Sunday Messages | howardbaptistchurch

Howard Baptist Fellowship Messages

Sermons by Evan Digby

Howard Baptist 23/03/2025

Who wants to go to heaven? Most people who accept that there is a heaven will want to go there - it would be strange to reject heaven for any other place.

Our reading today starts with a question of how to obtain eternal life.

So, what must we do to gain eternal life?

Luke Luke 10:25 On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"

26 "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"

27 He answered: " `Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind' ; and, `Love your neighbor as yourself.' "

28 "You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live."

29 But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"

30 In reply Jesus said: "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. `Look after him,' he said, `and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.'

36 "Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?"

37 The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him."

Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."

Be merciful, as God is merciful.

Jesus was constantly be challenged and tested, as he was making big claims to whom he was and with the message he was preaching.

It was right that people questioned him, and assessed him on his replies – it was Jesus who later said about false prophets.

Jesus about false prophets Matthew 7:20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

So, it was important to check the fruit of those who claimed to be a prophet of God.

In our reading, Jesus was asked two questions by the Pharisee. They were separate questions, but they were linked in an important way.

The Pharisee’s first question is one of the best questions that anyone could ask, it revealed that he knew that there was a spiritual world that one needs to be ready for.

Luke Luke 10:25 On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. "Teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"

There were two religious groups that did oversee the leadership of Israel. The Sadducees and the Pharisees.

The Sadducees only believed in the first five books of the Old Testament, the Torah, Genesis to Deuteronomy. The temple priests and the 70 members of the Sanhedrin were mostly Sadducees. They did not believe in life after death, this earthly life was all there was.

The Pharisees however accepted all the Old Testament as being of God inspired and true.

Luke Acts 23:8 (The Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, and that there are neither angels nor spirits, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all.)

So, it was fitting that a pharisee, an expert in the Law would ask this question about eternal life.

In answering this expert in the law, Jesus replies by giving him the requirement of the law, based on a combination of Deuteronomy 6:5, and Leviticus 19:18. Matthew 22:37-40.

Luke Luke 10:26 "What is written in the Law?" he replied. "How do you read it?"

27 He answered: " `Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind' ; and, `Love your neighbor as yourself.' "

28 "You have answered correctly," Jesus replied. "Do this and you will live."

Jesus responds by saying that if he can love God and his neighbour perfectly, then by doing it, he can obtain eternal life!

Jesus was telling the truth about how to gain eternal life by - what must I do.

But the man would have known that he could not live up to that heavenly standard.

Jesus was basically saying to the man, that he, by his own efforts, had to be in a perfect and sin-free relationship with God and humanity, to enter heaven! But what Jesus said was impossible.

Many Pharisees were trying to live perfect religious lives so that would be deserving of eternal life, but it takes just one conscious sin to knowingly separate us from God, and not only that, we are born sinners.

Paul Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, Ephesians 2:1.

All religions of the world basically require the follower to seek acceptance of their god, by doing good works for acceptance.

But good works for salvation cannot please Almighty God.

Isaiah Isaiah 64:6 All of us have become like one who is unclean,

and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags;

we all shrivel up like a leaf,

and like the wind our sins sweep us away.

By our own efforts, as unclean and unrighteous before God, any acts we do for merit with God are like filthy rags. These acts were like the religious works of the Pharisees.

But Paul makes it clear, that we can only be saved by God’s mercy and grace.

Paul Ephesians 2:8 For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- 9 not by works, so that no one can boast.

The law of Moses was meant to show that no one was able to perfectly keep the law, it was meant to humble people in readiness for the Messiah and his gospel message.

Paul Galatians 3:24 So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith. 25 Now that faith has come, we are no longer under the supervision of the law.

The Old Testament Law of Moses like a mirror that shows you are dirty, (sinful) but cannot cleanse you. The New Testament gospel is like soap that can cleanse you (spiritually within).

This is the unique message of the Gospel, that Jesus took our sin upon himself and our sin died with him. We are saved, not by what we have done, but by what Jesus did and accomplished, for us, as our substitute.

As Paul went on to say -

Paul Romans 3:23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.

This verse explains the problem we have, and the answer we have!

Trying to impress God with your good , will not get you into the kingdom of God.

Jesus Matthew 7:21 "Not everyone who says to me, `Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 Many will say to me on that day, `Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?' 23 Then I will tell them plainly, `I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!'

Jesus tells us that many people will try to get into heaven by what they have done; wrong answer! Prophesy, drive out demons, and perform many miracles. Do, do and do!

But it is by what Christ has done that allows us to be received into heaven.

Done, done and done!

So, the Pharisees’ first question is answered. Eternal life is through Jesus Christ. John 14:6.

The Pharisee’s second question had a darker side to it. The man wanted choose whom he helped.

Luke Luke 10:29 But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?"

The Pharisee was trying to narrow down who his neighbour was, whom he needed to love and show care to. The Jews had a narrow view of who was a ‘neighbour’, they saw it as fellow Jew or convert to Judaism. Jesus redefined the term to mean anyone whom we deal with.

