on a poor foundation, not relying on God’s word to sustain us, and not putting the teaching of the Bible into practice in our lives, we are led to build our faith on some other perhaps even more attractive, and more tempting foundational belief. One which may be easier or more entertaining, or something with less commitment of our time, our talent, or resources. Other teachings, perhaps those that promote a feel good life style. Something that just doesn’t call for such an all consuming commitment. (1Co 3:18-19)

There are those beliefs that resemble what we are describing. L. Ron Hubbard’s Church of Scientology, or the cult of Jim Jones, or of David Koresh’s Branch Davidian cult. There are hundreds more, and all promise some reasonable desirable conditions that attract masses of people. They are built upon what the world requires of each of us, Our allegiance and support. It might amount to a structure, a house for our soul, but will it sustain us? It is a House built upon sand. There is no JesUS in any of them, There is just US.    (Romans; 12:2)
Q.1 Can you recall a life experience that compares to any of these descriptions?
Q.2 What is there about false prophets, and false religions that are so attractive to some people?                                                                                                                              


Bible Verses                                                                                                                      Pg.4
 (Jude 17&18) But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ.18 They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.”

2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth

2Co 11:14 &15 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15  It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.

1Co 3:18-19  Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you think you are wise by the standards of this age, you should become "fools" so that you may become wise. 19  For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God's sight. As it is written: "He catches the wise in their craftiness"

Luke 11:28  He replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it."

Romans 12:2  Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is--his good, pleasing and perfect will.

                                                                    Closing Prayer
Father God, close our study tonight and make a blessing for each one here. Be with  each of us as we leave this place and guide us safely to our homes. We  pray for  those of our concern who need your healing touch. (prayer requests)
Make a blessing especially for each of those mentioned, and bring them strength and comfort in the knowledge that they are yours and you love them. Bless them with your healing, and glorify your presence in all of our lives. In Jesus’ name we Pray Amen

Enter at the Strait Gate

                                                                Pg.1

Opening prayer
Father God, we pray that you will make your presence known to us through your word tonight as we study Jesus teaching through the Sermon on the Mount. Lead us in this study as we seek to understand those truths about our present world which would lead us on the narrow way to reach our salvation. We ask your blessing now for all those in our study who need your healing touch, and  our own loved ones, and those who cannot be present with us tonight. We pray this in Jesus name.  Amen                                            
                                                    The King James Version
Mat 7:13  Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
Mat 7:14  Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
These two verses present a picture of a narrow entrance or gate to a place. In this case the place is our salvation, the entry to which is very strait, requiring precise knowledge in order to successfully pass through it. (2Co 10:5)
One cannot carry through this gate the sin nature, or the worldly ways of mankind’s failures, the carnal and fleshly desires of this world, the self serving and greedy hypocritical high places where man has placed his worth as measured by the worlds standards.
But it is the wide gate which will more than accommodate passage with our load of sin and ungodliness. And it is full to the point of overflow with those who choose that wide worldly way. And one can bring in all that our greed pleases. The evil, the pride, arrogance, and desires of this world. Nothing is forbidden. And broad is the road that leads us to that inviting wide gate. A wide and smooth pathway inviting all who will follow it to the wide and worldly gate to destruction. (Pro 13:15)
Jesus is telling us that this strait narrow gate is very discriminating as to what can pass through it. Even the road to it is narrow, signaling a need for ridding oneself of this worlds ways. But there is passage through it, available to all who have knowledge of the way. And this knowledge is not hidden nor mysterious, but is open to all who ask, all who seek, all who knock at Christ’s door.  (Mat 7:7-8)

Q.1 What meaning is conveyed by the use of the words “wide” and “broad” in vs. 13?

Q.2 What meaning is conveyed by the use of the words “small” and “narrow” in vs. 14?

Q.3 There is more than just the message of salvation in these two verses, What are   some of the other messages?

Q.4 what is so significant about the phrase “many enter through it”?

Q.5 And conversely what is the significance of the phrase “only a few find it”?






