INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. Peter and John before the High Priest
2. Prophet Jeremiah before the People
3. Paul before the False Prophets
Introductory Remarks.
1. Today's lesson will discuss the theme: “We cannot but speak.” This lesson deals with the challenges of the men of God who speak God's word in truth. We will see how neither threatenings, beatings, imprisonment, or the face of death could silence them. There will be times we will be called upon to speak unto both those desirous to hear our message and before those that would rebel against: “Thus saith the Lord.” The Lord has not given us: “The spirit of fear; but of power, and love, and of a sound mind,” 2 Timothy 1:7. It is this spirit that empowers us to be “bold, fearless preachers” because the Lord has sent us to speak His word with confidence and without fear.
2. First, we will consider the preaching of Peter and John before the High Priest and elders of the Sanhedrin council. Peter and John had just performed a notable miracle by healing the lame man from birth before the Temple of God. For this miracle and preaching of Jesus of Nazareth, they were brought before the Jewish council after being charged not to speak anymore in this name. Peter and John answered: “And said unto them, whether it (is) 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,” Acts 4:19-20.
3. Second, let's reflect on the preaching of Jeremiah before the people of Israel. He prophesied during a time of great trial and punishment, Jehovah would bring upon His people for their sin of idolatry and rebellion toward His commandments. This was not an easy task for the prophet. He faced persecution and threatening looks, and his life as a prophet of the Lord was filled with terror. Yet, his commitment to the word of the Lord was unwavering. After wrestling with his fear and their threats, Jeremiah declared: “I will not mention him nor speak anymore in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay (remain silent),” Jeremiah 20:9.
4. Lastly, we will investigate the stand of the apostle Paul against false prophets and brethren among the churches. Like some ministers' credentials today, false brethren and preachers constantly challenged Paul's apostleship in Christ. I lump them both in the same condemnation, for God shall judge all men alike. We are not called by the Lord to present soothing words to the church or the community of disbelievers but to speak the truth in love, regardless of how it might be received. Paul said: “For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me if I preach not the gospel! For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me,” 1 Corinthians 9:16-17. With this introduction, let’s consider our first point: “Peter and John before the High Priest.”
BODY OF LESSON
I PETER AND JOHN BEFORE THE HIGH PRIEST
A. A miracle at prayer time. Indeed, a notable miracle had just been witnessed, the healing of a man that was crippled from his mother’s womb. While Peter and John were entering the Temple called Beautiful, he was begging for alms from the people. Peter looked upon the man and said: “Silver and gold I have not, but that which I have I give thee. Peter lifted him by the right hand, and his feet and ankle bones immediately received strength.” Notice:
1. The response: “And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.”
2. The witnesses: “And all the people saw him walking and praising God: And they knew that he sat for alms at the temple gate, called Beautiful.”
3. The effect: “And they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened unto him. And as the lame man who was healed held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto them in the porch called Solomon's, greatly wondering,” Acts 3:1-11.
a. Luke states that the people came together with amazement unto Peter, filled with excitement and joy. Indeed, something spectacular has happened in this city today; “the lame man has been healed!”
b. The people said of Jesus’ healing of a man with palsy: “And he went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion,” Mark 2:12. We have never seen anything like this before! Some of us might say: “This blows my mind!”
B. Peter’s preaching. This miracle prompted the preaching of Peter, who gave the glory of this miracle unto Jesus: “And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? Or, why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our power or holiness we had made this man walk?” See Acts 3:12. Don’t look at us as the ones doing these things! Notice:
1. This is the work of God. Peter continues: “The God of Abraham, and Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his Son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go. But ye denied the Holy One and the Just, and desired a murderer to be granted unto you; and killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; of which we are witnesses,” Acts 3:13-15. The audience appears to have changed, but the message remains the same (Jesus Christ and Him crucified!).
2. The name of Jesus: “And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all,” Acts 3:16.
3. The message: “And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers. But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled,” Acts 3:17-18.
4. The appeal: “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord,” Acts 3:19. These listeners were instructed to “repent and be converted.”
How similar is this instruction to that on the Day of Pentecost:
a. Repent and be baptized: “for the remission of sins,” Acts 2:38.
b. Repent and be converted: “that your sins may be blotted out,” Acts 3:19. The word “blotted out” in Gr. is exaleípho, which means (to obliterate, erase): -blot out, wipe away, to pardon sins.
