A&D Biker Ministries - "Growing the Kingdom of God . . . one Biker at a time"

05/09/2026

Seven “Shall Nots” of The Gospel of John
When we think of the words “shall not” we may normally think of the prohibitions found in
the Old Testament laws, such as the Ten Commandments. For example, You shall not take
the name of the Lord your God in vain… Exodus 20:7; You shall not kill v. 13; You shall not
commit adultery v. 14; You shall not steal v. 15, just to name a few. But here in the Gospel
of John there are many wonderful promises which are stated in these words “shall not” or
“shall never.” Many of the promises in this book describe things that shall happen but let us
consider seven of these promises that teach of things that shall not happen to the believer
whose trust is in Christ.
I. John 3:16- The Assurance That We “Shall Not Perish”
A. “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever
believes in him should not (shall not) perish but have everlasting life.”
B. We have the confident assurance that if we have believed on Jesus Christ for
salvation, we shall never perish. The belief that an individual must have for
salvation, is the belief that Jesus suffered, bled and died on the cross as the
sacrifice for their sins.
II. John 4:14- Teaching of the Indwelling Holy Spirit, Jesus said that whoever
drinks of the water that I shall give him “shall never thirst.”
A. Jesus was speaking on the spiritual water of life given through the abiding
Holy Spirit, who regenerates and gives life to the believer.
B. The term “shall never thirst” carries the promise of the Holy Spirit remaining
with the individual by indwelling them giving the life sustaining refreshment,
energizing and empowering the believer.
III. John 5:24- “The Promise That We “Shall Not Come into Condemnation”
A. “He that hears my word, and believes on him that sent me, has everlasting
life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto
life.”
B. The “condemnation” that the believer is promised that he or she will not have
to face is the judgment and punishment of their sins.
IV. John 6:35- The Similar Promise to John 4:14, Jesus said, “I am the bread of
life: he that comes to me ‘shall never hunger’ and he that believes on me
‘shall never thirst.”
A. Jesus is saying that he is the source of eternal life and daily sustenance.
B. The Holy Spirit enlivens, energizes and refreshes each believer with his
abiding presence and empowerment.
V. John 8:12- Jesus Gave the Promise that We “Shall Not Walk In Darkness”
A. Jesus taught, “I am the Light of the world: He that follows me ‘shall not walk
in darkness,’ but have the light of life.”

Seven “Shall Nots” of The Gospel of John
B. Jesus gives us guidance and direction through his leading if we follow him.
C. Our deepest needs are met in him.
VI. John 10:28- The Promise That Jesus gives each believer eternal life, and they
“shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
A. Once we are placed into God’s family through faith in Jesus Christ, we are
promised that we shall never perish, and no one is able to pluck us out of
God’s hands (Jesus’ and the Father’s- v.29 hands).
B. This is the promise of eternal security and assurance that we are kept by his
power.
VII. John 11:25-26- The Promise that once we have believed on Jesus Christ, who
is the “Resurrection and the Life” we “shall never die.”
A. Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life; he that believes in me though
he were dead, yet shall he live: and whoever lives and believes in me shall
never die. Do you believe this?
B. Consequently, when we believe in Jesus Christ for salvation, we do not have
to fear death.
C. Paul wrote in I Corinthians 15:51-57, “Behold I show you a mystery; we shall
not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an
eye, at the last trump; for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be
raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put
on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be
brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O
death where is thy sting, or grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is
sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us
the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Conclusion: May these promises contained in these verses from John’s
Gospel give us comfort and assurance concerning our salvation which is
eternally secure in Christ, and the abiding Holy Spirit’s working and presence
in our lives. Praise the Lord for these wonderful assurances.

5/382026

Philippians 4:4-20 Instructions concerning cares, prayers and right living

I. Concerning Cares, Prayers and Consistent Lifestyle
A. The apostle Paul urges the Ephesian Christians (and us) to “Rejoice in the Lord always: and
again, I say, Rejoice.” To rejoice is to joy again! Can we find reason to rejoice in everything?
B. He goes on to instruct them to let your moderation or gentleness be known to all men.
The word translated moderation is (Greek: epieikēs)
C. "Let your moderation be known to all men" (Philippians 4:5) means to display a gentle,
reasonable, and forbearing spirit to everyone, not just friends. It urges Christians to be
patient, yield personal rights, avoid harshness, and maintain balance, as the Lord's
return is near. It is not about strict limits, but a visible attitude of grace.
D. Some Synonyms and Interpretations of "Moderation" (Greek: epieikēs):
• Gentleness/Mildness: A calm, soft approach. Not overbearing.
• Reasonableness/Sweet Reasonableness: Not being stubborn or overly rigid.
• Forbearance/Yieldingness: Willingness to forgo one's own rights.
• Considerateness/Kindness: Being considerate of others.
• Big-heartedness/Magnanimity: Generosity of spirit.
E. Examples of Usage and Contextual Meanings:
• Interpersonal Conflicts: Choosing to resolve a dispute with gentleness rather than
insisting on being right or enforcing strict, legalistic standards.
• Handling Pressure: Showing calm, patient poise in difficult situations rather than
becoming easily angered.
• Public Witness: Being known by neighbors and colleagues as someone who is fair,
approachable, and "on their side," rather than contentious.
• Daily Life Balance: Limiting consumption and avoiding excesses in food, drink, or
entertainment.
• Motivation for Conduct: The phrase "The Lord is at hand" indicates that this
behavior is motivated by the expectation of Christ's return, making it essential to live
with proper Christian character,
F. “Be Careful(anxious) for Nothing”- i.e. Do not be full of care; not to be weighted down with
care.
1. Psalm 55:22- “Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and He shall sustain thee: He
shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.” Read the preceding verses of
Psalm 55 to understand why David was anxious and distressed.
2. Matthew 6:25- “Therefore I say unto you, take no thought for your life, what ye shall
eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. (Don’t worry)
3. I Peter 5:7- “Casting all your care upon him, for he cares for you.”
4. I Thessalonians 5:16-18- “Rejoice evermore (i.e. always) 17) Pray without ceasing
18) In every thing give thanks- for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning
you.” (Three pointers: Rejoice always; Pray always; Give thanks always.)

