INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. The Master’s Resolve
2. The Master’s Rebuke
3. The Master’s Reprove
Introductory Remarks.
1. Our lesson today will discuss the theme: "Where is your faith?" Jesus asked His disciples this question after rebuking the wind and the Sea for their raging as they passed to the other side of Galilee in a ship. Both Matthew and Mark also wrote of this miracle in their gospels. This miracle established Jesus' authority over nature (the wind and Sea). Immediately, we might ask, how could these disciples have been frightened while on the ship with the Master? They had witnessed his healing of the sick, casting out demons, and he gave them the power to do the same. Why were they afraid? They were on the ship with Jesus. We might ask this same question: "Why are we afraid? Jesus is with us?" He promises: "I will never leave you, nor forsake you," Hebrews 13:5-6; Matthew 28:20; Isaiah 41:17.
2. First, we will consider the Master’s resolve to teach and preach His message regarding the kingdom of God. Let’s go over to the other side. His works preceding this event find Jesus in a ship teaching and preaching to the multitude. To the people, He spoke in "parables," but, unto His disciples, He spoke, explaining the meaning of His words regarding the kingdom of God. The Lord gave His disciples clarity and the reasons for His teaching methods to the people. He cites the prophet Isaiah who wrote: "That seeing they may see, and not perceive, and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them," Mark 4:12; Isaiah 6:9-10; Acts 3:19.
3. Second, we will discuss the Master's rebuke of the wind and the water. Luke continued: "But as they sailed, He fell asleep: And there came down a storm of wind on the Lake, and (the ship) was filled with water, and they were in jeopardy. And they came to Him and woke Him, saying, Master, Master, we (are about to) perish. Then He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: they ceased, and there was a (great) calm," Luke 8:23-24. Even the wind and seas obey Him; yet the highest of His creation: man will not listen to, hear, nor obey the king of glory even though He promises to be: "The author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him," Hebrews 5:8-9. After quieting the storm, He allayed their fears. Jesus asked about their faith. Such an event like this storm will strengthen one's faith in God.
4. Lastly, we will investigate the Master's reprove of His disciples' faith. Luke concludes: "And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid, wondered, saying to one another: What manner of man is this! For He commandeth even the wind and water, and they obey him," Luke 8:25. This storm, without a doubt, was an extraordinary event in the life and teaching of Jesus unto His disciples. These men were terrified! Fearful that they all were about to perish. The Lord, in this miracle, demonstrates His power over nature. Earlier, we witnessed His authority over sickness, disease, and sin. Jesus said: "But that you may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house. And immediately he (the man with palsy) arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.” Mark 2:10-12. Why, then, could He not command the wind and the waters, and they obeyed Him? Now, with this brief introduction, let’s consider our first point in this lesson.
BODY OF LESSON
PART 1: THE MASTER’S RESOLVE
A. Let’s go to the other side. Luke wrote: “Now it came to pass on a certain day that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake,” Luke 8:22.
1. The disciples did not fully know why then; Jesus wanted to pass to the other side of the Lake, into the country of Gadarenes. However, we know that to Him, it was necessary. What good work does He plan on the other side? What are the lessons to be taught unto His disciples? More about this later.
2. There was a great multitude at the seaside, eager to hear Him preach concerning the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God was the theme of the Master's preaching. It should also be our message!
3. Mark, the nephew of Barnabas, wrote this gospel of action, Colossians 4:10. The first of two disciples’ who wrote their gospels declaring the work and miracles of Jesus. Mark describes Jesus’ preaching of the kingdom in this fashion: "Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God. And saying: The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent you, and believe the gospel,” Mark 1:14-15. Luke continued--
B. They set sail. “And they launched forth,” Luke 8:22. After casting off, the Master went to the ship's stern, found a pillow, laid down, and went to sleep. The Master needed rest. The disciples thought nothing about it, He had been preaching all that day, and the evening was now dawning upon them.
NOTE: Three accounts of this storm: Matthew, Mark, and Luke. Only one of them was in the boat!
1. Matthew, the first of two apostles’ gospels, penned: “And when He entered into a ship, His disciples followed (Him) into the ship.” As they made their way to the other side, a great storm came upon the Lake, threatening them and putting the boats and mariners in great peril.
2. In Mark’s account, he wrote: “And the same day, when the (evening) came, He saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side.” Jesus proposes to go to the other side to preach the kingdom to others.
a. And when they (His disciples) had sent away the multitude, “And they took him even as he was into the ship.” The Master his just concluded preaching unto the multitude onshore and other listeners that wherein their ships near the shoreline, hearing Him.
b. And there were also "other little ships with Him," Mark 4:35-41. In the other accounts, the writers did not mention these little ships.
c. Conclusion: They had made no provision for this voyage (a coat or blanket to keep Jesus warm). The Lake would become cold and windy as the night wore on. Other ships also accompanied Jesus to the other side of the Sea. They, too, shall be in the same peril as Jesus' disciples.
d. Atmospheric Convection. This is a meteorological condition in which masses of relatively warmer air rise into the atmosphere off the Lake, cooling and forming storm clouds, with a downward movement of cooler air and precipitation—resulting in high winds and large smashing waves over the Lake. These were the conditions of a typhoon, hurricane, cyclone, or terrible storm, Acts 27:14.