Notice again:
c. Repentance to Israel, and “the forgiveness of sins,” Acts 5:31-32; Ezekiel 18:30.
d. These events, times, and blessings agreed with:
1) The promise of God unto the fathers regarding Moses’ prophet.
2) The promise of God unto the fathers regarding Abraham’s seed.
5. The promise of Moses. Peter says: “And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: Whom the heaven must receive until the restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began. For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise unto you of your brethren, like unto me; he shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people,” Acts 3:20-23; Deuteronomy 18:17-19.
6. The promise of Abraham. Peter continues: “Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold these days. Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. Unto you first God, having raised his Son, Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities,” Acts 3:24-26; Genesis 12:3; Genesis 18:18. Notice:
a. The word iniquities in Gr. is ponería, which means depravity, i.e., malice; sins: —iniquity, or wickedness.
b. God’s promise to Abraham was: “The forgiveness of sins to Israel and all the kindreds of the earth” through his seed, Jesus Christ. The promise of Abraham is not earthly wealth as most TV/radio prosperity preachers proclaim, but about “spiritual health” in the form of the “forgiveness of sins.”
1) Peter said to the beggar: “Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have, I give (unto) thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise and walk,” Acts 3:6.
2) Jesus said to his followers: “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not (a place) where to lay his head,” Luke 9:58.
c. Christ is Abraham’s seed, sent by God to “turn everyone from their sins,” first to the children of Israel and ultimately to the entire Gentile nations.
d. Paul and Barnabas: “The Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, it was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth. And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed,” Acts 13:46-48.
C. Peter preaching before the council. Notice: “As they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them, being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead,” Acts 4:1-2.
1. Their arrest for preaching: “And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide,” Acts 4:3.
2. The results of their preaching: “Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand,” Acts 4:4; Acts 6:7.
3. Their appearance before the council: “And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes, And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, by what power or name, have ye done this?” See Acts 4:5-7.
4. Peter and John’s defense: “Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel if we this day are examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole?” Notice Peter’s answer to his question:
a. The name of Jesus: “Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man (stand) here before you whole.”
b. The stone rejected: “This is the stone which was set at naught of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.”
c. Salvation in His name: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none another name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved,” Acts 4:8-12. Peter announces that this man was healed by power in the name of Jesus, and through His name, salvation is possible.
D. Peter and John’s boldness. Notice: “Now when they (the council) saw the boldness of Peter and John and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled, and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. And behold the healed man standing with them; they could say nothing against it,” Acts 4:13-14. There is nothing more potent than a healed witness. Let’s consider the council’s response to Peter and John’s witness of Jesus Christ and the man standing before them whole. They said:
1. What shall we do with these men? “But when they had commanded them to leave the council, they conferred among themselves, Saying, What shall we do to these men?”
2. A notable miracle was done: “For that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwells in Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it.”
3. Council’s decision: “But that it spread no further among the people, let us straightly threaten them that they speak henceforth to no man in this name. And they called them and commanded them not to speak at all, nor teach (anymore) in the name of Jesus,” Acts 4:13-18.
E. Peter and John’s commitment. Hear their response: “But Peter and John answered and said unto them, whether it (is) right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge (you). For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard,” Acts 4:19-20; John 3:11. Notice:
1. First, “So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done.”
2. Further, “For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.”
3. Next, “And being let go, they went to their own company and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them,” Acts 4:21-23.
a. A prayer for spiritual support and empowerment, Acts 4:24-33.
b. Peter and John continued the work of miracles, Acts 5:12-13.
c. Success in their work, Acts 5:14-16.
d. The high priest indignation, Acts 5:17.
e. Their second arrest and miraculous release, Acts 5:18-20.
