There are many upcoming events that I want to invite everyone to come to at The Family Bible Church:

June 5th Friday James Blackburn Open House 5 PM to 8 PM
June 6th Sat. Rumage Sale at our home across the street from the Church.
June 14th 33rd Church Anniversary, Hamburgers and Hotdogs after the AM
June 20th Baptismal Picnic and Family Get to gether at the home of Mickey and Vicki Fehler. Sat. 12:30 PM 2488 E. Broadway
June 22-24th Daily Vacation Bible School. M-W 9:30 to 11:45 AM
June 26 and 27 Fri and Sat. Father and Son Camp Out.

This Week's Sunday School Lesson Questions and text, enjoy:

PASTOR JERRY DEPOY ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH JUNE 7TH TEXT: EXODUS 3:1-12
GOD’S SERVANT/ MOSES “HEARING REQUIRES LISTENING”

1Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian: and he led the flock to the backside of the desert, and came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb.
· Why was it that Moses found himself on the back side of a desert?
· What do you know about the father in law of Moses?
· What can you discern about Moses from just reading the first verse?
· Why do you think that the mountain was named “The Mountain of God?” Who do you think gave the mountain this name?

2And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed. 3And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.
· How did God manifest himself to Moses? Why do you think that God chose to manifest himself through a burning bush? What does a “burning bush” tell you about God?
· Why did Moses turn aside to see this bush?
· What first caused you to take an interest in the things of the Lord?

4And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I. 5And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground. 6Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.
· Now that God had gotten the attention of Moses, what next did he do? Has God ever called you by name?
· How did Moses respond to the call of God upon his life? Why would he be told to take his shoes off from his feet? What would that symbolize?
· Why would God remind Moses of his heritage? How important is your American heritage to you?
· What did Moses do when God identified himself to Moses? Why would he hide his face from God? Is it possible to hide from God?
· Do you think that Moses had a right to not want to talk with the Lord? Might Moses had thought that God had failed him in the past?
7And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows; 8And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey; unto the place of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites.
· How much does God know about our suffering? Does God care whether or not we suffer? Then why does he let us suffer so?
· Does God have favorites? Why would God be more inclined to help the Israelites than the Egyptians?
· What do you think would become of our nation if we turned our backs on the nation of Israel today? Do you think that this might happen?
· What was God’s perfect will for his own people? Has God made any promises to us of future provisions?
· What is meant by the “land of milk and honey?”
· Who was living in the promised land at the time? Why were these people not the rightful heirs of the land? Who did it belong to?
· Who does the Land of Israel belong to today? Should the Arabs be allowed to have a “Palestinian State?” Are not Arabs also the sons of Abraham as well of the Israelites?

9Now therefore, behold, the cry of the children of Israel is come unto me: and I have also seen the oppression wherewith the Egyptians oppress them. 10Come now therefore, and I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth my people the children of Israel out of Egypt.
· Who were the children crying out to in their prayers? When is the last time that you cried out to God in prayer for a need in your life?
· Is it wrong to ask God to deliver you from oppression? Isn’t that complaining and not being thankful to do so?
· Who did God say that he was going to send to deliver Israel? Why do you think that God would choose Moses for such a mission?

11And Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring forth the children of Israel out of Egypt? 12And he said, Certainly I will be with thee; and this shall be a token unto thee, that I have sent thee: When thou hast brought forth the people out of Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this mountain.
· Did Moses seemed surprised that God would use his life?
· What promises did God make to Moses to encourage him to serve?

I trust that we shall see a good attendance in the Sunday School Class for this coming "Palm's Sunday's Service!" Here is the lesson with text and discussion questions for this week, enjoy:


PASTOR JERRY DEPOY’S SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH APRIL 5, 2009 LUKE 23:32-46
THE PATH TO NEW LIFE: “SUFFERING UNTO DEATH”

32And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him to be put to death. 33And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.
· Why do you think that there were two malefactors that Christ was placed between? What might these two men represent?
· What crime had these two men committed? Should a “thief” be put to death? Is mankind guilty of being a “thief” in any way?
· What does the name “Calvary” mean? What does Calvary mean to you? How has Calvary changed your life?

34Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
· Who did Jesus ask of for forgiveness to be granted? Does the Church have the power to forgive people of their sins?
· What right did Christ have to ask of his Father that sins should be forgiven? How important is the blood of Christ?
· Who was Christ referring to when he said, “For they know not what they do?” Are you included in this verse?
· Does this verse imply that all men are forgiven? How then, could anyone go to Hell if they have been forgiven of their sin?
· What does this statement, “They know not what they do?” Who does know what he is doing? Was Jesus always in control?

35And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God. 36And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar, 37And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself. 38And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
· Do you believe that Jesus could have saved himself from the Cross?
· Why did Jesus not call upon “ten thousand” angels to save him?
· What logic were the people using to justify their terrible deed? How was this logic “tempting God?”
· Do you think that any of this “mockery” was to be taken seriously?
· How did the soldiers react to the jeering of the crowd? Was this an unprofessional was for a soldiers to behave themselves?
39And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. 40But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? 41And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. 42And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. 43And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
· Was the prayer of the first malefactor a prayer for salvation? If a person asked God to “save” them, doesn’t that make them automatically saved? Can a person ask God to save them and still not be saved?
· Why do you think the second thief changed his behavior concerning Christ? What did this thief say concerning himself?
· How was the prayer of the second thief unlike the prayer of the first thief? What prayer did you pray for your own salvation?
· What showed the second thief's prayer contained hope and faith in Christ? What does the word “Christ” imply?
· How did Jesus respond to the prayer of the first thief?
· How did Jesus respond to the prayer of the second thief?
· When did Jesus say that the second thief’s prayer would be answered?
· Was this second thief saved by works or by faith? Do you believe that this second thief would be disappointed that he did not do more for Christ than what he did for him on this earth?
· Had this thief done anything noteworthy in his life for Christ?

