http://www.grcbible.org Weekly sermons from Grace Bible Church in Escondido, CA. For more information visit www.grcbible.org. Tue, 30 Jun 2009 18:59:40 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.0.3 en Copyright Grace Bible Church ryanwentzel@grcbible.org (Grace Bible Church) ryanwentzel@grcbible.org sermons 1440 sermons, church, Bible Weekly sermons from Grace Bible Church in Escondido, CA. For more information visit www.grcbible.org. Grace Bible Church Grace Bible Church ryanwentzel@grcbible.org No no http://grcbible.org/images/gbc-rss.jpg http://www.grcbible.org 144 144 Copyright Grace Bible Churchsermons, church, BibleReligion & Spirituality/ChristianityReligion & Spirituality/SpiritualityAudio Blogsgrcbible/sermonshttp://feedburner.google.com http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/28/finding-peace-with-god-through-christ/ Sun, 28 Jun 2009 18:54:33 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Guest Year Audio 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/28/finding-peace-with-god-through-christ/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/28/finding-peace-with-god-through-christ/feed/ 00:01:01 Today we will be considering Paul's words in Romans 5:12-21 where he tells us how we can find peace with God. Many people desire to ... Today we will be considering Paul's words in Romans 5:12-21 where he tells us how we can find peace with God. Many people desire to live peaceful lives without trouble and strife. Some are willing to do anything just to have peace in their home, relationships and workplaces. However, peace with God is not a common concern, but it should be a universal one. Many who have a sincere trust in Christ struggle with doubts as to whether they are truly forgiven and whether they have peace with God. Please pray that those with true faith will know, with greater clarity and certainty, that they are right with God because of the grace of God to them and the work of Christ for them. This text is also very evangelistic so please do pray for those who don't know Christ that they might see their sin in all its wickedness, but also see Christ is all his preciousness and so desire reconciliation with God.Download Finding Peace With God Through Christ Sermons, Speaker, Guest, Year, Audio, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/21/davids-incomparable-prayer-to-the-incomparable-god/ Sun, 21 Jun 2009 18:20:37 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio 2009 II Samuel http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/21/davids-incomparable-prayer-to-the-incomparable-god/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/21/davids-incomparable-prayer-to-the-incomparable-god/feed/ 00:01:01 Why is prayer so hard? We have difficulty setting aside to pray. Once we start to pray we get distracted far too easily. Sometimes we ... Why is prayer so hard? We have difficulty setting aside to pray. Once we start to pray we get distracted far too easily. Sometimes we aren’t sure how we should pray. Why should we pray if the LORD has already determined what will happen? As we come to the end of 2 Samuel 7, the LORD, through the prophet Nathan has just revealed the promises of the Davidic covenant, that David’s house will endure forever. David, overwhelmed by God’s grace, gives thanks and praise to the LORD and asks that all of God’s promises would be fulfilled just as He said. Our prayers also should be in response to God’s glorious revelation to us. We are participants in a better covenant, in Jesus Christ the Son of David. Our praise is fueled by our gratitude for God’s grace in choosing us in spite of our unworthiness. His promises inform us as we pray for This Kingdom to come and His will to be done. David’s prayer gives us a pattern for prayer: Confessing our unworthiness and God’s grace. v. 18-21 Praising the LORD for His Person and work. v. 22-24 Praying His promises. V. 25-29 Download David's Incomparable Prayer to the Incomparable God Sermons, Book, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, 2009, II Samuel Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/14/bless-the-lord-o-my-soul/ Mon, 15 Jun 2009 02:49:21 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Guest Year Audio 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/14/bless-the-lord-o-my-soul/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/14/bless-the-lord-o-my-soul/feed/ 00:01:01 Psalm 103:1-4 - Bless the LORD, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, ... Psalm 103:1-4 - Bless the LORD, O my soul, And all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget none of His benefits; Who pardons all your iniquities, Who heals all your diseases; Who redeems your life from the pit, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and compassion;Download Bless the LORD, O My Soul Sermons, Speaker, Guest, Year, Audio, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/07/the-davidic-covenant/ Mon, 08 Jun 2009 02:09:52 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio 2009 II Samuel