4. Finally, the council reassembles. Notice: “And when they heard that, they entered the temple early in the morning and taught. But the high priest came, and they were with them, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel sent them to the prison to have them brought. But when the officers came and found them not in the prison, they returned and told. Saying, the prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had open, we found no man within,” Acts 5:21-23. The Lord had divinely delivered these men from prison. Their work is not yet completed.
a. Their preaching again in the temple, Acts 5:24-25.
b. Their second appearance before the council, Acts 5:26-28.
c. Peter and the other apostles’ persistence: “Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, we ought to obey God rather than men,” Acts 5:29.
d. Peter’s sermon before the council, Acts 5:30-33.
e. Gamaliel, a doctor of the law’s warning: “Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded them to put the apostles forth a little space; and said unto them, Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men... And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or work (is) of men, it shall come to naught: But if it (is) of God, we cannot overthrow it; lest haply we (are) found even to fight against God,” Acts 5:34-39. Words and Parentheses: These are my insertions in the text to add clarity - REF.
f. Council’s second threatening and release of the apostles, Acts 5:40.
5. The apostles’ release and rejoicing: “And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. And daily in the temple, and every house, they cease not to teach and to preach Jesus Christ,” Acts 5:42; Acts 2:42-47.
6. Conclusion: When our ministry becomes challenging, what will be our stand regarding the work of the Lord? I trust we will bear forward and remain faithful to our calling and election. Let our work and commitment be likened unto Peter and John: “We cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” Our next point is “Prophet Jeremiah before the people.”
II PROPHET JEREMIAH BEFORE THE PEOPLE
A. The prophet’s call. Jeremiah writes: “Then the word of the LORD came unto me, saying:”
1. The Lord’s revelation: “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee, and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.” Notice:
a. I have formed thee.
b. I knew thee – before thou camest forth out of the womb.
c. I sanctified thee.
d. I ordained thee – a prophet unto the nations.
2. Jeremiah’s excuse: “Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, I cannot speak, for I am a child.” Sounds a little like Moses:
a. Moses response to Jehovah: “And Moses said unto the Lord, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither theretofore: ... but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue,” Exodus 4:10. Notice:
1) Stephen spoke of Moses’ skills in learning, words, and deeds during his message of rebuke unto the Jews moments before being stoned to death.
2) He said: “And Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and deeds,” Acts 7:22. Fear will make us speak such words until we remember the Lord is with us. God continues with Moses.
b. Jehovah’s rebuke: “And the LORD said unto him, who hath made man's mouth? Or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? Have not I the LORD? Therefore, go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say,” Exodus 4:11-12.
c. Moses’ excuse: “And he said, O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of him whom thou wilt send,” Exodus 4:13.
d. Anger of the Lord: “And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Moses, and he said, is not Aaron the Levite thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart. And thou shalt speak unto him, and put words in his mouth:”
1) “And I will be with thy mouth and his mouth.”
2) “And (I) will teach you what ye shall do.”
3) “And he shall be thy spokesman unto the people: and he shall be, even he shall be to thee instead of a mouth.”
4) “And thou shalt be to him instead of God,” Exodus 4:14-16.
3. The Lord’s charge and assurance to Jeremiah: “But the LORD said unto me, Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid of their faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the LORD,” Jeremiah 1:4-8. Note:
a. Be not afraid of their faces.
b. I am with thee to deliver thee.
c. What a great assurance and comfort from God.
B. Jeremiah’s work of prophecy. Jehovah outlines his work: “Then the LORD put forth his hand, and touched my mouth. And the LORD said unto me:”
1. Jeremiah’s work: “Behold, I have put my words in thy mouth. See, I have this day set thee over the nations and the kingdoms to root out, pull down, destroy, throw down, build, and plant.”
2. Jeremiah’s preparation: “Thou therefore gird up thy loins, and arise, and speak unto them all that I command thee: be not dismayed at their faces, lest I confound thee before them. For, behold, I have made thee this day a defended city, an iron pillar, and brazen walls against the whole land, against the kings of Judah, against the princes thereof, against the priests thereof, and the people of the land.” Illustrate The Whole Armor of God, Ephesians 6:10-17.
3. Jehovah’s promise: “And they shall fight against thee, but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee, saith the LORD, to deliver thee,” Jeremiah 1:9-19. This is Jehovah’s promise to all His prophets and leaders. Notice:
a. Promise to Moses: “And he said, certainly I will be with thee, and this shall be a token unto thee, that I have sent thee: When thou hast brought forth the people out of Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this mountain,” Exodus 3:12.
b. Promise to Joshua: “There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. No man shall be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee,” Joshua 1:5-6.
c. Promise to Paul: “Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have many people in this city,” Acts 18:9-10.
d. Promise to his disciples, Matthew 28:19-20; Hebrews 13:5.