Philippians 4:4-20 Instructions concerning cares, prayers and right living
5. A good motto or maxim to follow: “If you’re loaded down with care, go to prayer!”
6. Our prayer should incorporate supplication and thanksgiving- v. 6
II. Corresponding Peace that Accompanies Prayer & Rejoicing - V. 7
A. The accompanying peace of God, which passes all understanding shall be with you:
1. It shall keep (i.e. guard) your hearts and minds. (hearts and minds of Christians)
2. Why do some people seem like they are losing their minds? They do not have the
peace of God because they have not made peace with God through faith in the finished
work of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary.
B. Those that are not “in Christ” which means they have not been saved or born again, and
therefore, they do not have the Holy Spirit of God, who produces the fruit of the Spirit, of
which peace is listed among them.
III. Concentration on Right Thoughts and the Right Example – vv. 8-9
A. Thoughts and things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous and
praiseworthy, think on these.
B. Those things which you have learned, and received, and heard and seen in me; do: and
the God of Peace shall be with you. Paul is saying, follow my example and my teaching.
C. Notice both “the peace of God” and “the God of peace” are mentioned in out text
verses. You will not have “the peace of God” until you have “the God of peace.”
IV. Contentment in All Circumstances and Situations – vv. 10-19
A. Paul rejoiced in the Lord for the Philippians care and giving (support). V. 10
B. He says, “I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. V. 11
C. Paul stressed the necessity of contentment. Notice it is a learned virtue.
D. He knew how to be abased (have little), and how to abound (have much), to be hungry,
and to be full, both to have abundance and at times suffer in need.
E. He commended the Philippians for caring for him and supporting him when other did
not or would not- vv.14-16.
F. Paul gives the testimony that he is full and had received the things that they had sent
which was like a odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable and well pleasing to God.
G. Paul assured them that his (my) God would supply all their need according to the riches
in the glory of Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:4-20 Instructions concerning cares, prayers and right living
H. Paul gives glory to God as a final exclamation point and prayer. V. 20

4/25/2026

Wrong Habits Lead to Wrong Ongoing Actions- Wrong Outcomes
Good Habits lead to Strong Character, Right Actions, Right Living

Introduction: The text verse that we will look at is I Corinthians 15:33- “Be not deceived: Evil
Communications corrupt good manners.”
The first thing that we see in this verse is a Warning! Be not deceived! What are the
implications of these words of caution? 1) There is inherit danger 2) We can be deceived.
Secondly, “Evil Communications” corrupt good manners- (i.e. habits, morals, character).
We are all creatures of habit- we do things repetitively, routinely, religiously or ritually. Yes,
we do things habitually! This can be a good thing if the habits that we are doing are right
and are character strengthening. But if they are wrong, they will negatively affect us and
form the wrong character (or lack thereof).
I was personally reminded of this principle in two ways recently: Both examples that I am
going to give have to do with daily life habits. I was reminded of the importance of daily
habits when I went to the dentist for a cleaning and exam. The dentist and the dental
hygienist told me that I have receding gumlines. Some of this is related to the onset of
aging, but most of it is due to my wrong brushing technique. The Bible tells us to confess
our faults one to another, and pray for one another… (James 5:16), SO, I confess that I have
not always flossed daily as I should. I have also not brushed my teeth properly with the
circular motion but have aggressively brushed in a hard and strong back and forth motion.
I was reminded that I needed to change my brushing and flossing habits, or the conditions
of my teeth, and more specifically, my gums, will only get worse. As a result, I made a
change: I bought a Oral B- electric toothbrush which has the proper brushing technique.
Why did I do this? Well, I didn’t like the prospective consequences of my wrong habits: i.e.
continued gumline recession, or possibly periodontal surgery to pull the gums down over
the teeth. So, I made the choice to correct the situation by getting a better toothbrush and
committing to floss daily.
The other personal example related to a daily habit is taking out the kitchen garbage or
trash. When I turned sixteen and wanted to get my driver’s license, I asked my father if I
could get my license. He responded by saying that if I would consistently take out the trash
daily, then I could possibly go ahead and get my driver’s license. So, guess what
happened? I began to take out the garbage daily and it became a habit which I still do
today. And, as I result I learned responsibility and was allowed to get my driver’s license.
At the Milwaukee Rescue Mission I teach a class called “Review and Refection Class,”
where I share Biblical principles and then “review and reflect” on how the men who are our

