The Tabernacle Today

Psalm 63 Worksheet Let’s see if wilderness themes show up as we read the Psalm! M_____________________________ V. 1-2 “Give the first hour of your day to God.” The key is that we have some time of concentrated ___________________ of God during our days! And if David wasn’t careful a root of bitterness could arise in his spirit that made him dry spiritually in this physically dry place. Instead, he seeks the Lord who can refresh him spiritually in hard circumstances. We can’t always manipulate our circumstances to be good ones, or the actions of others toward us, but we can make sure our __________________________ keep us spiritually focused. The physical Temple had not been built yet, so perhaps David has in mind looking to God in Heaven, seeing His power and glory there. Or perhaps David understood what Christians now do – that any _________________ we seek God can become a sanctuary – even the wilderness! D______________________________ V. 3-5 You guessed it, the word for lovingkindness is the great word Hesed. God’s steadfast live is greater than the ups and downs of life, the good and bad ___________________________ we face. In 1 Timothy 2 Paul said he wanted the men in every church to be known for lifting up holy hands to the Lord without wrath and dissention. He was only calling for what Israel’s great king had _________________! I hope you are _____________________ by your relationship with the Lord throughout the day like David was, and can testify that God’s love is better than life! John 14:6 John 10:10 E_____________________________ V. 6-8 David ends the day as he began – meditative prayer with God. David was a shepherd, but he wouldn’t recommend counting sheep before you go to sleep – he would have us talking to the Great _______________________! What things should characterize Christian meditation? David could get a good night’s sleep knowing God was his ‘night ______________________!” O_____________________________ V. 9-11 David doesn’t use the word Sheol in verse 9 – he refers to tahti erets – lower parts of the earth. David’s enemies want to destroy David, but he is confident he will _____________________ them. They shall fall by the sword; they shall be a portion for jackals. David’s confidence reminds me that God has a purpose and plan for all His children, and we are __________________ until God Himself decides it is our time to die and join Him. In light of that we can praise God continuously, trust God unswervingly, and serve Him courageously!

Say What You Mean - Matthew 5:33-37 "The Body of B. Franklin, Printer; like the Cover of an old Book, Its Contents torn out, And stript of its Lettering and Gilding, Lies here, Food for Worms. But the Work shall not be wholly lost; For it will, as he believ'd, appear once more, In a new & more perfect Edition, Corrected and amended By the Author." “I have seen your Epitaph…Believe on Jesus, and get a feeling possession of God in your heart, and you cannot possibly be disappointed of your second edition finally corrected, and infinitely amended.” Consider that a recent poll found that 63% of Americans said religion was somewhat or very important in their lives. But over half of them who said that do not go to religious services more than once a year. And this is actually truer of older conservatives than younger people. In today’s passage we are going to see Jesus command His disciples to say what they mean and do what they say without making excuses. Read Matthew 5:33-37 Jesus didn’t want His disciples to be like the Pharisees, who obeyed outwardly but didn’t have real relationship with God. They had even added silly loopholes to commands, setting aside the “spirit” of full obedience. Jesus brings two commands together - V. 33 You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. - Ex. 20:16 If a man vows a vow to the LORD, or swears an oath to bind himself by a pledge, he shall not break his word. He shall do according to all that proceeds out of his mouth. - Numbers 30:2 (see also Deut. 23:21) Notice there it speaks of two things: an oath made with the Lord, and bringing God into YOUR oath with somebody else. One thing I told you a few weeks ago is that sometimes in the Old Testament God regulated what he didn’t endorse, and I think that applies to flippantly bringing God into YOUR vows with others. Don’t misuse God’s name when making promises to others - V. 34-36 The leaders in Jesus’ day didn’t want to blaspheme, but they did want to leave themselves wiggle room to break their word. And so they said it was okay to swear by lesser things. Jesus rejects all that as sinful duplicity. What Jesus was forbidding here was duplicity – especially religious duplicity – using God or things of God as an excuse. Just say what you mean and do what you promised! - V. 37 The precept in this passage is keep your word; the principle is people need to be able to count on you to have healthy relationships; The person is that we can count on God to keep every promise He has made! How to make good decisions (Informed ‘yeses’ and ‘nos’): 1. All important decisions should invoke a 1-day waiting rule, particularly those that involve a lot of money. 2. Pray about every important decision. 3. Analyze your decision with scripture. 4. Grow close enough to God that you heed Holy Spirit ‘red flag’ warnings. 5. Seek godly counsel rather than making decisions in isolation. Keeping our word is the default setting of believers – but there are times you do need to break your word, especially when God is convicting you about something you never should have said yes to. In those cases you may want to talk with a strong believer about the best strategy going forward. Did you catch what Jesus said at the end of verse 37? – Not keeping your commitment is evil.