C. His prophecy. Notice: “Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is a good way and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said we will not walk therein,” Jeremiah 6:16.
1. Jeremiah was sent unto a rebellious people:
a. The people’s rebellious: “But this people hath a revolting and a rebellious heart; they are revolted and gone,” Jeremiah 5:23.
b. Its leadership also was corrupt: “A wonderful and horrible thing is committed in the land; the prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do at the end thereof?” See Jeremiah 5:30-31.
2. Isaiah also prophesied Israel’s rebellion: “That this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the law of the LORD: Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits: Get you out of the way, turn aside out of the path, cause the Holy One of Israel to cease from before us,” Isaiah 30:9-11. They were so corrupt that they did not want God in their presence.
3. Ezekiel also prophesied to the nation. While prophesying unto the children of Israel in Babylonian captivity, Ezekiel received a word from the Lord. He wrote: “And the word of the LORD came unto me, saying: Son of man, say unto her, Thou art the land that is not cleansed, nor rained upon in the day of indignation. There is a conspiracy of her prophets in the midst thereof, like a roaring lion ravening the prey; they have devoured souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; they have made her many widows in the midst thereof.” Jehovah continues:
a. First, “Her priests have violated my law, and have profaned mine holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they shewed difference between the unclean and the clean and have hidden their eyes from my Sabbaths, and I am profaned among them.”
b. Further, “Her princes in the midst thereof are like wolves ravening the prey, to shed blood, and to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain.”
c. Next, “And her prophets have daubed them with untempered mortar, seeing vanity, and divining lies unto them, saying, Thus saith the Lord GOD, when the LORD hath not spoken.”
d. Additionally, “The people of the land have used oppression, and exercised robbery, and have vexed the poor and needy: yea, they have oppressed the stranger wrongfully.”
e. Finally, “And I sought for a man among them that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none. Therefore, have I poured out mine indignation upon them; I have consumed them with the fire of my wrath: their way have I recompensed upon their heads, saith the Lord GOD,” Ezekiel 22:24-31.
D. The commitment of Jeremiah. Notice: “Then I said, I will not mention him, nor speak anymore in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay,” Jeremiah 20:9. Jeremiah was pressed to speak out, and he could no longer hold his peace regarding the word of the Lord. This was the position of other prophets. Notice:
1. David: “I said, I will take heed to my ways that I sin not with my tongues: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me. I was dumb with silence; I held my peace, even from good, and my sorrow was stirred. My heart was hot, while I was musing (murmuring; whispering) the fire burned: then spake I with my tongue,” Psalms 39:1-3.
2. Job: “For I am full of matter, the spirit within me constraineth me. Behold, my belly is like wine that hath no vent; it is ready to burst like new bottles. I will speak, that I may be refreshed: I will open my lips and answer,” Job 32:18-20.
3. Ezekiel: “So the spirit lifted me, and took me away, and I went in bitterness, in the heat of my spirit; but the hand of the LORD was strong upon me,” Ezekiel 3:14. We will notice later the evils of remaining silent; when the Lord has sent us to speak His word with integrity and in truth.
4. Conclusion: The prophets and servants of God had a burning desire to speak the word of the Lord with boldness. Their courage should remind us of the courage of the apostle Paul’s preaching. Notice:
a. Paul writes: “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,” 2 Corinthians 4:1-2.
b. The men of God must stand up; speak the word of the Lord with boldness and courage, as did others! Paul’s charge to the Corinthians, 1 Corinthians 16:13.
c. If we fail to speak His word to warn the people, Jehovah said: “Their blood will be required of thee,” Ezekiel 3:17-21.
ILLUSTRATION: Paul’s words to the elders of Ephesus, Acts 20:26-27. I have declared unto you the “whole counsel of God.” It will be then: “You are free from the blood of all men.”
E. The judgment of God. God’s judgment came upon the people in Judah, Jerusalem, and Egypt. Jeremiah writes: “Therefore thus saith the LORD; Ye have not hearkened unto me, in proclaiming liberty, everyone to his brother, and every man to his neighbor: behold, I proclaim a liberty for you, saith the LORD, to the sword, to the pestilence, and the famine; and I will make you to be removed into all the kingdoms of the earth.” Notice:
1. First, “And I will give the men that have transgressed my covenant, which has not performed the words of the covenant which they had made before me when they cut the calf in twain and passed between the parts thereof.”