The two commandments of loving God and loving neighbour, belong together; they cannot be separated, as love of neighbour, is a natural extension of love of God.

To explain this to the pharisee and the crowd – Jesus tells a parable, about a good Samaritan.

The Samaritans were distained by the Jews because they were historically of mixed cultures, put there by the conquering Assyrians. To a Jew, the Samaritans were unclean and unworthy of respect. Jesus is teaching that we must have compassion on those whom we normally would not relate to.

In this story, a Jew (in Jewish territory) was travelling from Jerusalem, downhill to Jericho – about 30 km away. Jerusalem was 2,900 feet above sea level and Jericho was 1,300 feet below sea level. But the road there was prone to attack by thieves.

Luke 10:30 In reply Jesus said: "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. 31 A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. 32 So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. 33 But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. 34 He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. 35 The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. `Look after him,' he said, `and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.'

The road to Jerusalem wound through rugged, rocky terrain where robbers could easily hide. It was well known as a dangerous route.

The Priest and the Levite (temple servant) returning from Jerusalem would have recently been involved in the height of religious ritual.

They thought themselves too important and ceremonially clean to stoop to getting themselves dirty and delayed by helping this man, left naked and half dead, they may have thought he was dead, so they would have become defiled by touching a corpse.

What a sight! Even today when a scene may happen (someone being bullied), many people become spectators and phone video the event, but few may help.

He needed immediate help – even though the story implies that the injured man was one of their own culture, both men walked past, probably hoping that someone coming after them would help this man.

There is a saying, that states ‘What you walk past, becomes your standard!’.

These two showed their uncaring attitudes and standards by walking past the injured man.

Then onto the scene comes a Samaritan man. His first reaction on seeing the injured man was he took pity on him. Before doing anything else, he first had love, mercy, and compassion for the man. Then he took medical action, equivalent to our first aid.

He used his wine and oil for wound cleansing and lotion, and he may have used parts of his clothing for bandages. Then he lifted the man onto his donkey and carried him to accommodation, where he paid the innkeeper in advance out his own pocket, with a promise to pay any extra costs when he later returned. He then went on his business, but his first business was to help this very needy man.

Two silver coins or denarii, about two days wages. We need to do the same!

Jesus Luke 10:36 "Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?"

37 The expert in the law replied, "The one who had mercy on him."

Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise."

Jesus tells this parable, to focus on the one who loved, and he expected his parable to lead to a change of mind by the Pharisee whom would have normally avoided contact with Samaritans. The Pharisee is obliged to admit that the ‘one who had mercy on him’ was the loving person in the story. But even then, the Pharisee was not able to say the word ‘Samaritan’ in his reply.

* There are three different attitudes or philosophies presented here.

The attitude of the robbers was - Beat him up. What is yours is ours, we’ll take it.

The attitude of Priest/Levite was - Pass him up. What is ours, is our own, we will keep it.

The attitude of the Samaritan was - Pick him up. What is mine, I will gladly share.

To a Jew there was no such person as a ‘good’ Samaritan.

But Jesus illustrated that real love is demonstrated in action - it may cost you in money, time, and inconvenience – but true love of neighbour, will willingly and mercifully do this, and is an outcome of first loving God.

Our Bible reading shows that God saves us through his mercy, and Jesus’ parable tells us to show mercy to others. Jesus tells us, to go and do likewise.

As we have been shown mercy from God, let us show mercy to others - without prejudice. Don’t walk past, - God did not walk past us!

Message; and embolden, underlining, and arrangement of Bible text by Evan Digby.

Howard Baptist 16/03/2025

There is a strong theme that commenced early in the New Testament, starting with John the Baptist and then with Jesus. They had a common preaching emphasis.

Matthew 3:1 In those days John the Baptist came, preaching in the Desert of Judea 2 and saying, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near."

Matthew 4:17 From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven

is near."

We see both John the Baptist and Jesus, started their preaching saying the same thing.

And progressing through the days of Jesus’ ministry, the same message continued, as we saw in our last message when Jesus sent out the seventy-two disciples ahead of him.

Jesus Luke 10:9 ------ and tell them, `The kingdom of God is near you.'

The kingdom of heaven, and the kingdom of God are interchangeable terms, - kingdom of heaven was probably more appropriate to Jews, as they typically did not want to speak the word ‘God’, as it was considered too sacred. Whereas kingdom of God was appropriate when appealing to non-Jews.

This strong emphasis of the kingdom ‘is near’, meant that God’s kingdom was within reach for all to enter.

Paul to the unbelieving Athenians Acts 17:27 ------ he is not far from each one of us.

God has not distanced himself from humanity, humanity has distanced itself from God!

Jesus saying the kingdom of God is near you, was like an invitation to a special place or event, that is big enough to cater for all who would respond!

Parable of Jesus Matthew 22:9 Go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.