44And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour. 45And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst. 46And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said, Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit: and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.
· What unusual weather patterns happened as Christ hung on the cross? Why do you think that God the Father caused such a thing to happen?
· What event took place in the Temple as Christ cried out? Why do you believe that this event happened? What did it symbolize?
· How hard would it have been for the veil of the Temple to be split in twain? Who would have been the first to have witnessed this event? How frightening would that have been for them?
· What were the last words of Christ as he hung upon the cross? Will you be able to pray this prayer upon your death bed?
· Was Christ murdered? Who then murdered Christ?
· Did Christ commit suicide? Was Christ a willing sacrifice? What is the difference between suicide and sacrifice?

My sermon notes for this coming Sunday's AM Service, enjoy:

Key Verse: (John 16:24) Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.

Title of Message: "Four things that I need for my journey and why I need them"

1. I need my wallet…It tells me who I am. (God the Father)

(Acts 9:15) But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:
(Acts 9:16) For I will show him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.

2. I need my GPS…It tells me where to go. (God the Holy Spirit)

(John 16:13) Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come.
(Acts 16:6) Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,
(Rom 8:14 KJV) For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

3. I need my Cell Phone…When I need to call home. (God the Son)

(John 16:15 ) All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall show it unto you.
(John 16:24) Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.

4. I need my Bible…To stay the course.

(John 17:8) For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me.
Are you sure that you are on the right road?

Here is the text and questions for my class this Sunday, enjoy:

PASTOR JERRY DEPOY’S SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH MARCH 29, 2009 EZEKIEL 47:1-12
THE PROMISE OF A NEW LIFE: “THE WATER OF LIFE”

1Afterward he brought me again unto the door of the house; and, behold, waters issued out from under the threshold of the house eastward: for the forefront of the house stood toward the east, and the waters came down from under from the right side of the house, at the south side of the altar.
· What “house” is being referred to in this verse?
· Where did the waters in this verse come from? Where were they going to? What is so significant about “water?”
· Can you share a testimony of when God brought “water” to you were you were dry and thirsty?

2Then brought he me out of the way of the gate northward, and led me about the way without unto the utter gate by the way that looketh eastward; and, behold, there ran out waters on the right side. 3And when the man that had the line in his hand went forth eastward, he measured a thousand cubits, and he brought me through the waters; the waters were to the ankles.
· Where was the prophet standing in this verse? How far is a thousand cubits? Why would the angel bring him “through” the waters?
· Why was the angel referred a man in this text?
· How deep was the water at this time?

4Again he measured a thousand, and brought me through the waters; the waters were to the knees. Again he measured a thousand, and brought me through; the waters were to the loins. 5Afterward he measured a thousand; and it was a river that I could not pass over: for the waters were risen, waters to swim in, a river that could not be passed over. 6And he said unto me, Son of man, hast thou seen this?
· What was happening to the water each time that it was measured in this text? Why do you think that it was getting deeper? How big had the waters become?
· Why do you think that God had made the waters so vast that the prophet could not swim across this river? Can you swim?
· Are you a “deeper life” Christian? How vast is the wisdom and the power of God?
· What was the literal interpretation of this verse?
· What devotional interpretation can you make of this vision for your life?
Then he brought me, and caused me to return to the brink of the river. 7Now when I had returned, behold, at the bank of the river were very many trees on the one side and on the other. 8Then said he unto me, These waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the sea: which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed. 9And it shall come to pass, that every thing that liveth, which moveth, whithersoever the rivers shall come, shall live: and there shall be a very great multitude of fish, because these waters shall come thither: for they shall be healed; and every thing shall live whither the river cometh.
· What was the first thing that the prophet saw now that the river was flowing through the desert place?
· What effect did the waters have upon the “Dead Sea?” How did the Dead Sea become dead to begin with?
· What is this vision showing us a picture of?
· How would having a multitude of fish in the sea that was once dead, be a help to the people of Israel in the Millennial Kingdom?
· Can you share a testimony of how that the Lord has ever brought you through a healing experience when others had thought of your situation as being impossible for you to overcome?

10And it shall come to pass, that the fishers shall stand upon it from Engedi even unto Eneglaim; they shall be a place to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds, as the fish of the great sea, exceeding many. 11But the miry places thereof and the marishes thereof shall not be healed; they shall be given to salt. 12And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the sanctuary: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.
· Is it Biblical for a person to be a vegetarian when God provides the seas with so many fish that are to be eaten? Did God put fish into the sea so that we might eat them or just for us to look at them? Did Jesus ever eat fish? We will eat food in Heaven? Is meat food?
· Scientifically, is it possible for a sea to be fresh water and for the swamps to be salt water? Why would God make it to be this way?
· How can trees grow meat? Does the Bible refer to fruits and vegetables as meat? Why would this prophecy be a blessing to the future hopes of Israel? What is the promise being made in these verses?
· What is meant by “medicine?” Can you get medicine from leaves?

Sunday School Class notes and questions for this coming week, enjoy:

PASTOR JERRY DEPOY’S SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH MARCH 22, 2009 EZEKIEL 37:1-14
THE PROMISE OF A NEW LIFE: “A VISION OF A NEW LIFE”

1The hand of the LORD was upon me, and carried me out in the spirit of the LORD, and set me down in the midst of the valley which was full of bones, 2And caused me to pass by them round about: and, behold, there were very many in the open valley; and, lo, they were very dry.
· Is this passage speaking of a literal event or is it that of a vision?
· What did Ezekiel see? Who do you believe that these bones represented? Could these “dry bones” ever have represented you?
· Why do you think that these bones were seen as “very dry?”
· Can you share an example of how God provided a miracle for you when you thought that the situation seemed “hopeless?”