Wrong Habits Lead to Wrong Ongoing Actions- Wrong Outcomes
Good Habits lead to Strong Character, Right Actions, Right Living
guests are doing in relation to the principle(s). Also, the men are asked to reflect on their
answers to questions which are composed around the Safe Harbor Men’s Shelter Four
Core Principles: which are Relational, Emotional, Spiritual and Behavioral. The main way
we minister and relate to the men is the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Here are the Four Core Principles:
Relational: Establishing relationships with each participant to promote and affirm his
dignity as an image bearer of God.
Emotional: Caring for the emotional needs of each participant by providing food, clothing,
shelter, and a safe and stable environment.
Spiritual: Inspiring the spiritual life of each participant through the presentation and
demonstration of the Gospel.
Behavioral: Encouraging behavioral change in each participant, as a response to the
Gospel, and through the implementation of healthy, biblical lifestyle choices and patterns.
As the questions are asked that relate to each of these four core principles, the men are
asked to think about and reflect on their answers or responses but are not asked to give a
verbal answer. The intent is for quiet self-introspection. They are asked to consider their
actions and answers considering the past week. The goal is to hopefully inspire change in
their actions, attitudes and habits. There are five or six questions related to each of the
four core principles. I will share these for your consideration.
In the Relational area, in the last week: How did you show love or receive love from
someone? How did you react/respond to conflict(s) that occurred? What are some
challenges to being in a relationship with you? (this can be on a family or friend level, or a
romantic level). Are you carrying or holding on to any anger, bitterness, resentment or
sadness from any relationship? Have you dealt honestly with the people that you have
come into contact or interacted with this past week? Did you intentionally treat others as
you wish to be treated? (i.e. the golden rule that Jesus taught).
In the Emotional area, in the last week: How am I feeling NOW? What kind of stress have I
been feeling? Was I overwhelmed by any particular situation in the last week? How am I
resting/sleeping during this past week?
In the Spiritual area, in the last week: Are you closer to God NOW than you were last
week? What might be hindering you in your walk with God? What are you hiding or holding
unto in your heart that is stressing you out? Am I a slave to any habits or possessions, etc.?
Do I feel like giving up? What situations or circumstances am I over-focused on?

Wrong Habits Lead to Wrong Ongoing Actions- Wrong Outcomes
Good Habits lead to Strong Character, Right Actions, Right Living
In the Behavioral area, In the last week: What will happen if I continue to do what I am
doing or live the way I am living? This past week, did I get the most out of my time? Exactly
what is stopping me from living my best life? What will I do if I only have one year to live?
What would I do differently if I started over again? Seriously, what is ONE thing I can do
RIGHT NOW, this day to make a positive change in my life?
I thought I would share these questions because they are related to habits and choices.
Going back to the text verse I Corinthians 15:33- “Be not deceived: Evil communications
corrupt good manners.”
I. There is a Caution that we should be aware of- A Warning- Be Not Deceived!
A. We can be deceived into thinking, that our associations, communication,
habits will not affect us.
B. The Bible teaches as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. Proverbs 23:7
C. Also, out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks. Luke 6:45
D. What we allow into our heart and our lives does have an impact on us.
E. Just as the saying, “You are what you eat” has truth to it the same principle
applies to our daily diet of what we consume or allow in through what we
listen to, what we watch, who we associate with.
F. Daily habits affect us either positively or negatively, because they form either
good manners, character or conduct or bad manners, character or conduct.
II. Specific Actions that we can Reinforce or Stop that will lead to desired
effect:
A. Actions of Habits to Reinforce:
1. Daily Bible reading will help lead to more godliness and faithfulness.
Faith comes by hearing the Word of God- Romans 10:17. Bible reading is
how we learn about God’s interaction with mankind, and how we learn of
our Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ- His life, ministry, miracles and salvation
that He provided by dying on the cross and making the sacrifice for sin.
2. Faithful Church attendance: we are not to forsake the assembling of
ourselves together with other believers- Hebrews 10:25. This verse also
tells us that we are to exhort and encourage one another as we wait for
the Lord’s coming.
3. Exhort one another daily: We are to be exhorting encouraging others. This
may be teaching or seeking to disciple others in right doctrine and biblical
instruction. Hebrews 3:13