C. He fell asleep. Our text: "But as they sailed: He fell asleep," Luke 8:23. The rigors of preaching in the hot sun all day were tiring to the Lord, the Son of Man. Immediately after entering the ship, he found a place in the stern and slept as the disciples sailed across the Lake to the other side. The other writers gave a similar account. Observe,
1. Matthew wrote: “And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea…but he was asleep,” Matthew 8:24. Mark’s account,
2. He wrote: “And he (Jesus) was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow,” Mark 4:38.
3. Conclusion: It might have appeared unto His disciples that the Master was asleep. But the Son of God was on His watch over His little ones, Matthew 18:14. His falling asleep signifies the humanity of the Lord. We must not forget that He was entirely man and God. He was tired and needed rest. Paul wrote,
a. Fullness of God: “In Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily,” Colossians 2:9.
b. Christ the Word: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory) …full of grace and truth,” John 1:14. He pitched His tent among us! His stay was temporary.
c. Christ’s equality with the Father: “Jesus said, my Father and I are one," John 10:30; John 5:18. Jesus possesses the same glory, power, purity, righteousness, holiness, divinity, and majesty: as His Father in heaven. Jesus told Thomas: “When you have seen Me…ye have seen the Father,” John 14:9.
d. Christ’s divinity: “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself…etc.,” Philippians 2:5-11.
D. A great storm. “And there came down a storm of wind on the Lake, and they were filled with water and were in jeopardy,” Luke 8:23. Luke now directs our attention to the "great storm that has quickly arisen; and, began to trouble the wind and the waters.” Two other gospels describe this storm. Observe,
1. Matthew wrote: “And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves,” Matthew 8:24. Mathew calls this atmospheric condition: a great tempest!
2. Mark wrote: “And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship so that it was now full,” Mark 4:37. Two things created this storm: “an atmospheric convection and seismic activity.”
3. Conclusion: These disciples and other believers are now in jeopardy from a violent wind attack (a storm) and a great tempest (Gr., seismos, a great commotion, shaking, an earthquake) in the Sea.
NOTE: The term "Tsunami" means a "harbor wave" or “tidal wave.” Seismic sea wave also refers to violent waves created by “seismic” activity, such as an earthquake. Wikipedia, “Tsunami.”
a. This event might have appeared like an everyday occurrence until the ship began to fill with water, now putting the disciples and other mariners in jeopardy (great peril).
b. This was a violent wind and walls of water filling the boat.
c. But, these conditions were also the result of an earthquake beneath the Lake of Galilee.
4. Storms in our lives. Our lives will not be absent from storms. Some will be full of them, others only a few. Some come upon us, others we bring upon ourselves. Observe,
a. Paul told the centurions on his way to Rome in a similar storm: "Except you abide in the ship, you cannot be saved," Acts 27:31. There is safety in the ship during any storm when Jesus is on board.
NOTE: Illustrate travel to Vietnam on the USS Garrett in April 1968. The ship's crew and occupants endured turbulent winds and waves in the Pacific Ocean. The vessel went through a great storm, tossing it "to and fro." I was in prayer often for myself and all onboard the vessel. All of us had the same fears! The Lord was on board, and we all arrived at the port of Cam Ranh Bay safely after 22 days.
b. Storms in Job’s life. While exhibiting Christ-like behavior during his test, Job suffers great trials and terrible hardships. He acknowledges his trust and devotion to God, Job 1-2. We’ll return to Job later!
c. Storms due to Jonah’s disobedience. God commissioned him to go to Nineveh and warn them. But, Jonah: “Rose to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: So, he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD,” Jonah 1:3.
NOTE: Jonas flees from the presence of the Lord. Where are you going, Jonas?
1) David asks: “Whither shall I go from thy Spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the Sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me,” Psalms 139:7-10.
2) Solomon wrote: “The eyes of the LORD are in every place, beholding the evil and the good,” Proverbs 13:3; Proverbs 5:21.
3) Jeremiah noted: “Can any hide in secret places that I shall not see him? Saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven and earth? Saith the LORD,” Jeremiah 23:24; Jeremiah 16:17.
4) Paul wrote: “Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do,” Hebrews 4:13. Jonah continued,
d. But the Lord. "Sent out a great wind into the sea, and there was a mighty tempest in the sea so that the ship was like(ly) to be broken," Jonah 1:4. Now, this storm was sent by the Lord!
1) Then the mariners: "Were afraid, and cried every man unto his god…But Jonah was gone down into the ship, and he lay and was fast asleep. So, the shipmaster came to him and said, What meanest thou, O sleeper? Arise, call upon thy God, if so, be that God will think upon us, that we perish not…and of what people art thou?" Jonah 1:5-8.
2) Jonas’ confession: “And he said unto them, I am a Hebrew; and I fear the LORD, the God of heaven, …And they said unto him, Why hast thou done this? For the Sea wrought, and was tempestuous," Jonah 1:9-11. Does this sound like these disciples' situation in the Sea of Galilee?
3) Jonas' solution: "And he said unto them, Take me up, and cast me forth into the Sea; So, shall the Sea be calm unto you: for I know that for my sake this great tempest is upon you. So, they took up Jonah and cast him into the Sea: and the Sea ceased from her raging," Jonah 1:12-17; Matthew 12:40.
4) Jonas’ complaint: "You threw me into the depths of the ocean, and I sank to the heart of the Sea. The mighty water engulfed me; I was buried beneath your wild and stormy waves," Jonah 2:3. The Lord allowed a great fish to swallow up and spewed Jonas out on the land after three days. Jonah 2:1; Jonah 2:10; Matthew 12:39-40.
a) The Lord prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonas! A learned man said once: “The mouth of a whale isn’t large enough to swallow a man.”
b) Did you hear the word of the Lord? The Lord prepared a fish!
c) After being spewed out of the whale onto the land.
d) Jonas made a three-day journey to Nineveh in “one day,” Jonah 3:3-4.
e) This experience got Jonah's attention and obedience!
NOTE: According to our text, these disciples had not been disobedient to the Lord. Was this a trial for them? And if so: for whom? Observe,
5. The disciples’ obedience. Recall, it was Jesus that said: "Let us go over unto the other side of the Lake. They got into the ship and pressed for the other side. “And they launched forth," Luke 8:22. It was not because of disobedience; they are now in peril, but because they obeyed the Lord. Our heavenly Father will never punish us for doing His will. Doing it, however, might bring hardships upon us.