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Mat 7:15  Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

 “False prophets”, those who profess to have knowledge of the way we should go, the proper way to lead our life, the proper god to worship the proper word to which we devote our study.
 Those “Who come to us in sheep’s clothing”. Presenting to us a misrepresentation of God’s will for our life.  Many of them in Jesus’ day were well known, even in high places  (Acts 13:6 –7)
Even today there are well known, well respected, seemingly well intentioned people who try to convince us that they have our best interests at heart, when they really are simply promoting themselves. What better way to execute a lie than to include in it such truths as are given to us in the Word of God. (2Corinthians 11:12)
We are warned to beware of such persons, to avoid contact with them.  Jesus calls them “ferocious wolves”, or “ravenous wolves”, (Ezekiel 22: 27)Jesus is very vividly describing the dangers to our faith, Those dangers which are ever-present, of which we are to be aware and must avoid. (2Ti 2:16)

Q.1 One of the greatest missionary fields in the world today is the United States, does that statement seem true or false to you?

Q.2 What is it about any religion that attracts  false teachers?

Q.3 Why do Christians of today consider some of our modern day religions false?

Q.4John 1:5 "And the Light (which is Jesus, the true, narrow Way, the Truth, and the Life), shineth in the Darkness; and the darkness comprehended  it not. – What in this statement  reveals the truth about false prophets and teachers?

Q.5 Do we have questions about these verses that present us with words which basically have the same meaning, but can be misunderstood?

Q.6 Even in Jesus day, at times when he was teaching, he used phrases and words which everyone did not understand. Why did he do that?  (Mat 13:11-13)









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Mat 7:16  Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17  Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18  A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. 19  Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. 20  Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

A  description of the intent of False Prophets, they do no good and it seems obvious to those who know God’s word that they are committing acts of chicanery and selfish intent. And since their acts are based on self gratification they cannot produce good results. But many people are attracted to them because they include in their false teaching some of the basic biblical truths. They preach the broad path and the wide gate philosophy. Get rich, get healed, get instant forgiveness without repentance, and send us a faith gift and we will pray for you. Does any of that seem familiar?
Even Satan has a good working knowledge of scripture, as did Jim Jones, David Koresh, Benny Hinn, and many more who offer a feel good ministry, miracle cures a wealthy life, a pious life if properly funded.  They do not follow the strait and narrow. And their broad trail of lies and deceit attract many to enter through  the wide gate, and to their own destruction. (Jude 17&18)
 The best way to guard yourself against falsehood and false teachers is to know the truth. To spot a counterfeit, study the real thing. Any believer who “correctly handles the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15)
 Satan masquerades as an angel of light, and his ministers masquerade as servants of righteousness (2 Corinthians 11:14 &15). Only by being thoroughly familiar with the truth will we be able to recognize a counterfeit.


Q.1 How does Jesus describe the differences that exist between the False Teacher, and the true disciple, doing God’s will?

Q.2 Why did Jesus use fruit trees as his teaching tool?

Q.3 What teaching tool would Jesus use today if he were warning us of False Teachers?

Q.4 What are some of the recognizable traits that follow “False  Teachers”?

Q.5 If they are recognizable by  those whom God has called, why are there so many?




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Bible Verses
2Corinthians 10:5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ;
Proverbs 13:15  Good judgment wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful leads to their destruction.
Mat 7:7-8  "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.  For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened
Act 13:6  They traveled through the whole island until they came to Paphos. There they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus, 7  who was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, an intelligent man, sent for Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God.
2Co 11:12  And I will keep on doing what I am doing in order to cut the ground from under those who want an opportunity to be considered equal with us in the things they boast about. 13  For such people are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14  And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.
Ezekiel 22:27  Her princes in the midst thereof are like wolves ravening the prey, to shed blood, and to destroy souls, that they may get dishonest gain.
2Ti 2:16  Avoid godless chatter, because those who indulge in it will become more and more ungodly. 17  Their teaching will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, 18  who have departed from the truth. They say that the resurrection has already taken place, and they destroy the faith of some.
Mat 13:11-16 He replied, "Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. 12  Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them.
(Jude 17&18) But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ.18 They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.”
2 Timothy 2:15 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth
2Co 11:14 &15 And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15  It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve.

                                                                    Closing Prayer
Father God, close our study tonight and make a blessing for each one here. Be with  each of us as we leave this place and guide us safely to our homes. We  pray for  those of our concern who need your healing touch. (prayer requests)
Make a blessing especially for each of those mentioned, and bring them strength and comfort in the knowledge that they are yours and you love them. Bless them with your healing, and glorify your presence in all of our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray Amen

God Seeks The Best in Us

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Opening Prayer
Father God  we gather tonight to study Jesus words from the Sermon on The Mount. We ask that you impart to us that which you would have us learn from tonight’s study. We pray for your blessings on each one here, and that you share our blessing with those of our group who cannot be here tonight. Favor each of us with your presence tonight and throughout the coming week as we seek  to find your will in all that we do.
In Jesus name we pray Amen.

