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

10/18/25

Haggi 2 - Thhe Word of the Lord came again...

Review: Last week we looked at Haggai Chapter One and we saw that the LORD spoke His words to the prophet Haggai to give to Zerubbabel, the Governor of Judah, and to Joshua, the high priest. And in this message the LORD recalled the saying of the people, “The time is not come that the LORD’s House should be built.” These people, are those who had been in captivity and had returned to Jerusalem under the directive of Cyrus the Great of Persia, and one of the primary reasons was to rebuild the temple and reestablish the worship of God and their culture. But these people began to build their own houses, and had them finely finished, but God’s house was still a pile of rubble. “The LORD of Hosts” told them, “Consider your ways.”v.5,7 God also told them that they had not been very fruitful or prosperous in the land because they had not put God first. (When we get our priorities right and put God first, He can and will bless us abundantly!) God then gave them a Directive, “Go up to the mountain, and bring wood, and build the house of the Lord” v. 8 And, God gave them an Assured Promise, “I will take pleasure in it, and I will be glorified” v. 8. God said, “You looked for much, and it came to little.” He is saying, you worked hard to promote yourselves and sought possessions, but it accomplished little. Why? Because God was withholding His full blessing. Because of the misplaced priorities of the people... Because of My house that is waste (in rubble) v. 9. God the re-emphasized His blessing would be withheld- vv.10,11. But then something Amazing happened, verse twelve says the Zerubbabel, and Joshua, and the remnant of the people, “obeyed the voice of the LORD their God,” and... “the people did fear before the LORD.” In response to their change of mind and heart (repentance), the LORD gave them this Reassuring Promise- “I am with you.” (1:13b) But God also did something else Amazing, not only did He give them the Reassuring Promise- “I AM WITH YOU.,” He gave them a Restorative Purpose, “the LORD ‘stirred up’ the spirit’ of Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, the spirit of Joshua, the son of Josedech, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people; and they came and did the work in the house of the LORD of hosts, their God.” v. 14 You have not been stirred in your spirit, until God gets ahold of you and stirs your spirit! That’s Revival!

Now let’s look at Haggai Chapter Two, to get ‘the rest of the story,’ as Paul Harvey used to say. In Chapter 2 verse one, we read, In the seventh month, in one and twentieth day (The 21^st day) of the month, came the word of the LORD by the prophet Haggai, saying,” (*Notice a specific date) “Speak now to Zerubbabel...and to Joshua... and to the residue of the people, Who is left among you that saw this house in her first glory?” “Is it not in your eyes in comparison of it as nothing?” I. God’s Disturbing Question- v. 3 “Who of you can remember this house in her first glory?” (i.e. Solomon’s Temple which he built using all the glorious materials which King David, his father, had provided). If there were some that returned from captivity that could remember the glory of the first temple, they no doubt had memories of its beautiful grandeur. This likely brought back Glorious Memories, but also a Glum Mood as they thought about how the temple that they were endeavoring to build would not come close to comparing to the glory of Solomon’s temple.

In verse 4 we see God’s Impactful Command- “Be Strong” and God’s Reassuring Promise, “I am with you.” This is the promise of the Ever-present God. God continues, “According to the word that I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt, so My spirit remains among you...Fear not.” v. 5 He says, Remember. God used this charge or command many times in the past and throughout scripture…”Be Strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be dismayed: For the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” His words to Joshua, who would be the new leader after Moses’ death (Joshua 1:9).

II. God’s Demonstrative Quaking- i.e. God is going to Shake some things up! vv. 6,7

A. He is going to shake the heavens and the earth, and the sea and the dry land; ...and all nations. vv.6,7 When God shakes things up, it is the Ultimate shaking…more powerful than any earthquake or force of nature.

B. God’s Promise, “The Desire of all nations shall come.” This is a Messianic reference to Jesus Christ. What the world needs is JESUS! This reference is used in Handel’s Messiah- Librette

C. Another promise, “I will fill this house with glory says the LORD of hosts.” v. 7

D. An Additional promise, “the glory of this latter house shall be greater than the former” says the LORD. V.9 How is this possible? Because of the abiding presence of the LORD. Remember the ever-present, all-existent One. Jesus promised, “...I am with you always- Matthew 28:20.

E. Also, we see God’s promise of peace. “...and in this place will I give peace.” There is no peace like God’s peace. The peace of God surpasses all understanding.

III. God’s Deciphering Questions to the Priests- “Ask now the priests concerning the law...” v. 11 This is a Priestly Pop-Quiz: Regarding that which is clean and holy and that which is unclean touching something:

A. “If one bear holy flesh in the fold of the skirt of his garment and he touch bread, pottage, wine, or oil, or any meat shall it be holy? The priests answer, “no.” v.12

B. “If one that is unclean by a dead body touch any of these, shall it be unclean? And the priests answered and said, it shall be unclean.” v. 13

C. The point that God is making, and the message that Haggai conveys is this, “So is this people and this nations before Me says the LORD.” You are unclean and your work of your hands & what you offer is unclean.

D. God also makes another point regarding His blessing that was withheld, He said there were shortages v.16 and smote with mildew and hail, their crops and fields and the work of their hands, yet they turned not to God v. 17 God says, “Consider now” “Consider it.” V.18 God is saying, in the past you just didn’t get it, but consider it now, that you God is working among you. Then He says, “from this day I will bless you.”