http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/07/the-davidic-covenant/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/06/07/the-davidic-covenant/feed/ 00:01:01 Throughout the Bible the LORD deals with His people through covenants. Through the covenants God progressively reveals His plan for redemption which was first promised ... Throughout the Bible the LORD deals with His people through covenants. Through the covenants God progressively reveals His plan for redemption which was first promised to Adam (Gen. 3:15) then given in further detail to Abraham (Gen. 12,15,17) and in type through Moses (Exodus, Deuteronomy). In the Davidic Covenant the LORD focuses the hope of His people upon David’s descendants. The fulfillment of God’s promises to David is experienced in part in his own life, and through his dynasty, especially through his son Solomon (1 Ki. 8:20). Even in the dark days when God’s people were under foreign dominion, they looked forward to the day when a Davidic king would reign in glory (Isa. 11:1f Amos 9:11 Ezek. 37:24ff). The ultimate fulfillment of a son of David who is also Son of God who reigns forever is through Jesus Christ (Heb. 1:5 Luke 1:31ff). It is astounding to see how Jesus fulfills God’s promises to David. We will also be reminded of why the Davidic covenant still matters to us today. We share in the covenant blessings with the assurance that the LORD will keep His promises to us. The remarkable fulfillment of God’s promises through Christ is yet one more reason that all people should turn to Jesus, the King Whom the LORD has established to reign universally and forever.Download The Davidic Covenant Sermons, Book, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, 2009, II Samuel Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/31/the-lord-builds-davids-house/ Mon, 01 Jun 2009 02:03:40 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio 2009 II Samuel http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/31/the-lord-builds-davids-house/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/31/the-lord-builds-davids-house/feed/ 00:01:01 This Sunday we come to one of the most important texts, not just in 2 Samuel, but in the whole Bible. 2 Samuel 7 contains ... This Sunday we come to one of the most important texts, not just in 2 Samuel, but in the whole Bible. 2 Samuel 7 contains God’s covenant with David which becomes the foundational hope for God’s people for many centuries, culminating in David’s descendant, Jesus. The passage begins with David seeking to build a house (temple) for the LORD in Jerusalem. The LORD instead declares that He will build David’s house (dynasty) so that David’s descendant will reign over Israel forever. This passage reminds us that while it is good to seek to honor the LORD, the LORD does not need us. We have to subordinate our dreams (even our plans to serve Him) to His will. In other religions people try to earn God’s favor by what they do. In biblical Christianity, we have to realize that we can only be saved by what God has done for us.Download The LORD Builds David's House Sermons, Book, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, 2009, II Samuel Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/24/missions-to-the-glory-of-god/ Mon, 25 May 2009 02:15:41 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio Featured Audio 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/24/missions-to-the-glory-of-god/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/24/missions-to-the-glory-of-god/feed/ 00:01:01 Memorial Day is set aside in our nation’s calendar to remember those who gave their lives to fight our nation’s military battles. While I ... Memorial Day is set aside in our nation’s calendar to remember those who gave their lives to fight our nation’s military battles. While I acknowledge the debt of gratitude we owe to those who fought for our political freedom, the occasion of Memorial Day also brought to my mind those who have given their lives in spiritual warfare – missions in particular. The New Testament tells of the earliest Christian martyrs. There have also been many throughout church history who have died in their quest to bring the liberating gospel of God’s kingdom to the world. Today we will look at the Word of God to answer the questions: Why should we send missionaries? Who should be involved in missions? What is the work of missions? Download Missions to the Glory of God Sermons, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, Featured Audio, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/17/davids-divided-household/ Mon, 18 May 2009 02:11:02 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio 2009 II Samuel http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/17/davids-divided-household/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/17/davids-divided-household/feed/ 00:01:01 David, in his quest to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, twice experiences tragedy. In his first attempt Uzzah touches the ark and ... David, in his quest to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem, twice