Feb 20
23

Discussion Questions For Sermon On Genesis 46:5 – 47:31

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION AT HOME OR IN GOSPEL COMMUNITY GROUPS

  • What is the significance of the number 70 in the listing of the members of Jacob’s descendents who went down into Egypt? 
  • How does Judah again function as a type of Christ in this narrative? 
  • What was the significance of Jacob blessing Pharaoh?
  • What does this narrative teach us to help us sojourn well in a foreign land?
Posted in Study Guides, Posted by Joe. Comments Off on Discussion Questions For Sermon On Genesis 46:5 – 47:31

Feb 20
16

Discussion Questions For Sermon On Genesis 46:1-4

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION AT HOME OR IN GOSPEL COMMUNITY GROUPS

  • What were Jacob’s fears before journeying to Egypt with his family? Though they are not stated directly, they are implied in the narrative and in the overarching story of Genesis. 
  • Why is it imperative to remember the promises made to the patriarch when interpreting this story?
  • Discuss how God’s word to Jacob was a lamp to his feet and a light to his path (see Psalm 119:105).
  • Discuss how God’s word functions like a  lamp to our feet and a light to our path today.
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Feb 20
9

Discussion Questions For Sermon On Genesis 43 – 45

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION AT HOME OR IN GOSPEL COMMUNITY GROUPS

  • In what ways does Joseph’s interaction with his brothers mirror God’s interaction with us in bringing us to salvation? 
  • How is the Lord testing  you to deepen your faith and further your sanctification?
  • How was Judah a type of the Christ who would descend from him?
  • How was Joseph a type of  Christ? Why is it right for us to call Jesus  “brother” (see Hebrews 2:10ff.)?
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Feb 20
2

Discussion Questions For Sermon On Genesis 42

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION AT HOME OR IN GOSPEL COMMUNITY GROUPS

  • What must take place if forgiveness is to be transacted?
  • What does it mean to forgive from the heart?
  • Does forgiving from the heart usually mean that everything  goes back to the way it was before in the relationship? Does it always mean this? 
  • What can we learn from the  story of Joseph regarding forgiveness?
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Jan 20
26

Sermon: Genesis 41: From The Pit To The Palace

Old Testament Reading: Genesis 41

“After two whole years, Pharaoh dreamed that he was standing by the Nile, and behold, there came up out of the Nile seven cows, attractive and plump, and they fed in the reed grass. And behold, seven other cows, ugly and thin, came up out of the Nile after them, and stood by the other cows on the bank of the Nile. And the ugly, thin cows ate up the seven attractive, plump cows. And Pharaoh awoke. And he fell asleep and dreamed a second time. And behold, seven ears of grain, plump and good, were growing on one stalk. And behold, after them sprouted seven ears, thin and blighted by the east wind. And the thin ears swallowed up the seven plump, full ears. And Pharaoh awoke, and behold, it was a dream. So in the morning his spirit was troubled, and he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt and all its wise men. Pharaoh told them his dreams, but there was none who could interpret them to Pharaoh. Then the chief cupbearer said to Pharaoh, ‘I remember my offenses today. When Pharaoh was angry with his servants and put me and the chief baker in custody in the house of the captain of the guard, we dreamed on the same night, he and I, each having a dream with its own interpretation. A young Hebrew was there with us, a servant of the captain of the guard. When we told him, he interpreted our dreams to us, giving an interpretation to each man according to his dream. And as he interpreted to us, so it came about. I was restored to my office, and the baker was hanged.’ Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they quickly brought him out of the pit. And when he had shaved himself and changed his clothes, he came in before Pharaoh. And Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘I have had a dream, and there is no one who can interpret it. I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it.’ Joseph answered Pharaoh, ‘It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer.’ Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘Behold, in my dream I was standing on the banks of the Nile. Seven cows, plump and attractive, came up out of the Nile and fed in the reed grass. Seven other cows came up after them, poor and very ugly and thin, such as I had never seen in all the land of Egypt. And the thin, ugly cows ate up the first seven plump cows, but when they had eaten them no one would have known that they had eaten them, for they were still as ugly as at the beginning. Then I awoke. I also saw in my dream seven ears growing on one stalk, full and good. Seven ears, withered, thin, and blighted by the east wind, sprouted after them, and the thin ears swallowed up the seven good ears. And I told it to the magicians, but there was no one who could explain it to me.’ Then Joseph said to Pharaoh, ‘The dreams of Pharaoh are one; God has revealed to Pharaoh what he is about to do. The seven good cows are seven years, and the seven good ears are seven years; the dreams are one. The seven lean and ugly cows that came up after them are seven years, and the seven empty ears blighted by the east wind are also seven years of famine. It is as I told Pharaoh; God has shown to Pharaoh what he is about to do. There will come seven years of great plenty throughout all the land of Egypt, but after them there will arise seven years of famine, and all the plenty will be forgotten in the land of Egypt. The famine will consume the land, and the plenty will be unknown in the land by reason of the famine that will follow, for it will be very severe. And the doubling of Pharaoh’s dream means that the thing is fixed by God, and God will shortly bring it about. Now therefore let Pharaoh select a discerning and wise man, and set him over the land of Egypt. Let Pharaoh proceed to appoint overseers over the land and take one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven plentiful years. And let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming and store up grain under the authority of Pharaoh for food in the cities, and let them keep it. That food shall be a reserve for the land against the seven years of famine that are to occur in the land of Egypt, so that the land may not perish through the famine.’ This proposal pleased Pharaoh and all his servants. And Pharaoh said to his servants, ‘Can we find a man like this, in whom is the Spirit of God?’ Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘Since God has shown you all this, there is none so discerning and wise as you are. You shall be over my house, and all my people shall order themselves as you command. Only as regards the throne will I be greater than you.’ And Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.’ Then Pharaoh took his signet ring from his hand and put it on Joseph’s hand, and clothed him in garments of fine linen and put a gold chain about his neck. And he made him ride in his second chariot. And they called out before him, ‘Bow the knee!’ Thus he set him over all the land of Egypt. Moreover, Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘I am Pharaoh, and without your consent no one shall lift up hand or foot in all the land of Egypt.’ And Pharaoh called Joseph’s name Zaphenath-paneah. And he gave him in marriage Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On. So Joseph went out over the land of Egypt. Joseph was thirty years old when he entered the service of Pharaoh king of Egypt. And Joseph went out from the presence of Pharaoh and went through all the land of Egypt. During the seven plentiful years the earth produced abundantly, and he gathered up all the food of these seven years, which occurred in the land of Egypt, and put the food in the cities. He put in every city the food from the fields around it. And Joseph stored up grain in great abundance, like the sand of the sea, until he ceased to measure it, for it could not be measured. Before the year of famine came, two sons were born to Joseph. Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera priest of On, bore them to him. Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh. ‘For,’ he said, ‘God has made me forget all my hardship and all my father’s house.’ The name of the second he called Ephraim, ‘For God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction.’ The seven years of plenty that occurred in the land of Egypt came to an end, and the seven years of famine began to come, as Joseph had said. There was famine in all lands, but in all the land of Egypt there was bread. When all the land of Egypt was famished, the people cried to Pharaoh for bread. Pharaoh said to all the Egyptians, ‘Go to Joseph. What he says to you, do.’ So when the famine had spread over all the land, Joseph opened all the storehouses and sold to the Egyptians, for the famine was severe in the land of Egypt. Moreover, all the earth came to Egypt to Joseph to buy grain, because the famine was severe over all the earth.” (Genesis 41, ESV)