In the Time We Have Left The years of our life are seventy, or even by reason of strength eighty; yet their span is but toil and trouble; they are soon gone, and we fly away. -Psalm 90:10 (Moses) Currently, the average life expectancy in Virginia is 79.1 years (76.8 for men, 81.3 for women); in North Carolina it is 77.6 years (75.0 for men, 80.1 for women). “I have heard that if we remain healthy, that our most productive decade is in our sixties and our second most productive decade is in our seventies. The Bible doesn’t say anything about retiring. I am a big believer in Ephesians 2:10, which says, ‘For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.’ I want to be able to stand before the Lord and hear him say, ‘Well done, thou good and faithful servant.’” -Christian Philanthropist Dr. Terry Douglas, inventor of the PET Scan 5 G Living – Do everything you do… For the Glory of God. For the Good of your fellow man. For the Growth of your fellow believers. To get the Gospel to non-believers. With a Grateful heart. Ephesians 4:11-16 God gifts the church with leaders to equip us for ministry V. 11-12 Notice something profound from verses 11-12: It is not the job of church leaders to do the work of the ministry; no, their ministry is to equip their church members to do the work of the ministry. Biblically speaking, how many ministers does a church have? According to Ephesians 4, a church has as many ministers as it has members! The mission of the Tabernacle is to reproduce faithful and fruitful followers of Jesus Christ. We seek to do this through: Teaching the Scripture Adoration and Prayer Baptist Principles Evangelism and Missions Radical Generosity Nurtured Partnerships Age-appropriate Ministries Congregational Love and Encouragement Leadership Development Excellence and Fun The first big result of letting yourself be edified and equipped is growth! There is growth in doctrinal understanding. When the New Testament says “the faith” it is referring to the biblical doctrines that define true Christians. True believers are united on the essentials of “the faith.” There will be growth in our personal relationship with Jesus. The second big result of letting yourself be taught and equipped is impact! There will be impact as we speak. There will be impact as we serve. Notice the implication if you as a member fail to do your part – if every member doing their part means the church will grow, what will happen if you don’t do your part? The growth of the church will be hindered. But notice also for each church to have full impact each member needs not only to be working at their part but working properly. In the context of this passage that means with true love for their fellow members (v. 16) and under the leadership of their God-given leaders (v. 11). Since January 1st, our members have spent over 2,750 hours in community ministry engagement (outside the church walls). Here at the Tabernacle, we’re glowing, we’re growing, and we’re going into our community and around the world! What do you have your name on as part of the Tabernacle ministry?

Psalm 62 Worksheet There are 3 Psalms that are to Juduthun – 39, 62, and 77 – one in each of the first 3 of the 5 books of the Psalms. Jeduthun’s name means “_____________________,” and he was one of David’s first praise leaders, leading one of the 3 main sections of musicians. The main theme of Psalm 62 is ________________________ in God. The 2 Selah’s help outline the Psalm neatly into three 4 verse sections. God keeps me _______________________ when others want to topple me                                      V. 1-4 What 3 things does David say God is for him in verse 2? What kind of position does David describe himself in in verse 4? In contrast to the strong tower of refuge that God is for David, the things his enemies are relying on are ‘leaning walls,’ ‘tottering fences’ that easily ______________________ over. What indications do we have in verse 4 that some of these people who would do David harm have been close to him before? God will keep you who ___________________ Him from falling over also                                          V. 5-8 Verses 1-2 are almost identical with verses 5-6. When you pray, do you have a sense of _________________________ of what God is going to do in your life? Like David let’s ______________________ what God is to us! David calls the nation to have the same kind of trust in God that he had, and to be in constant prayer to the God their _________________________ come from. The ___________________ of trusting in anyone but God                                                                            V. 9-12 In verse 9 David brings to mind a scales you weigh things on. We are more impressed by people the world calls “somebodies” than by people the world calls “nobodies.” But neither has the substance to _______________________ the scales when compared to God. David has already said God is our Glory! The root word for Glory is the same root word for ______________. Compared to people, God has REAL substance, real weight, real glory! Wicked people making wicked decisions will relatively quickly lead to ___________________ of eternal significance – stick with God. Note the once-twice device David uses in verse 11. This is a memory device in Hebrew. Two-Three occurs in Dt. 17:6; Three-Four occurs in Proverbs & Amos; Six-Seven occurs in Prov. 6:16.  David emphasizes 2 key truths about God they can trust in and build their lives around: his power and His mercy. Notice the Psalm doesn’t end there, though – it ends with a helpful reminder that we will each render an _____________________ to God for how we have lived – so live by trust in God, not by compromises made with the world.

Honoring Marriage Every time I preach I want people to think and feel love, truth, and hope. Jesus always extends kindness and grace to repentant sinners desiring to build and rebuild their lives around faith and the Bible’s truth. But He also allows unrepentant sinners to continue in their sin and experience the built-in consequences each sin has. Matthew 5:27-32 Honoring Marriage Josh McDowell taught us that behind every precept is a principle based on God’s Person. So God created man in His own image, in the image of God He created him, male and female He created them. -Genesis 1:27 Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. -Genesis 2:24-25 The biblical plan for human flourishing includes the home as the foundational unit for the entire earth. Sex is only supposed to happen between a husband and his wife for bonding and possible procreation. Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the Kingdom of God. AND SUCH WERE SOME OF YOU. BUT YOU WERE WASHED, you were sanctified, your were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of God. -1 Cor. 6:9-11 All sexual sin dishonors marriage V. 27-28 The other commands spoke of the external things you can make a law about. But the 10th command and Jesus’ words here focus internally on what only God can see – what’s going on in your heart. But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for Gods holy people. -Eph. 5:3 Get serious about fighting sexual sin at its root V. 29-30 Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. -1 Cor. 6:18 “You must always be a killin’ sin, or sin will always be a killin’ you.” -John Owen (1616-1683) Don’t take a casual attitude about divorce V. 31-32 Sometimes in the Old Testament God regulated what He didn’t endorse so the most vulnerable in Israel would be protected by the hard-hearted actions of others. The marriage vow is serious enough that you should not divorce your spouse and marry another unless your spouse committed adultery (Matthew 5, 19), has abandoned you (1 Cor. 7:15), or abused you. I love the wisdom found in Philippians 3:13 & 16. Verse 13 says “forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead.” Verse 16 says “Only let us live up to what we have attained.” 3 Tips to bolster your marriage/ friendships: “We” before me. Wag. Work.