2. Further, “The princes of Judah, and the princes of Jerusalem, the eunuchs, the priests, and all the people of the land, which passed between the parts of the calf.”
3. Next, “I will even give them into the hand of their enemies, and into the hand of them that seek their life: and their dead bodies shall be for meat unto the fowls of the heaven, and to the beasts of the earth.”
4. Finally, “And Zedekiah (the) king of Judah and his princes, will I give into the hand of their enemies and into the hand of them that seek their life, and into the hand of the king of Babylon's army, which is gone up from you. Behold, I will command, saith the LORD, and cause them to return to this city; and they shall fight against it, and take it, and burn it with fire: and I will make the cities of Judah desolation without an inhabitant,” Jeremiah 34:17-20.
a. All these things were fulfilled in 597 BCE by the King of Babylon.
b. A remnant was allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild in 520 BCE by the King of Persia. Reference: Wikipedia, “Babylonian Captivity.” Let’s not consider our last point: “Paul before the false prophets.”
III PAUL BEFORE THE FALSE PROPHETS
A. The apostle’s call. He writes: “Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead.) ...But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me by his grace. To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I confer not with flesh and blood: Neither went I up to Jerusalem ... but into Arabia and Damascus,” Galatians 1:1; Galatians 1:15-16; Romans 1:1-5.
1. Saul was called to be an apostle from his mother’s womb but placed into this office after the persecution of Stephens and his confrontation with the Lord, “on the Damascus’ highway,” Acts 9:1-9; Galatians 1:1; Ephesians 1:1.
2. Ananias’ call by the Lord to minister unto Saul, Acts 9:10-16.
3. Saul’s conversion and commission as an apostle, Acts 9:17-19.
4. Paul speaks of his apostleship. To Timothy, he wrote: “According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust. And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant with faith and love, which is in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief,” 1 Timothy 1:11-15.
5. Conclusion: Saul, although once a blasphemer, persecutor, and injurious person, was called by God to be an apostle of Christ “when it pleased God.” Notice:
a. He was trained in the Law under the capable feet of Gamaliel, a doctor of the Law. He was a Pharisee of Pharisees, and as touching the righteousness in the Law, he claimed to be blameless, Acts 22:3; Philippians 3:5-6.
b. As we have already noticed, the 12 apostles were unlearned men, declared “ignorant and unlearned” by the Sanhedrin Council, Acts 4:13.
c. Saul, on the other hand, was an educated and very learned man. God appointed him to be: “the apostle to the uncircumcision; as Peter was the apostle to the circumcision,” Galatians 2:6-10.
d. This difference (not being numbered with the 12) would plague Paul throughout his apostolic ministry for Christ. False apostles, prophets, and brethren would consistently accuse him of not being an apostle. He had to defend his apostleship everywhere he went and preached Christ.
B. His apostleship. Paul’s apostleship was constantly challenged, just like false brethren, preachers, and religious institutions often challenged our brothers’ credentials. I pray God shall judge all such unbelievers for thwarting the work of Christ. Brethren,
1. You have been called by the Lord not to preach soothing words to the church or the community of unbelievers but to preach the truth regardless of how both groups might receive it. We must present: “The truth of Christ in love,” Ephesians 4:17.
2. Too many preachers are just tickling the church's ears. Notice:
a. First, “Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve, not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple,” Romans 16:17-18.
b. Further, “There shall be teachers having itching ears, they shall turn away your ears from the truth,” 2 Timothy 4:1-5.
c. Next, “The things ye have heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men,” 2 Timothy 2:2.
d. Finally, “Hold fast the faithful word, as you have been taught,” Titus 1:9-11.
e. Conclusion: This must also be our message to all the brethren. Hold fast the faithful word, and commit them to faithful men so they can teach others also – the “sound” or “healthy” teaching, 1 Timothy 1:3; 2 Timothy 1:13-14.
C. His commitment. Paul wrote: “For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me if I preach not the gospel! For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me,” 1 Corinthians 9:16-17.