*****

[Please excuse any and all typos and misspellings within this manuscript. It has been published online for the benefit of the saints of Emmaus Reformed Baptist Church, but without the benefit of proofreading.] 

Introduction

The story that we are considering today is rather straight forward. It is an amazing story, but it is not complicated. In fact, it is simple and easy to understand on the surface. But please know that the implications of this story are deep and profound. My objective in this sermon today is to go beyond a surface reading of the story of Joseph and to draw out some of the important inferences and implications.

I have three observations to make (though more could be stated):

One, The story of Joseph must be considered in light of the promises made to Abraham, for in Jospeh these promises were initially and partially fulfilled. 

Two, the story of Joseph demonstrates that the LORD is God Most High and Sovereign over all creation.

Three, The story of Joseph demonstrates that the proper response to the knowledge of God’s sovereign will is responsible and wise action.

*****

The Story Of Joseph Must Be Considered In The Light Of The Promises Made To Abraham

First of all, let us see the story of Joseph must be considered in light of the promises made to Abraham. Stated differently, we cannot forget the promises made to Abraham as we read the story of Joseph, but must recognize that what Joseph experienced in his humiliation and exultation was in fulfillment to those promises previously made. 

What were the promises made to Abraham? Essentially the LORD promised him saying, “I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (Genesis 12:1–3, ESV).

When we consider the story of Joseph we see the beginning of the fulfillment of these precious promises. Consider 5 things:

Great Nation

One, in the life of Joseph we see the beginning of the “great nation” that was promised to Abraham — that is, the nation of Israel. Of course, the twelve tribes of Israel would descend from Joseph and his brothers. But it is becoming apparent that it was through Joseph that his brothers, and thus the nation of Israel, would be saved. 

The names of the sons born to Jospeh in Egypt should sound familiar to you, for they would become two of Israel’s tribes — Manasseh and Ephraim. 

Manasseh means “cause to forget”. Joseph named his firstborn this, saying, “For God has made me forget all my hardship and all my father’s house.” It is not that Jospeh literally forgot about the hardship and his fathers house. The rest of the Jospeh story will make it clear that he did not forget those things. But the joy of bearing a son by Potiphera caused all of that pain and sorrow to be greatly diminished. It seemed like nothing to him after bearing this son whom he named Manasseh.

Ephraim means “fruitful”. Jospeh named him this saying, “For God has made me fruitful in the land of my affliction.” This name had a prophetic quality to it, for Ephraim would become the largest and most fruitful tribe in Israel. 

The point is this, in the story of Joseph we see the beginning of the fulfillment of the promises made to Abraham. Through Joseph and the salvation accomplished by him, Abraham would become a great nation.  

Blessed Of The LORD 

Two, remember that the Lord promised to bless Abraham, and do we not clearly see that Jospeh was truly blessed of the LORD?

But take special notice of this: being blessed of the LORD does not always involve external blessings. It is possible to blessed of the LORD in the pit and in the palace, as Jospeh was. Both in his humiliation and exultation, Joseph was blessed, for the LORD was with him in both places to sustain him in every circumstance. He was a blessed child of Abraham in his pain and in his prosperity, for he knew the LORD and was known by him. 

Listen to the following passages and learn what it means to be truly blessed:

Pslam 1:1-3 says, “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.”

Pslam 32:2 says, “Blessed is the man against whom the LORD counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.”

Psalm 34:8 says, “Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!” 

Pslam 40:4 says, “Blessed is the man who makes the LORD his trust, who does not turn to the proud, to those who go astray after a lie!”