Psalm 61 Worksheet This is a simple Psalm of ________________________ and prayer A sweet opening ________________________ V. 1-2 Synonymous parallelism like that in verse 1 is a frequent device in Hebrew _______________. What do you think of when you think of God as a High Rock? Verse 2 led William O. Cushing to pen the hymn “Hiding in Thee.” O safe to the Rock that is Higher than I, My soul in its conflicts and sorrows would fly. The Lord is my Rock and my Fortress and my Deliverer. -Psalm 18:2 Faith in Jesus and living according to His words will be a rock-like _______________________ in the believer’s life, getting us through the storms of life intact (Matthew 7:24-29). A precious ___________________________ V. 3-5 What 4 kinds of refuge does David compare God to in verses 3-4? Note the reflections of verse 3 lead to the ________________________ of verse 4! God is everywhere, but these words mean even more to those who intentionally ________________ near to God and sense Him raising His “wing” to let us underneath! Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” -James 4:8a David continues his testimony in the first person in verse 5, which is why I put it with verses 3-4 as testimony. Vows are serious commitments made to the Lord that we want to carry out by faith in Him and through the _____________________________ of the indwelling Holy Spirit. The Hebrew word for heritage is the word yerussa (H3425), and occurs 14 times in the Old Testament. It is translated as possession, inheritance, and heritage. It is used primarily of the Promised Land as _______________________’s possession. According to Ephesians 1:3, how has God blessed believers in Jesus Christ? With ________________________ spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. A sweet ___________________________ V. 6-8 David led a hard life and then died when he was 70 years old (2 Sam. 5:4-5). That was a long life by their standards, but I think David has in mind __________________________ life, as in Psalm 23 – I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever! David asks for God’s Hesed (mercy, steadfast love) and God’s Emets (Truth, faithfulness) to be given him and ______________________ him. AHA! Here we see that one of David’s vows was to daily ________________________ the Lord! May we make that one of ours as well!

The Heart of the Matter - Matthew 5:21-26 Introducing one of Jesus’ teaching formulas - V. 21-22 In our last message, we saw Jesus call us to proper understanding of the Old Testament’s teaching as it points to faith in Him. In the rest of chapter 5, Jesus teaches us what He means by 6 times using the formula “You have heard that it was said, but I say to you.” The Scribes and Pharisees focused their teaching on external obedience to God’s commands, but Jesus focused His lessons on internal obedience that comes from love for God from the heart. Josh McDowell understood this when he wrote Truth Matters: Behind every precept is a principle based on God’s Person. Jesus makes His disciples work harder by faith than the Pharisees did – because Jesus takes you beyond checklists of external obedience and makes you as His follower deal with root issues in your heart by faith! Heaven finds you guilty of a type of murder - V. 21-22 Jesus’ teaching leads us to conclude that sinful anger inside our hearts is the root problem behind outward acts of violence and murder, and that letting sinful anger go undealt with is already liable to Heaven’s judgment. In the Greek Jesus specifically says, “Whoever calls his brother, “Raca” will be liable to the Sanhedrin. When they said the word Raca they were calling them “empty-head,” someone with nothing inside their head. This is the first time that Jesus compares Hell to Gehenna, the place in Jerusalem they burned garbage. Jesus is essentially saying, “If you call another person garbage, you’re the person who deserves judgment.” Our problem is that even when we are right to be angry we usually don’t handle our anger in right ways. And because of our selfishness many times when we have felt our anger was justified, it really was not – it was just a sinful outburst. Put relationship mending ahead of even your church obligations - V. 23-24 In the spirit of Family Feud, where is the number one place that verses 23-24 need to be applied? In the Home. Resolve conflict ASAP before the consequences get worse - V. 25-26 “Be angry, and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger.” - Ephesians 4:26 If you hold on to anger and don’t try to restore broken relationships proactively, it will continue to cost you dearly, affecting spiritual health, physical health, emotional health, even financial health. Some things are not going to get fully resolved. But we can agree to disagree on some matters and still agree in the Lord (as the 2 ladies were asked to do in Philippians chapter 4). Practical tips for dealing with anger: Be growing in your relationship with your Triune God. That is the only way you will have the spiritual resources to overcome sinful anger. When you feel angry, PAUSE, count to three, and quote James 1:19-20. “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” -James 1:19-20 Pray about the underlying spiritual things going on in people’s lives. Be proactive as God leads you. React with God’s grace rather than nurse resentments.

Jesus Christ is Raised From the Dead! Jesus Christ is alive in Heaven right now, and can relate to your hurt, pain and longings in ways you can’t even imagine. And while on earth He did everything it would take to meet your true needs and change you forever. Isa. 52:13-53:12 The prophesy’s overview - 52:13-53:1 The prophesy of Jesus’ life - 53:2-3 The way Jesus came made Him relatable to every one of us – don’t miss this – if you have ever felt despised, rejected, full of sorrow and grief, not esteemed as you think you should be, Jesus can relate (Heb. 4:14-16). The prophecy of Jesus’ death - 53:4-8 Jesus was rejected and disrespected and felt distress 60 ways in the 6 days between Palm Sunday and His execution on Good Friday. “Eli, Eli, Lama Sabacthani” – “My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me?” The question of whether or not Jesus cares for you was settled on the cross! The prophecy of Jesus’ burial - V. 9 Believers refer to what Jesus was doing in His Spirit on ‘Silent Saturday’ as the Harrowing of Hell. Jesus ‘raided’ Sheol/ Hades, the place all departed spirits were, and brought all believers with Him to Heaven. All unbelievers were left there for the coming day of judgment (Rev. 20:13-15). Therefore it says, “When He ascended on high He led a host of captives, and He gave gifts to men.” In saying “He ascended,” what does it mean but that He first descended into the lower regions (of) the earth? - Eph. 4:8-9 For Christ also suffered once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the spirit, in which He went and proclaimed to the spirits in prison. - 1 Peter 3:18-19 And many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised, and coming out of the tombs after His resurrection they went into the holy city and appeared to many. - Matthew 27:52b-53 The prophesy of Jesus’ resurrection and its implications - V. 10-11 God made Him who knew no sin to become sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. - 2 Cor. 5:21 But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. - 1 Cor. 15:20 The prophecy of Christ’s present intercession - V. 12 Jesus’ resurrection was the dawning of eternal life and light to all who repent and believe in Him! Consequently, He (Jesus) is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through Him, since He always lives to make intercession for them. - Hebrews 7:25