Wrong Habits Lead to Wrong Ongoing Actions- Wrong Outcomes
Good Habits lead to Strong Character, Right Actions, Right Living
4. Giving to the Lord: We should be faithful in giving tithes and offerings to
the Lord. This is an evidence that God has blessed and provided for you
and is also a way to honor the Lord by putting Him first.
B. Actions or Habits that we should stop:
1. Wrong associations or companions. “Can two walk together except they
be agreed?” Is a rhetorical question posed in Amos 3:3. The obvious
answer is, “No!” It implies harmony, shared goals or plans or purposes
that are necessary for companionship or fellowship.
2. Wrong priorities. We are to prioritize our relationship with God. He
should come first. When we place other things before God it becomes a
block in our relationship with Him and a hinderance to His blessings.
Matthew 6:33- But Seek Ye first the kingdom of God and His
righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” We are told
in the preceding verse that we should not be worried or take thought for
what we will eat or drink our what we will be clothed with because God
will provide these things for us.
3. Neglecting Church attendance and fellowship with other believers.
Hebrews 10:25. This verse tells us that we are not to forsake or neglect
the assembling with other believers in the context of the Church. We
should not avoid opportunities to come together in fellowship with
brothers and sisters in Christ.

4/18/2026

Introduction to Who I Am in Christ-

We have all probably heard stories or seen a movie about someone who was in a car accident or experienced a traumatic head injury which caused them to lose their memory of who they were. This amnesia erased their memory of their identity, leading them to question, “who am I?”

Sometimes you and I have “spiritual amnesia” and we forget who we are in Christ. Also, Satan, our chief enemy, is a deceiver and liar who seeks to make us believe his lies as to who we are,

So, lest we forget who we are in Christ and are tempted to believe the Devil’s lies and falsehoods, I would like to share with you Biblical statements of who you and I are in Christ.

I AM ACCEPTED:

John 1:12- I am a child of God through faith.

John 5:15- I am a disciple: a follower and friend of Jesus.

Romans 5:1- I have been justified (declared righteous).

I Corinthians 6:17- I am united with the Lord; I am one with Him in spirit.

I Corinthians 6:19-20- I have been bought with a price and I belong to God.

I Corinthians 12:27- I am a member of Christ’s body.

Ephesians 1:3-8- I have been chosen by God and adopted as His child.

Colossians 1:13-14- I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins.

Colossians 2:9-10- I am complete in Christ.

Hebrews 4:14-16- I have direct access to the throne of grace through Jesus Christ.

I AM SECURE:

Romans 8:1-2- I am free from condemnation.

Romans 8:28- I am assured that God works for my good in all circumstances.

Romans 8:31-39- I am free from any condemnation brought against me and I cannot be separated from the love of God.

II Corinthians 1:21-22- I have been established, anointed and sealed by God.

Colossians 3:1-4- I am hidden with Christ in God.

Philippians 1:6- I am confident that God will complete the good work He started in me.

Philippians 3:20- I am a citizen of heaven.

II Timothy 1:7- I have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind.

I John 5:18- I am born of God, and the evil one cannot touch me.

I AM SIGNIFICANT:

John 15:5- I am a branch of Jesus Christ, the True vine and a channel of His life.

John 15:16- I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit.

I Corinthians 3:16- I am God’s temple.

II Corinthians 5:17-21- I am a minister of reconciliation for God.

Ephesians 2:6- I am seated with Jesus Christ in the heavenly realm.

Ephesians 2:10- I am God’s workmanship

Ephesians 3:12- I may approach God with freedom and confidence

Philippians 4:13- I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.

4/11/2026

The Bible- Our Guidebook- is True and Trustworthy, Accurate and Authoritative

Someone has come up with the acrostic for the Word Bible as Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.
Yes, and as such, it is to be our guidebook or instruction manual. Man has one innate problem though;
we have an aversion to following maps and reading instructions. (Yes, I can make fun of myself and my
gender). The Bible is to be our guide- Psalm 119:105- “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto
my path.” The Bible is true and trustworthy as a guide for our lives. It is true and trustworthy because it
is accurate and authoritative.
As a brief introduction, I want to state that the Bible is a unique book, not just because it is different in
form, structure and history, but it has a position of supernatural superiority to all other communication
because it’s origin and author is God. Because of its divine authorship- it insists on total accuracy for its
content and absolute obedience to its commands. (Proverbs 30:5-6; II Timothy 3:16-17; II Peter 1:21)
The Bible States that God gave it to us- Psalm 68:11- “The Lord gave the word: Great was the company
of those that published it.” II Peter 1:3 says that God has given to us all things that pertain to life and
godliness.” Because the Bible is given to by God we can trust its accuracy and authority.
I. The Accuracy of the Bible- “Every word of God is pure:..” Proverbs 30:5a
A. Its words are pure and preserved- Psalm 12:6-7- “The words of the Lord are pure words: As
silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O Lord, Thou
shalt preserve them from this generation forever.”
B. All Scripture is given by God- there are two main ways:
1. Direct revelation- the actual words God spoke to the patriarchs and prophets:
Nearly four thousand times in the Bible we find the words, “And God said…” or “the Lord
spoke to Moses” or the word of the Lord came to Isaiah.”
2. Secondly, by Inspiration- the process by which the Holy Spirit guided the prophets,
apostles and human authors to write down actual divine truth accurately. The word
“inspiration” (Pneumatikos) spirit-wind and therefore, means “God-breathed.”
C. Modern research and archeological findings attest to the accuracy of the Bible.
Example: When the Dead Sea Scrolls were found in the caves of Qumran, the writings in
Isaiah and other O.T. portions read just as we have them in the King James Bible.
D. The Bible is the Word of God the Father as Jesus made clear in John 12:49-50
“I have not spoken of myself: but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment,
what I should say, and what I should speak. And I know that his commandment is life
everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.”
E. It was confirmed by the Holy Spirit- “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of
man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” II Peter 1:21
II. The Authority of the Bible- By virtue of being given by God, and being pure and preserved-
A. It is the source of Faith and Salvation-
1. “So then faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17