Pslam 94:12-14 says, “Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O LORD, and whom you teach out of your law, to give him rest from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked. For the LORD will not forsake his people; he will not abandon his heritage…”

Psalm 112:1 says, “Praise the LORD! Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who greatly delights in his commandments! His offspring will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed.”

Most assume that blessing  — that is to say, true happiness — is found in the things of this world and is always accompanied by pleasent circumstances. But those who are godly know that to be blessed (truly happy) is to know the LORD and to be known by him, to have ones sins forgiven, to walk in the commandments of the Lord, and to take refuge in God and in the Christ he has sent.

Jospeh was a true son of Abraham. He was blessed of the LORD both in the pit and in the palace. 

Great Name

Three, remember that the LORD also said to Abraham, “I will… make your name great.” Here we see a fulfillment of that in the story of Jospeh, who was a true son of Abraham. His name was made great.   

At first he was only a “young Hebrew… a servant of the captain of the guard” in Egypt — that is what the cupbearer called him when he first mentioned him to Pharaoh in verse 12.

But notice how the LORD exulted Joseph and made his name great. After interpreting the dreams and giving wise counsel to Pharaoh Joseph was exulted in Egypt to second in command. Concerning Jospeh Pharaoh said [verse 38] “Can we find a man like this, in whom is the Spirit of God?” He made him over all his house and all of Pharaoh’s people were placed under his authority. Verse 41: “And Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘See, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.’ Then Pharaoh took his signet ring from his hand and put it on Joseph’s hand, and clothed him in garments of fine linen and put a gold chain about his neck. And he made him ride in his second chariot. And they called out before him, ‘Bow the knee!’ Thus he set him over all the land of Egypt.”

Jospeh’s  name was made great. In this we have a partial fulfilment of the promise made to Abraham, that his name would be great. 

Friends, it is very important to recognize the way in which Joseph’s name was made great. His name was made great through suffering. His name was made great as he remained humble and faithful in the midst  of the trial. His name was made great  as he patiently entrusted himself to the LORD to lift him up at the appointed time. His name was made great, not because he made it great on his own, being driven by selfish ambition and conceit, but because the LORD the made it great according to his plan, in his time, and by his power. Nothing could be more obvious than this: Jospeh did not exult himself (for how could he), but God exulted him at the proper time. 

In the life of Joseph we have a paradigm (or pattern) for the Christian life. We too should expect to be exulted in due time. But we too should expect suffering  in the here and now — we should not be surprised, discouraged, or dismayed by it. We should entrust ourselves to the LORD, knowing that he will sustain us in good times and in bad, and that he will lift us up at the appointed time,  even if it is in the life to come. We should not seek to make a name for ourselves, therefore. Instead we should walk faithfully and live for the glory of God. If the LORD will’s to make our name great in this life (as he did with Jospeh) then so be it. May God get the glory. But if the LORD will that remain 

This was the way of our Lord Jesus the Christ, and it should be the way of the Christian too. 

 “For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly” (1 Peter 2:21–23, ESV). “Therefore let those who suffer according to God’s will entrust their souls to a faithful Creator while doing good” (1 Peter 4:19, ESV).

Those Who Dishonor Cursed

Four, Abraham was also promised that those who dishonor him would be cursed. We see a partial fulfillment of this in the life of Joseph. He was dishonored by his own brothers. The were subjected to famine in their homeland whereas Joseph was raised to position of great power in Egypt, a great salvation being accomplished through him. 

Families Of The Earth Blessed Through Abraham

Five, Abraham was promised that all of the families of the earth would be blessed through him. Again, we see a partial fulfillment of this in the life of Joseph. The Egyptians would be saved from famine through Jospeh, the true son of Abraham. The Egyptians were blessed because the had Joseph the Hebrew in the midst of them.  

All of this is to say that when we consider the story of Jospeh we must remember the precious promises made to Abraham. Those promises were fulfilled initially and partially (not  fully and finally) in the life of Joseph.   

*****

The Story Of Joseph Demonstrates That The LORD Is God Most High And Sovereign Over All Creation

Secondly, the story of Joseph demonstrates that the LORD is God Most High and sovereign over all creation. 

It is widely understood that the Egyptians believed in many god’s. In their  view the sun was a god, the Nile was a god, and so too their kings were regarded as gods. But here in the Joseph story it is made abundantly  clear that the LORD, the God of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph is God Most High. Pharaoh, the of Egypt and the Nile were subject to him. They could not resist his word nor frustrate his decrees. 

Notice that these dreams troubled Pharaoh. Verse 8 says, “So in the morning his spirit was troubled, and he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt and all its wise men… (Genesis 41:8, ESV).

These dreams troubled Pharaoh, not only because they were strange dreams — he saw thin cows swallow up fat cows, but the thin cows remained anemic (the strangeness of  the dream would have been  enough to trouble a man) — but Pharaoh also knew that these dreams contained an ominous message for Egypt. The cow was a national symbol in Egypt. The fact that they came up out of the Nile was also ominous, the Nile being of great importance to Egypt. Though Pharaoh did not know what exactly the dreams meant, he sensed that the message was not good. The Pharaoh was further frustrated when the diviner-priests and wise men of Egypt were unable to provide an interpretation. 

From time to time the LORD does humble us to make us realize how small and powerless we actually are. Perhaps the LORD was doing something like this with Pharaoh. Perhaps he was bringing him  low so that he might look, not to himself, nor to his trusted advisors, but to God who alone can save?  

I wonder, has the LORD done this for you? Has he humbled you so that you might see how weak and helpless you really are? Has he brought you to that place where you abandon all confidence in yourself and hope in the things in this world and call upon his name?   