experiences tragedy. In his first attempt Uzzah touches the ark and is struck dead. After celebrating the successful entry of the Ark David returns home only to have his wife Michal express her contempt for David’s unrestrained zeal for the LORD. What happened to David happens to many believers today whose unbelieving relatives look down upon them. Jesus warned that the gospel would divide families. Jesus also experienced the contempt of the world, including His own people. Sometimes we, like David, will need to overcome our fear of man as we defend our loyalty to Christ. The conflict between David and Michal is also a reminder of the importance of spiritual unity within marriage.Download David's Divided Household Sermons, Book, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, 2009, II Samuel Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/10/the-jof-drawing-near-to-a-holy-god/ Mon, 11 May 2009 02:07:41 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio 2009 II Samuel http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/10/the-jof-drawing-near-to-a-holy-god/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/10/the-jof-drawing-near-to-a-holy-god/feed/ 00:01:01 Last week we saw the danger of drawing near to a holy God when Uzzah was struck dead because he dared to touch the ark ... Last week we saw the danger of drawing near to a holy God when Uzzah was struck dead because he dared to touch the ark of the covenant which represents the LORD’s presence among His people. Uzzah died because David and Israel failed to approach the LORD in the way proscribed by His Word. We were reminded that we too must only seek to approach the LORD in the way He has revealed – through Jesus Christ who has removed our pollution by being struck down for us and given us His holiness (John 14:6). In this week’s text we will see the joy of drawing near to God as David follows God’s law in the manner in which he moves the ark into Jerusalem. This produces exuberant joyful celebration for David and all of the people. This scene is portrayed in the Psalms as a precursor to the final coming of the LORD’s anointed King into His holy city (Psalm 24). Jesus is the one King who is worthy to ascend the hill of the LORD and to lead His people into the LORD’s holy presence. The LORD still seeks worshipers who desire to draw near Him in spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24). We, like David, must be careful to worship in the way God has ordained in His Word. The Old Covenant symbols have been fulfilled in Christ. We offer spiritual sacrifices to God through singing His praises, praying, hearing His Word proclaimed, and observing the New Covenant ordinances. We, like David, should worship the LORD with great joy (emotion). There are two kinds of danger when it comes to emotion: careless enthusiasm and cold orthodoxy. We reformed folks tend to be pretty good at knowing and following the rules. We could learn to grow in our passion for Christ!Download The Joy of Drawing Near to a Holy God Sermons, Book, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, 2009, II Samuel Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/03/the-danger-of-drawing-near-to-a-holy-god/ Mon, 04 May 2009 03:36:02 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Audio II Samuel http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/03/the-danger-of-drawing-near-to-a-holy-god/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/05/03/the-danger-of-drawing-near-to-a-holy-god/feed/ 00:01:01 John Calvin says of this week’s passage, “We have here a very strange story, that a man attempting to honor God, burning with a good ... John Calvin says of this week’s passage, “We have here a very strange story, that a man attempting to honor God, burning with a good and holy devotion was punished like a criminal. Now this certainly offends our feelings…” As we reach II Samuel 6, David is approaching his high point as king. He has been crowned as ruler of all Israel. He has captured his capital city, Jerusalem. He has conquered his enemies, the Philistines. David, because of his great passion for the LORD, is not satisfied with his personal success, but desires to see proper worship of the LORD restored to Israel. This requires that the ark of the covenant be brought up from its place of obscurity to Jerusalem where it would signify the LORD’s presence with His people reigning as the true King, reconciling Himself to them through the blood of atonement, and revealing Himself through His law. As the ark is being brought up to Jerusalem there is great joy among the tens of thousands of Israelites who have come out to celebrate and worship. Then disaster strikes. When the oxen pulling the ark on which the ark is being carried stumble, Uzzah tries to steady the ark with his hand and is struck dead. The party is over! David’s plan seems ruined. He has to deal with his emotions of anger, fear, and despair. He also has to learn that the LORD is holy and that His Word must be carefully obeyed. While it is good to seek the