Matthew7:9  "Which of you, if your son asks for bread, will give him a stone? 10  Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? 11  If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!

It is all there, just as for Adam and Eve, it was all there. We simply must obey the just and righteous laws that God has set forth for our well being. If we disobey those laws grave consequences are our reward. If Adam and Eve had just known what disobeying God really meant, Do we think they would have taken a bite from the apple. God meant the best for them, as he does for us. Just as a parents want nothing but the best for their children, God wants to give to us those things that he has reserved for us. Just as paradise was there for Adam and Eve, God has plans for each of us, plans made even before time began.  Jeremiah 29:11-13
 Sometimes, however, it may seem as if the Lord has given us “stones” instead of “bread.” But in His wisdom, He actually is working through our circumstances to give us something far better than what we requested. An unknown author expressed it this way:

I asked for health that I might do greater things; I was given infirmity that I might do better things. I asked God for strength that I might achieve;  I was made weak that I might learn to obey. I asked for riches that I might be happy; I was given poverty that I might be wise. I asked for power and the praise of men; I was given weakness to sense my need of God. I asked for all things that I might enjoy life; I was given life that I might enjoy all things. I got nothing I asked for but everything I hoped for; In spite of myself, my prayers were answered—I am among all men most richly blessed.
Yes, God always gives us what’s best for us.

Q.1 As we study these three verses, do we understand what is needed by the person asking of God?
Q.2 What is there to be found when seeking council with God?

Q.3 The steps to our salvation are this, Ask Jesus into your heart, your life,
Seek his way in all things, Knock at his door for all your needs minute by minute He is there for you, and like a parent provides for their children, God wants the best for us. What are those things that lead us to first ask?

Q.4 We need many things in this life in order to make our way day by day, and by my observance we have been afforded those things. We are blessed by God in his having given us all the best of life’s gifts. What song comes to mind?
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Mat 7:12  So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
The theme of vs. 12 is that of equity and justice, which must regulate us in our dealings with one another. Its brevity evidences the Divine wisdom of God in Jesus. Who else could have condensed so much into so few words? With the Jews of that day,  it was a negative; they said, if there is anything that you do not like, that is very hateful to you, do not do that to another. Jesus Christ deals with the same application of that law and makes a positive “Golden Rule” of it.
The manner in which this rule is enforced manifests the fundamental unity of the two economies. Analyzing this one verse we find it contains three things.
First, a conclusion drawn from the context. "therefore." Second, a commandment which presents to us a standard of complete unselfishness: "whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them." Third, a commendation of that standard: "for this is the law and the prophets
This rule, like all the Divine precepts, is spiritual, and concerns the inward man as well as the outward: bearing upon our thoughts as well as our words and actions. The whole Law of God is spiritual (Rom. 7:14). "The law of the Lord is perfect. (Ps. 19:7-8): it is a guide not only for the motions of the body, but also for the intents and workings of the heart. As is the first table, so is the second: "the second is like unto it" (Matthew 22:39-40). How so? It is as spiritual as the first, and therefore not only what I "do" but also what I think and purpose to do unto others is comprehended in it.
 What is there more that man can ask of one another, but to love God, and keep his commandments?

Q.1 How does this verse twelve compare with the present state of our world?

Q.5 Do, you recognize this phrase? “Do unto others before they do unto you”. Explain.

Q.4 Who in America are those most aware of that  version of the rule?

Q.2 What would need to happen world wide , to make this verse twelve more relevant?

Q.3 What are your feelings about this verse as it applies to America?

Q.6 Can you cite some examples of this “Golden Rule”  in action?












Bible Verses                                                                                     Pg3


Jeremiah 29:11-13  For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12  Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13  You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

Romans 7:14-15  We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. 15  I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do

Psalms 19:7-8  The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. 8  The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes. Closing Prayer

Mat 22:39-40  And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' 40  All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."


God of our salvation, we thank you for our time together tonight. We ask that you continue with us as we leave this place, make a blessing for each one here and deliver us safely to our homes. Be with those of us who need our prayers and Your healing touch_(prayer requests)_ And now we ask that You bless each one mentioned here tonight with Your comfort and assurance, and offer them the strength to endure so that Your name may be exalted. We pray for our loved ones and families….. may it please You to keep us from all harm and bring us together again when next we assemble in Your name.
In the name of Jesus we pray, Amen