Psalm 60 Worksheet It’s to the chief musician, as ______________ total Psalms are! There is something unique in the heading, the words “for teaching.” This is the only occurrence of that in the Psalms! I wonder based on the tone of the Psalm if David wants to teach something to _________________, the General he had a complicated relationship with! The events referred to in the heading probably refers to events described in 2 Samuel 8 and 1 Chronicles 18. Victory feels like defeat when the Lord isn’t ______________________ V. 1-3 But the thing that David had done displeased the Lord. -2 Sam. 11:27b And God was displeased with this thing; therefore He struck Israel. -1 Chr. 21:7 Those who are especially sensitive to things that displease the Lord need to remember to always start their evaluation with __________________________. Help us to remember we represent you, Lord V. 4-5 Those who love the Lord are called to both fear Him and revere Him. The fear of the Lord helps us repent and line up with what He wants of us. That leads to a life where others can see us _______________ God reverently. David doesn’t want to just wear a Star of David t-shirt here – he wants Israel’s talk to _____________ their walk – he wants to worship in Spirit and in Truth like John 4:24 calls for! Help us to remember that You gave ________________ victories, Lord V. 6-8 The entire north of the country is sometimes referred to as Ephraim because of the importance of the tribes descended from Joseph. The other tribe that overshaded them all was Judah, the Kingly tribe. David’s point is that God is over ________________ part of Israel, all 12 tribes. Moab is a neighbor to the east of Israel, Edom is a neighbor to the southeast, and Philistia were neighbors to the southwest. All had acted out in the past against Israel, and were rightfully subdued and paying ______________________ to Israel under David’s rule. As God’s nation, it was even more ____________ for Israel to fear and trust God than it was to be military ready. Help us to remember that You give the __________________ victory, Lord V. 9-12 As Obadiah indicates, Edom as a nation never got over Esau’s losing the blessing to Jacob, and as a people constantly made Israel it’s _____________________. David entrusts this ongoing mess to God’s help. David asks God here to help them overcome trouble, some of which they may have brought on themselves by acting in the _______________________. David ends the Psalm with a great prayer for God’s help in doing God’s right things in God’s right ways, acting valiantly through faith, and leaving the _____________________ to God.

No Time for Silence! “It is a thing most expedient for the edification of the church to sing some Psalms in the form of public prayers by which one prays to God or sings His praises so that the hearts of all may be roused to make similar prayers and to render similar praises and thanks to God with common love.” -John Calvin, Worship Leader, 1537 Luke 19: 28-40 The Old Testament prophets predicted that the Messiah would be BOTH a conquering king and a suffering servant. In Jesus day Israel’s leaders had minimized the Suffering Servant passages like Isaiah 53 & Zechariah 9 and looked for the Conquering King passages like Isaiah 9 & Zechariah 14. Donkeys, Lambs, and God’s Suffering Servant V. 28-35 Don’t miss that the donkey was unbroken (no one had sat on this donkey). We would have to break a donkey before riding it, but not Jesus! He who calmed the Sea by speaking to it, broke this donkey without sweating! But why did Jesus ride into Jerusalem on a donkey instead of a conqueror’s white horse? Because a donkey was a beast of burden, a working animal, and Jesus had work to do in this first coming – dying on the cross for our sins “Fear not, daughter of Zion; Behold your King is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.” -Zechariah 9:9 In His first coming Jesus was the Suffering Servant riding in on a donkey, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world; At His return He will be the Conquering King riding a white horse, the Lion of the Trib of Judah. Jesus hears the corporate praise He had experienced in Heaven V. 36-40 Think about this time of praising Jesus – I believe this is the one time a massive crowd praised Jesus on earth TOGETHER, a small picture of the way He was and is constantly praised in Heaven (see Jn. 17:5; Rev. 5:9-10). Let me make a plea for the biblical value of congregational singing and for the appreciation of choirs!

Psalm 59 Worksheet Psalm 59 is another Trouble and Trust Psalm within the series of 8 complaint Psalms from 52-59. This is the 3rd straight Michtam of David set to the tune “Do not destroy.” David wasn’t going to kill Saul even though he had multiple _______________________ to do just that. He was not going to harm the ‘Lord’s anointed.’ In these unfair circumstances, David took his concerns to God in prayer. What are the repeated verses? First verse: Plea for God to arise and help David ____________________ V. 1-5 What vivid verbs does David use to ask for God’s help in verses 1-2? Remember that David was a mighty warrior. He could defend himself and kill Saul. But he is ___________________________ not to act in his own strength because he believes that in this case that would be sin against God. And so he prays. One key to understanding declarations like verses 3-4 in the Psalms is that David is not claiming to be without sin (remember Psalm 51:5), but he is stating his ___________________ in the matter at hand. David really was powerless in this situation because of Saul’s incredible authority as king, and all he could do was ask the Ultimate Authority to _____________________. What are the 2 things David asks God to “wake up” and do in verses 4-5? Chorus: David compares his enemies to ____________________ dogs V. 6-7 What do you think David has in mind by saying his attacking enemies are saying, “Who hears?” Verse 2: David’s plea for God to ______________________ this matter justly V. 8-13 What earlier Psalm does verse 8 remind us of? Verse 8 reminds us that God will always have the __________________________ word! What are some of the benefits of waiting on the Lord? Verse 11 makes me think of how when Saul did die David mourned greatly for him and wrote a song about it in 2 Samuel 1:17-27 Chorus: David compares his enemies to ____________________ dogs V. 14-15 I get the feeling David is thinking here about how _____________________ Saul’s actions are when there are so many Philistines to deal with! David’s final ________________________ of trust and praise V. 16-17