1. First, “Woe is unto me if I preach not the gospel.” Paul understood that he could not disobey his appointment as an apostle and call to preach Christ unto the Jews and the Gentiles. To King Agrippa, he said: “I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision,” Acts 26:19; Acts 9:15; Acts 22:15.
2. Further, "If I be doing this (that is, preach the gospel) willingly, or of my own accord, I have a reward,” 1 Corinthians 9:17a. However, this is not the case with Paul: “He was a bond servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness...which was committed unto him according to the commandment of God our Saviour,” Titus 1:1-3.
a. His call was from his mother’s womb as a result of the grace of God.
b. His preaching was due to God’s immeasurable grace granted unto him, Romans 9:16; 1 Timothy 1:13-16.
3. Finally, “But if against my will, a dispensation (stewardship, period of service) of the gospel is committed unto me,” 1 Corinthians 6:17b. However, this is Paul’s case; he was involuntarily enlisted into the service of God, to preach the gospel of Christ. This was not of his will but by the constraining grace of God. Therefore, as a “steward,” he was burdened to be faithful to his work and service to Christ. Notice,
a. Paul wrote: “Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required in stewards that a man be found faithful,” 1 Corinthians 4:1-2.
b. Jesus explains the servant’s role to his master. He said: “Doth he the master thank the servant because he did the things that were commanded him? So likewise, ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, we are (still) unprofitable servants: (even when) we have done that which was our duty to do,” Luke 17:10.
1) The master does not have to acknowledge the work of his servants.
2) But, thanks unto to God our Lord will: “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord,” Matthew 25:21; Matthew 25:23.
c. If we fail in this duty, our stewardship, there will also be a “woe” pronounced unto us on the last day by the Lord: “Depart from me ye workers of iniquities, I know you not,” Matthew 7:21-23; Matthew 25:41.
d. However, Paul did not fail in his ministry to Christ, 2 Timothy 4:6-8. He wrote regarding this work that he:
1) Fought a good fight.
2) Finished my course.
3) Followed the faith.
e. Paul mentions his desire to be faithful to his work, although bonds and afflictions abide him in Jerusalem. He said to the elders at Miletus: “But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God,” Acts 20:25.
D. His defense of the gospel. To the Philippian church, Paul wrote: “I have you in my heart; since both in my bonds; and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace... According to my earnest expectation and hope, in nothing I shall be ashamed, but with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether by life or death. For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain,” Philippians 1:7; Philippians 1:20-21.
E. His opposition from false apostles. We are now at the place in this sermon where ministers and teachers could be included in our time. Paul was constantly troubled by false apostles and brethren in his work as an apostle. Notice:
1. False apostles in the Corinthian church. Paul writes: “For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore, it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works,” 2 Corinthians 11:13-15. Mathew Henry’s Commentary outlines the text in this manner:
a. First, “They would be as industrious and generous in promoting error as the Paul was in preaching the truth; they would endeavor as much to undermine the kingdom of Christ, as the Paul and the apostles did to establish it.”
b. Further, “These were counterfeit prophets like under the Old Testament, who wore the garb and learned the language of the prophets of the Lord. So also, were these counterfeit apostles under the New Testament, who seemed in many ways to be the apostles of Christ!”
c. Next, “And no marvel (says the apostle); hypocrisy they are especially when we consider the great influence Satan has upon the minds of many, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience.”
1) “As Satan can turn himself into any shape, or form; even to appear like an angel of light, to promote the kingdom of darkness.”
2) “He is also capable of equipping his ministers to transform themselves into ministers of righteousness.”
d. Finally, “It then follows regarding these false apostles that: ‘Their end shall be according to their works.’” Reference: Mathew Henry, on 2 Corinthians 11.
2. False brethren in the Galatian church. Let’s now consider the false brethren who disrupted the church at Galatia. Paul wrote: “And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus that they might bring us into bondage: To whom we gave place by subjection, no, not for an hour; that the truth of the gospel might continue with you,” Galatians 2:4-5. He stated:
a. They came in privily to spy on our liberty, which we have in Christ.
b. That they might bring us into bondage.
c. He gave place by subjection, not for an hour.
d. That the truth of the gospel might continue with you.
e. There will be occasions when misguided men and women will bring in teachings, actions, and positions contrary to “sound doctrine.” However, the man of God must stand up and defend “the truth of the gospel.” Notice Paul to the Philippian church: “Let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel,” Philippians 1:27.