NOTE: Illustrate the storms of life. We are either coming into one, in the midst of one, or just coming out of one. Notice the disciples' reactions—They called upon Jesus!
E. They awaken Jesus. “And they came to him, and woke Him up, saying: Master, master, we perish,” Luke 8:24. The other writers shared a similar experience.
1. Matthew wrote: "And His disciples came to Him, and awoke Him, saying: Lord, save us: we perish,” Matthew 8:25.
2. Mark wrote: “And they awake him, and say unto him, Master, Carest thou not that we perish?” Mark 4:38.
3. The record explains that the disciples woke up Jesus and asked the Lord, "Doth thou carest that we perish?" Yes, Jesus cares, however, lest you forget: He’s in the boat with you.
a. What an unkind and selfish remark to say unto the Lord.
b. These disciples accused Jesus of not caring for them: “Lord, don’t you care that we perish?”
c. We must be careful not to "charge the Lord foolishly."
d. That we never are guilty of “sinning with our lips.”
NOTE: Recall, I said we'll return to Job later. Let’s observe Job's STORMS! We're here!
4. Remember Job’s trials. Every time the messenger came, he was bearing bad news.
a. His trials and hardships, God permitted. The messenger reported the bad news and said: “And I only am escaped alone to tell thee,” Job 1:17. Observe,
1) First, The Sabeans killed all your servants and stole your oxen and donkeys.
2) Second, Fire from heaven fell and burned up all your sheep and servants.
3) Next, The Chaldeans killed all your servants and stole all your camels.
4) Similarly, Your sons and daughters, while dining, were killed when the housetop fell upon them.
5) Finally, Satan smote Job with sore boils from his feet to the crown of his head.
b. Job’s response: “Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell upon the ground, and worshipped. And said: Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD. In all this, Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly,” Job 1:13-22. He exhibited Christ-like behavior! HEAR,
c. Job's wife's response: “Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? Curse God, and die. But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? Shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? Shall we welcome all the good from God and curse Him for the evil that befalls us? In all this, Job did not sin with his lips," Job 2:9-10.
NOTE: Be careful, do not accuse God for your trials, tribulations, and storms of life. Do not sin with your lips before God. Lord, why do you permit my sufferings? Lord, do you care about me?
d. Job’s three friends. They made an appointment to mourn and comfort him. “They sat…with him for seven days and spake not a word, for they saw that his grief was very great,” Job 2:12-13. Finally, how did God bless Job? Sometimes, it’s best not to say anything. Just sit and pray.
NOTE: Illustrate, “You may tire in work but don't tire because of the work!" Criticisms will be many; compliments only a few: but stay in the boat with Jesus. (For in doing this, thou shalt both save thyself and them that hear you)," 1 Timothy 4:16. Notice Job’s new beginning,
e. God restored Job’s fortune: “And the LORD turned the captivity of Job when he prayed for his friends: Also, the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before…So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job’s (life) more than his beginning: for he had fourteen thousand sheep, six thousand camels, a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand she donkeys. He also had seven sons and three daughters,” Job 42:10-17. And I might add: perhaps even a new wife! Hear Job’s message,
f. Conclusion: “Hold your peace, let me alone, that I may speak, and let come on me what will … Though he slays me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways (my integrity) before him…He shall also be my salvation,” Job 13:13-16. Job, where is your faith? My faith and trust are in the Lord. Beloved, children of God. Beware,
5. The “Sermon on the Mount.” In the Lord’s concluding remarks in this sermon, He said—The storms of life will also come upon the children of God and others. For our heavenly Father, “Maketh his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust,” Matthew 5:43-45; Matthew 5:10-12. However, the outcome will be different for those: “That hear and obey His words.”
a. To the obedient: “Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the wind blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.”
b. To the disobedient: “And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell: and great was the fall of it.”
c. The people’s reaction: “And it came to pass when He had ended these sayings; the people were astonished at His doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes,” Matthew 7:24-29. Notice, as we move to a conclusion,
6. Paul's witness of his storms. There were troubles on every side; one storm was passing; another was approaching, or we were in the midst of one. Paul wrote,
a. To Corinth: “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed,” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9. God will not allow the storms of life to destroy our faith or souls. Endure them with patience.
b. To Timothy, he wrote: "Endure hardships, as a good soldier,” 2 Timothy 2:1-7. We must endure hardships and persevere during our storms of life. Jesus is in the ship with us and not asleep: but ever vigilant to take us safely to the other side (heaven).
1) David wrote: "Behold, He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep…The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: He shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out, and coming in, from this time forth, and even for evermore,” Psalms 121:1-8.
2) Paul reminded Timothy: "At my first answer no man stood with me…the Lord stood with me…And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work and preserve me unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen," 2 Timothy 4:16-18.
3) Paul’s assurance to Timothy: “For this cause, I also suffer these things: nevertheless, I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He can keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day,” 2 Timothy 1:12; 2 Timothy 2:9-10.
c. Paul reminds the saints at Rome: “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called (the elected) according to His purpose,” Romans 8:28. What a wonderful God we serve. Notice Paul's affirmations, how God is at work for us. "What shall we then say to these things?"
1) First, Who can be against us? "If God is for us, who can be against us? He that spared not his own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" Romans 8:31-32.
2) Second, Who can accuse us? "Who shall lay anything to the charge of God's elect? It is God that Justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that has risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us," Romans 8:33-34; Romans 4:23-25.
3) Third, Who can alienate us? “Who shall separate (alienate) us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, distress, persecutions, famine, nakedness, peril, or sword? As it is written…we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us…For I am persuaded…which is in Christ Jesus our Lord," Romans 8:35-39.