E. Don’t we all want the blessing of the Lord upon our lives, upon our work, upon what we offer to the Lord? Yes! We just need to get things right with God. Confess any known sin, seek to draw closer to God in our daily walk, our daily relationship with Him. (James 4:8). God will forgive (I John 1:9) God will heal (II Chron. 7:14).

IV. God’s Declarative Qualified Leader- Zerubbabel, Son of Shealtiel…My Servant…I will make you a Signet: for I Have Chosen You! Says the LORD of Hosts v.23

It is important to understand who Zerubbabel is. He is the governor of the rebuilt Jerusalem and is himself of royal blood, being a descendant of David and the grandson of Judah’s King Jehoiachin. Years earlier, Jehoiachin had lost his throne when he was deported to Babylon; in fact, God pictured Jehoiachin as a signet ring being removed from God’s finger (Jeremiah 22:24). Now, God calls Zerubbabel the “signet ring,” but this time it won’t be removed.

In Haggai’s prophecy, God is giving Zerubbabel encouragement and hope. The governor is “chosen” for a unique and noble purpose. As God’s signet ring, Zerubbabel is given a place of honor and authority. God is reinstating the Davidic line and renewing His covenant with David. Judah still has a future as they look forward to the coming Son of David, the Messiah, who would one day “overturn royal thrones and shatter the power of the foreign kingdoms” (Haggai 2:22).

Zerubbabel is also called “my servant.” This title was often a Messianic reference in the Old Testament (2 Samuel 3:18; 1 Kings 11:34; Isaiah 42:1–9; 49:1–13; 50:4–11; 52:13-53:12; Ezekiel 34:23–24; 37:24–25). The triad of servant, son, and signet ring created a special combination of encouragement for Zerubbabel in his important and difficult task of reconstructing the Jewish temple. As God’s “signet ring,” Zerubbabel becomes a picture of the future Messiah, Jesus Christ, who will establish His people in the Promised Land, construct an even grander temple (Zechariah 6:12–13), and lead the righteous in never-ending worship.

Summary /conclusion:

Some of the remnant of the people that had been in captivity in Babylon and later Persia, had returned to the land, but instead of doing the work of rebuilding the temple they had resorted to selfish interests-building their own houses, and the Lord rebuked them through His prophet.

The people eventually repented and began to obey the Lord and fear Him and the work of building the temple resumed and God promised his blessing.

Haggai reminds us that even though we may have stopped following the Lord for a time and disobeyed Him and have not followed through with doing His will, we can ‘consider our ways,’ repent and get things right, and He will add his blessing once again.

Application:God no longer dwells in a temple made with hands, but in the hearts of his redeemed.For each born-again believer in Christ, He indwells with His Holy Spirit and His glory and presence abide with us.We can experience His Power, His blessing and His peace.

“The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place will I give peace saith the LORD of hosts.”

10/11/25

Haggai 1- Hearing From God- The Lord Speaks- Are We Listening?
I. God Speaks- “The word of the LORD came by Haggai the prophet…” v.1
“…to Zerubbabel, ...the governor of Judah, and to Joshua, …the high priest, saying…” v.1
A. God speaks to the leaders to speak to and inspire the people.
B. God mentions what the people were saying, “this people says, the time is not come…
that the Lord’s house should be built” v. 2
C. The Lord knows our thoughts and words- Psalm 139:1-4
1. “O Lord, you have searched me and known me, You know my sitting down and my
rising up” (actions).
2. “You comprehend my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways”
(habits)
3. “For there is not a word on my tongue, but behold, O Lord, You know it altogether”
(our words) **Note: Our words lead to actions which form habits.
4. These verse lead us to the questions? What are we thinking? What are we saying?
5. Have you noticed, as someone has said, “when everything is said and done, there’s
usually more said than done!”
II. The Lord says, “Consider your ways.” v. 7
A. The Lord is saying, you have only been thinking of yourselves: your house, your
possessions. You have forgotten the One who blessed you with these things.
B. The Greatest Command- “…Love the Lord your God, with all your heart, with all
your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength.” First & foremost, love
God! Love him supremely!
C. Matt. 6:33- “But seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all
these things will be added unto you.”
D. The people that returned from the captivity had fallen into the ways of their
forefathers. They were not honoring God and obeying his commands.
III. God’s Blessing Withheld- v. 6
A. You’ve sown, and bring in little; you eat, but do not have enough; you drink, but
are not filled with drink; you clothe yourselves, but no one is warm; and he who
earns wages, earns wages to put in a bag with holes.
B. The LORD of Hosts says, “Consider your ways!” v. 7
C. You looked for much, and indeed it came to little; when you brought it home, I
blew it away! You ever bought something that you wanted and then it didn’t
really satisfy, and it didn’t really last? God is able to send blessing or withhold it.
D. Joel 1- speaks of the locust consuming the crops in the fields leaving it bare. And
enemies coming that laid waste the vineyards and stripping bare the fields.
E. God’s general blessing- “…for He makes the sun rise on the evil and on the good
and sends the rain on the just and the unjust. Matthew 5:45 But God has special
blessings that he wants to bestow on his children, especially those the obedient,
And to those who ask Him. Matthew 7:11; Eph. 3:20- Exceedingly Abundantly!