LORD’s presence, we must draw near to God in the way in which He has revealed. Good intentions are not good enough. If this was a hard text in Calvin’s day, five centuries ago, how much harder is it in 21st century America. Professing Christians need a much greater sense of the LORD’s holiness in His church, His Word, and His Worship. We also are called to confront our self-righteous pluralistic culture with the message of God’s holiness and how we can only approach Him through Jesus. Jesus fulfills what the ark represents. Through Him God is present with us. Though we lack the holiness the LORD requires He reconciles us to God through His blood which enables us to draw near to God.Download The Danger of Drawing Near to a Holy God Sermons, Book, Audio, II Samuel Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/26/the-lord-establishes-davids-kingdom/ Mon, 27 Apr 2009 03:20:27 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio 2009 II Samuel http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/26/the-lord-establishes-davids-kingdom/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/26/the-lord-establishes-davids-kingdom/feed/ 00:01:01 This week's text describes how the LORD firmly establishes David’s kingdom. David chooses his capital, sees his household consolidated, and twice conquers his enemies. ... This week's text describes how the LORD firmly establishes David’s kingdom. David chooses his capital, sees his household consolidated, and twice conquers his enemies. Those who oppose David are crushed. Those who bless him are blessed. As David experiences this success he is careful to give glory to God Who makes him great. The glory days of David’s kingdom are designed by God to portray in type the kingdom of Jesus. The parallels are numerous and significant. This passage also reminds us that God still humbles the proud and exalts the humble. We are also warned through David’s example that times of personal success can be spiritually dangerous. Most importantly we are confronted with the challenge of how we will respond to Jesus Whom God has established as King of Kings and LORD of Lords.Download The LORD Establishes David's Kingdom Sermons, Book, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, 2009, II Samuel Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/19/david-king-of-all-israel/ Mon, 20 Apr 2009 02:08:13 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio 2009 II Samuel http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/19/david-king-of-all-israel/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/19/david-king-of-all-israel/feed/ 00:01:01 In this week's text the Northern tribes who had been loyal to Saul’s son Ish-Bosheth come seeking David as their king. Their reasons for appointing ... In this week's text the Northern tribes who had been loyal to Saul’s son Ish-Bosheth come seeking David as their king. Their reasons for appointing David have application for us as we choose leaders for the church and may have implications for how nations choose rulers. These qualifications also point us to Jesus, the Son of David, who is the perfect King of Kings. Our text also teaches us something about God’s ways and our need for patience – to ‘wait on the LORD’. David waited over ten years from the time Samuel anointed him as Saul’s successor to the day David is finally anointed as king over all Israel. David endured much hardship and suffering on his path to the throne. This is instructive for us as we have to be patient as we await the fulfillment of our desires and God’s promises. It also reminds us of how Jesus had to endure much suffering as He waited on the Father’s timing for His exaltation.Download David, King of All Israel Sermons, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, 2009, II Samuel Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/12/easter-peace-joy-and-mission/ Mon, 13 Apr 2009 04:58:52 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/12/easter-peace-joy-and-mission/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/12/easter-peace-joy-and-mission/feed/ 00:01:01 Today I will be preaching from John 20:19-23 which describes the appearance of the risen Jesus to his disciples, which transforms them from fear and ... Today I will be preaching from John 20:19-23 which describes the appearance of the risen Jesus to his disciples, which transforms them from fear and despair to peace and joy. Jesus also commissions them to continue His mission by bringing the good news of the forgiveness of sins to the lost world in the power of the Holy Spirit.Download Easter Peace, Joy and Mission Sermons, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/05/justification-sanctification-and-baptism/ Mon, 06 Apr 2009 02:16:51 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/05/justification-sanctification-and-baptism/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/04/05/justification-sanctification-and-baptism/feed/ 00:01:01 Romans 6:1-14 teaches how baptism symbolizes our union in Christ, which serves as a reminder of how God has justified us