3And he said unto me, Son of man, can these bones live? And I answered, O Lord GOD, thou knowest. 4Again he said unto me, Prophesy upon these bones, and say unto them, O ye dry bones, hear the word of the LORD. 5Thus saith the Lord GOD unto these bones; Behold, I will cause breath to enter into you, and ye shall live: 6And I will lay sinews upon you, and will bring up flesh upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and ye shall live; and ye shall know that I am the LORD.
· How would you have responded to the question asked in verse 3? Can dry bones live?
· What did God tell Ezekiel to do to make the dry bones live? What does this tell you concerning the power of the Word of God?
· What did God say would happen when Ezekiel preached to the dry bones? Can we claim this as a promise for us today?
· What was the order of events that would take place in the of this miracle? What is meant by “skin?” What is meant by “breath?”

7So I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone. 8And when I beheld, lo, the sinews and the flesh came up upon them, and the skin covered them above: but there was no breath in them.
· What happened when Ezekiel preached to the valley of dry bones? Do you think that a “shaking” must take place before a person can be considered truly saved?
· Can a person be “saved” if they have only “skin” and no “breath?”
9Then said he unto me, Prophesy unto the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Come from the four winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live. 10So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and they lived, and stood up upon their feet, an exceeding great army.
· Who was Ezekiel to preach to in this text? What do you believe that the wind represented? Why was he to preach to the “four” winds?
· Why do you think that Ezekiel referred to the skin and bones as those who had been “slain?”
· What happened when Ezekiel preached to these dry bones? Are the people of our Church a people of dry bones?
· Can our Church be described as an “exceeding great army?”
· How should we apply these verses to the Nation of Israel?

11Then he said untooo me, Son of man, these bones are the whole house of Israel: behold, they say, Our bones are dried, and our hope is lost: we are cut off for our parts. 12Therefore prophesy and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, O my people, I will open your graves, and cause you to come up out of your graves, and bring you into the land of Israel. 13And ye shall know that I am the LORD, when I have opened your graves, O my people, and brought you up out of your graves, 14And shall put my spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in yooonur own land: then shall ye know that I the LORD have spoken it, and performed it, saith the LORD.
· What did God tell Ezekiel was the meaning of this vision that he saw?
· Why did God speak to Ezekiel in a vision? Why did Christ speak to his disciples in parables?
· Is this vision to be taken literally? Will God cause the people of Israel to come out of their graves to live and rule in the land of Israel some day?
· Did Jesus have the power to cause people to come out of their graves?
· When the rapture takes place, what is going to happen to those who have died in Christ Jesus? Is there going to be a bodily resurrection?
· Should we encourage people to “cremate” their loved ones when they die? Can God cause a person to rise again even from the ashes?
· Where in the Bible does it say, “Ashes to ashes and dust to dust?”
· What is the significance of the rapture?
· If the rapture were to take place today, do you know for certain that you would be called “up?”
· How soon do you expect for the rapture to take place?
· Where in the Bible does it speak about the rapture?
· Does this text teach us anything about the "rapture?"

Here is the Sunday School Lesson for my class Sunday March 15, 2009, enjoy:

PASTOR JERRY DEPOY’S SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH MARCH 15, 2009 EZEKIEL 36:22-32
THE PROMISE OF A NEW LIFE: “A NEW SPIRIT WITHIIN”

22Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I do not this for your sakes, O house of Israel, but for mine holy name’s sake, which ye have profaned among the heathen, whither ye went. 23And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes. 24For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land.
· According to verse 22, why did God say that he was going to do a work with Israel? What does “For my holy name’s sake” mean?
· Do you believe that God ever blesses us in spite of ourselves? Wouldn’t that mean that God would have to reward evil?
· Would kind of testimony had the people of Israel among the heathen?
· Do you believe that our US military has left a good testimony to those that they have served around the world? Should that concern us?
· Do you care what other people think of you? Does God care what other people think of you? Do you care if God cares?
· What does the word “sanctified” mean in verse 23? Have you been sanctified? How did God perform this miracle in you?
· What is God’s promise to the people of Israel in verse 24? Has that promised happened yet? When will it happen?

25Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.
· According to this verse, is there such a thing as “holy water?” Does water have the power to make us clean inwardly? What is God about in this verse then?
· Is this verse talking about baptism? Has a person been truly baptized if they have only been sprinkled? Have you been baptized?
· How is the Word of God likened unto water? Can a person read the Bible and not be affected by it?
· What is the importance of the “blood of Christ” when it comes to the cleansing of a person’s soul? Why is the “blood” so important?
· Can you give a commentary over 1 John 1:9? Does a person have to confess their sin in order to be forgiven? Confess to whom?
26A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
· What was wrong with the old heart that it needed to be made new?
· What is the “heart” of an individual? What does God mean by the word “heart?” What is the deference between someone’s heart and someone’s bowels? Where is the seat of man’s emotions?
· What is the difference between the heart of a lost person and the heart of a saved person?
· What is meant by “heart of flesh” and “heart of stone?”
· What part does the “head” or the “mind” play in the matter of salvation?
· Does a lost person have a “spirit?” What does it mean to be “born again?” What is the difference between God’s Spirit and our spirit?

27And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.
· Why is having the God’s spirit placed within us so important according to this verse? How do you know if you possess God’s Spirit?
· Can a lost person keep God’s judgments and statutes? How much of the Old Testament is their for us to obey? Are Gentiles under the Law?
· Why is it important for us to keep the “laws of God” if we are saved by grace? Is it possible for a saved to person be lost and go to Hell?

28And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God. 29I will also save you from all your uncleannesses: and I will call for the corn, and will increase it, and lay no famine upon you.
· Who is this verse talking to? Are the Jews dwelling in the land again?
· What about the twelve tribes of Jacob, will they all dwell in the land too?
· According to this verse, who is in charge of the weather, Al Gore or God?