Haggai 1- Hearing From God- The Lord Speaks- Are We Listening?
IV. When Zerubbabel, Joshua and the Remnant of the People Obeyed the Voice of God
and Feared the presence of the Lord… Then Haggai, the Lord’s messenger, spoke the
LORD’s message to the people, saying, “the Lord is with you, says the Lord.” vv.12-13
A. This is an Assuring Promise- “the Lord is with you!”
B. So the Lord stirred up thespirit of Zerubbabel…, and the spirit of Joshua.., and
the spirit of all the remnant of the people, and they came and worked on the
house of the LORD of Hosts. This name LORD in all caps as signified in the KJV,
Is the Jehovah- from YHWH- it the personal name of God- The existing One, “I M
That I AM” Later you see this name connected with what God does “Jehovah
Jirah”, “Jehova-Nissi”.
C. Later, next week, we will see an Inspiring Command- “Be Strong.”

10/04/25

We Are Ambassadors For Christ- II Corinthians 5:20

Introduction: Just the other day I met a man who said that he was an ambassador for the city of Milwaukee. He had come to the Milwaukee Rescue Mission because the apt. place that he and his wife had been renting for eight years, had been sold and the new owner was not going to be working through the housing program which this couple was involved with to have a housing subsidy. As I spoke with this man, I asked him what his position as an Ambassador entailed, and he said that he basically spends eight hours a day on the streets of Milwaukee, talking with people he meets, and welcoming them, answering their questions and giving out information and directions. His job is basically being a public representative showing hospitality.

Meeting this man and thinking about his description of what he does in his occupation as an ambassador led my mind to consider what we as Christians are called to be and do as Ambassadors for Christ. So let us look together at II Corinthians 5:20-21. Read these verses.

We see the first two words in verse twenty, “Now then” it could be akin to saying, “because of this”, or ”because of this condition or state.” It is similar to the use of the word, “Therefore” which we see in verse seventeen, “Therefore, if any man (anyone) is in Christ, he is a new creature (creation), old things are passed away, behold, all things are become new.” Based on this, or because of this, we have this ministry or position of being an ambassador for our Lord Jesus Christ.

So what is an ambassador? An ambassador is one that is sent as the highest official representative of his or her country, stationed in another nation as a diplomatic envoy who represents their country’s interests. An Ambassador is responsible for maintaining diplomatic relations, promoting the sending government's foreign policy, protecting its citizens, and advancing economic interests. They lead the embassy staff, conduct high-level negotiations, and serve as the main point of communication between their government and the host country.

I. We are Now Ambassadors- Not someday, or maybe a some-of-the-time ambassador We are now the fulltime, all-of-the-time representative of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In our text verse (v.20) did you notice the word, “we.” The Apostle Paul states, “Now then, We are ambassadors for Christ.” It’s not just Paul who is an ambassador, but this applies to all Christians.

An Ambassador in ancient times:

• William Barclay observes that, in the Roman Empire, when it was time to form a new province, ambassadors played a key role.

• When a new territory was conquered. The military governor would rule it for a while, but eventually the Senate, back in Rome, would dispatch a team of 10 ambassadors to the place (it’s the same Greek word Paul uses here.) It would be the job of those 10 people “… [to determine] the boundaries of the new province, [to draw] up a constitution for its new administration, and then [return] to submit what they [have] done for ratification by the senate.

• They [are] the men responsible for bringing others into the family of the Roman Empire. Bringing others into the ideas, ideologies, the culture, the life of Roman rule. So, Paul thinks of himself as the man who brings to others the terms of God, whereby they can become citizens of his empire and members of his family.”

II. Paul tells us he began his role as an Ambassador right after the Encounter on a road

• Paul told King Agrippa, as I went to Damascus with the authority and commission of the chief priests, at midday, O King, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining around me and those who journeyed with me. When we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking to me in the Hebrew tongue, 'Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me? It is hard for you to kick against the pricks (goads).' "And I said, 'Who are you, Lord?'

• "'I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,'’ the Lord replied. 'But rise, and stand on your feet. I have appeared to you to appoint you as a servant and as a witness of what you have seen and will see of me'" (Acts 26:12–16). The one, (Jesus) I once persecuted, and now I beg men and women to give their hearts to him. I am now an Ambassador of Jesus.

III. As an Ambassador Paul has a message “And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation” vs 18

• Paul’s Message- we are forgiven, justified, made ready for the kingdom; we’re reconciled.

• Paul’s message- we have access to Grace For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God, not of works lest anyone should boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

• Paul’s Message Heavenly Citizenship is yours “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God” Ephesians 2:19

• Paul’s Message- the old is Gone: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” vs 17

• Paul’s message- Gone is self-centeredness now we are Christ centered. An ambassador doesn’t represent his or her own interests.

IV. As an Ambassador we share the righteousness of God living in our hearts.

The believer shares the righteousness of God imputed through Jesus Christ.
How is this possible? The answer is in verse 21- “for He (God the Father) has made Him (Jesus , the Son) to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.” II Corinthians 5:21
Therefore, I can live right, I live according to Gods Word, Live in humility, live in peace, live in love, live a life of forgiveness, live a life of generosity, live a life full of faith, living a life of compassion; living to love God and others.