and how He continues ... Romans 6:1-14 teaches how baptism symbolizes our union in Christ, which serves as a reminder of how God has justified us and how He continues to sanctify us. This passage clearly answers a few of the most important questions people have about the Christian faith: How can a person be made right (justified) with God? Paul raises and answers the objection that if God saves us solely by grace through faith apart from works, then why shouldn’t we keep on sinning since that will magnify God’s grace all the more. This objection would only be made to a gospel in which our good works play absolutely no part in salvation. Martyn Lloyd-Jones said that if our proclamation of God’s Word doesn’t receive the same criticism, then we aren’t really preaching the gospel. How does a Christian grow in holiness? This is perhaps of greatest concern among our congregation. Some begin with the law, but often become frustrated. Others want to cast away all rules and effort, but also fail to grow in holiness. Many are looking for formulas and experiences for ‘instant holiness’. Paul explains that while the gospel is solely of grace, this gospel of grace inevitably produces more fruit (holy conduct) than the law. We are transformed by the reality of our union with Christ in His death and resurrection. The key to holiness is to remember (and reckon) that we are dead to sin and alive to God in Christ. Then in light of that truth we are called to put off sin and to put on righteousness. What is the meaning of baptism and which method of baptism properly reflects that meaning? Given that baptism symbolizes how God has justified us and reminds us of how He is sanctifying us, the only appropriate subjects for baptism are believers who are personally united with Christ by faith. Download Justification, Sanctification, and Baptism Sermons, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/29/waiting-to-rule/ Mon, 30 Mar 2009 03:02:22 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio 2009 II Samuel http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/29/waiting-to-rule/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/29/waiting-to-rule/feed/ 00:01:01 Now that Saul is dead and buried, one might think that David’s troubles would be over and that he could soon fulfill his destiny as ... Now that Saul is dead and buried, one might think that David’s troubles would be over and that he could soon fulfill his destiny as king over all Israel. Life often doesn’t work out as we would hope, however. While the tribe of Judah immediately recognizes David as their king, General Abner puts Saul’s surviving son, Ish-bosheth on the throne of Israel and the nation seems on the brink of civil war. In the midst of these trials God is still at work, accomplishing His purpose to enthrone His chosen king. David demonstrates Christlike patience as he seeks and follows the LORD’s will, waiting upon God to elevate him at the perfect time. Chapters 2-4 describe David’s elevation as king over Judah, Abner’s putting Ish-bosheth over the other tribes, the power struggle which ensues, and how the LORD uses surprising instruments to remove the final obstacles to David being the undisputed leader over all Israel. David’s regal character is further demonstrated as he rejects the help of wicked men and upholds justice in the land. David’s experience reminds us that we should not be surprised by the frequency and intensity of our trials. We, like David, need to wait on the LORD to fulfill His promises to us. We are also reminded of David’s greater Son, Jesus, who patiently waited for the Father to exalt Him at the proper time. Just as David’s kingdom started small (only Judah) but later expanded, the kingdom of Jesus appears now to be small, but one day it will fill the earth.Download Waiting to Rule Sermons, Book, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, 2009, II Samuel Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/22/how-have-the-mighty-fallen/ Mon, 23 Mar 2009 01:02:24 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio 2009 II Samuel http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/22/how-have-the-mighty-fallen/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/22/how-have-the-mighty-fallen/feed/ 00:01:01 Today we begin 2 Samuel which is really a continuation of 1 Samuel which had ended with Israel’s defeat and Saul’s death at the hands ... Today we begin 2 Samuel which is really a continuation of 1 Samuel which had ended with Israel’s defeat and Saul’s death at the hands of the Philistines. 