The Bible- Our Guidebook- is True and Trustworthy, Accurate and Authoritative
2. “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God,
which lives and abides forever.” I Peter 1:23
B. It is the Guidebook for our lives- (i.e. for faith and practice) II Timothy 3:16-17
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for
correction and instruction in righteousness.”
C. It is a Sure and Solid Foundation for our lives- Matthew 7:24-29
1. It is the means by which young men (and old men) can cleanse their way- Ps.119:9
2. It is a lamp unto our feet and light unto our path- Psalm 119:105
3. It is to be reverenced and obeyed- “for thou has magnified thy word above all thy name
Psalm 138:2.
4. It is not to be changed- Proverbs 30:6- “Add not to His words…” (cf. Duet. 4:2)
5. It is not to be corrupted- “let God be true and every man a liar.” Romans 3:4
D. We are to study to show ourselves approved- II Timothy 2:15
1. We are to rightly divide the word of truth.
2. We are to discern right from wrong; truth from error- II Timothy 2:16-18.
3. We are to study and embrace sound doctrine- Titus 1:9; 2:7,10.
a. Some will corrupt the word of God- II Corinthians 2;17
b. Some will depart from the faith- I Timothy 4:1-3.
4. We are not to be carried away with diverse and strange doctrines- Hebrews 13:9.
a. The Corinthian church always had some new doctrine- I Corinthians 14:26.
b. We are to be as the Bureans- Acts 17:11- “Search the scriptures daily…”

4/4/2026

Good News from a Graveyard- Matthew 28:6-7

Summary: Good News from the Graveyard Matthew 28:6-7 Intro The message of Christianity is good news from a cemetery. Graveyards are always melancholy places because they are associated with grief, sadness, and separation from our loved ones. The cemetery is normally a place of quietness, designed for respectful reflection and remembrance.

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Introduction:

The message of Christianity is good news from a cemetery. Graveyards are always melancholy places because they are associated with grief, sadness, and separation from our loved ones. The cemetery is the last place from which one would expect to receive good news.

From the beginning of time, man has raised the question that was asked by Job in Job 14:14, “If a man die, shall he live again?” Century after century the small and the great, the wise and the foolish, the rich and the poor, the young and the old marched into the silent, clammy chambers of death. For centuries, people stood in fear of death and the tomb. It remained for Jesus Christ, the God-man, to come with an authentic answer to Job’s painful, perplexing question. With an emphatic, Yes! Jesus proved by His glorious resurrection, that man can live again! He is the Resurrection and the Life- John 11:25- “I am the resurrection and the life: he that believeth in me though he were dead, yet shall he live:” Jesus spoke these words before he raised his friend Lazarus back to life.

I. The basic doctrinal truth of Christianity- The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the key concluding component of the Gospel (The Gospel is the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ). If Christ be not risen- His incarnation, sinless life, His death on the cross, would be meaningless- it would fall flat. “and if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.” I Corinthians 15:14 (i.e. we have no message, we have no hope of salvation or for immortality.) If Jesus had not risen, and therefore had not kept his promise and procured the means of salvation, then, yes, our preaching would be in vain; there would be no reason to proclaim any hope of salvation; Yes, then, our faith would be vain, it would be pointless. There have been many religious leaders and founders of some religious movements that have died, but none of them have ever risen again. Jesus Christ alone is the only One who ever rose again from the dead! Dramatically punctuating all of human history! With a triumphant exclamation mark, He is Risen! Dividing History and Calendar-keeping into B.C. and A.D. Yes, for many years B.C. was used to denoted Before Christ and A.D. (Anno Domini- in the year of our Lord) after the resurrection of our Lord. In recent times, historians in a subtle attempt to remove Jesus Christ from prominence in regard to this date notation, have changed it from B.C. to B.C.E. (i.e. Before Common Era), and A.C.E. (After Common Era). You can find this explanation on an online web search. Me, always, loving a pun and being somewhat sarcastic, refer to B.C.E. or A.C.E. as “Before Common Error” or “After Common Error”.

A. The basic truth of Christianity is found in this angelic announcement: “He is not here: for he is risen, as he said, Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead.”