30And I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen. 31Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall lothe yourselves in your own sight for your iniquities and for your abominations. 32Not for your sakes do I this, saith the Lord GOD, be it known unto you: be ashamed and confounded for your own ways, O house of Israel.
· How is God going to fulfill verse 30? Is God going to become a farmer?
· Is it good for a person to “lothe” themselves according to verse 31?
· What did God say was his motivation for saving Israel, verse 32?

Judy and I came home from our vacation last week Thursday night. Lake Michigan was still there. The sun is setting higher in the north, but the snow is still there. I am not complaining, God's seasons are all beautiful!

Sunday School Lesson for February 22, 2009

Here is the lesson for my Sunday School Class 10 AM. Please study over the text and discussion questions for this week.

Lord willing, I will be there to teach my class this week!

FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH PASTOR’S SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
FEB. 22, 2009 “A COMMITMENT TO CHARGE” ISH. 6:1-8

1In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. 2Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly.
· What important event had just happened before the recording of this story? Where were you when John F. Kennedy died?
· Who is the king that will never die? Why is that important to you?
· How does this passage refer to God’s throne in Heaven?
· Why do you think that the faces of the seraphim angels were covered? Why would their feet be covered?
· Why do you think that the seraphim angels had a pair of six wings? Was this story an actual account or simply a vision of Isaiah?
· Where were these angels flying to? Are they still flying today?

3And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. 4And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke.
· What were the seraphims crying and why? Why did they cry “holy” three times? What is the importance of recognizing the holiness of God?
· What did the angels say about the earth? When is the last time that you witnessed any “glory” of God upon the earth?
· What door is being spoken of in verse 4?
· Why would the house be filled with smoke? What is the meaning of all of this? Is this to be taken literally or figuratively?

5Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.
· What was the response of Isaiah? Why would he feel undone? Have you ever felt as if you were unworthy to come to Church or to be in God’s presence? Should we make everyone feel at home in Church? Should a lost man feel at home within the inter sanctum of our Church?
· What did Isaiah say about the people that surrounded him? Do you think that Isaiah felt that he was better than the people around him?
· Why is it that caused Isaiah to feel this way? How do you think that God looks at America today? Are you proud to be an American? When is the last time that you saw something in the news that made you proud to be an American? When is the last time that you saw or heard something on the news that made you ashamed to be an American?
· How do you think that the rest of the world looks at us? Does it matter?
· What is meant by the term “the Lord of hosts?” What host?

6Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar: 7And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged.
· What did the seraphim do in verse six? Why was it important that this “coal” was taken from off of the Altar?
· Are they altars in Heaven? Why? Isn’t the cross sufficient? What altar is spoken of in this verse?
· Why would the angel have to use “tongs” in retrieving the coal from the altar? Is it possible for angels to receive an injury?
· Why do you think that the angel laid the coal upon the mouth of Isaiah?
· Why would this coal have the ability to remove the iniquity of Isaiah? What does the word iniquity mean?
· What is meant by the word “purged?” In what way has God purged you of your sin? Does a Christian need to have his sinned purged?
· When is the last time that you felt as if God had to purge you of your sin? Can you share a testimony of this truth?
· Can God use an unclean vessel for his honor and glory?
· Are you a vessel of honor? When is the last time that God used your life for his glory? Can you share a testimony of how God has recently used your life? How did it make you feel?

8Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.
· Who asked the question in verse 8? How did Isaiah know that this was the “voice of the Lord?”
· How does God speak to us today? Is it possible for a Christian to be deceived by listening to someone else’s voice and think that they are hearing the “voice of the Lord?
· What question did the Lord ask? Why couldn’t God just have sent one of his seraphim angels to do his bidding?
· Does God really need the help of man? Can’t God do it all by himself?
· If God needs our help, is God completely sovereign?
· What does this verse tell you in regards to the need of soulwinners in the Church today? Do you consider yourself a soulwinner? Should you be?
· Can we expect people to attend our Church simply because we can offer them a nice building to sit in on Sundays?
· Do you consider our Church to be an evangelistic Church? How can we improve in the entire of evangelism?
· When is the last time that God used your life to win someone to Christ? Can you share a testimony about a time that God used your life to win someone else to Christ?
· What was the difference between the way that Isaiah had first had felt when he saw this vision, and the conclusion of how Isaiah felt now? What creates boldness in the life of a Christian in order to witness for the Lord?

This picture was taken at Cabe Cove, Tennessee near Gatlinburg. Judy and I visited some old cabins in the mountains. Thank you for praying for us. The vacation ends in a couple of days. We are looking forward to our trip home on Thursday. -JLD

Isn't this picture beautiful? Two reasons, the ocean waves, and the beautiful lady in the foreground!

Cosumel, Mexico, the far side of the Island. -JLD

Picture of Judy and I in Playaday Carman, Mexico. Great shopping and beautiful beaches. This picture was taken at a fountain in the downtown area.

Judy and I in Cosumel, Mexico... having a wonderful time together!

Thank you for your prayers. We hope to be home late Thursday night...

JLD

Judy and I are enjoying our vacation together. We are now in Mobile, Alabama. It is summer here... summer for us anyway. Tomorrow will be my 56th birthday and we will be boarding the "Holiday" Ship on the Carnival Cruise liner heading for Mexico. It is a five day cruise. Next week, we will be joining our friends, Alan and Pat Willis in Gatlinberg, Tennessee. We anticipate being home again on the 20th.

Remember us in your prayers. Pray for our spiritual renewal. We are full of praise for all of the things God has blessed us with in Muskegon. It will be wonderful returning home again. God bless. -Jerry

Here is the Sunday School Lesson for this coming Sunday. Dave Torok will be teaching it as Judy and I will be away on vacation for a couple of weeks. I intend to keep everyone posted on my blog as the events of the day pass by. We are leaving for Tennessee on this coming Friday and plan on being with my former Pastor and his wife, Rick and Judy Stewart on that evening in McMinville.