The same message of the kingdom of God goes out today as well - and it is us who are to Go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.

As Christians, we are in the kingdom of God, and we are going to the banquet - but there are many that have not yet been invited! But they are all near the kingdom of God!

Today we see the good results of the returning seventy-two disciples, that Jesus had directed to Go - ‘GO’ Going Out, or ‘GO’ Gospel Outreach - this is the role of all of us.

In these days of global uncertainty, it is a great opportunity to point people to God’s eternal and incorruptible spiritual kingdom.

Jesus to the 72 disciples Luke 10:16 "He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me; but he who rejects me rejects him who sent me."

17 The seventy-two returned with joy and said, "Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name."

18 He replied, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. 20 However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven."

21 At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.

22 "All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and no one knows who the Father is except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him."

23 Then he turned to his disciples and said privately, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. 24 For I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it."

Making the Kingdom known.

The spiritual kingdom of God is manifested here on earth, through the church. As Christian churches grow, the spiritual kingdom of God grows as well.

Those within the kingdom will obviously want to gather on a regular basis, to give praise and thanks to the Lord, for their salvation and blessings that he has given.

We meet to be supported, encouraged and to encourage each other.

Hebrews 10:23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 25 Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Some people tell me that, ‘you don’t have to go to church to be a Christian’! But these words speak to the need of all Christians, to meet on a regular basis. The physical attendance of each one of us, is a spiritual encouragement to others.

The seventy-two, were not secret believers - they openly followed Jesus. They knew that they were not of the twelve; but following Jesus, was sufficient for them.

Just before Jesus sent them out, he gave them this authority.

Jesus Luke 10:16 "He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me; but he who rejects me rejects him who sent me."

Jesus makes it obvious, that salvation, is all about our attitude towards him, he refers four times to himself in this one sentence. He is pivotal in our relationship with God. These words of Jesus, empower us to receive his authority. Just listen to what Jesus says here! Wow!

You may have wondered, how you can gather the enthusiasm and passion to invite people into the kingdom. You can, knowing that you carry the message and authority of Jesus Christ. You go out with his blessing, and knowing that he is with you.

Matthew 28:20. Acts 1:8. Hebrews 13:5.

We are the voice and feet of Jesus - when we take out his message. Who else will do it?

Paul Romans 10:14 How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" Isaiah 52:7. Nahum 1:15.

Paul here, clearly states that if someone is to believe, then someone must tell them what to believe! And you are blessed when you tell people the good news of Jesus Christ, and his eternal kingdom. Your ‘beautiful feet’ has brought them good news.

Jesus Luke 10:17 The seventy-two returned with joy and said, "Lord, even the demons submit to us in your name."

The seventy-two were given supernatural powers to heal and to cast out demons, and these powers were given to point people to the good news of Jesus. This was the purpose of miracles.

Luke Acts 14:3 So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to do miraculous signs and wonders.

Hebrews 2:3-4.

In fulfilling what Jesus had called them to do, the seventy-two returned with joy, having seen tremendous results and made many more disciples. Jesus shared in their enthusiasm.

There is joy in evangelism - telling others about Jesus is what we are meant to do, and Jesus ensures rejoicing for those who do so.

The disciple’s ability to cast out demons, was especially effective in gaining the attention of many people. The 72 even showed power over demons by casting them out. Fallen angels.

Jesus Luke 10:18 He replied, "I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. 20 However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven."

When Jesus responds to the good results of the seventy-two, especially over the demons, he may be looking to what Isaiah said, where he linked the pride and fall of the king of Babylon, with the pride fall of Satan. Satan was once the highest angel in heaven, and Jesus’ use of

‘I saw’, suggests he was a firsthand witness of that fall.

Isaiah Isaiah 14:12 How you have fallen from heaven,

O morning star, son of the dawn!

You have been cast down to the earth,

you who once laid low the nations! Isaiah 14:4-15. Ezekiel 28:12-17.

Jesus is saying that due to what the seventy-two had done, the forces of evil were shaken, pointing to the breaking of Satan’s power. And when we share the gospel, we also point to the victory of Jesus over sin and the devil. That victory of Jesus that goes before us, and even extends right up to the realm of death and Satan’s domain. John 12:30,31.

Jesus re the faith of Peter Matthew 16:18 ------, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.

In ancient times, city gates represented authority and power, here Jesus tells us that the gates of Satan’s domain cannot overcome the good news of the kingdom of God.

In fact, we can siege these gates, and rob from the domain of the devil, and bring them into God’s kingdom.

‘A Christian cannot be apathetic about the salvation of the world. The love of God in him will motivate him to seek and save that which is lost.’ Charles Spurgeon.

True? Jesus gives us the authority and enthusiasm to do this --

Jesus Luke 10:19 I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome all the power of the enemy; nothing will harm you. 20 However, do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven."

To have authority ‘to trample on snakes and scorpions’ relates to the victorious work of Christ over the works of the devil. It may be that Jesus then, was looking back to Genesis, where it is stated, that the foretold Messiah will crush the serpent’s head.