1) Standing fast in the faith of the gospel is the church’s most solemn and sacred function, Ephesians 4:11-17.
2) The life of the church and its membership demands that it “continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel,” Colossians 1:23-29.
3. False prophets among the churches. Peter announces in his letter to the scattered Jews and saints that there will be false teachers among them. Notice: “But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; because of which the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not,” 2 Peter 2:1-3. An analysis:
a. As there were false prophets then, there shall be false teachers now. He was, of course, mentioned to prophets in 2 Peter 1:20-21. Remember Jeremiah’s preaching regarding these “false prophets.” They say: “The Lord said, but the Lord had said nothing.” Jehovah speaks to Jeremiah of them:
1) First, “I have not sent the prophets, and they have run, I have not spoken unto them, and they have prophesied,” Jeremiah 23:21.
2) Further, “I have heard that which the prophets said, who prophesy in my name falsehood, saying, ‘I have dreamed, I have dreamed,’” Jeremiah 23:25.
3) Finally, “Therefore, lo, I am against the prophets, an affirmation of Jehovah, stealing My words each from his neighbor,” Jeremiah 23:30.
b. They shall come in privily bringing in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord. They bring in “dissension arising from diversity of opinions and aims.” They encourage choices, parties, disunity, and different kinds of sects (Pharisees, men from James, etc.). They come to foster divisions, contentions, and offenses contrary to the word of God, Romans 16:17-18; 1 Corinthians 1:10-13.
c. Many shall follow their pernicious ways and their teachings so that the way of truth shall be evil spoken of among the people.
d. They shall make merchandise of you. They seek to take you captive and make merchandise of you. They aim to subvert and destroy, Isaiah 9:16; 2 Peter 3:17-18.
e. But their judgment shall be swift; it lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not. Solomon said: “I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for there is a time there for every purpose and every work,” Ecclesiastes 3:17; Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; 2 Peter 2:9-10.
4. Conclusion: These prophets and servants of God had become full of holding their peace and felt they had to speak OUT against all unrighteousness: Peter and John, Jeremiah, and the beloved apostle Paul. Each had a compelling need to stand up for the truth of God against the enemies of Christ and the church. We need this kind of boldness today from the pulpits in America, whether Protestant, Catholic, Jewish, or Christian. The conditions of this nation and the governments that rule us no longer adhere to the righteousness of God, the Constitution, the rule of Law, or the will of the American people.
5. Application: When will the ministers, evangelists, teachers, and servants of the Lord, professing faith in Christ, standing in the pulpits across America, grow tired of holding their peace regarding the sins of our nation? Who is speaking out against the disgraceful behavior in the office of the Presidency, the courts, the Congress, and their congregations?
a. How long will they remain silent? Over:
1) The Russian’s meddling in America’s democracy.
2) The NRA’s stranglehold in the Republican Party on vital and sensible gun reform policies and legislation.
3) The President’s dereliction of duty in protecting America from its adversaries, “both foreign and domestic.”
4) The continued defamation of the FBI, CIA, NSA, and other security and law enforcement agencies that have sworn to protect America by our President and some of our elected congressional officials.
b. When will they speak out against the hatred, bigotry, and racial slurs spouted out of the mouths of our President, congressional officials, church leaders, and many people across the American landscape?
c. When will our pulpit preach justice for all and denounce the current policies, Presidential orders, and congressional bills that discriminate openly against people of color, different religious groups, and opposing political parties?
d. When will the ministers, evangelists, preachers, and church leaders speak out against the continued racial prejudices that exist in America’s “so-called” religious organizations, schools, colleges, and workplaces (Evangelicals; Baptist, Methodist, etc.)? Might I remind you?