Whether or not Pharaoh was borough to that place of utter dependence upon God, the text does not say. I tend to think  not. But notice that God — the God of Joseph — the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, provided the interpretation. 

In verse 15 “Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘I have had a dream, and there is no one who can interpret it. I have heard it said of you that when you hear a dream you can interpret it” (Genesis 41:15, ESV). Notice that Jospeh directs attention away from himself and to God, saying in verse 16, “It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer” (Genesis 41:16, ESV).

And in verse 25 when Joseph gave the interpretation he gave glory to God say, “The dreams of Pharaoh are one; God has revealed to Pharaoh what he is about to do” (Genesis 41:25, ESV).

God is sovereign over all creation. His plans and purposes will be accomplished.  Job came to this realization and said, “I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted” (Job 42:2, ESV). Nebuchadnezzar, the powerful King of the Babylonians, also came to understand this. After being humbled by the LORD, he said “blessed the Most High, and praised and honored him who lives forever, [saying]  for his dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom endures from generation to generation; all the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, and he does according to his will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand or say to him, ‘What have you done?’” (Daniel 4:34–35, ESV). 

This God, who is the sovereign King of the universe, does sometimes reveal his plans and purposes to man. I say sometimes, for quite often the plans and purposes of God are a mystery to us. Usually we do not know what tomorrow will bring. But there have been times when the LORD has revealed his secret will to man  — and here we have one of those times. 

Jospeh said, “The dreams of Pharaoh are one”. In other words, the two dreams about the cows and  wheat stalks have the same meaning. “God has revealed to Pharaoh what he is about to do” (Genesis 41:25, ESV).

Let us not forget nor take for granted that we worship and serve a God who speaks. He would do no wrong to leave us in the dark, friends. It is an act of kindness, and  now that we are fallen into sin, it is an act of grace, for God to speak to us. He graciously reveals his will to us. And when God speaks, we  would do well to listen. When he gives us his word, we would be wise to obey it.  

*****

The Story Of Joseph Demonstrates That The Proper Response To The Knowledge Of God’s Sovereign Will Is Responsible And Wise Action

This leads my now to the third and final point. The story of Joseph demonstrates that the proper response to the knowledge of God’s sovereign will is responsible and wise action.

When God used Jospeh to reveal to Pharaoh what it was that he was about to do in bringing seven years of famine after seven years of great plenty, Jospeh did not throw his hands up in the air and say, oh well, what will be, will be. Instead, he proposed a plan of action. 

This, friends, should always be our responce to the revealed will of God. It should always be followed by action and obedience. 

Notice that it was not only the fact that Jospeh could interpret the dreams that prompted Pharaoh to promote him to second in power in Egypt. It was also that Jospeh proposed a wise plan. After giving the interpretation of the dream he said, “Now therefore let Pharaoh select a discerning and wise man, and set him over the land of Egypt. Let Pharaoh proceed to appoint overseers over the land and take one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven plentiful years. And let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming and store up grain under the authority of Pharaoh for food in the cities, and let them keep it. That food shall be a reserve for the land against the seven years of famine that are to occur in the land of Egypt, so that the land may not perish through the famine” (Genesis 41:33–36, ESV). 

When Joseph proposed the plan:

One, he demonstrated that he was sure that LORD would bring this about. 

Two, he demonstrated a true care and concern for the Egyptian people.

Three, he demonstrated that he was wise. 

And for this reason Pharaoh said, “‘Can we find a man like this, in whom is the Spirit of God?’ Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, ‘Since God has shown you all this, there is none so discerning and wise as you are. You shall be over my house, and all my people shall order themselves as you command. Only as regards the throne will I be greater than you’” (Genesis 41:38–40, ESV).

*****

Conclusion

Stories like this one, though they be simple and straightforward on the surface, do have a profound impact upon the way that we view God.

In this little story we are reminded that we serve a God who is faithful to keep his promises. He blesses his people both in the pit and the palace. He is able to exult his people in due time, according to his will. He is the sovereign Lord of all creation —  nothing can thwarts his plans. And he is gracious to reveal himself to us. 

May we listen to him when he speaks. May we be found actively obeying his every command, eager to keep his revealed will.   

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Jan 20
19

Discussion Questions for Sermon on Genesis 40

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION AT HOME OR IN GOSPEL COMMUNITY GROUPS

  • Discuss (again) how Joseph was a “type” of Christ (how his life was similar to the life that Christ would live, but on a smaller and less significant scale).
  • What can we learn from Joseph’s attitude towards others while in prison?
  • Should we expect God to reveal his word to us through dreams today? Why or why not? 
  • What encouragement can those who feel abandoned take from the story of Joseph? Will those  in Christ ever be abandoned by God? Discuss.
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Jan 20
12

Discussion Questions For Sermon On Matthew 21

QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION AT HOME OR IN GOSPEL COMMUNITY GROUPS

Why did Jesus choose to enter into Jerusalem riding upon a colt of a donkey that was borrowed, and not his own? What message did this communicate? What prophesy did this fulfill?

What kind of king is Christ?

When Christ returns how will he come?

How should the “triumphal entry”, as it is commonly called, effect our worship?