God to the serpent Genesis 3:15 And I will put enmity

between you and the woman,

and between your offspring and hers;

he will crush your head,

and you will strike his heel."

When we join in the work of Jesus, we too trample on the work and power of the devil, and the Lord will be with us as we do his work. We may see much good fruit coming from our outreach, but we are not to fall to pride, as Jesus reminds us, just be grateful that you are saved, let the joy of heaven be your reward!

No matter what you achieve for the Lord, remember it is through his grace - so be humble, and be content with your salvation! Matthew 7:21-23.

Many people flocked to Jesus to see his miracles and wonders, but what he wanted for them was for them to enter his kingdom. To have your name written in heaven means that you are saved. If you have received Jesus into your life, be assured, you are enrolled as a citizen of heaven! Philippians 4:3. Revelation 3:5, 20:15.

Jesus Luke 10:21 At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.

Jesus shares the joy and victory the seventy-two, with his Father.

Jesus expressed this victory elsewhere as well.

Jesus Luke 15:10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents."

We see here, that God, with his angels, rejoices when the kingdom is added to, one person at a time! There is rejoicing in heaven, when you come to God.

The truth of the gospel reaches into humble childlike hearts, whereas - the gospel will be rejected by those who are full of worldly pride and self-righteousness.

Those whose hearts are like good fertile soil will receive the seed of the gospel, whereas other hearts are like hard rocky soil - they are not receptive to the gospel message.

Jesus Luke 10:22 "All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and no one knows who the Father is except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him."

Jesus explains why he has such great authority - only he has all things committed to him by the Father, and only the Son truly knows the Father, so by that authority, he can reveal that knowledge to others. Mark 1:22.

And Jesus revels that only through him, can you be saved into his kingdom.

John 14:6. Jesus - No one comes to the Father except through me. Acts 4:12.

Jesus Luke 10:23 Then he turned to his disciples and said privately, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. 24 For I tell you that many prophets and kings wanted to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it."

Away from the crowd, Jesus tells the large gathered disciples, that they are very blessed by to learn of God’s plan of salvation and of God himself. Anything that we learn of God has been revealed to us, so be grateful that by this revelation, we know about such things as the Trinity; the incarnation of Christ; salvation by grace; eternal life; acceptance by God, and peace with God; and so much more.

Like the early disciples, we are very blessed to see the gospel fully revealed. The gospel is God’s plan of salvation, where Jesus, God the Son, came to earth as the Godman, to die for our sin, and then rise to victory.

This plan of salvation not invented by anyone, or any church, it is directly from God.

Many Old Testament prophets and kings wanted to know about God’s salvation, and how God was going to achieve it, but we are fortunate in knowing how God accomplished it through Christ. John 3:16,17. 1 Peter 1:10-12.

Think how blessed we are to know of God’s salvation through Christ - let’s pass it on!

Message above; and embolden, underlining, and arrangement of Bible text by Evan Digby.

Howard Baptist 09/03/2025

Good morning, and welcome to our Howard Baptist Sunday Service –

Song – Turn your eyes upon Jesus,

Our world is going through many changes and challenges lately, and it is easy to be confused as to whose politics and policies to follow and trust.

Some large powerful nations are repositioning their global focus and ambitions, and I can understand why many people are becoming very unsettled by it. The world is like a global chess board, where the pieces are moving around beyond our control.

But these troubled times, are yet another opportunity to look past the problems of the world, to clearly see the unchanging strength, power, and authority of the eternal kingdom of God.

Jesus and his spiritual kingdom, are above politics and war mongering. Since Jesus established his kingdom, many powerful nations and empire builders have come and gone.

Knowing this, as Christians, we need to be at peace, knowing that what really matters is under God’s control, not under man’s control!

Even the fragile peace that our world has known over the last decades has been largely due to the threat of nuclear arms, and - MAD, Mutually Assured Destruction.

This is not real peace! Is this the best the world can do?

This is why the spiritual kingdom of God is such great awesome news. Within it we have spiritual peace, and freedom and the profound knowledge, that. this world is not all there is!

When people are focused on God’s kingdom; then his values, and his truths, and his freedoms permeate into the world from above, and through us. As Jesus said -

Jesus Matthew 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

The Christian faith is an anvil, that has worn out many a hammer!

In our world that is full of concerns and worry; Jesus tells us not to worry - but many Christians do worry! We need to realign our focus on the kingdom of God.

Our main concern is to be kingdom dwellers; by doing so, we have a positive effect in the world and on others, and results in righteous outcomes for God’s glory.

Focus on the kingdom of God. Keep spiritually looking up!

Our reading this morning reminds us that this is what Jesus wants us to do, and what he calls us to do.

Keep focus on the Kingdom of God.

Luke Luke 10:1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. 3 Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. 4 Do not take a purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone on the road.