Now for the lesson, enjoy:

FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH PASTOR’S SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
FEB. 8, 2009 “COMMITMENT TO CONFRONT” 2 SAM. 12:1-7, 13-15

1And the LORD sent Nathan unto David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, There were two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor. 2The rich man had exceeding many flocks and herds: 3But the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter.

· Why do you think that God did not speak unto David directly? Why did he use a prophet to convey the message?
· Why do you think that Nathan used a parable to speak to David instead of just telling David straight out that he had sinned against the Lord?
· When does it become our “business” to talk to others about “sin” in their lives? Aren’t we all sinners? Don’t we all want to be left alone?
· What was the parable that Nathan told to David? Why would David be inclined to listen to story about a man who had a little sheep?
· How does this story remind you of your own pet? Do people care more about their pets than they do about other people?

4And there came a traveller unto the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the wayfaring man that was come unto him; but took the poor man’s lamb, and dressed it for the man that was come to him.

· What gave the rich man the right to think that he had the right to take the poor man’s lamb? Are all rich people self centered people?
· Who did the “rich man” portray in the parable that Nathan was telling? Do you believe that David ever considered himself in this light?
· Do you think that the rich man in this text ever considered the fact that he was “sinning?” Was this rich man indeed committing a sin?
· How does this story compare in the analogy of committing adultery? Is all adultery “selfish?” Isn’t adultery just “love making” between two consenting adults? Do you believe that Bathsheba was a consenting adult in the sexual exploits of the palace? Did David have an affair or a fling? Is there a difference? Can’t people just have an “innocent affair?”
· Do you have a proper self image of yourself? Do you think that you might appear to be selfish in the eyes of others? How can we change that image of ourselves to others?

5And David’s anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, As the LORD liveth, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die: 6And he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity.

· Why do you think that David got so upset over the story of a little sheep? Wasn’t his own violation much more severe than that told in the story?
· What did David say should be done to the rich man? Can government ever give to harsh a sentence to those who violate the law?
· Why do you think that David was so quickly angered?

7And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, and I delivered thee out of the hand of Saul;

· Do you think that Nathan was a little blunt at this point? Wouldn’t you have been afraid to tell the King, “Thou art the man!” Especially in that David had just threatened to have a man put to death?
· How do you think that David physically appeared when Nathan had pointed out that “he was the rich man” in the story that he had just told?
· Why would God have been so angered with David? Couldn’t David simply have stated, “What’s the big deal, everybody sins from time to time?
· Does God have a higher standard for those who are in governmental leadership? How would those who govern our lands fare today by God’s standards? Should a “president” be impeached for committing adultery?

13And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die. 14Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto thee shall surely die.

· What kind of excuses did David make for his sin? Did he make any excuses? If a person makes excuses for their sin, are they truly repentant?
· Who did David say that he had sinned against? Hadn’t David also sinned against Bathsheba and Uriah the Hittite? Who else was harmed by David’s sin? Did David owe everyone an apology?
· When we sin, should we walk around apologizing to everyone that we see and tell them that we are sorry for being so terrible?
· Have you ever read Nathaniel Hawthrone’s book “The Scarlett Letter?” Should an adulteress person be forced to wear a Scarlet A on their tee shirt all over town? Should we put people in stocks for being bad people?
· How did God put away our sin? Has your sin been put away?
· What did Nathan say would be the results of David’s sin?
· What should we expect the world to do to us when they learn that we have sinned? Should the Christian community follow their lead?
· How should the response of the Church be any different than that of those who are sitting at the Tavern?
· Why would the world be so quick to condemn a Christian for being a sinner? Are Christians sinless? What should we say to others when we sin?
· What did God say would happen to the child of Bathsheba? Wasn’t God punishing David and Bathsheba? What wrong had Bathsheba done? What wrong had the child done? Why should they have to bear consequences of David’s sin? Is God fair? Is life fair? Should David had gotten angry at God for allowing his son to die? Did God cause the child’s death? If so, is a God a murderer?

15And Nathan departed unto his house. And the LORD struck the child that Uriah’s wife bare unto David, and it was very sick.

· Why would God strike the child sick, when the sin was David's fault?

This is the message and outline that I preached January 25th and as I shared it with my Son, Jerry Jr. in a letter, enjoy:

Now, Jerry, let me share with you the insights that God gave me in the message that I preached to the folks this morning. Here is some of the thoughts in brief, enjoy:

“What more could a man want?”

Text: Exodus 33

Introduction: God has just told Moses that even though he has delivered the people from the Egypt and led them thus far into the wilderness, that he did not plan to go with Moses into the Promised Land. He was angry with the stiffnecked nation as Israel.

When you read the total of the Chapter, you begin to see the great desire of Moses heart. In some ways you would have thought that perhaps Moses was stretching himself to much as he begins making his appeal to the Lord. Think on these thoughts with me…

1. What more could a Man of God want, he had “A Nice Church”

(Exo 33:8 KJV) And it came to pass, when Moses went out unto the tabernacle…

When God blessed us with our new Church building and location, I finally thought to myself, “Jerry, you have finally arrived. It doesn’t get any better than this.”

Moses had the finest building in town. Oh, I know that it might not have looked like much on the exterior of the Tabernacle, but what a glorious interior. Everything was in the colors of gold, and purple, and fine craftsmanship. Who could ask for anything more, right?

2. What more could a Man of God want, He had a lot of people.

(Exo 33:8 KJV) …all the people rose up, and stood every man at his tent door, and looked after Moses, until he was gone into the tabernacle.