2 Samuel opens with David in Philistine territory (Ziklag) when he gets the news from the battle. Instead of rejoicing over the death of his enemy, David mourns Saul’s death and honors the former king by composing a moving lament for him and his son Jonathan. In all this David shows himself to be a worthy leader of the LORD’s people. Rather than seizing the power through a coup, he waits for the LORD’s timing. David sets an example for us as he waits upon the LORD to exalt him and as he is gracious to his enemies. If such a wonderful song can be composed to praise Saul and Jonathan, how much more gloriously should we sing the praises of King Jesus!Download How Have the Mighty Fallen Sermons, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, 2009, II Samuel Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/15/gods-universal-invitation/ Mon, 16 Mar 2009 04:57:19 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Guest Year Audio 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/15/gods-universal-invitation/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/15/gods-universal-invitation/feed/ 00:01:01 In this sermon GBC's missionary to the Philippines, Nathaniel Hutchison, preaches the Gospel from the Old Testament.Download God's Universal Invitation In this sermon GBC's missionary to the Philippines, Nathaniel Hutchison, preaches the Gospel from the Old Testament.Download God's Universal Invitation Sermons, Speaker, Guest, Year, Audio, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/08/the-king-is-dead/ Mon, 09 Mar 2009 02:54:25 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio I Samuel 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/08/the-king-is-dead/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/08/the-king-is-dead/feed/ 00:01:01 The theme of I Samuel has been Israel’s need for a leader. It opens in the final days of the Judges as Eli’s dynasty fails ... The theme of I Samuel has been Israel’s need for a leader. It opens in the final days of the Judges as Eli’s dynasty fails because of his wicked sons. Samuel is the last Judge who anoints Saul, the people’s choice for king (“man looks at the outward appearance”), and later David, who is chosen by the LORD (“God looks at the heart”) to replace disobedient Saul. The book ends as it began as Saul’s house falls, just as Eli’s house fell, in one disastrous day in which the Philistines defeat Israel in battle and the leader and his sons die. This final chapter also reminds us of Hannah’s Psalm in chapter 2 in which she declared how the LORD will bring down the mighty and exalt the humble (the theme of the book). I Samuel 31, however, is not the end of the story, but rather it is the end of the beginning. I and II Samuel were originally part of one larger book which was divided into two parts, much as our Bible has been divided into chapters. The LORD removes Saul at the end of I Samuel so that he can install His chosen King, David, in II Samuel. There are some practical issues addressed in the gruesome death of Saul and the defeat of Israel. We are reminded that the LORD is in control of life and death. We are faced with the issues of euthanasia (when Saul tries to convince his armor bearer to kill him) and suicide (when Saul attempts to kill himself). We are challenged to consider our own mortality. Are we ready to die? We are also reminded that God’s people can hope in Him, even in the darkest of times. We also see Christ in our text as we compare and contrast His triumphant death with the tragic death of Saul. Saul was defeated by death. Jesus took the curse of death and conquered death for us.Download The King is Dead Sermons, Book, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, I Samuel, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/01/the-living-loving-letters-of-our-lord/ Sun, 01 Mar 2009 21:18:48 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Mike Kelley Year Audio 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/01/the-living-loving-letters-of-our-lord/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/03/01/the-living-loving-letters-of-our-lord/feed/ 00:01:01 Hebrews 4:12-13 - "For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul ... Hebrews 4:12-13 - "For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do."Download The Living, Loving, Letters of our Lord Sermons, Speaker, Mike Kelley, Year, Audio, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/22/mighty-to-save-sharing-the-truth-in-the-strength-of-the-lord/ Mon, 23 Feb 2009 07:29:48 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Mike Kelley Year Audio 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/22/mighty-to-save-sharing-the-truth-in-the-strength-of-the-lord/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/22/mighty-to-save-sharing-the-truth-in-the-strength-of-the-lord/feed/ 00:01:01 I Peter 3:15 - "but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an ... I Peter 3:15 - "but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence."Download Mighty to Save: Sharing the Truth in the Strength of the Lord Sermons, Speaker, Mike Kelley, Year, Audio, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/15/standing-firm-in-the-grace-of-god-when-life-is-hard/ Mon, 16 Feb 2009 07:04:48 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Guest Year Audio 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/15/standing-firm-in-the-grace-of-god-when-life-is-hard/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/15/standing-firm-in-the-grace-of-god-when-life-is-hard/feed/ 00:01:01 Today we will be looking at