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Jan 20
5

Sermon: Jude 17-25: Beware Of False Teachers – Part 3

  1. OT Reading (Jer 32:36-41)

36 “Now therefore thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, concerning this city of which you say, ‘It is given into the hand of the king of Babylon by sword, by famine, and by pestilence’: 37 Behold, I will gather them from all the countries to which I drove them in my anger and my wrath and in great indignation. I will bring them back to this place, and I will make them dwell in safety. 38 And they shall be my people, and I will be their God. 39 I will give them one heart and one way, that they may fear me forever, for their own good and the good of their children after them. 40 I will make with them an everlasting covenant, that I will not turn away from doing good to them. And I will put the fear of me in their hearts, that they may not turn from me. 41 I will rejoice in doing them good, and I will plant them in this land in faithfulness, with all my heart and all my soul.

  1. NT Reading (Jude 17-25)

17 But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. 18 They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” 19 It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. 20 But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, 21 keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. 22 And have mercy on those who doubt; 23 save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh. 24 Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, 25 to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.

  1. Pray
  1. Intro
    1. Today, church, we will be concluding a 3 part series on the book of Jude. 
    2. Over the past several months I have preached through the book of Jude; covering verses 1-7 in part one, verses 8-16 in part two, and concluding today with part 3,  as we cover verses 17-25.  
    3. And before we begin to look at Jude verses 17-25, it would be best to first do a brief recap of Judes epistle up unto this point. 
    4. You will remember that Jude’s letter is broken up into 3 main parts and contain a series of “proof texts” that reference the Old Testament writings, Jewish Literature, and Apostolic Prophecy; all for the purpose of displaying the destruction of the heretics that Jude addresses throughout his book. 
      1. Thus the primary theme of the Jude is the stern warning against the “false teachers” that had infiltrated into the Church;…and the Churches need to be aware of such individuals. 
    5. In briefly recapping the first 16 verses of the epistle you will remember that in verses 1-2, Jude gives a brief introduction, authenticates his identity, and identifies his audience, (which were those who were “called by God and kept in Christ”) 
  1. In verses 3-4, we saw that Jude’s original intent was to write about “our common salvation” but instead felt compelled to discuss the need for the Church to be aware and vigilant of these “false teachers” that had “secretly crept into the Church”. 
  2. In verses 5-7 we saw that Jude cites three examples from Old Testament history; all displaying God’s judgment on those who intentionally and blatantly distort the word of God- and thus live contrary to it. 
    1. Judes three examples were: 
      1. The Exodus Generation and their judgement, The fallen angels from heaven and their judgement, and the people of Sodom and Gomorrah and their judgement.  
  1. Next, in verses 8-11 we are told that “these men” that had “crept in” blatantly reject divine and God ordained authority, as verses 12-13 elaborate on how these men live as clear hypocrites to the faith. 
  2. Then, in verses 14-16 Jude assures and reminds his readers that “these men” will receive their due penalty for their sins and actions. 
  3. This brings us now to verse 17; where Jude, again, reminds his readers to remember that, not only had these men been predicted through the prophets of the OT, they were also clearly taught about through the teaching of the apostles of Christ Jesus. 
  1. Exegesis of Jude 17-25
    1. And so vs. 17 begins with a word that we now know is central to Jude’s, message: Remember; as Jude again instructs his readers to “Remember” that the apostles of Christ had clearly warned the Church of the presence of “these men”. 
    2. Thus, Jude’s point is not to prepare his readers for a future arrival of “these men”, 

Rather, Jude is demonstrating that the central reason for his message is to inform his readers that what was predicted by the prophets and disciples, had now come to pass. 