4) Fourth, the saints have nothing to fear. The Master is in the boat with us. We are not going through our storms alone. Please stay on the ship; we shall make it to the other side.
d. Conclusion: God has not called us, washed us, sanctified us, and justified us: to abandon us in our storms. He brought us too far to abandon us now. David wrote: “Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD,” Psalms 27:14; Psalms 37:34; Proverbs 20:22. We will discuss this further as we continue in this lesson.
NOTE: Review point 2, paragraph D., David’s distress!
1) However, before concluding this first part of the lesson. We need to explain why it was so important that the Master "go to the other side of the lake."
2) While doing so, His disciples and the other mariners are now in great peril.
Recall, we mentioned, what were the lessons Jesus desired to teach His disciples.
3) Jesus will now teach them and us the value of one lost soul. Here it is, to have compassion even for a man living among the tombs.
4) To condescend to men of low estate (without clothes, house, or his right mind), Romans 12:16.
NOTE: In His parable of the one lost sheep? – The shepherd left the 99 to find the one! Luke 15:4-7. Jesus left the multitude to help a man filled with demons living among the tombs. His name was Legion, Luke 8:26-39. God may require us to neglect the multitude for a season, to show compassion for one man in great distress. This is who Jesus is and who we all must become! People of faith and compassion.
NOTE: If presenting this lesson in three parts. End here, summarize quickly, and extend the “pattern of conversion” to the audience. Make sure your house is built upon a rock - Christ!
INVITATION. Sermon on the Mount! Illustrate: Build your house upon a rock! Matthew 7:24-28.
PART 2: THE MASTER’S REBUKE
A. Jesus arose (stood up). “And rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm,” Luke 8:24. The disciples woke Jesus out of His sleep. “Jesus stood up and rebuked the wind and the raging water.” The other disciples wrote,
1. Matthew: “And his disciples came to Him and awoke Him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish,” Matthew 8:25.
a. These disciples were not in danger. How could any saint worry that they might perish in the boat with the Lord? Listen to Jesus,
b. He said: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish,” John 10:27-30; John 18:37.
NOTE: We are in a terrible pandemic. I charge all politicians, governors, business professionals, and religious leaders to stay in their lanes. Let the Health Department, the CDC, and the medical community guide us regarding the virus and other health-related issues that face this nation and the church.
c. The Lord promised: “And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake, those days shall be shortened,” Matthew 24:21-22. God will shorten these days for His children's sake. Amen, brother Walls and sister Ceilings.
2. Mark: “And he arose, and rebuked the wind,” Mark 4:39. The Lord stood up amid this storm and rebuked the wind. Our pulpits have been too silent during these turbulent times. It is high time—we speak out against the evils of the day.
3. Jesus said unto Peter: “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren," Luke 22:31-34. Reference: The New Greek/English Interlinear New Testament, page 296, NRSV.
a. Peter’s denial of Christ was from fear of persecution or death, Luke 22:33-34. This will be a perpetual problem with Peter – his fear.
b. Many leaders and ministers have behaved cowardly during this pandemic, John 14:1. They are derelict in their duties to instruct their memberships regarding the dangers facing this nation. Jesus is warning us: “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it behave cowardly," John 14:27. Peter behaved "cowardly," but Jesus restored him to his work as an apostle, John 21:15-17.
c. Ministers, preachers, evangelists, we must remember our place of authority. It has been given to us by the Lord. Paul wrote--
4. To Ephesus: “And He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers: For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,” Ephesians 4:11-15. Christ gave the church officers, operations, and objectives to establish measurable standards in the work of the ministry. They are--
a. Divinely appointed officers: “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers,” Ephesians 4:11. These are God's gifts to the church.
b. Divinely instituted operations: “For the perfecting (equipping) of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,” Ephesians 4:12. To help perfect the saints to accomplish the Lord's divine operations: evangelizing the world and edifying (building up the body of Christ). We also have -- measurable standards,
c. Divinely established objectives: “Till we all (the entire church on earth):”
1) First, “Come (together) in the unity of the faith.”
2) Further, “Come into the knowledge of the Son of God.” Paul again—that we may grow up,
3) Next, “Unto a perfect (full-grown) man,” Hebrews 5:12-14; 1 Corinthians 13:8-10.
4) Another, "That we henceforth are no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine: by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive,” Ephesians 4:14; Colossians 2:8-10; Romans 16:17-18.
NOTE: Let me read this verse in the New Revised Standard Version. It reads: "So that no longer we should be little children tossed by waves and carried around by every wind of teaching, by the cunning (cleverness) of men, with craftiness (deceitfulness) for the scheming of deception,” Page 669. Ephesians 4:14, NRSV. Church leadership and ministers are charged to--
5) Finally, “But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ,” Ephesians 4:15. Standing for truth, goodness, honesty, and righteousness; is not always popular, but it is always right. There is no middle ground in serving the Lord. Jesus said:
a) One, “He who is not with Me is against Me,” Matthew 12:30; Luke 11:23.
b) Two, “Ye cannot serve two masters,” Matthew 6:24; Luke 16:13.
c) Three, “And Jesus…Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand,” Matthew 12:25.
d) That's the problem with many spiritual leaders: they serve their Party, base, and political leaders rather than the Lord. Now let me stop just for a moment and ask some questions!
NOTE: Where are the voices of reason, restraint, and cooperation? Why are our pulpits so quiet? God needs bold, fearless preachers to stand up and speak out against anything evil that threatens the church's and nation's safety and well-being: Voter’s rights, women's rights, children’s safety, police brutality, gun violence, and equal justice under the law, etc. Ministers and leaders must find and display the same boldness that Peter and John did before the Jewish Council. Consider,
i. First, "When they 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,” Acts 4:13.