I long for the day that we completely fill our Church house wall to wall with people. Moses had over a million people attending his Church. He was there shepherd. That should make him happy, right?

3. What more could a man of God want, he had a prominent position of respect.

(Exo 33:9 KJV) And it came to pass, as Moses entered into the tabernacle, the cloudy pillar descended, and stood at the door of the tabernacle, and the LORD talked with Moses.

When Moses stood before the door of the Tabernacle, all the people who were looking on, could see the glory cloud hover around Moses. Certainly they knew that even God recognized Moses as a might man of God. No man could want more than that, right?

4. What more could a Man of God want, he had a generous people who gave good offerings.

(Exo 33:3 KJV) Unto a land flowing with milk and honey…

Whenever Moses took up an offering, these stiffnecked people opened up their wallets to him. They were headed for the land of milk and honey. They were going to be a prosperous people. Have the ability to take up large offering ought to have made any man of God happy, right?

5. What more could a Man of God want, his Church had wonderful praise music

(Exo 33:2 KJV) And I will send an angel before thee; and I will drive out the Canaanite, the Amorite, and the Hittite, and the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite:

God told Moses that although, he would not personally go with him into the Promised Land, he would send his angel on before him. For some reason, whenever I think of angels, I think of music...”Though we speak with the voice of an angel…” Our Church has presently been blessed with many wonderful and gifted musicians. Many of the people of our Church may now come, just to hear the praise team play their songs. It is good. That should make any preacher fully happy, right?

6. What more could a Man of God want, in his Church there was a sense of God’s presence.

(Exo 33:14 KJV) And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.

Moses could have played the song, “Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place...” God now promised Moses, my presence will be with you. That should have made the Man of God fully happy, right?

7. What more could a Man of God want, God said to Moses, “ You are my friend.”

(Exo 33:11 KJV) And the LORD spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend…

What more could a man want? God called him his friend. That should be enough to make any man proud. Being called the “friend of God” should have made this man of God completely happy, who could have asked for anything more, right?

But Moses did ask for more!

“Shew me thy glory”

(Exo 33:18 KJV) And he said, I beseech thee, show me thy glory.

His desire: A personal intimare relationship with the Lord!

(Exo 33:21 KJV) And the LORD said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock:
(Exo 33:22 KJV) And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by:

How close do you want to be to the Lord? Moses wanted his entire being to shine with God’s glory. In John the 15th chapter we read that God wants to indwell us. He is the vine and we are to be his branches. God too, desires our intimacy. God wants to abide in you, and you in him.

I was not satisfied to only date Judy Lockwood for the rest of my life. One day, I asked Judy to be my wife. I was not contented to have her simply strolling by my side on the campus of Tennessee Temple. I was not contented to be her “friend” over telephone conversations. I wanted Judy to be my wife. I wanted her to be my personal intimate partner in life!

Do have that same desire for God?

What more could a man of God want, more of Jesus!

Question: Can others see Christ glowing in and through you? Can others see that you are abiding in Christ, and that Christ is abiding in you?

That the message I preached this morning, Son, I should that is the message that God preached through me this morning. I trust that you were blessed as I was preaching it.

I love you Son…. Someday, soon, together again.

Dad

Even though this winter has gotten the best of me, we still have some beautiful sun sets...

I took this picture a couple of weeks ago, enjoy.

My beautiful granddaughters Mariah and Ambria... taken by Jamie Jo this past Friday night at our Mid winter getaway!

There are two events taking place that I wanted to be sure to remind you about.... this coming Friday night we have made arrangements with the downtown Shoreline Inn for you to reserve a room for a midwinter getaway. Please call and make your reservations at (231) 727-8483. Judy and I will be getting there about 1 PM... make a day and night of it! Hope to see you there. They have two hot tubs and a pool and many comfortable rooms for reading and conversation.

Also... the week following on a Friday night, January 30th, we will be showing the movie, "Fireproof" at our Church. It is free... and popcorn.... If you have seen this film already, please bring someone along with you. This film could be a real healing to many relationships and marriages.

Pray for our family. We need lots of prayer.

Praise the Lord the continued blessings and growth in the Church!

Thank you, Jerry

My Monday letter to my Son, Jerry Jr. (My notes and sermon outline from Sunday Morning's Message:)

Now, Here is the message that I preached on Sunday. I am going to share it with you as if we were discussing it together on a Saturday night. Pull up a chair, get that cup of coffee… pretend that it is summer time and we are looking out over Lake Michigan… the sun is about one half hour from going down, and I am excited about a truth that God has revealed to my heart!


Title of the message: “How to Keep Yourself in the Love of God”
(Five Steps)

Key verse: (Jude 1:21) Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

Introduction: The funeral for Jacob is over. The eleven brothers of Joseph are afraid. They believe that Joseph might turn on them, and he has the power to do so. More than this, he has every “right” to be angry with them. The natural man would have not shown grace.

But that is why God highlights the life of Joseph. He is not the “natural man.” He is a man who shows amazing grace. His life portrays the coming Christ, who was full of grace and truth.

Note how he responds to his brothers:

(Gen 50:19-21) And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God?But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.
Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.

Here is the outline on "How to Keep Yourself in the Love of God":


1. I know that I am not God.

(Gen 50:19 KJV) And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God?

Slowly, Meditate on each one of these thoughts:

I am not God...

Therefore…I cannot control the circumstances of my life.

Therefore…I don’t know everything there is to know.

Therefore…You will not stand before me on the Day of Judgment.

Therefore…It is for God to forgive you.

Keep in mind that Pharaoh thought of himself as God. Although, Joseph had the authority of Pharaoh, he choose a position of humility. He said, “I am not in the place of God!”


2. I know that I live in an evil world.

(Gen 50:20 KJV) But as for you, ye thought evil against me…

This world is an evil place. Expect the world to say, “Crucify him, Crucify him!”