  1. As the apostles and other NT authors had taught, these men are amongst us in the Church Age (the time between Christ’s first and second coming). 
    1. In Mark 13:22–23 Jesus had explicitly warned of the presence of these men, stating: 
      1. “False christs and false prophets will arise and perform signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, the elect. 23 But be on guard; I have told you all things beforehand.” 
  2. The apostle Paul, too, provides further warning when he spoke to the Ephesian elders in Acts 20:29–31, saying:
    1.  “I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish every one with tears.”
  3. We should also be reminded of the fact that even among Christ’s 12 disciples, a wolf existed within them, as Judas would betray Jesus. 
  4. Yet, this was no surprise to Christ, nor did it thwart his plans in any way. Rather, even through the evil of Judas’ actions, God’s perfect will was brought about. 
  5. Furthermore, in verse 19, Jude states that: 
    1. It is “these men” who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. 
  6. And so it is vital that Judes audience realize that “these men” are the ones whom the prophets, the apostles, and even Christ himself spoke about. 
  7. Thus, the warning in scripture is clear. These men have infiltrated and will infiltrate the Church. But Jude’s purpose in informing the Church of the presence of these men is not so that the people of God would be surprised or overly anxious with this knowledge. Rather, Judes instructs that the people of God “Remember” that “these men” exist and will come about in the Church; and therefore, must be prepared when they present themselves.
  8. And given Judes statement that “these men”  are ‘worldly’ and ‘devoid of the Spirit’, brothers and sisters, we must clear on Judes point pertaining to “these men”: that there are only 2 types of people that exist in this world- those who are real Christians, and those who are not. For this is Jude’s primary purpose in going to such great lengths in describing “these men”; so that they could be identified and properly addressed when as they make their way into the Church. And the fact that “these men” lived according to no higher values other than their own, was very clear evidence of their depraved and unregenerate state. 
  9. Therefore, Brothers and Sisters, “these men” have no part in the true church; for they do not have the Spirit. Indeed they are ‘godless’, as stated in verse 4…
    1. However, as was made clear in the Sunday school hour, we cannot know the depths of the heart of these men. For though their actions clearly display that of an unsaved soul, we do not know if the Lord would call a man unto himself. 
    2. Therefore, we must only act according to the behaviors and actions of such individuals, for it is the Lord who both judges and transforms the heart of a man. 
  10. Transitioning into verse 20, Jude takes a sharp turn in the direction of his letter. As it is here, that he returns to the tone of encouragement, that he had began at the beginning of his letter in verses 1-2. 
  11. And so, after commanding the church to “Remember” that “these men” exist, that they will creep into the church, and that they act as they do because they are unregenerate; 
    1. Jude, then merges into verses 20-23 with a list of several commands for the people of God on how to respond in light of the presence of “these men”.   
  12.  In Verse 20, Jude states: But you, beloved building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit. 
  13. Here, Jude emphasizes the immense importance for the Believer to have a strong and solid foundation in Christ. For It is essential, Church, that true believers not be carried away into error when false teachers attempt to distort both the true teachings of scripture, and the God ordained structure of the Church. Hence, the emphasis that Jude places on needing to be built up in “Your most holy faith”
  14. And the phrase “Your most holy faith” in verse 20, refers to the learning and applying of the whole counsel of God, found within the entirety of the scriptures.. 
    1. Brothers and Sisters, I cannot emphasize enough how important it is that you are diligent in studying, learning, and applying the scriptures to your lives.   
    2. In fact, I have become overwhelmingly convinced that the only way that a true believer in Christ can successfully walk daily in the faith is through a complete and utter devotion to daily practice of the spiritual disciplines: specifically that of Scripture reading and prayer. 
      1. As if this was some hidden message though. As scripture time and time  again speaks of the importance of communing with God through through the continual study of His word. 
        1. Take for example Joshua 1:7-8, while succeeding Moses, The Lord directly addresses Joshua, stating: 
          1. 7 Be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. 8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. 
        2. Or when David, in the beginning of the book of Psalms in Chapter 1:1-2 states:
          1. Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.
        3. Or when Paul states in reference to the importance of reading and studying the scriptures in Romans 15:4:
          1. 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.
        4. And again Paul instructs Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:13 on how to properly lead the Church, telling him to:
          1. Devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to exhortation, and to teaching
        5. Or as Christ himself commands his followers just prior to his crucifixion in John 14:15, stating:
          1. if you love me, you will keep my commandments.
        6. And how, Church, how in the world can we know or keep Christs commandments if we do not thoroughly study to know them and work hard to apply daily to our lives. 
        7. The teaching of Scripture is clear! We, as the Bride of Christ must study the word of God. We must crave it. The reading of God’s word must be a central part of our Christian walk. 
      2. Brothers and Sisters, I do not know what is on your new year’s resolution list, but I can assure you that if knowing Christ and His word more deeply this year is not at the top of your list, I would highly suggest that you revise your goals for 2020. 
      3. And Church, my prayer is that we all would make growing more in the grace and knowledge of Christ our primary focus for not just this year, but also every year thereafter that the Lord graciously blesses each and every one of us with…
  15. However, after stating how important it is that we are diligent in our study of God’s word, I also want to make a point about properly applying and understanding Judes teaching in verse 20. For though Jude is clearly teaching that we MUST be dedicated and diligent in building up our most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, He is not saying that our survival as Christians is dependent upon our ability in: keeping our faith- verse 21, or our ability to love God properly- verse 22, or our ability to have mercy- verse 22. Our survival as God’s people, brothers and sisters, is dependent upon God’s grace, and God’s grace alone. 
  16. As stated a few months back in  part 1 of this sermon series, Jude begins his letter by referring to his audience as those who are: “called by God’, loved by God’ and ‘kept by Jesus Christ’.  For our faith is fully credited to the gracious acts of our merciful God. 
    1. As Luther once put it: ‘Faith is the foundation on which one should build. But to build up means to increase from day to day in the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ.”
    2. And it is, therefore, because of this that we should respond with so much fervor, love, and dedication to our most Holy God. 
    3. And in light of what was discussed in the Sunday school hour, this is a good reminder that true believers in Christ were chosen by God and will persevere to the end because of the power and wisdom of God. 
  17. Furthermore, in verse 20, Jude instructs us to also “Pray in the Holy Spirit”. For our need for earnest and continual prayer is absolutely vital if we are to stand properly against those who would attempt to distort and lead astray. As our prayer life is a direct reflection upon our dependence on God for help and strength. 
    1. As Paul states in Ephesians 6:18, that we should commit ourselves to “praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication.”
  18. And as we are faithful to pray, the Holy Spirit, who is with God’s people, takes these prayers directly into the presence of our heavenly Father.  
    1. Church, in as simple terms as I can put it. If you want your faith to flourish, if you want to be prepared when false teachers come, if you want to be obedient to the commands of Christ, then this is what I advise you do: know the word of God, pray continually in the Spirit, and walk daily with Christ… 
  19. As we move on to verse 21, Jude gives another command, saying to his audience to: Keep yourselves in the love of God. This command would have reminded his readers of the covenant that their Lord and Master had already made with his people, as it was Christ who first called them and first loved them (verse 1).. 
    1. For God’s electing, ever-faithful, covenant of love with his people does not ever leave. Indeed Christ is with us, and Jude reminds us of this in commanding us to respond to this truth. As Christ first loved us; we, therefore, are to to love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.
  20. Jesus spoke clearly of this relationship between the love of God for his people and their love for him in John 15:9–10, when he stated: 