V. We are Ambassadors for Jesus, our Lord and King!

A. Everywhere we go, we are Christ’s ambassadors, whether we like it or not.

B. The only way some people will experience the love of God, in Jesus Christ, is if disciples like us demonstrate it for them.

C. Recall the words of the old hymn continue to be true for every sort of Christian:

• Christ has no hands but our hands to do His work each day;

• He has no feet but our feet to lead men in His way.

• He has no tongues but our tongues to tell men how He died;

• He has no help but our help to bring them to His side.

Summary / Conclusion: May we indeed be Ambassadors for Christ because God has called us and appointed us; He urges us to be reconciled to God, and to tell others how they too can be reconciled to Him.

09/20/25

Pastor Ken Jones

THE GOOD SAMARITAN. Luke 10:30-37

This lawyer, being "willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbor?" (v. 29). The world has never seen anyone better fitted to answer such a question than Jesus. "He knew what was in man." There are few who are not willing to try to justify themselves in their neglect of truly being a good neighbor- that is treating your neighbor with love, kindness and mercy (v. 37) This is a parable, an earthly story with a spiritual meaning. It is a beautiful reflection of the mercy of God in Christ Jesus, unexpectedly coming into contact with a destitute and desperately needy soul. Notice--

I. The Threefold Misery of this Individual. He was—

1. Stripped of his clothing (v. 30). This certain man in going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, a distance of about eighteen miles, fell among thieves and was stripped. Ever since the fall of Adam this world has been a den of thieves. Every man's business, more or less, is just to get out of others all he possibly can because of greed or covetousness. Only those taught of God can look, not at their own, but at the good of others. All who fall into the clutches of sin and iniquity are sure to be stripped of their clothing of righteousness and of their "garment of praise." The devil is still seeking whom he may devour. “The thief comes to steal, to kill and to destroy: I am come that you might have life and that you might have it more abundantly.” John 10:10

2. Wounded (v. 30). He in all likelihood received His wounds in His desperate attempts to withstand the robbers. Our own strength and wits are a poor defense against the sudden onslaughts of evil. The morally wounded and disabled in the battles of life are found lying everywhere along the highways of human landscape. So many have sunk into the ditch of a city slum through being stripped of their reputation and having their hopes and prospects wounded to the death. “From the sole of the foot even to the head, there is no soundness in it, but wounds, bruises and putrefying sores. They have not been closed or bound up “ (Isaiah 1:6).

3. Half Dead (v. 30). In this wretched condition he could do nothing but wait and pray. Waiting for the compassion of someone with a loving heart and the kind touch of some neighborly hand. To be half-hearted about anything is to be half-dead to the matter. With regard to the things eternal, how many are half-dead and quite unconscious of it. Backsliders in heart are lukewarm and do not have a passion for God or compassion for others (Rev. 3:16). But let us not in our pride condemn this poor outcast, for if we had gone the same way we might have been in the same plight. If we had gone the way of those who are born and raised in an inner-city neighborhood , where crime is rampant, and where drug usage is prevalent and dark deeds are done by those who are not guided by any moral or ethical rules or standards. In these crime ridden areas, it’s “the law of the jungle’ or “survival of the fittest”, or at least surviving by practicing “street smarts”. I wonder, would we fare any better than they are in these conditions?

II. A Threefold Attitude. In the Priest, the Levite, and the Samaritan we see three different attitudes toward the helpless and unfortunate man that was beaten and left for dead . The Attitudes of—

1. Perfect Indifference. "The priest passed by on the other side" (v. 31). This priest was doubtless on his way home from the Temple service. In the discharge of his ceremonial duties he is very meticulous, and would pass by nothing, but a needy, dying brother by the wayside is unworthy of his notice. He is "Weighed in the balance and found wanting." No hope can on the Law be built.

2. Interested Curiosity. "The Levite came and looked, and passed by on the other side" (v. 32). This man is a type of those who are just a little inquisitive, but who are not even a little compassionate. They want to know, but they don't want to help. This Levite could tell a story about this poor man when he went home, and justify his heartless conduct by saying that the place was too dangerous for him to remain there and lift the fallen. He also by his act is "weighed in the balance and found wanting" (1 John 3:17).

3. Practical Sympathy. "The Samaritan came where he was, and had compassion on him," (vv. 33-35). Although the Jews had no dealings with the Samaritans, this Samaritan in mercy would have dealings with the half-dead Jew. This is the point in the parable. Jesus flipped the script… A despised one, compassionates, shows mercy, and saves one who was living at enmity with him, thus manifesting that love of God in Christ Jesus which stoops to show mercy with a self-sacrifice that slays the enmity (Ephesians 2:16).

III. The Good Samaritan bears the features of the despised Nazarene, Jesus, who comes to seek and save the lost.

(1). "He came where he was." Christ comes to us right where we are. In our stripped and wounded condition we could do nothing for ourselves (Romans 5:6).

(2). "He had compassion on him" (v. 33). His heart was moved toward him. The Salvation of Christ was “heart work.” "He loved us, and gave Himself for us."

(3). "He bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine." Christ is the Great Physician and compassionate healer.

Although we are full of wounds and bruises (Isaiah 1), Christ can bind up and heal (Luke 4:18). This He does by the oil of His Spirit and the wine of His Word.