B. The Easter message is not an argument- it is a fact! “He is Risen as He said…”

C. It is a divine proclamation. Jesus gave His prophetic proclamation that He would rise again.

1. The angels declared that Jesus Christ had conquered death and had risen to life.

2. The apostles experienced his living presence to the extent that they died martyr’s deaths rather than surrender their faith and deny their relationship to him.

3. The Scriptures record at least eleven appearances of the living Christ to the disciples.

4. The empty tomb spoke with a shout to declare that he was no longer dead.

5. The present strength of Christianity is a dramatic testimony to the presence of the living Christ who has waked the corridors of time.

II. The message of the empty tomb

A. During the last six months of our Lord’s earthly ministry, he sought repeatedly to instruct his disciples concerning the necessity and nature of his forthcoming death on the cross.

B. They found these teachings impossible to understand and they sought by every means at their command to prevent Christ from going to the cross.

C. His shameful and horrible death on the cross was, for them, a great personal tragedy:

The Personal Tragedy:

1. He was their dearest friend.

2. They had placed their complete confidence in him.

3. They had pinned their hopes for the future of the nation on him.

4. His death, for them, was a great political tragedy because they expected him to be a nationalistic messiah who would deliver Israel from the domineering power of Rome.

5. His death on the cross, for them, was a public disgrace.

The Shameful conviction and death

1. There was no more shameful manner in which a man could die.

2. Jesus was condemned as a common criminal and sentenced to death by crucifixion.

3. This was a fate so horrible that Roman law forbade the crucifixion of a Roman citizen even for the most heinous crime.

III. The Eventual Understanding of the Disciples- It was not until the mystery miracle of the first Easter morn that they began to understand what the Savior had been trying to communicate to their minds and hearts.

The empty tomb declared to their minds and hearts that Jesus Christ was really the divine Son of God. Romans. 1:4- “and declared to be the son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.”

As a man:

1. Jesus Christ of Nazareth had worked in a carpenter shop.

2. He had walked about Galilee.

3. He had become hungry like other men.

4. He had experienced weariness and exhaustion.

5. He knew loneliness and sorrow.

6. He was a man, but he was also God. (John 1:14)

As God the Son- The Messiah

1. He gave sight to the blind; he made the deaf hear, he made the lame walk; he brought the death back to life.

2. He commanded the winds to cease their blowing, and they obeyed.

3. He ordered the wind and waves of the sea to be calm, and without hesitation they carried out his orders.

4. On several occasions, he claimed to be the Son of God.

5. He had the audacity to forgive sin.

6. He claimed to have the power to lay down his life and to take it up again.

7. This was the boldest of his claims. “destroy this temple and in three days, I will raise it up.” John 2:19

8. It was the fulfillment of this claim that authenticated the truth of all of his teachings and declared him once and for all to be the God-man.

9. He was the eternal God with a human body. “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us; and we beheld His glory, the glory of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14

B. The empty tomb declares that his death on the cross made atonement for our sins. (Romans 4:25)

1. The hymn writer said, “Jesus paid it all. All to Him I owe. Sin had left a crimson stain. He washed it white as snow.”

2. So, let’s ask the question: “How can we know that the death of Jesus Christ took care of the sin that separates the souls of humans form God?”

a. Hebrews 10:10 tells us, “By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.”

b. Hebrews 10:14- “For by one offering he hath perfected forever them that are sanctified.”

c. “Neither by the blood of goats or calves, but by hi own blood he entered in once into the holy place having obtained eternal redemption for us” Heb.9:12

3/21/2026

The Suffering Servant- Isaiah 53 – Our Sacrificial Savior, Messiah
Scripture: Isaiah 53:1-6
Summary: We will look at the heart of Isaiah 53, a prophetic passage that unveils the
redemptive work of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Introduction: In these verses we encounter the suffering servant who bore our griefs and
carried our sorrows. As we look into Isaiah 53:3-4, we will discover profound truths about
the character and mission of Christ, and how His sacrifice brings healing and redemption
to our lives.
I. The Rejected Messiah (Isaiah 53:3)
A. “He was despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows and
B. acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was
despised, and we esteemed him not.” Isaiah 53:3
C. Isaiah paints a vivid picture of the suffering servant, describing Him as
despised and rejected by humanity. Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah,
experienced profound sorrow and grief as He walked the earth, bearing the
weight of our sins.
D. Despite His unparalleled love and compassion, many turned away from Him,
choosing to disregard His message of Salvation. John 1:10-11- “He was in the
world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.” “He
came unto his own and his own received him not.”
E. In their rejection, they failed to recognize the identity of the one who came to
save them.
F. Isaiah’s portrayal of the suffering servant aligns with the gospel accounts of
Jesus’ earthly ministry, where He faced rejection and opposition from
religious leaders and society at large. The phrase “a man of sorrows and
acquainted with deepest grief” underscores the depth of Christ’s suffering
and His identification with human pain and brokenness.
II. The Suffering Savior (Isaiah 53:4)
A. “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem
him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.” Isaiah 53:4
B. Isaiah reveals the profound truth that Christ bore our weaknesses and sorrow
upon Himself, carrying the burden of our sin and suffering. Though innocent
and blameless, Jesus willingly embraced the pain and punishment that
rightly belonged to us. In His sacrificial love, He took upon Himself the
consequences of our transgressions, offering Himself as the ultimate atoning
sacrifice for humanity’s sin. (i.e. the sacrificial, substitutionary, vicarious
death of Jesus Christ).