Who would have thought that the ten brothers of Joseph would have such hatred for him… there is much evil in this world.

Joseph did not excuse the behavior of his brothers. He said "you thought evil against me." You cannot be forgiven until you recognize that what you have done is “evil.” And you cannot forgive others, until you confirm that what they have done to you is a "great evil."

As a Christian, if we do not anticipate a cross, we will never be able to carry one!


3. I believe that God is a Sovereign God.

(Gen 50:20) But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good…

Although this world is under the domination of Satan, God is so much greater!


4. I believe that God uses his sovereignty for my good.

(Gen 50:20) But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.

We need to carefully examine Romans 8:28. The "all things work together for the good” part is followed by “To those that love God, to those are called according to his purpose.”


If we do not “keep ourselves in the love God” we will not experience, “all things work together for the good” part!

And again…. For his purpose. We are not placed here on the earth for our own purpose. SO, what is that purpose? I bring you to the final point:


5. God’s ultimate plan for my life is for me to be a blessing to others.

(Gen 50:21) Now therefore fear ye not: I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them, and spake kindly unto them.

Conclusion: Let the love flow!

Can you imagine it? Joseph had been betrayed and hated by his brothers. They sought his death and enslavement. But Joseph did not respond in hate. He said, “let me nourish your little ones…”

Amazing grace.

Prayer: God, help me to stay in the love of God!

And that is my prayer for you Son….

I love you so much. God bless.

Till tomorrow.

Now I am heading out to the door of my office to have that date (Children's Dollar Movie at the Plaza) with my grand daughter, Mariah, your precious gift to me… Dad

Notes for my Adult Sunday School Class (Taught Sunday Mornings at 1o AM.... you are invited! -JLD


FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH PASTOR’S SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
JAN. 18, 2009 “COMMITMENT IN LEADERSHIP” JUD. 3:1-13

1Now these are the nations which the LORD left, to prove Israel by them, even as many of Israel as had not known all the wars of Canaan; 2Only that the generations of the children of Israel might know, to teach them war, at the least such as before knew nothing thereof;
· According to verse one, why was it that the Lord “left” enemies in the land of Israel? Wasn’t it because of the “lack of faith” of the people of Israel that they still had enemies in the land? How does this verse speak to the sovereignty of God?
· Do you have any enemies? Can you give a testimony of how God used these enemies to prove your faith? Have you ever been called upon to prove your faith to anyone? How does anyone go about proving their faith? Where does our light as a Christian burn the brightest?
· When is the last time that “war” has come to the land of America? Do you believe that our sons and our daughters are prepared to fight for their country or for their faith?
· How can we see that the conflicts of our life are their to prepare us for the days of the future conflict yet to come? Will America see a future conflict? Are we living in the last days? Should we anticipate perilous times?

3Namely, five lords of the Philistines, and all the Canaanites, and the Sidonians, and the Hivites that dwelt in mount Lebanon, from mount Baalhermon unto the entering in of Hamath. 4And they were to prove Israel by them, to know whether they would hearken unto the commandments of the LORD, which he commanded their fathers by the hand of Moses.
· Do you believe that the people of the United States are harkening unto the commandments of the Lord?
· We’re the commandments that the people of Israel were to follow, commandments from the hand of Moses, or commandments from the hand of God? How do we know if a commandment is from God or man?

5And the children of Israel dwelt among the Canaanites, Hittites, and Amorites, and Perizzites, and Hivites, and Jebusites: 6And they took their daughters to be their wives, and gave their daughters to their sons, and served their gods. 7And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and forgat the LORD their God, and served Baalim and the groves.
· What was the danger that the children of Israel had to contend with by having the people of Canaan living so closely by?
· Is there anything wrong with an “interracial marriage?” Is that what this text is talking about?
· What happened to the children of the parents who were brought up in a mixed marriage? Who was “Baalim” and what was wrong with him?
8Therefore the anger of the LORD was hot against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of Chushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia: and the children of Israel served Chushanrishathaim eight years. 9And when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb’s younger brother. 10And the Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he judged Israel, and went out to war: and the LORD delivered Chushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand; and his hand prevailed against Chushanrishathaim. 11And the land had rest forty years. And Othniel the son of Kenaz died.
· Does God ever get angry? Is it a sin for a person to get angry? What was God angry about? Is what makes you angry of an consequence?
· What did God do because he was “angry” with the children of Israel? Could God do the same thing to us in America? Have we ever given God a reason to be angry with us?
· Does God ever get angry with his children? Have you ever received a spiritual spanking? Do you need one?
· What did the children of Israel do when they were “hurting?” Is it ever wrong to “cry?” Shouldn’t we accept the consequences of our sin without crying? Should we stop our children from crying when they are hurting?
· How did God respond to the cries of our children? Should a Father try to do all that he can do to bring deliverance to his children? Have you?
· How did God deliver the children in this text? Can God use just “one man” to bring deliverance to an entire nation?
· What did Othneil do to deliver Israel? What do we know about him?
· What was Othneil’s occupation after he brought deliverance to Israel? What does it mean to be a judge? What should be the measure of judge’s judgment? Is a judge limited in jurisdiction? Do they always speak for God? Should they always be honored by the people they serve?

12And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD: and the LORD strengthened Eglon the king of Moab against Israel, because they had done evil in the sight of the LORD. 13And he gathered unto him the children of Ammon and Amalek, and went and smote Israel, and possessed the city of palm trees.
· What happened as soon as Othneil died? Why would the people of Israel turn away from God so quickly?
· Are all people wicked? Why are people so wicked? Are you wicked?
· Where is the city of Palm trees? Why would God allow the children of Israel to be defeated?
· Do you have any desire to visit the city of Palm trees today?
· Are you planning on going to our weekend getaway at the Shoreline Inn this coming weekend? Have you made your reservations yet?
· What do you know about Eglon? Was he anymore righteous than the people of Israel were? Why would God use someone more wicked to bring defeat a people who are less wicked by comparison?