Peter's words of encouragement to churches who have suffered persecution and who are going to suffer more intense trials. ... Today we will be looking at Peter's words of encouragement to churches who have suffered persecution and who are going to suffer more intense trials. He writes to these churches to remind them of the grace of God and to call them to stand firm in it. We may not face trials and suffering on the same level of physical intensity that our brothers and sisters do around the world. However there is a wider sense in which Peter's words apply to every situation in our lives. We experience a trial any time when our faith is tested and proved true. We suffer when we feel the effects of sin in our work, relationships and our own bodies. Peter wants to prepare these believers to stand firm in trials and suffering and so he gives them a 'vaccination shot' of a biblical theology of trials and suffering. Whether or not we are facing trials and suffering at this present moment, we need right thinking now so that we will respond with right responses in the future.Download Standing Firm in the Grace of God When Life is Hard Sermons, Speaker, Guest, Year, Audio, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/08/saul-consults-a-medium/ Mon, 09 Feb 2009 01:49:50 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio I Samuel 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/08/saul-consults-a-medium/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/08/saul-consults-a-medium/feed/ 00:01:01 We have come to one of the strangest chapters in the whole Bible in which King Saul goes to medium (witch/necromancer) to make contact with ... We have come to one of the strangest chapters in the whole Bible in which King Saul goes to medium (witch/necromancer) to make contact with Samuel, who was dead. The theme of I Samuel is that Israel needs a leader. Saul was chosen as the first king and had been rejected by the LORD because of his disobedience. David was chosen and anointed to replace Saul. The ending section of I Samuel records the final decline and death of Saul, along with the rise of David who will be elevated to the throne in II Samuel. In chapters 27-31, the author goes back and forth between Saul, who is desperate, forsaken, and defeated; and David who turns to the LORD and receives deliverance (in spite of his own failures). These chapters are not in strict chronological order. The action in chapter 28 takes place after the events of chapter 29 and simultaneously with chapter 30. We know this because in 28:4 the Philistines have moved north beyond Aphek (where they were when they sent David away 29:1) to Shunem which is near where the battle in chapter 31 takes place. In chapter 28, Saul finds himself surrounded by the Philistines. He doesn’t want to go into battle without divine guidance, but the LORD will not answer him. The silence of the LORD is judgment for Saul’s disobedience. Saul then turns to a medium (witch) at Endor (a name used in the Star Wars movies) through whom he seeks to speak with (dead) Samuel. To our surprise (and that of the medium) Samuel appears only to rebuke Saul and to pronounce judgment upon him. Israel will be defeated in battle and Saul and his sons will die – tomorrow. Because this ‘séance’ scene is unique in the Bible, many are very interested in knowing more about how this medium made contact with dead Samuel. That however, is not the point of the text. God’s people are forbidden to delve into the occultic supernatural (Deut. 18:9ff). The fact that God permitted it this one time is not mean to encourage others to imitate or delve into such things. Furthermore, even though Saul succeeds in making contact with Samuel, he didn’t gain from the experience. The knowledge of impending judgment only heightens his misery and fear. Consider the following questions as we examine this text: Where do we see Christ? He, like Saul, was forsaken by God because of sin (but not His own), so that we would never experience what Saul experienced. How can we overcome our own tendencies to be like Saul? Where do we turn in distress? When push comes to shove do we do the right thing or do we do the expedient thing? Are there some among us who have been hardening themselves as Saul did? Would that they would seek the LORD while He may be found! Download Saul Consults a Medium Sermons, Book, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, I Samuel, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/01/the-living-word/ Mon, 02 Feb 2009 01:41:50 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Guest Year Audio 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/01/the-living-word/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/02/01/the-living-word/feed/ 00:01:01 In this sermon Dr. Hywel Jones of Westminster Seminary California examines Psalm 119:97-104.Download The Living Word In this sermon Dr. Hywel Jones of Westminster Seminary California examines Psalm 119:97-104.Download The Living Word Sermons, Speaker, Guest, Year, Audio, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/01/25/a-king-who-gives/ Mon, 26 Jan 2009 03:03:08 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio I Samuel 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/01/25/a-king-who-gives/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/01/25/a-king-who-gives/feed/ 00:01:01 In chapters 27 and 29 we saw how David sought refuge from Saul among the Philistines. My interpretation was that David was guilty of leaning ... In chapters 27 and 29 we saw how David sought refuge from Saul among the Philistines. My interpretation was that David was guilty of leaning on his own understanding rather than seeking God’s will (27:1 Pr. 3:5-6). He was living by sight and not by faith. He seemed to forget about God’s character, God’s past faithfulness, and God’s particular promises to him. While at first his scheme seemed to work (27:4), it caused trouble when David was expected to march out into battle with the Philistines against Israel (28:1-2 29:1ff). The LORD, however, delivered him through those among the Philistine rulers who sent him back to his base in Ziklag. As we come to chapter 30 David’s trials intensify. He and his men return only to find their city burned to the ground and all of their families taken captive by the Amalekites. David’s men are ready to mutiny. David, in his distress, turns to the LORD (v. 6ff). The LORD directs David, gives him victory, and enables David and his men to recover all that was lost. David then shares the spoils with all of his men, even those who were too tired to join the battle, and with his countrymen in Judah. David’s actions remind us of Christ who fought the LORD’s enemy so that we could be recovered. Jesus also, as a result of His victory over sin and death, gives gifts to His people. David’s example reminds us of how we can turn to God, even when we have backslidden. David also exemplifies the kind of leader God’s people need.Download A King Who Gives Sermons, Book, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, I Samuel, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/01/18/davids-sojourn-with-the-philistines/ Mon, 19 Jan 2009 02:59:23 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Book Speaker Jim Newheiser Year Audio I Samuel 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/01/18/davids-sojourn-with-the-philistines/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/01/18/davids-sojourn-with-the-philistines/feed/ 00:01:01 This week we begin the final major section in I Samuel. David is so tired of being chased by Saul that he decides to become ... This week we begin the final major section in I Samuel. David is so tired of being chased by Saul that he decides to become a refugee in exile in the land of the Philistines. At the same time the Philistines are getting ready for a decisive battle against Saul and his armies which will result in the death of Saul and Jonathan, paving the way for David to be king. There are many interpretive challenges in this part of I Samuel. Events are reported without much evaluation or explanation. Was David right to go to the Philistines? Was his deceit of the Philistine ruler, Achish justified? What about David’s slaughter of the tribal peoples? What is God doing in these chapters? (We are skipping, for this week, chapter 28 in which Saul uses a medium (witch) to bring back Samuel from the dead). What are we to gain from such texts? My interpretation is that David in his weariness of the fugitive lifestyle looks to his own fleshly understanding rather than trusting the LORD (Prov. 3:5-6) which results in various dilemmas and trials. In spite of David’s weakness of faith the LORD is still with him and delivers him so that he can reign over the people of God. We who feel weary of the trials of our lives face the same temptation David faced – to lean on our own understanding rather than trusting the LORD. We must turn to him. Some of us may have already gone over to the Philistines. We can take comfort that even then the LORD will deliver us by His great mercy.Download David's Sojourn with the Philistines Sermons, Book, Speaker, Jim Newheiser, Year, Audio, I Samuel, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No http://www.grcbible.org/2009/01/11/wage-the-good-war/ Mon, 12 Jan 2009 02:14:58 +0000 Grace Bible Church Sermons Speaker Curt Arend Year Audio 2009 http://www.grcbible.org/2009/01/11/wage-the-good-war/ http://www.grcbible.org/2009/01/11/wage-the-good-war/feed/ 00:01:01 I Timothy 1:18-20 - "This command I entrust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you fight ... I Timothy 1:18-20 - "This command I entrust to you, Timothy, my son, in accordance with the prophecies previously made concerning you, that by them you fight the good fight, keeping faith and a good conscience, which some have rejected and suffered shipwreck in regard to their faith. Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan, so that they will be taught not to blaspheme."Download Wage the Good Warfare Sermons, Speaker, Curt Arend, Year, Audio, 2009 Grace Bible Church no No Grace Bible Churchnonadult