NOTE: Ministers and leaders in Africa are speaking out against the corruption and fraud in their political leaders. When will we display the same boldness and courage?
ii. Further, "But Peter and John answered and said unto them: Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, you judge. For we cannot but speak the things we have seen and heard," Acts 4:19-20.
iii. Finally, “Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men,” Acts 5:29. Here is the “long and short of it,”
NOTE: We’re all in the boat together! What hurts one hurts others, and what heals one heals all. Look, it’s voting rights now, but it will be religious rights next. The Supreme Court has threatened such already.
e) Take a stand, be a Joshua: “Choose you this day whom you will serve,” Joshua 24:14-15. Be no longer: “tossed to and fro” or "halted between two opinions," 1 Kings 18:21; Jeremiah 20:9.
5. Conclusion: The Lord stood up amid this terrible storm to rebuke the wind and the water. The Lord now reveals His power over nature (the elements). Luke continued,
B. He rebuked the wind. “And the raging of the water,” Luke 8:24. The other writers,
1. Matthew recalled: “Then he arose and rebuked the winds and the sea,” Matthew 8:26. The Master stood up in the ship during the storm and told the wind and the Sea to behave!
2. Mark, by inspiration, wrote: “And said unto the Sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm,” Mark 4:39. A great storm has become a "great calm."
3. Conclusion: Observe our Savior's disposition after being awakened from His sleep. He did not rebuke them but turned His attention to the problem and took immediate action. He rebuked the wind. It was the wind that was causing this terrible storm. He lovingly said unto the Sea: Peace, be still. Parents sometimes have to speak with authority to the children to "settle down" when they are making too much noise. You children, "be quiet." Jesus told His creation "to settle down and behave."
NOTE: Momma's stories, "Search for Tomorrow, As the World Turns, and The Young and the Wreckless."
C. And they ceased. “And there was a calm,” Luke 8:24. The other gospel writers wrote of this calming of the Wind and Sea. We call this: "the Harmony of the Gospels." Notice--
1. Matthew wrote: “And there was a great calm,” Matthew 8:26.
2. Mark wrote: "And he arose, rebuked the wind, and said unto the Sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm," Mark 4:39.
3. Conclusion: Each of these writers said: "there was a calm; after the Master spoke to the sea." Two wrote that there was a "great calm." He can bring great calm into our lives when facing any storm. And there will be storms for all; and for some, many storms: because we refuse to heed God's instruction regarding our folly, disobedience, and sin.
D. David’s distress: "O Lord, God of my salvation. I have cried out day and night before you. My soul is full of troubles, And my life draws near to the grave…You have laid me in the lowest pit, in darkness, in the depths…Your wrath lies heavy upon me, And you have afflicted me with all your waves…Your fierce wrath has gone over me; Your terrors have cut me off. They came around me all day long like water. They engulfed me altogether," Psalms 88:1-18. (Text shortened for brevity). David’s trials, afflictions, troubles, and sins have: “engulfed and covered him,” like the waves of the Sea. At times it seems—
1. Our life’s struggles might appear like David's. Trouble and sorrows on every side. We cry unto the Lord day and night. And it appears He’s nowhere to be found. David remembered: “The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate,” Psalms 34:22.
2. David again: “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all,” Psalms 34:19.
3. David’s assurance: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning,” Psalms 30:5. Saints, we can be confident: "This too shall pass!" Momma use to say: "Troubles don't last always."
4. Conclusion: The Lord is ever watching over His people.
E. O LORD, God of host: Listen to David as he describes the Lord, God of Host!
1. He composed: "O LORD God of hosts, who is a strong LORD like unto thee? Or to thy faithfulness round about thee? Thou rulest the raging of the Sea: when the waves arise, thou stillest them," Psalms 89:8-9. He recorded,
a. The Lord stilleth: “The noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the people," Psalms 65:7. God can quiet all the storms and trials of our lives, and he is ruler over all of His creation and savior of His saints.
b. The flood: “O LORD, have lifted their voice; the floods lift their waves. The LORD on high is mightier than the noise of many waters, yea, than the Seas’ mighty waves,” Psalms 93:3-4.
c. For He commandeth: "And raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof… Then they cry (the mariners) unto the LORD in their trouble, and he brings them out of their distress. He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still," Psalms 107:25-29.
2. What an incredible and mighty God we serve. After the Lord had quieted the storm, he comforted His disciples.
3. He rebukes the elements and then reproves His disciples. Our last point is the Master's reprove (reprimands and admonishments). Where is your faith?
NOTE: If presenting this lesson in three parts. End here, summarize quickly, and extend the “pattern of conversion” to the audience. Jesus can make whole all that will come to Him.
INVITATION. Let's consider Jesus' question to the man at the Pool of Bethesda: “Wilt thou be made whole?” Jesus knew: He had been there a long time, John 5:1-18.
PART 3: THE MASTER’S REPROVE
A. His reprove. “And He said unto them, Where is your faith?" Luke 8:25. This is where the instruction of the Lord begins unto His disciples. Maybe, Luke's question does not fully state the real meaning of His reprove. By looking at the other writer's comments on this question, we can understand what Jesus is asking them. Observe,
1. Matthew wrote: “And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?” Matthew 8:26. Matthew shares more information regarding Jesus' question with His disciples. He asks: "Why are ye so fearful, O ye of little faith?" Mark’s account,
2. He scribed: “And he said unto them, Why are you so fearful? How is it that you have no faith?” Mark 4:40. Again, he mentions their fears and that they “have no faith.” Where is your faith complainer?
3. Jesus’ reprove. The Lord did not rebuke them as He did the wind and the water but inquired about their faith. Did these men fully understand the Lord's ministry? This question was a mild "reprove." Reprove entails calling one into account, showing a fault or transgression, to demand an explanation of one's behavior. Theirs' was a lack of faith; during this terrible storm. I am not judging them for their lack of faith at this time of their ministry with Jesus.