(4). "He set him on his own beast." Those whom the Lord lifts up are also set in His own place. "Now are we the Sons of God." I John 3:2

(5). "He brought him to an inn." The saved individual also finds shelter and refuge in the Church and new friendships.

(6). "He took care of him." In the Salvation of Christ there is not only a great deliverance, but also a special provision and providence (Romans 8:28). “…All things work together for good…” He cares for you.

(7). He left a promise concerning him (v. 35). Our Great Shepherd has also left enough for our need during His absence in "the exceeding great and precious promises." "And inasmuch as you did it unto these, you did it unto Me." "When I come again I will repay you."

The Great Lesson and application: In this parable, the most unlikely and unexpected person cared and came to the aide of the beaten, fallen wounded individual. He showed real compassion, kindness and mercy, treating him like a neighbor

Christ has suffered for us, leaving us an example that we should follow His steps. "Go you and do likewise" (V. 37).

09/20/25

Pastor Ken Jones

What We Believe- Our Profession- Statement of Faith
Introduction: Someone suggested recently that we go over and review our Statement of Faith, and I think
that that is a good idea. I am thinking of doing this once or twice a year because I believe it is important to
know what we believe and to have it clearly defined. Some churches or denominations have catechism
classes which may include a manual or text of a summary of their core religious doctrines or beliefs- which are
often presented or posed in a question-and-answer format to facilitate the teaching or memorization. Others
have a creed that they recite and adhere to. Well, we have a Statement of Faith, which is a statement of our
core beliefs.
Why is this important? Because what you believe shapes and forms you. Perhaps the ultimate test of what
you believe is, would you be willing to die for your beliefs? The early New Testament martyrs and other
martyrs down through the ages, have died for their beliefs.
So, we are going to look together at our Statement of Faith, which are the core beliefs we believe. Why is it
important to have a Statement of Faith and review it? Because:
I. The Bond of Belief helps form Unity- It Is a foundation for unity.
A. Verses on Professing what we believe:
1. Hebrews 4:14- “Seeing that we have a great high priest , that is passed into the heavens,
Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.”
2. “Let us hold fast our profession our faith without wavering;” Hebrews 10:23.
B. Verses on our Pursuit of, and Promotion of unity:
1. Philippians 3:16- “Nevertheless, whereunto we have already attained, let us walk by the
same rule, let us mind the same thing.”
2. I Corinthians 1:10- “Now I beseech (i.e. plead with) you brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus
Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that you be
perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”
3. Philippians 2:2- “Fulfil you my joy, that you be likeminded, having the same love, being of one
accord, of one mind.”
II. To Be Ready to tell others what we believe.
A. A Statement of Faith prepares us, or enables us to give an answer to others.
B. Verses on being ready to give answers to those who ask us:
1. Colossians 4:6- “Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may
know you ought to answer every man.”
2. I Peter 3:15- “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an
answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and
fear.”
** We will now look at our Statement of Faith-
A & D Biker Ministries is in fellowship with the Evangelical Free Church of America, an association of
autonomous churches united around certain theological convictions.

What We Believe- Our Profession- Statement of Faith
STATEMENT OF FAITH
God- We believe one God, Creator of all things, holy, infinitely perfect, and eternally existing in a loving unity
of three equally divine Persons: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Having limitless knowledge and
sovereign power, God has graciously purposed from eternity to redeem a people for Himself and to make all
things new for His own glory.
The Bible- We believe that God has spoken in the Scriptures, both Old and New Testaments, through the
words of human authors. As the verbally inspired Word of God, the Bible is without error in its original
writings, the complete revelation of His will for salvation, and the ultimate authority by which every realm of
human knowledge and endeavor should be judged. Therefore, it is to be believed in all it teaches, obeyed in all
that it requires, and trusted in all it promises.
The Human Condition- We believe that God created Adam and Eve in His image, but they sinned when
tempted by Satan. In union with Adam, human beings are sinners by nature and by choice, alienated from
God, and under His wrath. Only through God’s saving work in Jesus Christ can we be rescued, reconciled and
renewed.
Jesus Christ- We believe that Jesus Christ is God incarnate, fully God and fully man, one Person in two
natures. Jesus—Israel’s promised Messiah—was conceived through the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin
Mary. He lived a sinless life, was crucified under Pontius Pilate, arose bodily from the dead, ascended into
heaven and sits at the right hand of God the Father as our High Priest and Advocate.
The Work of Christ- We believe that Jesus Christ, as our representative and substitute, shed His blood on
the cross as the perfect, all sufficient sacrifice for our sins. His atoning death and victorious resurrection
constitute the only ground for salvation.
The Holy Spirit- We believe that the Holy Spirit, in all that he does, glorifies the Lord Jesus Christ. He
convicts the world of its guilt. He regenerates sinners, and in Him they are baptized into union with Christ and
adopted as heirs in the family of God. He also indwells, illuminates, guides, equips and empowers believers
for Christ-like living and sacrifice.
The Church- We believe that the true church comprises all who have been justified by God’s grace through
faith alone in Christ alone. They are united by the Holy Spirit in the body of Christ, of which He is the Head.
The true church is manifest in local churches, whose membership should be composed only of believers. The
Lord Jesus mandated two ordinances, baptism and the Lord’s Supper, which visibly and tangibly express the
gospel. Though they are not the means of salvation, when celebrated by the church in genuine faith, these
ordinances confirm and nourish the believer.
Christian Living- We believe that God’s justifying grace must not be separated from His sanctifying power
and purpose. God commands us to love Him supremely and others sacrificially, and to live out our faith with
care for one another, compassion toward the poor and justice for the oppressed. With God’s Word, the
Spirit’s power, and fervent prayer in Christ’s name, we are to combat the spiritual forces of evil. In obedience
to Christ’s commission, we are to make disciples among all people, always bearing witness to the gospel in
word and deed.