I fought the Law and… All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. -2 Timothy 3:16-17 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And no creature is hidden from His sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. -Hebrews 4:12-13 For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. -Romans 15:4 Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. -2 Timothy. 2:15 Read Matthew 5:17-20 I fought the Law and… the Law won! V. 17-19 Already in Jesus’ day there were those who abolished some or all of the O.T.. For instance, the Sadducees rejected everything after the Torah. Every part of the Old Testament had a purpose to fulfill, and every bit of it will fulfill its purpose. Here Jesus reinforces the verbal, plenary inspiration of the Bible. That phrase means that every WORD of the Bible (verbal) is inspired, as well as the ENTIRETY (plenary-fullness) of the Bible! But more than anything else when referring to ‘Law’ the Old and New Testament both speak of the Law of Moses, also called the Law of the Lord and the Book of the Law, located in the first 5 books of the Bible. After Deuteronomy the remaining Old Testament books are filled with stories, sermons, songs, and sayings illustrating Israel’s life as it did and didn’t follow the Law before the prophesied Messiah came. For by works of the law no human being will be justified in His sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it. -Romans 3:20-21 For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach His statutes and rules in Israel. -Ezra 7:10 Careful study shows the Law of Moses had 3 components: Moral Law (applicable for all time) Anything repeated as sin in the New Testament is Moral Law, it is always sinful. The moral law STILL shows us our need of Christ. The moral law becomes the Christian’s guide to faithful living. Priestly Law (laws about priests, sacrifices, rituals- all fulfilled in Christ) Civil Law (rules just for Israel at that time- made obsolete in Christ, although it still teaches us much about the character of God) So then, the law was our guardian until Christ came, in order that we might be justified by faith. But now that faith has come, we are no longer under a guardian. -Galatians 3:24-25 I fought the Law and… Grace won! V. 20 Whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of it all. -James 2:10 God made Him who knew no sin to become sin for us, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him! -2 Corinthians. 5:21 Under the law everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sin. -Hebrews. 9:22 Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us – for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree,” – so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith. -Galatians. 3:13-14 Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness. -Genesis 15:6 Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to all who believe. -Romans 10:4 Run John run, the law demands, But gives him neither feet nor hands. Far better news the gospel brings, It bids John fly, and gives him wings! -John Bunyan

Psalm 58 Psalm 58 is another Trouble and Trust Psalm within the series of 8 complaint Psalms from 52-59. Psalm 58 has some of the most difficult Hebrew to understand in the Psalter, both in how specific words should be translated and the understanding of certain phrases. Vivid description of what the wicked are like V. 1-5 The first hard to translate word is in verse 1, translated by the New King James as “silent ones.” It is the Hebrew word elem, and is only found here! In cases like this, we have to be humble as to the meaning of the word, and make sure we make much of how the words around it and the context help us understand what is meant. Instead of living by God’s truth about what is right, the wicked people David is referring to think that they are right because they have gotten away with what they have done, and nobody has stopped them. They embraced pragmatism, “the end justifies the means” and did not reallt believe God would hold them to account one day. Psalm 58 has elements of chiastic structure in it. Chiastic structure has parallel words and/or thoughts at the beginning and end, and the verses unfold with parallel thoughts with a middle thought. Notice the progression of wickedness in verse 2 – first wicked plots are made in the head, and then carried out with the hands. According to verse 2, the sinful actions people think are okay because they get away with them are actually wickedness in God’s eyes! We need to judge things using His standard of right and wrong, the Holy Bible – First for ourselves, and then as we call the wicked to repentance. Verse 3 goes right along with what David taught in Psalm 51:5 – we all have a sin nature that leads to sin choices early in life. Instead of turning to God, the perpetually wicked keep living in sin. Imprecatory prayer for the destruction of the wicked V. 6-11 A toothless snake or lion can still lash out and try to bite you, but can’t do you lasting damage. So David prays that God will de-fang the wicked, make them only able to ‘gum’ at the saints instead of devour them! Notice David is turning vengeance over to the Lord, and not taking action himself. The Lord may lead us to fight in a just cause and defend ourselves and others, but Old Testament saints weren’t just looking to take matters into their own hands. Interestingly, teeth are featured in almost all the Psalms in the Psalm 52-59 series – 52:2; 53:4; 55:21; 56:1-2; 57:4; 58:6; 59:7,12. What do you think he has in mind by the figures of speech in verse 7? What do you think he has in mind by the figures of speech in verse 7? What do you think he has in mind by the figures of speech in verse 7? Taken together, David is obviously praying for the wicked’s plans to be frustrated, his resources wasted, his instruments of harm to be rendered ineffectual, his movements to be stopped in their tracks, and for their judgment to come. Verse 10 reminds us of the difference between the spiritual dispensation we are now living in compared to the age of Old Testament Israel. Israel had physical enemies that would do them harm, and it was a good thing when God gave His people victory over them, and the blood on their feet was the enemy’s blood, not their own. During this age of grace, Christians pray for their enemies to find the same salvation in Christ that they have. This is also a good place to say that Baptists have always been right to reject the idea of the state and church being tied together in supposedly “Christian” countries. Christians may serve their country to stop the Adolph Hitler’s of the world, and rejoice when they stop him. But we are leaving the physical defense of Christ’s honor to Christ Himself for when He returns to earth, and as Revelation 20 tells us, the blood of His enemies will again flow.