5 "When you enter a house, first say, `Peace to this house.' 6 If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; if not, it will return to you. 7 Stay in that house, eating and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages. Do not move around from house to house.

8 "When you enter a town and are welcomed, eat what is set before you. 9 Heal the sick who are there and tell them, `The kingdom of God is near you.' 10 But when you enter a town and are not welcomed, go into its streets and say, 11 `Even the dust of your town that sticks to our feet we wipe off against you. Yet be sure of this: The kingdom of God is near.' 12 I tell you, it will be more bearable on that day for Sodom than for that town.

13 "Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14 But it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you. 15 And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies? No, you will go down to the depths.

16 "He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me; but he who rejects me rejects him who sent me."

Pause now -- Prayer – Praise to God - Nation, World, Missionaries and School Chaplains, Medical staff, Rain, and our local Communities.

Luke Luke 10:1 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go.

The public ministry of Jesus before his crucifixion was soon passing, and there were still many needy towns and villages to visit. So, Jesus sends out 72 disciples of his wider discipleship group to go in pairs before him - they would have gone to 36 places.

So, in addition to the twelve disciples, we see seventy-two more disciples, following Jesus, and due to urgency, he sends them forth into evangelism, even with the power to heal, and cast out demons. Luke 9:1-6.

These 72 men would have likely been part of the group of 120 believers, from which later, Matthias, the apostolic replacement for Judas Iscariot was chosen. Acts 1:15.

Peter Acts 1:21 Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from John's baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection."

Only Luke mentions these 72, but that may because of his overall strong emphasis of Christian outreach, to the Gentile world.

This ability to heal, was likely not permanent, but for this mission duration alone.

They were not designated apostles, but they were ‘sent ones’ in a general sense.

They are sent out like the twelve disciples had previously been, but these 72 were sent ahead to prepare where Jesus would soon visit. It seems that they would draw attention and interest to when Jesus would come. The area they were to go had a mixture of Jews, and Gentiles.

We know what they were to preach and teach, by what Jesus said to the one he had called.

Jesus Luke 9:60 ----- but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God.

That was the basic requirement of a disciple then, and it is a basic requirement of a disciple now! To - go and proclaim the kingdom of God.

What is a Christian to do? This is it! We need to ask ourselves- how can we do this, and how can we do this better?

Why do some Bibles say 70 disciples and others say 72?

Well, you can accept either, as both numbers go back to early manuscripts. The number may refer to the 70 elders of Moses, or probably the number represents the early Jews understanding of the number of nations in the world. Exodus 24:1.

Depending how you tally, adding up the sons, grandsons, and great-grandsons of Noah in Genesis chapter 10, whom we are told created the many nations of the world - you get 72!

So, by deduction, these 72 disciples represent the good news going out to the world, to the Gentiles.

Jesus Luke 10:2 He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field. 3 Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. 4 Do not take a purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone on the road. Matthew 9:37,38.

The harvest are people that need to be given the gospel, then when they willingly receive it, they can enter the kingdom of God, and be eternally blessed. But most do not accept the gospel, as they fear losing their belonging and oneness in the world. So, they are antagonistic to the messengers of the kingdom, they are like wolves attacking sheep, and Jesus tells the 72 to expect much abuse and rejection.

Notice here that the 72 were to simply preach and heal. Unlike certain religions, the Christian faith has never aimed to get converts, due to violence and force.

But the message is urgent, so like the twelve Jesus previously sent out, he tells the 72 to GO!

GO – Gospel Outreach! And they were not to take an ‘extra’ purse or bag or sandals. These should be provided ‘on the way’ by others in the kingdom. They were to go as they were. Time was short! Jesus sees his life hurrying to an end.

So urgent is the mission, that these 72 were to proceed directly to their mission area, and not delay by even talking to other travelers. They are to be single minded in focus, like the plowman Jesus described in the last reading from Luke, whom once putting his hand to the plow, does not look back, ‘or elsewhere’. 2 Kings 4:29.

They went out in pairs for support, and to reflect a proper witness. Deuteronomy 17:6, .19:15.

Paul often went with one other in his missionary journeys, such as Barnabus or Silas.

Jesus Luke 10:5 "When you enter a house, first say, `Peace to this house.' 6 If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; if not, it will return to you. 7 Stay in that house, eating and drinking whatever they give you, for the worker deserves his wages. Do not move around from house to house.

8 "When you enter a town and are welcomed, eat what is set before you. 9 Heal the sick who are there and tell them, `The kingdom of God is near you.'

Godly greetings were given to those who received the messengers of Jesus, and if they opened their house to them, the householders would be blessed. Those who receive the gospel should support the gospel.

The disciples were told by Jesus to be grateful for whatever was supplied to them, including their food, drink and accommodation. These 72 Jews were to receive even Gentile food.

They are worthy of whatever is freely given them on their gospel mission. Acts 10:9-16.

The blessing they bring includes healing those in the household who were sick, these healing miracles were a great testimony to them being truly from God, so their message was true as well.