    1. ‘As the Father has loved me so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you obey my commands you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s commands and remain in his love.’…
  21. Jude then merges into an additional command at the end of verse 21, stating: as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads you to eternal life. 
  22. It is vital, Church, for all Christians to remember they are living in an age that will come to an end. These ‘last times’ as mentioned in verse 18 will eventually lead to the inevitable Last Day when this age will come to an end and Christ will bring about the full consummation of all things. 
  23. And the life of the Christians during these “last days” (the day we now live in up until Christ’s return) will not be easy, as Jude has shown. But we are to persevere with the help of the Holy Spirit; for a great and glorious eternity awaits us when we shall see God’s mercy and salvation in all its fullness. At the moment we experience it through faith, but one day we shall know even as we are known (by God,) and we shall see our saviour face to face (1 Corinthians 13:12).
  24. Jude then, in verses 22–23 moves on to explain that there are three categories of people who will each need to be dealt with in a slightly different way in response to the effects of the presence of these “false teachers” within the Church: 
    1. 1. those who, under the influence of the false teachers, have doubts; 
    2. 2. those who, being weak spiritually, are in danger of being harmed by the sin brought about by these false teachers; 
    3. And 3. those who, deeply affected by these false teachers, could be genuinely dangerous to the faithful.
  25. In verse 22, Jude addresses the first of the 3 categories, as he speaks of those who have doubts. As, Jude commands his readers to Be merciful to those who doubt. 
    1. At some time in our lives, brothers and sisters, we all will have doubts about our faith. However, what Jude portrays here is an extreme and dangerous form of doubt; brought about as an effect from the actions of false teachers within the Church (hence a reminder of why they are so dangerous).
  26.  And as we have seen, these ‘godless’ men, ‘devoid the Spirit’, have led people away from God  into a volatile state of faith and understanding. 
    1. Note, Church, that “these men” not only come in and try to openly distort the true teachings of God, they are often at opposition with the leaders within the Church. For God has ordained overseers to detect and deal with such individuals; which is likely why false teachers are often so hostile toward those appointed within the Church. 
    2. And as “these men” attempt to deceive and distort, there most certainly will be some casualties involved; as some will become confused and misled by their teachings. We, therefore, must all must remember, as Jude reminds us in verse 22, to have mercy and compassion toward the deceived and misled individuals. Being patient and merciful with them, in the attempts to bring them safely back into the fold of God. 
  27. The second group that Jude addresses is found in verse 23, where he directs his audience to snatch others from the fire and save them. This group refers to those who are in real and imminent danger of being impacted by the actions of the godless men amongst them. This category is one step further than the previous. For the state of these individuals has moved from mere deception to some form of tangible sinful impact. And the state that these individuals are in is one of such imminent danger, that Jude uses the term “snatch” in describing how we are to address them.  
    1. In Amos 4:11, we have a picture of God snatching Israel from the fire, as the Lord states: “You were like a burning stick snatched from the fire”
    2.  And Zechariah 3:2 also provides interesting insight into Jude 23 where the high priest Joshua is standing before the angel of the Lord with Satan ready to accuse him. The Lord then defends Joshua by saying, ‘Is not this man a burning stick snatched from the fire?’ (3:2).
    3. Thus, the use of the word ‘snatch’ is very fitting; as it depicts one hastefully and purposely grabbing an object from the fire before it becomes destroyed. 
  28. And to be clear on this point, Church, Salvation belongs to the Lord alone. We know this. However, God has ordained  His people to be His hand in protecting and intervening when fellow brethren become entangled in the sins of false teachers. And we to be active by bringing our wandering brother or sister back to Christ, to His Word, and to the ‘faith once and for all entrusted to the saints’ (Jude 3).
  29. So in this sense, Brothers and Sisters, we are in fact our brothers keeper. Just as a father might snatch his child out of the path of a bus, so it is our duty to watch over each other and pull back those who, through weakness of faith and understanding, find themselves drawn towards the fire. We need to be concerned for each other, constantly exhorting and helping one other to contend for the faith and remain steadfast in the love of God…
  30. This now brings us to the third and final group that Jude describes; as they are those who have moved so far under the influence of the “these godless men” that they actually become dangerous to the entire Church. This gives rise to another of Jude’s commands, that: to others, we are to show mercy, with fear—hating even the garment stained by the flesh. 
  31. Jude again instructs the believers to be merciful to those who have strayed due to the influence of the false teachers, just as Christ is merciful to us. However when dealing with those who have become involved with the teachings of ‘these men’, there is a real danger that the True Believer might also be tempted to stray in his or her faith.  
    1. For, Brothers and Sisters, the attraction of sin must never be underestimated. Too often people feel that somehow they are immune to certain temptations of the flesh, but such feelings often result in downfall as they succumb to sin themselves. So Jude gives sensible advice to the true believers within the Church. And Jude emphasises this with his next comment, that when responding we are to this group, we are to—hate even the garment stained by the flesh. 
      1. The picture that Jude paints, is strong. The idea is that Jude’s readers would steer clear of someone else’s dirty, filthy, and ‘stained’ undergarments. For the type of sin that Jude is portraying is a type that will spoil and infect all that it comes in contact with. Indeed, these men and their godless ways must be removed from the flock with urgency and precision, before their ungodly ways spread throughout the entire congregation. 
      2. However, in concluding verse 23, Jude pleads for a sensible balance in judging confronting sinful people within their flock. For we are to always display love and mercy, even when a Brother or Sister in Christ is caught up in Sin. For a Christian does not need to commit adultery to be able to minister to an adulterer with mercy and with love. The church does not have to lie in order to lovingly confront a person caught in deception. The Church needn’t become drunk, in order to minister to the alcoholic. 
      3.  As Paul states in Galatians 6:1
        1. Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. (But) Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted…
  1. Doxology 
    1. Lastly, in verses 24-25, Jude begins his doxology and conclusion to the epistle. 
    2. Jude has finished his exhortation to the faithful. He has finished warning against the ungodly and deceitful people who have slipped into the church, and now he focuses the reader’s thinking (as he did in verses 1-2) on the God of all grace.
    3. In verse 24, Jude states: 
      1. Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy,
    4. Here, Jude has in mind the final day when Christians will stand before their Maker. On that judgment day it will be only justified sinners who will ‘stand’; For they are the ones who have been declared ‘not guilty’. And though this saving grace is appropriated through faith, it comes entirely from God’s grace alone. And so it is fully appropriate, as Jude ends his letter, that he should direct his audience to the God who alone is able to keep them from falling and to make them stand in his glorious presence. For our God and Savior who ‘began a good work’ in us ‘will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 1:6).
    5. Verse 25, then, concludes Judes epistle with a praise to the wonderful Saviour, stating: 
      1. to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen.
    6. And It is not surprising, Brothers and Sisters, that these last two verses of Jude have become one of the most popular benedictions to be used within the Church.  For these words do for us what they also would have done for Jude and his audience: 
      1. they summarise the continuing sovereign work of God (through Jesus) on our behalf; and ascribe to Him all the glory.
    7. For nothing is beyond God’s majestic and sovereign control. It is He who keeps his people from falling; It is He who knows that “these false teachers are among us”: It is He who has provided a way for his people to deal with “these men” as they make their way into the Church; and it is He whom all of Gods chosen throughout all of time, will worship for all eternity. 
  1. Applications:
    1. As I begin now to work toward a conclusion, I would first like to make 4 brief and clarifying points of application. 
    2. 1. We Must Remember (vs. 17-19) 
  2. Brothers and Sisters, as stated in my previous sermon we must not be ignorant to the presence of “these men” that Jude describes. 