The Suffering Servant- Isaiah 53 – Our Sacrificial Savior, Messiah
C. Despite the misconceptions and misunderstandings of those around Him,
Jesus remained steadfast in His mission to bring redemption and
reconciliation to all who will believe on Him by faith.
D. Isaiah’s depiction of the suffering servant as bearing the sins and sufferings
of humanity foreshadows the sacrificial death of Christ on the cross. The
verse emphasis the vicarious nature of Christ’s suffering highlighting His
willingness to endure the penalty of sin on behalf of humanity.
III. The Source of Our Healing (Isaiah 53:5)
A. “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our
iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with His stripes
we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5
B. Isaiah proclaims the redemptive purpose of Christ’s suffering, declaring that
His wounds bring healing and wholeness to humanity. Through His sacrificial
death and resurrection, Jesus provides the ultimate remedy for sin and
brokenness, offering forgiveness, restoration, and spiritual healing to all who
believe.
C. His wounds are not symbols of defeat but signs of victory over sin and death,
paving the way for reconciliation between God and humanity. As recipients
of His grace, we are invited to embrace the healing power of Christ and
experience the transformative impact on His love in our lives.
D. Isaiah’s proclamation of Christ’s redemptive work echoes throughout the
New Testament, particularly in the writings of the apostles who testify to the
healing and salvation available through Jesus Christ.
E. This verse underscores the comprehensive nature of Christ’s atonement,
providing spiritual and physical healing for all who come to Him in faith.
IV. The Need for the Suffering Savior- (Isaiah 53:6)
A. The universal need: “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned
everyone to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.”
B. The ultimate remedy: Jesus Christ took all the sins and iniquities of mankind
upon Himself on the cross of Calvary and made that ultimate once-for-all
sacrifice for the atonement for our sins. (Hebrews 10:10,14).
C. “By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus
Christ once for all.” (Hebrews 10:10) “For by one offering He hath perfected
forever them that are sanctified.” (Hebrews 10:14)
Conclusion: As we reflect on the profound truths of Isaiah 53, may we be reminded of the
immeasurable love and sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us embrace the rejected
Messiah who bore our sorrows and carried our sins, finding hope and healing in His
redemptive work. May we share the message of salvation and the healing power of Christ

The Suffering Servant- Isaiah 53 – Our Sacrificial Savior, Messiah
with a world in need. Let us extend grace and compassion to those who are hurting and
broken, pointing them to the source of true healing and wholeness—Jesus Christ.
Let us commit ourselves to living as vessels of His love and messengers of His redemption,
proclaiming the good news of salvation and inviting others to experience the transformative
power of the suffering servant who became our Savior. May we walk in the light of Isaiah
53, trusting the promises of God and proclaiming the hope found in Christ alone. May we
allow the truths of Isaiah 53 to shape our faith, inspire our actions, and lead us into deeper
intimacy in our relationship with our Savior, Jesus Christ.

3/14/2026

Mountain Top Experiences and Valley Low Points

Introduction: Matthew 17:1-6 Jesus takes Peter, James and John up to a high mountain,
and there is transfigured before them revealing His glory. Jesus’ face shined like the sun,
and His clothes were bright as the light! THIS WAS A MARVELOUS MOUNTAIN TOP
EXPERIENCE!! Also appearing with Jesus was Moses and Elias talking with Him. I imagine
these disciples were caught up in awe of this glorious scene. Peter was so enraptured that
he spoke up and said, “Lord, it is good for us to be here: If thou will, let us build three
tabernacles; one for Thee, one for Moses and one for Elias.”
Have you ever had great shining moment- a mountain top experience, and then you did
something or said something that was totally out of place? How embarrassing! Well, Peter
had one of those moments—Immediately after Peter said this, a bright cloud
overshadowed them, and a voice out of the cloud spoke, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in
whom I am well pleased, hear ye him.” What a celestial rebuke! This is not the first time
that Peter misspoke, he seemed to have a knack for putting his foot in his mouth. Can you
relate? There was one occasion however, when Peter said something that was exactly
right, when he answered the question that Jesus asked, “Whom do men say that I am? And
the, “Whom do you say that I am? Peter answered, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the
living God. (Matthew 16:13)
Getting back to the glorious mountain top experience, Peter later recounted it when he
wrote about it in 2 Peter 1:16-18- “For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when
we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were
eyewitnesses of his majesty, For He received from God the Father honor and glory, when
there came such a voice to Him from the excellent glory, ‘This is my beloved Son, in whom I
am well pleased.’ And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with
Him in the holy mount.”
I. Peter Affirms His Message is Built on Facts That He Has Seen.
A. He declares that he has not followed cunningly devised fables—He and the
other disciples were eyewitnesses.
B. His declaration of the gospel was on a firm foundation of personal
experience. He had seen Jesus crucified, placed in the tomb, and then, later
seen Him Risen. Jesus had appeared to the disciples after he rose again.
C. The Transfiguration was Proof of Peter’s Preaching—It was Validation!
1. This mountaintop experience vindicated the mission of Christ. Mt.17:1-6
2. The voice from heaven silenced the voices of critics on earth and
reaffirms the Father’s pleasure in His Son and redirects their praise and
respect to Him.
II. How Can We Get in on Mountaintop Experiences?