Shine, Christians, Shine! Shine, Jesus, shine, fill this land with the Father's glory Blaze, Spirit, blaze, set our hearts on fire Flow, river, flow, flood the nations with grace and mercy Send forth Your word, Lord, and let there be light (Chorus of Shine Jesus Shine by Graham Kendrick) “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” - Jesus in John 8:12 Last time we saw that if we follow Jesus and His upside down teachings, we can expect trouble. Today we will see that as we follow Him, we will get to have a preserving and light giving influence in the world. Read Matthew 5:13-16 Followers of Jesus ‘season’ life on the earth - V. 13 Can that which is tasteless be eaten without salt? - Job 6:6a How do we do ‘salt’ the earth? By showing up and living out our faith in Jesus, loving others like He would if He was physically here. Jesus is spiritually present when His committed followers are physically present! Make sure you see clearly that Jesus did not say you are just the salt of the church, but of the entire earth. Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. - Col. 4:5-6 Make sure you don’t lose your ‘saltiness’ by damaging or ruining your testimony. Interestingly, pure salt cannot lose its saltiness! Sodium Chloride is a stable compound. But Jesus knew that most salt they used came from salt marshes and contained impurities mixed in. But Jesus puts this warning to us here to guard our testimonies, because He wants us to make the maximum impact we can on the lives of others, and have maximum reward when the Day of Christ comes! Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward! - 2 John 1:8 Followers of Jesus ‘light up’ the world - V. 14-16 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. - John 9:5 The path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until full day. - Proverbs 4:18 Your Christian faith will never grow to maturity if your aren’t sharing good words and works with others. You will always just be a flickering flame. These pews are filled with the light of the world – God’s plan for the world to see goodness, to hear truth, to learn about salvation through Jesus – don’t leave your light here – Shine, Christians, Shine!

Psalm 57 Worksheet Psalm 57 is another Trouble and Trust Psalm within the series of 8 complaint Psalms from 52-59. David gives notes to the Chief Musician, with the note that the tune should be “Do Not Destroy,” which is also the suggested tune for Psalms 58, 59, and 75. What kind of tune do you think will best bring out the concept “do not destroy?” Michtam (H4387) appears in the heading for Psalm 16, and then every Psalm from 56 to 60. It’s meaning is uncertain, but definitely refers to a type of poem. Based on the 6 Psalms it is over, I think it may refer to something like a prayer for ___________________________. As I read Psalm 57, look for the 2 different ways we could outline it. What 2 verses are identical? David’s _________________________ from his “Lion’s den” V. 1-5 The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms; He will thrust out the enemy from before you, and will say “Destroy!” -Deut. 33:27 The concept of going to God for refuge goes back to Moses (Deut. 33:27), but David’s family owned it in such a way that when he didn’t have a ___________________ to go for refuge, he went to God! Sometimes the Selah is there to make you think of what came before – here it may be to emphasize the ________________________ line: God shall send forth His mercy and His truth. Mercy is the great Hebrew word Hesed and truth is the great Hebrew word emets, which often go together like peanut butter and jelly! Let not mercy and truth forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. -Prov. 3:3 Remember also Ex. 34:6ff Saul and his men were hunting David like lions do; The Philistines would love to get him back for the tens of thousands he killed; Here he is in a cave with men described as distressed, in debt, and discontented (1 Samuel 22:1-2). I would be __________________________ out to God also! Verse 5 is a benediction to end the first section. David has full confidence that God is in control despite the seeming chaos he is in the middle of. I believe the ____________________ of God is the number one theme in the Bible. David’s ____________________ in his “Lion’s Den” V. 6-11 I love how David describes what will happen to his _______________________ – they spread a net for him, but they got trapped in it; they dug a pit for him to fall into, and in they went. In verse 1 David doubled up on asking for God’s mercy; here he doubles up on pledging his own steadfastness no matter his _______________________________! I love how often the words of David show his heart for the peoples beyond Israel to hear the praises of God. His own future reign shows people from different backgrounds who had turned to Yahweh with him. There’s those words again, Hesed and emets – God’s faithful love and His truth are the _______________________’s defining realities for David and Israel.