What We Believe- Our Profession- Statement of Faith
Christ’s Return- We believe in the personal, bodily and glorious return of our Lord Jesus Christ. The coming
of Christ, at a time known only to God, demands constant expectancy and, as our blessed hope, motivates the
believer to godly living, sacrificial service and energetic mission.
Response and Eternal Destiny- We believe that God commands everyone everywhere to believe the
gospel by turning to Him in repentance and receiving the Lord Jesus Christ. We believe that God will raise the
dead bodily and judge the world, assigning the unbeliever to condemnation and eternal conscience
punishment and the believer to eternal blessedness and joy with the Lord in the new heaven and the new
earth, to the praise of His glorious grace. Amen.

08/30/25

Pastor Ken Jones

Paul’s I Am Declarations in Romans 1:14-32

Paul makes Three I Am statements in this chapter that fall naturally into three points:

First of all, he says, “I am debtor…” to the Greeks and Barbarians, both to the wise and to the unwise. V. 14

Here Paul says that he is a debtor to two different and distinct groups.
He knew that he had been called to preach to and reach these people.
The Greeks were intelligent, learned people. They loved to study philosophy.
The Barbarians were course, rough and unlearned.
Paul’s Specific calling was to be an apostle to the Gentiles. This was a complete 180-degree different direction from his former life as Pharisee in which he had been taught the nuances of the Law of Moses at the feet of some of the most esteemed Rabbis in Judaism.
Is God calling you and me to maybe share the good news of the gospel with someone that we wouldn’t normally interact with?
Sometimes we may think that bikers are a hard group to reach, but I have found that under the rough or tough exterior, there is often a tender side, which can respond to caring and compassionate concern for them as we share the Gospel and tell them of God’s love that provided redemption and salvation if they accept and believe,

Secondly, Paul says, “…I am ready to preach the gospel…” V.15

Paul shares a qualifying statement, “So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach or proclaim the gospel…”
How much readiness is in you and I to proclaim the gospel? Are you ready?
The Gospel is the power (i.e. Dunamis- Greek) unto Salvation.” V.16
Paul makes this clear here, the gospel is powerful! The gospel is life changing
Under inspiration, he writes, “to the Jew first”, and ‘also to the Greek”.
Paul had a natural heartfelt burden for his own people or countrymen as we read in Romans 10:1- “Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is that they may be saved.” Is there anyone that God has put on your heart to be saved? Are you praying for them and seeking to witness to them?

Thirdly, Paul states, “I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ” V.16. The Gospel contains:

Power- Just what impotent (powerless) people need. We cannot save ourselves. We are powerless to affect redemption for our souls.

Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace are you saved through faith and that not of yourselves: It is the gift of God: Not of works lest any man should boast.”
Titus 3:5 – “Not of works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy He saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.”

Righteousness- Just what iniquitous people need!

Notice, “the righteousness of God is revealed” God has revealed it to us.
“The just shall live by faith” This phrase is used several times in scripture.
If you don’t have the righteousness of God which is only acquired through faith in Jesus Christ, you will face the wrath of God one day in judgment.
The wrath of God is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them.”
To this phrase, “because what may be known of God is manifest in them,” Blaise Pascal, the mathematician and philosopher of the 1600’s said, “there is a God-shaped vacuum in the heart of every person, which cannot be filled by any created thing, but only God, the creator.”
You see, God has given to every person two revelations about Himself:

The first is Creation – the External witness; that which can seen in the created world, in nature. Romans 1:19-20
The second Conscience – The Internal witness inside each person. Romans 2:15

These two witnesses are evidence that there is a God; so each person is “without excuse” V. 20
Why are they “without excuse”? Verse 21 and following has the answer: “Because…when they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were they thankful: but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.”
Notice the downward decline to debauchery of someone who defiantly rejects God:

Their heart is darkened. This is easy for someone living in darkness.
They become more foolish- “the fool has said in his heart there is no God” - Psalm 14:1.
They change the character and glory of God into that like corruptible man.
This leads them to defile and dishonor their bodies- i.e. immorality.
They change the truth of God into a lie- e.g. Evolution and Humanism.

Therefore, “God also gave them up” – (vs. 24,26) to deviant desires. This leads to increased debauchery and debasement.
Notice what happens if this persists, “God gave them over to a reprobate mind” – v. 28. i.e. a mind devoid of conscience- with no moral compass.

Romans Chapter two is written regarding the judging man who appears morally upright—"a moral man” who condemns or judges others, but who also commits many of the same things, so he too is inexcusable!2:1-6

Summary Conclusion:Are you like Paul, ready to acknowledge the debt that we owe others, who need to hear the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ?