Mountain Top Experiences and Valley Low Points
A. We must follow Jesus (Matthew 17:1; 2 Peter 1:16)
1. Peter, James and John were taken up on a high mountain (Matt. 17:1).
a. It’s important to note that these disciples had already come to faith in
Jesus before this experience.
b. They had heard Jesus call them and they responded and left their
work and followed Him.
2. Faith begins the Christian life, but Discipleship follows.
a. Sometimes this means separating from others. Peter, James and John
left their occupation (fishing), they left their boats and their buddies.
b. Following Christ is being willing to surrender to Him.
3. Following Jesus leads to higher ground.
a. Jesus led them to a high mountain.
b. Great things awaited them there on that mountain top.
4. Are you willing to follow Jesus all the way?
B. We Must Keep Our Eyes Open- Matthew 17:2; 2 Peter 1:16
1. Peter became an eyewitness to the majesty of Christ.
a. He would never forget this miraculous moment.
b. He claimed this experience as proof of his authority to minister.
2. Peter had other memorable experiences:
a. Walking on the water with Jesus.
b. Healing the lame man who laid by the Temple gate.
c. Cutting off the ear of the servant of the high priest and seeing Jesus
place the ear back on the man--healing him.
d. Being delivered from prison by an angel- Acts 12
3. Peter also had his shameful, Low Valley times
a. While walking on the water- He took his eyes off Jesus and began to
sink when he saw the wind and the waves.
b. Falling asleep in the garden of Gethsemane when Jesus ask him to
pray with Him in his hour of deepest need. Mark 14:32-34; 37, 40-41
c. Peter denied the Lord three times, and with cursing on third denial.
(Mark 14:66-72) Jesus had forewarned him that this would happen.
(Matthew 26:31-35)
d. Scripture tells us that Peter went out and wept bitterly- Matthew 26:75
these were tears of shameful remorse (Luke 22:62). Peter had fallen
and felt terrible and discouraged and went back to former life of
fishing.
4. Peter Needed to Know He Was Not Forsaken- Mark 14:22-72
a. Jesus had prepared His disciples for what was ahead.

Mountain Top Experiences and Valley Low Points
1) The crucifixion (vv. 22-25)
2) Persecution (v. 27)
3) His resurrection (v. 28)
b. Peter vowed never to be offended (Mark 14:29-31) Jesus foretold that
Peter would deny him three times that very night.
c. Peter broke that vow (Mark 14:53-77).
1) He needed to know that Jesus still loved him.
2) He Needed to know that Jesus had kept His vow (Mark 14:28).
d. To fail does not make one a lifelong failure!
1) God’s love reaches out to those who have failed. There is
forgiveness available and extended.
2) The cross and the resurrection guarantee that love and forgiveness
5. Peter Needed to Know He Had Been Forgiven- (Mark 14:53-72)
a. He had followed Jesus afar off. He was distant.
b. He had mingled with the enemies of the Lord.
c. He had warmed himself by the wrong fire.
6. After Peter fell and went back to fishing and was backslidden, the Lord
restored him- John 21:17 (the fire of coals where Jesus had fish roasting)
and asked Peter three times, “Peter, do you love Me?” This was a call to
restoration of his relationship with Jesus and renewed ministry focus.
**Note: Just because you have a Great Mountaintop Experience does not
safeguard you from slipping and falling into sin.
7. Evidence that Peter had been forgiven and restored:
a. Jesus specifically wanted Peter to know that he was risen- “tell Peter”
(Mark 16:7).
b. Peter preached on the day of Pentecost, and 3000 souls were saved-
Acts 2:14-41.

3/7/2026

Sharing your testimony with others

Sharing your testimony with others is a must for all Christians. When giving your testimony
you tell how you came to trust in Christ alone as your Lord and Savior. You tell how God
opened your eyes on how you were a sinner in need of a Savior.
We are sharing with others different events leading up to our salvation and how God has
worked in our lives to bring us to repentance. Testimony is a form of praise and honor to
Christ.
We also use it as a way to encourage others. Know every time when you’re going through
trials and sufferings in life, that’s an opportunity to share a testimony of how God worked in
your life and made you stronger.
Testimony is not only the things that we say. The way we live our life is a testimony to
unbelievers as well.
What does the Bible say?
3. Psalm 71:15-16 I will declare your righteousness and