Jesus turns the world upside down! - Matthew 5:1-12 Today we come to Jesus’ great Sermon on the Mount(ain), the first of 5 sermons in Matthew’s gospel. Having called sinners to repentance, the sermon shows the traits Jesus expects of His repentant followers. Doing these things is not the root of salvation – that’s faith in Jesus. Doing these things are the fruit of repentance and true faith in Jesus. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. - Matthew 6:33 (ESV) Matthew 5:1-12 (ESV) The Sermon begins with the Beatitudes, so named from the Latin word for Blessed, Beatus. As we will see, every Beatitude is the opposite of what the Satanic world system says will make you successful and happy. Jesus came into a world that does everything upside down from Heaven’s perspective. Jesus was from the “Upside,” Heaven! He brought the “Upside” down so that we would learn how to put the rightside “Up!” The world says successful and happy are the rich, but Jesus says blessed are the wretched (v. 3) Jesus starts the beatitudes by going right to the heart of the matter – all people are ‘bankrupt’ spiritually before God no matter how rich they are. The richer we are, the more self-sufficient we tend to be, failing to comprehend our true need as sinners before a holy God. The word blessed is the Greek word Makarios, which occurs 50 times in the New Testament (9 in this passage). It refers to the inner gladness that will characterize followers of Jesus in this life and later in Heaven. The world says successful and happy are those who laugh things off, but Jesus says blessed are those who mourn (v. 4) It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting, for this is the end of all mankind, and the living will lay it to heart. - Ecclesiastes 7:2 (ESV) Jesus Himself wept at Lazarus’ death, because death is a by-product of sin. And we should take time to mourn what sin has cost the world and look to redemption in Christ. The world says successful and happy are the mighty, but Jesus says blessed are the meek (v. 5) When processing what makes something right to do, one cynical philosopher said, “Might makes right.” If you can do it, and no one can stop you, it becomes the right thing to do. The world says that ‘meekness is weakness.’ But biblically meekness is not weakness but putting any strength we have under God’s control. The world says successful and happy are those who act on their lusts, but Jesus says blessed are those who desire righteousness (v. 6) Positional righteousness happens when we trust Christ (Gen. 15:6; 2 Cor. 5:21). Personal righteousness is our desire to do the kind of things that Christ would do if he was living my life for me (Galatians 2:20). The world says successful and happy are the cruel, but Jesus said blessed are those who show mercy (v. 7) The world says successful and happy are those who sinfully indulge, but Jesus says blessed are those who get clean (v. 8) The word for pure is the Greek word catharos. We think of medical people cauterizing something to clean it out so it can heal. I adjure you, O daughters of Jerusalem…do not stir up or awaken love until its time. - Song of Solomon 2:7; 3:5; 8:4 (ESV, paraphrased) The world says you are successful and happy if you don’t get involved, but Jesus said blessed are the peacemakers (v. 9) The Son of God became the Son of Man so that children of men could become children of God! For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all. - 1 Timothy 2:5-6a (ESV) The world says you are successful and happy if you lash out against belief, but Jesus says blessed are those the world persecutes (v. 10-12) Not only will it be worth it to have lived by faith in Jesus in a world that does not, verse 12 says it will be greatly rewarded in Heaven!

Psalm 56 Worksheet Psalm 56 is another Trouble and Trust Psalm within the series of 8 complaint Psalms from 52-59. What would it be like to be a silent dove far from your homeland? Who is probably the most famous man in the Bible from Gath? 1 Samuel 21:7-15 1 Samuel 27:1-12 As we read Psalm 56 look for the occurrences of “I will” and “I will not” as we read! David complains to God about ___________________________ by enemies V. 1-2 The word swallow in verse 1 and the word hound in verse 2 are actually the exact same word in the Hebrew, so I am not sure what is gained in using 2 different words to translate sa’ap (H7602). What other words also occur in both verses 1-2? David’s ___________________ in God helps him not be afraid when he is very afraid V. 3-4 What three words or phrases occur in both verses 3-4? Verses 3-4 could be summarized by saying, “Because I trust in God when I am afraid I will not be afraid.” David gets more _____________________ about how his enemies mistreat him V. 5-7 As a matter of fairness, seek to avoid twisting people’s words to present them in a __________________ light. I resolved a long time ago to spend more time trying to catch people doing things right and commend them for it rather than to try and catch people doing something wrong so I will feel _____________________ to them. David turned his frustration into a _____________________ in verse 7. Saul was telling others to “Get David.” David did not let his men “get Saul.” Instead he left it with God to take care of Saul. David gets more specific about his trust in God despite his ____________________ V. 8-11 Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and the 24 elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints. -Rev. 5:8 Sometimes we wonder if anybody sees us trying to live for God and do right things for Him. Here David assures himself that God sees it all, remembers it all, and will __________________ the life of faith. Malachi 3:16-18 Indeed, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan, who say they are Jews and are not, but lie – indeed I will make them come and worship before your feet, and to know that I have loved you. -Rev. 3:9 Note verses 10-11 is a “callback” of verse 4, ______________________ by restating it using Yahweh! David preached trust in God to himself in the ______________________ of life’s fears and frustrations – and we need to do the same thing! David expresses his ______________________ commitment to the things of God V. 12-13 The question of whether or not God cares was settled on the _____________________!