Luke Acts 14:3 So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to do miraculous signs and wonders.

The message they brought was `The kingdom of God is near you.'

All they had to do, was to move from being near the kingdom of God, to being in the kingdom of God!

To be near the kingdom of God is not enough, we need to enter the kingdom and encourage other to do the same!

Jesus Mark 1:15 "The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!"

This is a twofold statement by Jesus. Firstly, to repent means to admit that your life is sinful and unrighteous, and you need to turn away from how you are living, then turn to God. And secondly, you are to receive the good news of the gospel, that provides forgiveness of sin, by Jesus dying for our sin, and you are then made acceptable to God, and fit for heaven.

Spiritual salvation requires us to turn away from our sinful lives and receive the gospel.

You are then received into the kingdom of God.

But for those reject the gospel message, there will be judgment.

Jesus Luke 10:10 But when you enter a town and are not welcomed, go into its streets and say, 11 `Even the dust of your town that sticks to our feet we wipe off against you. Yet be sure of this: The kingdom of God is near.' 12 I tell you, it will be more bearable on that day for Sodom than for that town.

Rejecting the gospel and it’s messengers, has horrendous consequences. Jesus tells his 72 disciples to openly condemn unwelcoming townspeople by rebuking them publicly.

Wiping the dust of that town off their feet, was a warning and rebuke against them, so that nothing of that town will go with them!

Jesus then uses the kingdom of God, not as a term of blessing, but as a term of judgment.

The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed due to their sinfulness, as they did not repent of their sin. Not even 10 righteous people were found there. Genesis 19.

But Jesus says that it is even more serious to reject him and his gospel, as the townspeople were actually rejecting God the Son, and God the Father who sent him. Jesus Christ was God in the flesh, nothing could be more serious than to reject him, or his messengers!

If Sodom did not escape judgment, what hope does a city have that rejects the Lord Jesus Christ have?

Jesus here, may also allude to the principle of different levels of punishment in hell, just as there different levels of rewards in heaven.

Matthew 6:4, 10:42. 1 Corinthians 3:11-15. 2 Corinthians 5:10.

Jesus Luke 12:47 "That servant who knows his master's will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows. 48 But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows.

Matthew 22:13; 25:30,41. Luke 12:42-48. John 19:11,12. Hebrews 10:28- 29.

James 3:1-2. 2 Peter 2:20-22. Revelation 20:12-13.

Those with more light or understanding will be held more accountable. This being the case, then Jesus tells the 72 disciples that Sodom, sin city, will be punished less severely, than the unwelcoming townspeople.

Then Jesus rebukes the towns where most of his miracles had been performed.

Matthew 11:20.

This especially applies to Korazin and Bethsaida, who had rejected Jesus. These towns were located at the north end of the Sea of Galilee where Jesus concentrated his ministry.

Jesus tells us that if the miracles that were performed in those Jewish towns, had been performed in pagan cities of Tyre and Sidon, that they would have repented. Tyre and Sidon were ancient cities on the edge of the Mediterranean, whom were in utter rebellion against the Lord, those two cities suffered drastic judgment for their proud opposition to God and their Baal worship. Isaiah 23:1-18. Jeremiah 25:22; 47:4. Ezekiel 26-28.

But it will be more bearable for them on Judgment Day, than for these privileged Jewish towns!

Sackcloth is a rough uncomfortable fabric made from the short hairs of camels and usually worn next to the skin to express grief or sorrow. Ashes added to the humbling of repentance.

The favoured town Capernaum had the high honor of hearing Jesus preach there frequently, but because of their rejection of him, Jesus declares that will be a place of similar worthy Judgement.

Jesus Luke 10:16 "He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me; but he who rejects me rejects him who sent me."

Jesus makes it clear, that acceptance or rejection of his messengers, demonstrates one's attitude to him, and whoever rejects his messenger, they also reject God the Father.

Matthew 25:31-46.

This tells us the unity and great authority that we have in Christ, when we share the gospel, and the great consequences for them who reject us. When we share the gospel, we need to realise we have heavenly authority, as we represent God the Son, and God the Father.

Go, knowing that Jesus and the Father, are with you!

Hymn. We’ve a story to tell to the nations.

Close in prayer

Song to close. He’s the Saviour of my soul.

Message; and embolden, underlining, and arrangement of Bible text by Evan Digby.

Howard Baptist Fellowship Messages

Sermons by Evan Digby

Facebook notes for the Howard Baptist Church 08/01/2023

10.00 AM. Song – How Deep the Father’s Love

No matter what group you belong to - where there are people, there will be issues and problems along with friendships, fellowship and progress - the Church is no different.

There is no perfect church; I once read a quote that stated ‘There is no perfect church, if there is, it will become imperfect once I join it.’ Perhaps C.L.Lewis

We all have different backgrounds and experiences in life, and that guarantees that we will at times see things differently to someone else.