Are you ready to proclaim the gospel?Or, are you ready to share your testimony of how you came to faith in Christ?

Are you like Paul, unashamed of the gospel, realizing that it is “the power of God unto Salvation” to everyone that believes?

08/23/25

Pastor Ken Jones

Humility Before God - James 4:1-10, 13,17

Text Verse: “God resists the proud, but gives grace unto the humble.” James 4:6

Key Principle: God blesses the humble person.

Application: It is essentially important that we develop a humble spirit before God.

This spirit of humility will also help us in our relationships with others.is

Introduction: We are called to be the embodiments of humility as Jesus was on this earth.

Shun the World- As Christians we are not to pattern our lives after the world

Wars and Fightings- James 4:1,2 (i.e. quarrels, controversies, conflict).

This is not to be understood as literal combat. Rather, James is referring to conflicts that sometimes arise among believers. Sadly, some churches are known for their in-fighting. This discredits the cause of Christ before the world and makes it difficult to evangelize.
Since this follows James’ words about the tongue, it is likely that the weapons of these fights are not physical but rather harmful words of individuals in the church.
James puts his finger on the root of these quarrelsome conflicts. It is our drive to fulfill selfish desires. “lusts that war in your members” v. 1 The word translated “lusts” is else- where translated “pleasures” (cf. Luke 8:14, Titus 3:3). It is the desire to please and promote self that often leads to conflict.
When believers have conflicting desires and refuse to relinquish these desires, it often results in fights. Of course, these Christians were not actually killing each other, but they may have been exhibiting murderous attitudes I John 3:15 says, “Whoever hates his brother is a murder: and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.”

Asking amiss- James 4:3 Even when these Christians did ask God for things, James’ readers did not always receive what they wanted.

Not all requests that are brought before God’s throne are acceptable. God wants to answer prayer, but it must be according to His will – I John 5:14.
If we ask for something that would not work for God’s glory and our joy, He will not give it to us (John 14:13; 16:24).
The word translated “amiss” comes from a word that means “evilly” or “wickedly,” and could be translated “with wrong motives”.
Asking amiss has it’s roots in selfish praying to fulfill our own desires. Do we pray to please ourselves? Or, to please God and benefit others?
We all have personal needs and those are certainly acceptable things to pray for. The problem arises when we are only concerned about ourselves and our needs.
Prayers should be offered in view of God’s larger plan for our lives and His purposes in the world.

Friendship with theSubmission World- James 4:4

Since James was writing to Christians scattered around the region, he was probably not addressing actual “adulterers and adulteresses”, although some of them may have committed these sins before their conversion.
In all likelihood James was using adultery as a symbol of spiritual unfaithfulness, since it is connected with “friendship with the world”.
The Hebrew prophets saw Israel’s apostacy from the true God as spiritual infidelity (Jer. 3:8-9; Hosea 1:2; 4:12; 9:1)
We as Christians are to live holy lives. To be friendly with the world puts us in the position of being enemies of God.
On the other hand, “If God be for us, who can be against us?” We do not need the world’s acceptance or approval.

Grace to the Humble – James 4:5-6

James was perhaps giving the gist of an Old Testament passage, perhaps Proverbs 3:34,

“…God gives grace to the lowly.”Clearly, God gives greater grace to the humble.

Therefore, we must humble ourselves before the Almighty, for He opposes the proud.

(Prov. 16:5, 18:12)

Conversely, God gives grace and help to the humble, and God is quick to give His help to those who ask for it.

Submit to God- James 4:7-10

Humbling ourselves to God is the first step in submitting to God.
Submitting to God precedes resisting the devil. We dare not try to oppose Satan without first submitting to God.
Earlier James emphasized our culpability in allowing temptation to lead us into sin- 1:13-15.
Now he stresses the active role we must play in resisting the one who is behind many of our enticements to sin (I Peter5:8-9).
The good news is that if we actively resist the Satan, he will flee from us.
When Christ resisted the devil during his temptation in the wilderness, Satan “departed from him for a season.” Luke 4:13.
Just as happened with Jesus, we can be sure that Satan will return. But if we have been successful in resisting Satan, we will be stronger the next time he comes.
Like Jesus, we must draw on the resources of God’s word to ward off the fiery darts Satan hurls at us – Ephesians 6:16.
Romans 16:20 tells us that one day, God will finally and fully crush Satan under our feet.
As we resist the devil, we must simultaneously draw near to God. As we draw closer to God, He will draw closer to us.
As Paul told the Athenians, He is “not far from every one of us.” Anyone can reach out to God at any time.
To draw near to God requires that we be cleansed of evil deeds and evil hearts- I John 1:9.
True worship can be accomplished only when we are right with God and one another- Matt. 5:23-24; I John 4:19-21.
James stresses the importance of genuine repentance, seen in weeping and mourning over one’s sins- Matt. 5:4
James was not promoting a “feel good religion” that only stresses the positive aspects of following Christ. Nor was he promoting endless remorse and self-abasement for the same sins, over and over. Rather. He instructed us to let our laughter be turned into mourning, and our joy to heaviness (cf. Luke 6:25).
True sorrow over sin leads to repentance, (II Cor. 7:9) which leads to forgiveness and a clear conscience.