A Beautiful Savior for a Broken World! How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, "Your God reigns!" Isaiah 52:7 Isaiah 6:1-9 God’s Calling (commissioning) on Isaiah’s life! God is on a Mission! Isaiah's Vision of the Lord 6 In the year that King Uzziah died I saw the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up; and the train of his robe filled the temple. 2 Above him stood the seraphim. Each had six wings: with two he covered his face, and with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. 3 And one called to another and said: “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts;the whole earth is full of his glory!” 4 And the foundations of the thresholds shook at the voice of him who called, and the house was filled with smoke. 5 And I said: “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts!” 6 Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a burning coal that he had taken with tongs from the altar. 7 And he touched my mouth and said: “Behold, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away, and your sin atoned for.” Isaiah's Commission from the Lord 8 And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” 9 And he said, “Go, and say to this people: “‘Keep on hearing, but do not understand;keep on seeing, but do not perceive.’ Uzziah was, for the most part, a good king. 52 years. Sought out the prophet Zechariah, was a strong king with an honorable name. He defeated the Philistines and others godless nations in various battles. But sadly, Uzziah’s life ended tragically. 2 Chronicles 26:16 says: “…But when he was strong his heart was lifted up, to his destruction, for he transgressed against the LORD his God by entering the temple of the LORD to burn incense on the altar of incense.” In response, God struck Uzziah with leprosy, and he was an isolated leper until his death. “*How many Christian men and women start out well for the Lord and finish tragically?” Why? “Isaiah’s 7 C’s” A comprehension of God. A conviction of personal & collective sin. A confession of His sin. A cleansing of his heart. A call to Go A cooperation with God. A commission by a Holy God! 5 SAWS! 1. He SAW the Lord 2. He SAW himself 3. He SAW the Source of his need-God’s grace 4. He SAW his calling 5. He SAW the lost! Six Key Points 1. Isaiah Saw the Lord in His Glory! 2. He saw that God was holy and he was not! 3. Isaiah got right with the Lord in sincere repentance. 4. God is looking for (calls) His messengers? Who will GO? 5. Isaiah showed his repentance in a response of life surrender and sacrifice. I’ll GO! 6. GOD COMMISSIONED ISAIAH TO A PEOPLE WHO WOULD, BY IN LARGE, REJECT GOD AND REJECT ISAIAH’S MESSAGE! What Can The Tabernacle Do? You are already doing so much here at the Tabernacle. Praise God! Keep at it. Open your homes and hearts continually. VLIF Started 2/27 Every Saturday night! Getting on site at TSMC to start relationships. Ken Lin Contact Person. Taiwanese pastor. Pray, Come join us when you can, Give financially-Thank you. Pray for us as we start the church-open & searching hearts, attendees, open doors, leadership united in Christ, strength for volunteers. 1. Touch Others by Your Life, Conduct & Words. 2. Build trust then Start Faith Conversations: “So thankful for this beautiful day; great weather. 3. Share Your OWN Story. 4. Be Ready to Answer Questions: Be ready to defend the faith that is in you. 5. Inviting People for a meal, a hike, a game of tennis, etc,. 6. Invite them to Believe in Jesus.

Psalm 55 Worksheet Psalm 55 is another Trouble and Trust Psalm within the series of 8 ________________ Psalms from 52-59. At 23 verses, Psalm 55 is one of the longer Psalms… 1 to 10 verses = 58 Psalms (39%) 11-20 verses = 59 Psalms (39%) 21-30 verses = 20 Psalms (13%) 31-40 verses = 6 Psalms (4%) 41-49 verses = 3 Psalms (2%) 50+ verses = 4 verses (3%) David is having a hard time ___________________________ what is happening to him V. 1-8 Verses 1-8 are some of the _____________________ expression of emotions in the Bible. What other ways can you describe things a restless person experiences? David actually says he is having _______________________ pains because of his stress. What is David saying there in verses 7-8? That he just wishes he could _____________________ these rough circumstances. David asks God to destroy evil works and __________________ evil tongues V. 9-11 David’s problem was ___________________ by one he previously trusted V. 12-15 According to verses 13-14, what are some of the words David used to describe his one-time friend? I believe the best candidate for this one-time counselor is Ahithophel, whose son was Eliam (2 Samuel 23:34) and whose granddaughter was Uriah’s wife _________________________ (2 Samuel 11:3). 2 Samuel 15:10-14 2 Samuel 16:15-17-23 David ___________________ personal trust in God with imprecatory prayers V. 16-23 Notice David expresses confidence that he can pray to God and be heard at _____________ time of the night or day! Verse 22 reminds us of many great verses in the New Testament. Can you think of any? Matthew 11:28 1 Peter 5:7

The Healer’s Demands Like so many people today, back in the 1500’s Martin Luther was making a critical mistake – he thought for God to accept him, he first had to clean up his act in his own strength, and then he could come to God. Matin Luther discovered in 1517 that the word repent, the word metanoia in the Greek, had been wrongly translated into Latin as “do penance.” For 1,000 years people had been reading it wrongly. They were trying to “be perfected” in their own strength to bring themselves to Christ, whereas Christ was calling for a change of mind that would lead them to ‘be perfected’ by faith in Christ alone. And to the one who does not work but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness. -Romans 4:5 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love. -Galatians 5:6 Read Matthew 4:12-25 Jesus changes His address V. 12-16 John’s arrest brought his public ministry to an end. He would never leave prison, and be executed there. The forerunner’s public job was done – Jesus’ public ministry was just beginning. Capernaum was an important town on the trade route at the northern end of the Sea of Galilee, linking Damascus of Syria in the North with Egypt in the South. It was also the home of Peter, Andrew, John, James, and…Matthew (9:9). Jesus demands we change our minds V. 17 Jesus didn’t tone the message back because He already had encountered opposition – He demanded repentance from everyone He met. Change your mind and turn to Jesus for eternal life. Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in His name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things. -Luke 24:46-48 Jesus demands we change our focus V. 18-22 Following Jesus means putting Him first in every area of your life. If these men had rejected following Jesus they would have been the ones to miss the eternal blessing of being on mission with God. They said yes and became their best selves, although it cost them and their families. Christ heals, but His call to repent and follow disrupts our agenda. Sins we once did with no thought we now cast away, and we embrace being His disciples in every area of our life. The vast extent of Christ’s ministry (and ours) V. 23-25 Notice the threefold ministry of Jesus – Teaching; testifying; healing. We want to be like Jesus, don’t we? So we teach each other here at church, and then we testify everywhere following Him takes us during the week, and meet needs for people in all the ways we can as His followers. Speaking of valuing people, look at the extent of Jesus’ ministry. From Galilee He reached out to Jews and Gentiles, men and women, rich and poor, soldiers and those they occupied. He ministered beyond borders – to Jews in Gentile places and Gentiles in Israel, as Isaiah the prophet had predicted!