For this was predicted by the apostles several times throughout the New Testament. 

  1. Christ himself even taught about such men, explaining that these men have always been at work trying to corrupt God’s elect. 
  2. So we must remember this teaching, Church. We must remind ourselves so that we are not surprised when such men come. And we must remind ourselves so that we might rest in the sovereignty and power of our almighty Savior. 
  3. So study the scriptures diligently and cling closely to Christ. 
  4. This brings me to the 2nd point of application. 
  5. We Must Be Prepared (vs. 20-21) 
    1. Brothers and Sisters, we must work hard, as Jude states at building up our most holy faith! 
    2. And as previously stated, If this is not at the top of your new year’s resolution, I strongly advise you change your list! For what could be more important than growing more intimately in your faith with Christ! 
    3. And we must also be a praying people, knowing that there are those who are attacking from above, outside, and even within our very midst!
    4. And so, we must keep ourselves in the love of God, reminding ourselves continuously that this is not our permanent home! For we will all experience difficulties in our lives. Whether it is a false teacher infiltrating into our congregation or a personal trial or struggle, the remedy is the same for both: Be prepared through obedience in Christ.  
    5. I think the words of 2 Tim 4:2-5 are most fitting on this point, as Paul instructs Timothy, saying: 
      1. preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. 3 For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, 4 and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths. 5 As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.
    6. This brings me to my third point of application. 
  6. We Must Be Active in the Sanctification (and Salvation) of Others (vs. 22-23)  
    1. Church, As Jude has made clear, “these men” are not regenerate. And their ways within the church create a volatile and confusing message to those who are involved in their presence.
    2. And we must be merciful and patient with those who become confused by the teachings and actions of “these men”. 
    3. Whether it is from a false teacher within the church, a false teacher outside of the church, or a well meaning brother or sister who simply has strayed from a proper understanding and application of the scriptures; We must always respond with mercy and patience, especially with those who are weak, confused, or struggling (Romans 14:1;15:1)
    4. Yes, Church, you are your Brothers keeper. And you are your Sisters keeper. And if one of us is found in sin, we all have an obligation to restore our Brother or Sister to Christ. 
    5. As James 5:19-20 states:
      1. 19 My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, 20 let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.
    6. This brings me now to my fourth and final point of application. 
  7. It is only Through Christ that this is Possible (vs. 24-25)
    1. Brothers and Sisters, only in Christ does this world exist. And only in Christ is our salvation possible. And only in Christ are we able to respond to and endure the onslaught of “these ungodly men” that have infiltrated the Church. 
    2. But it is he who is able to keep us from stumbling. And it is he that presents us blameless before God. 
    3. Therefore, take heart Church. Be encouraged by the words of Jude. Be strengthened through the power of the Holy Spirit. And be reminded of the power of Christ. 
  1. In Conclusion 
  1. In closing, I would like to read one final passage of scripture that echoes and mirrors the teachings of Jude. 
  2. And so I would like to ask you, one final time, to listen carefully as I read from the words of John 15:12-25 ; 16:33 (hear now the word of the Lord): 
    1. 12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are my friends if you do what I command you. 15 No longer do I call you servants,  for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. 16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. 17 These things I command you, so that you will love one another.
    2. 18 “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. 21 But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me. 22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have been guilty of sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. 23 Whoever hates me hates my Father also. 24 If I had not done among them the works that no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin, but now they have seen and hated both me and my Father. 25 But the word that is written in their Law must be fulfilled: ‘ (For) They hated me without a cause.’…  I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”  ……… PRAY
Posted in Sermons, Study Guides, Posted by Mike. Comments Off on Sermon: Jude 17-25: Beware Of False Teachers – Part 3

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warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom,
that we may present everyone mature in Christ."
(Colossians 1:28, ESV)

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