Seek God’s Will- James 4:13-17 Avoid the Sin of Presumption.

As human beings we tend to trust ourselves when it comes to the future. We may have particular plans for a business venture, confident that we will be able to “buy and sell and get gain.” But the future is not in our hands. Our plans may come to nothing though we may feel certain that success is assured. There are always things that cannot be known or predicted.
Many times we assume that we have control over our lives, but unforeseen things can happen
This was the mistake of the man in the parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21). The rich man’s plans quickly evaporated when his life ended without warning.
We may think that pride and presumption are small things, but God says it’s evil.

Submission To The Lord’s Will- James 4:15-16

Since we do not know the future it is wise to put everything in God’s hands and trust Him with the future.
Not too many people use the expression, “Lord willing” as once was customary, but we would be wise to revive this practice.
To use such a saying reminds us that everything is contingent upon God’s will- Acts 18:21; and I Corinthians 4:19.
Whether we voice the actual words or not, we should live and conduct ourselves under the acknowledgment that God’s divine purposes are being worked out in our lives.
Whatever happens, we can be assured that the Sovereign God of the universe is in control.
This does not mean that we take a nonchalant, whatever-will-be-will be attitude toward life.
We are reminded in this chapter of James that it is our responsibility to pray (vs. 2) to submit to God (vs. 7), to resist the devil (vs.7), to purify our hearts (vs. 8) and to do good (vs.17).
Since God is in control of the world- not us, any tendency to boast about the future is evil.
We should also be careful of sins of omission. Disobeying God’s commands is one thing, but failing to do good is another. True, “sin is the transgression of the law” (I John 3:4), but to fail to do what is right and good is also sin in God’s sight. This is the sin of omission.

08/16/25

Pastor Ken Jones

PRAYER- A Plea for Prayer with a Proposed Peaceful Result

Text: I Timothy 2:1-8- From this passage, we read Paul’s plea to pray, and the proposed results of a peaceful, life of godliness and honesty. Verse 8 is a key verse almost like a refrain, “I will (desire) that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.”

This is the Apostle Paul’s inspired perspective on prayer. The emphasis is on the importance of prayer as a Christian discipline. The application is to encourage Christians to expand who and what they pray for.

Most Christians believe in prayer, but many do not actually do much praying. This passage should encourage us to intensify our efforts in prayer.

I. Prayer as a Priority – I Timothy 2:1 Prayer is important!

A. Prayer causes things to happen that would not otherwise happen- James 4:2

B. Four types of prayers are mentioned in I Tim. 2:1- “four facets of prayer”

1. Supplications

2. Prayers

3. Intercessions

4. Giving of Thanks- cf. I Thessalonians 5:18

C. Paul stated that prayers should be offered “for all men”

1. He exhorts us to pray for everyone.

2. Do we always feel like praying for everyone?

II. Prayer for Government Authorities - I Timothy 2:2-3 cf. Read Romans 13:1-7

A. Should we pray for government authorities that we do not agree with?

B. Paul’s exhortation to pray for leaders- I Tim. 2:2

C. Remember that when Paul wrote I Timothy while Nero was in power.

D. Review or refer to I Peter 4:12:13 which is roughly the same time frame.

E. Jesus prayed, “deliver us from evil” Matt. 6:13

F. How does the request of living a quiet and peaceful life fit into today’s hectic and fast-paced lifestyle?

G. I Tim 2:3 states that such prayer is “good and acceptable”

H. I John 5:14- “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.”

III. Prayer Rationale – I Timothy 2:4-7

A. As we look at I Tim. 2:4, consider what is the difference between what God wills and what God decrees. Also read II Peter 3:9 and John 14:6

B. Note the fundamental facts of I Tim. 2:5-6

1. “There is one God and one mediator between God and man, the man Christ Jesus.”

2. “Who gave Himself a ransom for all…” Discuss the implication of these statements.

3. Verse 7 may imply that some in Timothy’s church might have thought that the gospel applied only to the Jews, but Paul argued otherwise.

IV. Prayer Guidelines – I Timothy 2:8

A. Paul referred to the kind of public prayer that should take place in the Christian assembly.

B. Regarding the reference to “lifting up holy hands” vs. 8 In Old Testament times prayers were offered with hands raised (cf. I Kings 8:22; Psalm 28:2).

C. The character of those leading public worship should be above reproach.

D. Those leading public prayer should also pray “without wrath” I Timothy 2:8

E. Why is this important? Because breeches in human relationships affect our ability to relate to God also (cf. I Peter 3:7).

F. The final requirement for prayer is faith (without doubting) Read James 1:6-8.

G. Faithless prayers are ineffective, but prayers of faith are powerful (cf. James 5:15-16).

08/09/25

Pastor Ken Jones

Affection For Things Above – Colossians 3:1-17

What do you love? What do really care about? If we’re honest, usually the things that we cherish or care about are the things of this life, this world- which are temporal, fleeting and don’t last – they’re short-lived.

Romans 6:1-5 describes that we who are saved, are buried with Christ in baptism and are raised to walk in newness of life. As such, we are dead to the old sins and things of our life. Coming to Christ, represents a major change.

Many of the attitudes, actions and affections that seemed normal in our past life are no longer appropriate. New actions, attitudes and affections become the norm, or at least the ideal.

I. Focus on Higher Things