In some ways Christianity is easy compared to Churchianity! (a real word)

It would be great if church attenders all got along with no issues, but we are not robots - so along the journey, issues will arise within a church.

The apostle Paul was very aware of this, and his letter writing was largely based on giving encouragement and resolving problems within the churches. He was a busy man, and while he liked to visit the churches and personally meet with people, it was more practical for him to receive letters and write letters to the churches about whatever matters concerned them.

All of Paul’s letter writing was a good thing then and especially for us today, as we have the content of many of his letters, called epistles, and they have become New Testament books of the Bible.

We have gone through many of New Testament books in past years, and last year we progressed through Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians – where he addressed many major problems disrupting the church.

Carrying on from Paul’s concluding words to the Corinthians in his first letter to them, we will begin looking into his second letter 2 Corinthians, and over the next months, we will progress through the whole book as it in many ways follows on 1 Corinthians.

In this book we will see where Paul had a fruitful response to his letters, with some matters seemingly resolved, but other matters still needing attention.

What we will learn from Paul, is that the principles that applied to the church then, apply to the church today. And by going through a book of the Bible verse by verse, it is amazing what varied moral, historical and theological subjects that are covered - in context and application. It is called Systematic Expository Preaching, just as Paul’s letters were read to the congregation, so too we benefit as we go through what God’s has delivered to us.

Paul Colossians 4:16 After this letter has been read to you, see that it is also read in the church of the Laodiceans and that you in turn read the letter from Laodicea.

Acts 15:30 The men were sent off and went down to Antioch, where they gathered the church together and delivered the letter. 31 The people read it and were glad for its encouraging message. 1 Thessalonians 5:27. 2 Thessalonians 3:14

We get the picture of Paul’s letters and other important letters being read out to the churches and share around and discussed - part by part, and section by section.

Today we look at Paul’s introduction to the church, as it is here that the writers would usual name themselves and establish their credibility to speak with authority.

2 Corinthians 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

To the church of God in Corinth, together with all the saints throughout Achaia:

2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Pause now -- Prayer – Praise to God - Nation, World, Coronavirus and Medical staff, our Missionaries and School Chaplains, Rain, and our local Communities.

Going forward in the Faith.

We can feel for Paul in those early days of the church, as he had many church matters that he

had to deal with, in addition to dealing with those in the church who were undermining his

authority, and also with physical persecution mainly from the Jews. Paul did however, have some trusted helpers to represent him where he could not attend himself.

Paul’s love for the churches, is very evident in his writing, he personally feels the issues that they are dealing with,

Paul 2 Corinthians 11:28 Besides everything else, I face daily the pressure of my concern for all the churches. 29 Who is weak, and I do not feel weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not inwardly burn?

He was so concerned about the churches, that if he is not there physically with them, he is with them in spirit.

Paul 1 Corinthians 5:1 It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that does not occur even among pagans: A man has his father's wife. 2 And you are proud! Shouldn't you rather have been filled with grief and have put out of your fellowship the man who did this? 3 Even though I am not physically present, I am with you in spirit. And I have already passed judgment on the one who did this, just as if I were present.

And in all his interaction with the churches, Paul’s principle was to build them up, not tear them down.

Paul 2 Corinthians 13:10 This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority--the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.

And as Paul was concluding his 1 Corinthians letter, we read that his remedy to the friction and clashes in the church was doing everything in love.

Paul 1 Corinthians 16:13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.

Paul wrote this second letter to the Corinthians church while at Macedonia, in about AD 56.

We need to be reminded that what we call the books 1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians were not Paul’s first and second letter to them, as in writing 1 Corinthians, Paul mentions having written to them beforehand, but that initial letter is lost to us.

Paul 1 Corinthians 5:9 I have written you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people-- 10 not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. 11 But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.

From this we know that there was a letter written by Paul to them before 1 Corinthians, and we know from this letter, that sexual immorality in Corinth was becoming a problem in the church, to the point of now directing them not eating with immoral church attenders! The corrupt values of the world were threatening to come into the church; as they do even today!

Also, in reading 2 Corinthians 2:4, 7:8-9, Paul refers to a stern letter that many scholars suggest was written by himself after 1 Corinthians, but before 2 Corinthians.

If so, this letter is also lost - so we can see that the letters we do have may be the second and fourth letters of the four letters Paul wrote to the Corinthians.

So, the New Testament books of 1 and 2 Corinthians are actually the two Corinthian letters that still exist and they were probably penned about 18 months apart.

The reason that Paul wrote this letter was mainly for pastoral reasons, to generally encourage the Corinthians in their walk with the Lord the matters of controversy and dispute he had written about in previous letters.

So, Paul writes to inform them of his forthcoming visit, and to express his great relief at the Corinthian’s positive response to his ‘severe letter’ that had been delivered and explained by Titus, and also to finalize their promised collection for the saints at Jerusalem before he visits. Other matters of importance are also contained in his letter such as Paul again establishing his credentials as an apostle, that was still being questioned by many.