4. The Master’s work. These disciples had forgotten the Master’s healing of the man with palsy earlier in His preaching in Capernaum, Mark 2:1-12.
a. Mark, give unto us the response of Jesus to his friends, that carried the man with palsy unto Him: “When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee,” Mark 2:5. Notice, Jesus saw the faith of his friends and their desire that he be healed. He saw their sacrifice of faith! And their confidence in Him to heal their friend.
b. Where was these disciples’ faith? Where was their confidence in Jesus?
c. What concern did they exhibit for the mariners in "the little ships?"
d. What Jesus heard after being awakened was this:
1) “Master, master, we perish,” Luke 8:24.
2) “Lord, save us: we perish,” Matthew 8:25.
3) “Master, Carest thou not that we perish?” Mark 4:38.
4) They were only concerned about themselves. Was there concern for the others at Sea?
e. They were men, “weak in faith,” not understanding the power of Jesus over both sin and the storms of life.
5. Conclusion: They had enough faith (or fear) to awaken Him, but not enough to believe that He cared about their safety and the lives of those in the smaller crafts navigating this storm in the same perils of the Sea.
a. O you of little faith! Where is your faith? Could you have prayed to God for yourself and these others?
b. The disciple's faith is being witnessed through their fear of perishing.
c. They also lacked faith: "That Jesus carest not that they perish."
d. They had no concern for the other mariners traveling with Him to the other side.
e. Luke and the other writers rightly judged: "They were afraid."
f. Being paralyzed with fear. Luke continued,
B. They were afraid. Luke wrote: "And they being afraid wondered, saying to one another, What manner of man is this!" Luke 8:25. Now, Luke turns our attention to another fear. Their fear of Jesus and His power over His creation.
1. Matthew wrote: “But the men marveled,” Matthew 8:27.
2. Mark penned: “And they feared exceedingly,” Mark 4:41.
3. Conclusion: They are now terrified of Jesus and His ability to control the wind and water. Unlike the people in the man with palsy's healing: "They were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion,” Mark 2:12. Jesus now shows them and us, His power over the heavens and the earth. Luke concluded that the,
C. Elements (wind and waves) obeyed Him. He noted: “For He commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him,” Luke 8:25. The subjects of Jesus (the elements) were obedient to His command. Consider the other gospels,
1. Matthew wrote: “What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!” Matthew 8:27.
2. Mark inscribed: "And they said to one another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?" Mark 4:41.
3. Conclusion: Instead of rejoicing, they were even more afraid, no longer of the storm, but now of Jesus' authority over the elements (the wind and the water). Let’s consider now,
D. The power of faith. At this present time, these disciples are just beginning their work and learning from Jesus Christ. They had not been fully instructed on the kind of faith that moves mountains; it will come later in their lives, Luke 17:1-6. He will teach them to be men of faith before He returns to heaven. During the ministry of Jesus, He recognized all believers' faith, John 8:31-32. Observe,
1. A great faith. The woman of Canaan came to Jesus wanting, Him to cast out of her daughter a demon vexing her. She was a Syrophoenician Woman. After a short discourse, Jesus said unto her: "O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour,” Matthew 15:21-28. The centurion’s faith, Matthew 8:5-13. A great faith: is not seen in all of Israel.
2. A weak faith. Paul wrote to Rome regarding the weaker brothers; they are still babes in Christ and out of step with the church. He penned: "Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations," Romans 14:1. He admonished that: "We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves," Romans 15:1. God grants us time to grow in grace and knowledge of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, 2 Peter 3:18. The stronger brother should not put a stumbling block in the weaker brother's way, Romans 14:13; Romans 14:21-23.
3. A doubting faith. One of the twelve, Thomas doubted that Jesus was raised, John 20:24-29.
4. A little faith. While Jesus walked on water, He bids Peter come unto Him. After Peter stepped out of the boat: "When he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid," Matthew 14:22-33. O ye of little faith. Why did you doubt? In our conclusion, let's consider faith in 3D.
E. Faith in 3D. Some misunderstand God's "pattern of conversion." To God, this is His test of the sincerity and strength of our: "Faith and obedience to His will." We are not permitted to dictate unto God how we desire to be saved; we must obey His terms of pardon. In every act of faith under the Old Testament of those that pleased God, along with their faith, there was an enjoining act of obedience on their part. Let's conclude with faith in 3D! Jesus is asking you right now: Where is your faith?
NOTE: Illustrate Faith in 3D. 1) Faith defined, Hebrews 11:1; 2) Faith directed, Hebrews 11:6; and 3) Faith demonstrated, Hebrews 11:7ff. We will now consider three examples that will illustrate this truth. Each mentioning of faith had a binding action, or act of obedience, Hebrews 11:7. Consider,
1. By faith Noah. “Found grace in the eyes of the Lord,” Genesis 6:8. He lived a life pleasing to Jehovah! He was a man of faith. Paul wrote of him,
a. “By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet.”
b. “Moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house.”
c. “By which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith,” Hebrews 11:7. Noah became a preacher of righteousness, 2 Peter 2:5.
d. Faith resulted in the act of obedience (on Noah's part). His faith and obedience pleased the Lord. In turn, God saved Noah and his house; and declared him righteous through his faith and obedience. Noah's faith and obedience at work culminated in the salvation of his house, "by which he condemned the old world, and he became an heir of the righteousness which is by faith," Hebrews 11:7.
e. Peter refers to this event and describes baptism as a “like figure to the ark,” 1 Peter 3:20-21. Peter wrote that "baptism, doth also now save us." How is this possible? Observe,
1) Baptism, then, is a like figure, which doth also NOW saves us by “bearing us through a burial in water,” representing the: “death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.”
NOTE: The Englishman’s Greek New Testament translates: "Whereunto even baptism doth also now save us;" in this manner: "And baptism, which this prefigured, now saves you," Page 815.
2) Noah and his house were saved: by means of the water while in the ark, a prefigure of baptism. Which, "doth also NOW save us.” Baptism is a "like figure of the ark.” The means of our salvation.