1) Rev. Billy Graham was one of America's most influential evangelical ministers. He recently died at the age of 99. We pray for comfort for his family.
a) Sadly, however, I must ask: Did he ever preach a sermon against the evils of prejudice, bigotry, and racial hatred in America? He began his life’s work as an evangelist when these times were the most volatile and hostile in America.
b) Did Rev. Billy Graham show leadership when the leaders of many religious groups, congressional officials, and even our current president (Donald Trump) spoke unkindly, recklessly, and in disparaging words against President Barack Obama (America’s first black President)? I think he did not! Further,
i. He and many other evangelical leaders had the audience (ears) of the people of America, but they did not demonstrate courage or the “spirit of Christ” to speak out against these attacks.
ii. They were all learned men but failed in their call and commitment to Christ, God's word, and ministerial duties.
iii. They were also aware of the reverent respect the Lord has ordained that believers and all men are to show towards His duly appointed leaders, governments, and dignitaries, 1 Timothy 2:1-2; Romans 13:1-5; 1 Peter 2:13-17.
c) I pray that the new leadership in Billy Graham Ministries, as well as the entire religious movement of “evangelicals,” will take up the “banner of Christ” and dissolve their allegiance to political, financial, and otherworldly powers, Ephesians 6:12.
e. The pulpits of these “alleged servants of the Lord” have remained silent as a tomb in these critical issues, and the disgraceful behavior going unchecked in our country's White House, Congress, and the Courts. God is not pleased with such leadership or the shameful silence of His ministers, evangelists, and leaders.
1) When the “servants of God” fail to speak out against evils and injustices and ignore divisive rhetoric and religious prejudices, they are no longer: “The salt of the earth because they have lost their savor... They thenceforth are good for nothing, but to be cast out and trodden under the foot of men,” Matthew 5:13.
2) The servants of the Lord are called to be: “The light of the world; and to glorify God in all that they say and do,” Matthew 5:16.
3) These messengers (Evangelicals) have placed their loyalty in their “political party” rather than in their call to preach with passion “the love of Christ” and seek the inclusion of all people in the faith and America’s democracy. On the other hand, they have become “respecter of persons,” James 2:10; Acts 10:34-35.
f. As I hasten now to a conclusion, let me cite the words of the Lord, of the religious leaders and political officials of His day: “But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye that are entering to go in,” Matthew 23:13. Let us be careful not to be numbered with such in our faith and devotion.
1) Beloved of God, as I conclude, I charge you all to pray for this nation and its leaders everywhere, both religious and political. Pray that God will restore order, respect, and integrity to the office of the Presidency, the Congress, and our Supreme Court.
2) Remember the words of Paul: “The servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will,” 2 Timothy 2:24-26. I think Paul’s words to Timothy say it all. As I summarize, we discussed...
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. Peter and John before the High Priest
2. Prophet Jeremiah before the People
3. Paul before the False Prophets
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we considered the preaching of Peter and John before the High Priest and elders of the Sanhedrin council. Peter and John had just performed a notable miracle by healing the lame man from birth before the Temple of God. For this miracle and preaching of Jesus of Nazareth, they were brought before the Jewish council after being charged not to speak anymore in this name. Recall the response: “And said unto them, whether it (is) 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,” Acts 4:19-20.
2. Second, we discussed the preaching of Jeremiah before the people of Israel. He prophesied during a time of great trial and punishment, Jehovah would bring upon His people for their sin of idolatry and rebellion toward His commandments. This was not an easy task for the prophet. After wrestling with his fear and their threats, Jeremiah said: “I will not mention him nor speak anymore in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay (remain silent),” Jeremiah 20:9. He eventually recovered and spoke the word of the Lord with boldness and in truth.
3. Lastly, we investigated Paul’s stand against false prophets and brethren among the churches. Like some ministers’ credentials today, false brethren and preachers constantly challenged Paul's apostleship in Christ. We cannot preach soothing words to the church or the community but to speak the truth in love. Paul said: “For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me if I preach not the gospel! For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me,” 1 Corinthians 9:16-17.
C. Invitation. Present God’s pattern of conversion. Jesus said: “Come unto me all ye that labor,” Matthew 11:28-30. [Explain the POC, i.e., hearing and believing the gospel; repentance of all past sins, Luke 24:44-47; confessing faith in Christ, as the Son of God, Matthew 10:32-33; and then, by obeying the gospel, Romans 10:16-18; Romans 6:17-18; that is to: “repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:38; Acts 5:31-32; Ephesians 1:13-14].
D. Exhortation. “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved,” Jeremiah 8:20.
E. Motivation. Do as Peter directed: “Save thyself,” Acts 2:40; Acts 2:36-39; Acts 2:41.
The sermon was updated by Ron Freeman, Evangelist, on 9/7/2024.