It could well have been like the tall poppy syndrome, where some people didn’t like someone getting so much attention over themselves.

As in most of his letters, Paul begins by referring to himself as ‘an apostle’ of Christ Jesus. Although he was not one of the twelve chosen by Christ, here we see where he claimed equality with them. Paul here strongly declares his apostleship of Jesus Christ, and also by the will of God. He did this to without doubt give credibility and authority to himself and his letter. So right from the start, his letter has God’s authority and power upon it.

But what is an apostle? Some of us know, but it may need explaining for others.

The name apostle means ‘sent one’, meaning they were appointed and sent by Jesus to declare the truth and salvation of God. Three qualifications are required -

Firstly, to become an apostle, a person has to be commissioned by Jesus.

Mark 3:13 Jesus went up on a mountainside and called to him those he wanted, and they came to him. 14 He appointed twelve--designating them apostles--that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach 15 and to have authority to drive out demons.

We also later see that Paul was also commissioned by Jesus on the Damascus Road.

Saul Acts 26:15 "Then I asked, `Who are you, Lord?'

" `I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,' the Lord replied. 16 `Now get up and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen of me and what I will show you.

Secondly, to become an apostle, a person has to have witnessed the resurrected Jesus.

After Judas the traitor had died, he had to be replaced --

Paul also makes the claim that Jesus had appeared to him on the Damascus Road.

Paul 1 Corinthians 9:1 Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord?

Paul 1 Corinthians 15:7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8 and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.

Paul was the final person to see the risen Lord, last of all he appeared to me, therefore no designated apostles came after him.

Thirdly, to become an apostle, a person has to be able to perform miraculous signs.

The early church Acts 2:42 They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles.

Paul 2 Corinthians 12:11 I have made a fool of myself, but you drove me to it. I ought to have been commended by you, for I am not in the least inferior to the "super-apostles," even though I am nothing. 12 The things that mark an apostle--signs, wonders and miracles--were done among you with great perseverance.

1 - be chosen by Jesus. 2 - have seen the risen Lord. 3 - perform signs, wonders and miracles.

It has been held over many centuries that apostleship ceased with the last of the original twelve apostles and Paul.

Paul Ephesians 2:19 Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone.

But there are some churches that believe that apostles exist today – for example the Apostolic Church, and there are some churches involved with NAR - New Apostolic Reformation who actually who want to revive apostleship - so it is important to realize that to become a designated apostle of Jesus Christ is not easily repeated.

In Paul’s introduction, we see he includes Timothy as a co-sender of the letter - Paul may have intended this to reinstate this timid young man in the eyes of the Corinthians, possibly after his limited success as Paul's representative at Corinth. Titus had replaced Timothy as Paul's chief representative to Corinth by the time this letter was written.

1 Timothy 4:12. 2 Timothy 1:7; 2:1

Then Paul addresses the Corinthian church, as the church of God in Corinth. He did not address them merely the church at Corinth.

Paul 2 Corinthians 1:1 ------ To the church of God in Corinth, together with all the saints throughout Achaia:

Paul wanted the best for the church there, and regardless of their many issues, problems and imperfections - they were God’s church in Corinth. So even a struggling church is God’s church - God sees the potential in a church, where we may just see problems!

And Paul takes it even further, he addresses them as individuals along with all the believers in that area as saints.

To be a saint means that you are sanctified and made holy.

Again, God raises us higher than how we probably see ourselves or our churches. Believers in Christ are actually holy people. We are changed and are becoming Christlike everyday - so we are saints, this is how God sees you.

We are holy and we are described as being a temple of the Holy Spirit - as Paul tells us in

Paul 1 Corinthians 6:19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? -----

The Holy Spirit will not reside in an unholy dwelling, so if you have the Holy Spirit, which all believers do, then you are holy person - believe it! 2 Corinthians 6:16. 7:1

The writer of Hebrews goes even further in seeing who we really are in Christ.

Hebrews 10:14 because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.

And how did this happen? Three verses later we are told.

The Lord Hebrews 10:17 Then he adds: "Their sins and lawless acts I will remember no more."

We have been made holy through the forgiveness of our sins through the death and work of Jesus for our sins, from unholy we have been declared perfect in God’s sight and being made holy, more every day.

And this is where the next section of Paul’s introduction makes sense.

Paul 2 Corinthians 1:2 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

The basis of our forgiveness won for us by Jesus, is through God’s grace - his favour and mercy. Paul reminds his readers in the introduction of all his letters about God’s grace.

All saints in Christ know that our salvation is of God and through God - not of ourselves.

Knowing this we have what Paul declares is peace with God.

This word peace in Hebrew is shalom.

When we come to Jesus, we have our sins forgiven, we are made holy and we have peace and shalom with God. Truly we are saints.

Hymn. Amazing Grace

Message; and embolden, underlining, and arrangement of Bible text by Evan Digby.

Howard Baptist Fellowship Messages

Sermons by Evan Digby

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