3) How does baptism NOW save us? Like Noah and his house: “by means of the water.” In the same manner: “Baptism doth also now save us.” Consider,
a) As the ark carried Noah and his house through the flood, “by means of the water.”
b) Baptism carries the repentant believers through the process of regeneration, and the renewing of the Holy Ghost, "by means of the water,” Titus 3:5; John 3:3-5.
c) Like Paul, we too must: “Arise, and be baptized, and wash away our sins, calling on the name of the Lord,” Acts 22:16.
4) Peter did not write – water saves us; but "baptism doth also NOW save us." How preacher? Similar, in a like manner: "by means of the water." Still another example,
2. By faith Abraham. "When he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: Accounting that God was able to raise him, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure," Hebrews 11:17-19. Observe,
a. Summary of Paul's account. Abraham was justified by faith and work. Paul wrote: "By faith Abraham when he was tested (tried)." Notice Abraham’s response,
1) “Offered up Isaac, whom he had received by promise.”
2) "His son, his only begotten Son." John 3:16.
3) "Whom it was said: In Isaac, your seed shall be called."
4) “He concluded that God was able to raise him:"
a) “Even from the dead.”
b) “By which he had also received him in a figure,” Hebrews 11:17-19.
c) Do you see a “type” of Christ in this text?
d) Conclusion: Abraham was "justified by works (his obedience)" when he offered up Isaac on the altar, as God had commanded him; this he did in faithful obedience to God.
NOTE: If you want a clear definition of "faith and works," it is this: "faithful obedience." There is no genuine faith without submissive obedience! The faith that justifies: “worketh through loving obedience,” Galatians 4:6.
b. James wrote: “Ye see then how that by works (ones’ obedient deeds, doings, or acts of faith unto God) a man is justified, and NOT by faith ONLY,” James 2:24; James 2:26. Observe,
1) Did works justify Abraham? James wrote: "Was not Abraham...justified by works when he had offered Isaac, his son upon the altar?" James 2:21. James begins with a question to his audience. That is, was not Abraham justified by works when: He offered Isaac his only Son? Was Abraham's offering of Isaac a profession of faith and obedience? How else can we describe this act of sacrificial faith? Abraham's faith was sacrificial. And God's love for the world was sacrificial! Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 5:14-16.
2) Abraham's faith made perfect: "Seest thou how faith wrought with his works (obedience), and by works (his) faith was made perfect?" James 2:22. James uses the phrase: "how faith wrought with his works." We must look at this word also to ascertain its meaning in Greek.
a) The word “wrought” in Gr., is synergeo or sün-er-ge'-o, which means to be a fellow worker, i.e., cooperate: —help, to (work) with, work (-er) together. It means that "faith" has put forth power together with "works" and thereby assists in "making one's faith perfect – before God.”
b) The word synergeo forms our English word: “synergism.” It is a medical term, “synergistic effect.” In medications: “the dose of one medication taken in conjunction with another; has a synergistic effect, in the treatment of an illness or disease.” Radiation, along with chemotherapy, can help cure cancer!
c) James wrote: Abraham’s faith and works (of obedience) wrought together to make his faith's working perfect unto God.
d) Conclusion: Having faith without works, deeds, or acts of faith in compliance: such faith is incomplete; it is dead being alone. James concluded: that faith alone cannot save; any more than words of peace and comfort alone can feed and fill a hungry belly. James 2:14-16. Faith without works, deeds, or acts of obedience is dead being alone, James 2:17. True faith must work (be active) "through genuine love and obedience," Galatians 5:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 1 Corinthians 13:1-3; 1 Corinthians 13:13. Now our last example,
3. Faith of Israel. Their passing: “Through the Red Sea as by dry land (were saved): which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned,” Hebrews 11:29.
a. Israel was saved on the other side. By faith, they passed through the Red Sea. Paul calls this "passing through" a baptism unto Moses! The Lord "saved Israel that day," Exodus 14:30-31.
b. Israel was baptized unto Moses: “Under the cloud and in the sea,” 1 Corinthians 10:1-4.
c. Here, we see Israel being saved through faith and obedience (baptism) as they passed by faith through the Red Sea.
1) Faith and baptism saved Israel “that day.”
2) Like faith and baptism save us today, Mark 16:15-16; 1 Peter 3:20-21.
3) After Israel’s passing through the Red Sea by faith, they were delivered from their enemy, Pharaoh.
4) When we pass through the "waters of baptism," we are delivered from our enemy, sin. Baptism is done: “To wash away our sins,” Acts 22:16. Or for the “forgiveness of sins,” Acts 2:38.
4. Saved by Grace. Paul told the Ephesians: "For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast," Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5. He calls this a gift of God. Not of works lest any man should boast. Observe--
a. First, the questions that lay before us at this time after reviewing all the statements; examples; and scriptures on faith. Could Ephesians 2:8-9; be teaching: "That salvation is by faith – only?" If we are honest, we must conclude “no.”
b. Further, "Is being saved by grace through faith – by grace only?" The answer to this question is also “no.” Neither of these positions is correct.
c. Finally, "Is it through our faith only we are saved by grace?" The answer is a resounding "no." Paul reminded the Ephesians that they were saved by "grace through the faith in Christ," Ephesians 2:8. Brother Johnson states it more clearly.
d. B. W. Johnson wrote: "Lest they might forget the doctrine that he...preached, he reminds them...that they were saved by God's grace shown in the gospel; that their salvation was obtained through the faith (in Christ). The definite article is found before faith in the Greek, showing that the faith, or the gospel, is meant ... (Salvation) is not due to ourselves, but is God's gift. The grammatical construction of the Greek does not allow us to make “faith” the subject of the last clause. It is not (our) “faith,” but salvation through the faith, which is the gift of God. So says John Wesley in his Notes, That you are saved, etc.,” Page 472.
e. Conclusion: Therefore, Paul was reminding the Ephesians that it was God's grace revealed unto them through his preaching of "the faith" or the "gospel of the grace of God," Acts 20:24; Galatians 1:23-24; Romans 1:16.
5. Man’s will before God. I want to establish that man's salvation is not possible without his willing faith and obedience. "God's will is that all men be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth," 1 Timothy 2:3-7. But not all people desire to be saved. Consider these examples where a person’s willing obedience aided in their cleansing, salvation, and doing the will of God:
a. Jesus asked: The man at the pool of Bethesda, “Wilt thou be made whole?” John 5:1-6.
b. Believers asked on the day of Pentecost: "Men and brethren, what shall we do?” Acts 2:37.
c. Paul asked the Lord: “What wilt thou have me to do?” And the Lord replied, “Go into the city, and it will be told thee what thou must do," Acts 9:5-6.
d. The Jailer asked Paul and Silas: "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” And they said: “Have faith on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house," Acts 16:30-31.
NOTE: Mr. Billy Graham wrote about the jailer’s conversion in his book “How to Be Born Again.” The jailer: “Fell down at their feet, crying; what must I do to be saved? Paul told him to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and he would be saved, and he was converted right there, in the rubble of the prison,” Page 185. He believed “being born again” is through “repentance of sins and believing in the Lord Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior,” Page 173. Unfortunately, he is wrong about the jailer’s conversion!
e. Jesus said: "Not everyone that saith unto me Lord, Lord shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven," Matthew 7:21-23.
f. The people ask Jesus: “What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them: This is the work of God, that you believe on Him whom He hath sent,” John 6:28-29.
6. Conclusion: How does all this relate to one being "justified by faith" or "saved by grace?" Faith and obedience justify and saves. Obedience is that work of faith: "justifies by faith" and "saves by grace." All must believe (pisteuo) the preaching of the faith (Pistis) - with a corresponding act of obedience - "baptism into Christ," Romans 6:3-6; Galatians 3:26-27. We are now ready to conclude this lesson. Here's what we have discussed…
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. The Master’s Resolve
2. The Master’s Rebuke
3. The Master’s Reprove
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we considered the Master's resolve to teach and preach His message regarding the kingdom of God. His works preceding this event find Jesus in a ship teaching and preaching to the multitude. To the people, He spoke in "parables," but, unto His disciples, He spoke, explaining the meaning of His words regarding the kingdom of God. The Lord gave His disciples clarity and the reasons for His teaching methods to the people. He cites the prophet Isaiah who wrote: "That seeing they may see, and not perceive, and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them," Mark 4:12; Isaiah 6:9-10. Compare Mark 4:12 with Acts 3:19.
2. Second, we discussed the Master's rebuke of the wind and the water. Luke continued: "But as they sailed, He fell asleep: And there came down a storm of wind on the Lake, and (the ship) was filled with water, and they were in jeopardy. And they came to Him and woke Him, saying, Master, Master, we (are about to) perish. Then He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: they ceased, and there was a (great) calm," Luke 8:23-24. Even the wind and seas obey Him; yet the highest of His creation: man will not listen to, hear, nor obey the king of glory even though He promises to be: "The author of eternal salvation unto all of them that obey Him," Hebrews 5:8-9. After quieting the storm, He allayed their fears. Jesus asked about their faith. Such an event like this storm will strengthen one's faith in God.
3. Lastly, we investigated the Master's reprove of His disciples' faith. Luke concluded: "And he said unto them, where is your faith? And they being afraid, wondered, saying to one another: What manner of man is this? For He commandeth even the wind and water, and they obey him," Luke 8:25. This storm, without a doubt, was an extraordinary event in the life and teaching of Jesus unto His disciples. These men were terrified! Fearful that they all were about to perish. The Lord, in this miracle, demonstrates His power over nature. Earlier, we witnessed His authority over sickness, disease, and sin. Jesus said: "But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house. And immediately he (the man with palsy) arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.” Mark 2:10-12. Why, then, could He not command the wind and the waters, and they obeyed Him?
C. Invitation. Present the pattern of conversion, i.e., hearing and believing the gospel; repentance of all past sins; confessing faith in Christ, as the Son of God; and then, by obeying the gospel; 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; Romans 6:17-18; Ephesians 1:12-14.
D. Exhortation. Let it not be said of us: “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved,” Jeremiah 8:20.
E. Motivation. Do as Peter directed: “Save thyself from this untoward (wicked and ungodly) generation,” Acts 2:40; Acts 2:36-39; Acts 2:41.
Commendation.
To: "Render therefore to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor (is due),” Romans 13:7. I acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors.
References.
1. I recommend the [Neal – Wallace Discussion on "The thousand Years Reign of Christ"] by Foy E. Wallace, Jr., Publication, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and Copyright 1933. This discussion was conducted at Winchester, Kentucky, from January 2 to 6, 1933.
2. God's Prophetic Word, by Foy Wallace, p. 347-349; cf. Lion and the Lamb on Planet Earth, by Rodney Miller.
3. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
4. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies,’ Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
5. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
6. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
7. The BlueLetterBible.org, (BLB’s) Interlinear, Textus Receptus; and the Morphological GNT, @ 2022, by the Blue Letter Bible. This tool allows you to access the Greek New Testament in both manuscripts. http://www.blb.org/The BLB also provides tutorials to help you learn how to use it. Link, (www.BLB.org).
8. How to be Born Again, by Billy Graham, Word Publishing, Dallas, Texas, Copyright 1977, 1989.
Thank you for this valuable tool of study, www.BLB.org. It has been an excellent instrument for me to learn and use the Interlinear to bring my sermons alive to the audience. I thank you very much for this great application to help in my study of the scriptures.
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
Worldwide Ministry Church of Christ.org
Post Office Box 1112
Anniston, AL 36202
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
wwmcoc@earthlink.net
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org/
Website: https://en.gravatar.com/refreeman
Update on 8/25/2022