Let me encourage you to follow Jerry's Blog as he sends notes to us through the mail. His blog spot is http://jerrydepoy.blogspot.com/

Please read these thoughts expressed by my son on his blog... I am so proud of him... JLD

1.15.2009

An Insert from Jerry's Letter
...If I can let my life be a sermon, I wantto proclaim, "Even there, in the depths of despair,in the filth of my sin, in the hurt of betrayal,and the sting of death-love still wins."Love is stronger than hate. Grace is deeper thanmy sin. Forgiveness is the new liberation. Mercy is the musicthat stirs us to dance. The resurrection is the dominanttheme of my life. There is nothing, nobody, nowhere,that can separate me from the love of God in Christ Jesus!
Posted by Jerry DePoy Jr. at 9:27 PM
1.14.2009

Part of a Letter to Jamie
Someone talks loudly across the room... "Hey, I remember you...you picked me up in downtown Muskegon Heights, bought me groceries, and then gave me a ride home."Love wins.
Posted by Jerry DePoy Jr. at 10:17 PM
1.08.2009

Nothing. Nothing. Nothing. Nothing.
What can separate us from the love of God, in Christ Jesus?
Posted by Jerry DePoy Jr. at 10:10 AM 4 comments

Welcome to our Wednesday night Bible Study, notes and outlines. We introduce a text and fill in some comments of our own, enjoy:

Miracles of Christ Series.The Resurrection of Christ Luke 24

(Luke 24:33-35) And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.
And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread.

Before the Emmaus Road, these disciples had “gossip.” Now they could impart the Gospel!

(Luke 24:36) And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.(Luke 24:37 KJV) But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.

When I am preaching the message of Christ, I too, want the presence of Christ to fill the room!

(Luke 24:38-40) And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.
And when he had thus spoken, he showed them his hands and his feet.

Jesus is not fantasy. He is the ultimate reality. God has flesh and bones. He will come again with flesh and bones!

(Luke 24:41-43) And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat? And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb. And he took it, and did eat before them.

Our message from the supernatural to the practical. “Have ye any meat?”

(Luke 24:44) And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.

When you are turning the pages of the past, you are looking at the pages of the future. God’s Word will be fulfilled.

(Luke 24:45) Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,(Luke 24:46 KJV) And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:

The Teacher had once again entered into the classroom. He had a good visual aid… himself!

(Luke 24:47,48) And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.

The teacher was a preacher. There was much work to be done.

(Luke 24:49,50) And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.

Graduation would come on the day of pentecost.

(Luke 24:51-52) And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven.(Luke 24:52 KJV) And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy:

Great fear is always followed by great joy. Great joy is always followed by great grace.

(Luke 24:53) And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.

The key word: “continue.” Hope to see you at our Bible Study next Wednesday night! -JLD

I will not share all of the letters that I will be writing to my son. But this letter contains the outline that I preached on Sunday. It might also give you some insights as to the closeness that my Son and I have together, enjoy:


Saturday night January 10th

I came in from sitting in the hot tub. I have been doing that a lot lately. In the middle of the night, etc… It is a good place to think, and to pray. You are always on my mind. I love you so much. Your mother mentioned that you said that you were doing “fine.” I know that could mean about anything. I believe it means that God is giving to you a “peace that passes understanding.” I will take that as an answer to prayer.

As I mentioned before, I intend to write you often. You will never be far from my thoughts. Although I cannot be at your side, sitting across from your desk, in my mind, I am… and you are there listening, I can almost hear your response. One day you and I will have eternity to share our hearts. I am so anxious for that summer day on the beach…. God knows.

Tonight I will share the outline that I intend to preach tomorrow morning. It is not about you, it is about all of us. Every message that I preach is about “all of us.” As Christians, we are all struggling with much the same things. I am saying this because I am sure that you are very much in my thinking in the preparation for the message, I cannot help that. It is who I am, what I will always be. Here goes the outline:

Do you remember the song that we have been singing in our Church, “When I don’t know what to do?... I’ll lift my hands…” Well, that song is my outline. The person of the story is that of Peter and his growth in Christ.

Point number One: When I don’t know what to do? When the Lord mentioned to his disciples, “I am going to be betrayed and crucified,” it was Peter who said for the Lord to not to go to the cross. Jesus rebuked him and told him that Satan had filled his heart. Peter had believed the “lie.” Peter wanted this world to be his kingdom. He was very uncomfortable with the idea of his chief shepherd being crucified!

We need to remember that our kingdom is not of this world. As I mentioned in my last letter, reread Eccl. 7:13 and 14. There is nothing “certain” in this world. Our kingdom is to come.

Application for you…. It was very apparent that a judge, other than God’s throne of grace, was in control of the courtroom that you were found guilty and sentenced in. Even now, in the county jail, you will encounter much in the way of spiritual warfare. Our kingdom is to come, our kingdom is not of this world. Everything that we own and possess can be taken from us. Everything. There is nothing “certain” in this world.
Back to the story… and there goes Christ off to be crucified.

Point number two: When I don’t know what to say?

Peter is following Jesus afar off. (Matthew 26) He is in the courtyard of the high priest. They are beating up on Christ. Peter is cussing and swearing that he does not know Christ. He does not know what to say. How do you defend a Christ who is unwilling to defend himself? (That is the hardest part about being your Father at this time) Jesus has told him to put away the sword. How confused Peter must have felt. His world is falling a part. The cock has just let out his call of the morning to begin. Peter remembers the words of Christ, “Before the cock crows, you will have denied me thrice.”

Again, Peter's world is falling. He doesn’t know what to say, and so he is cussing at the very Christ that he should have been praising. When the cock crows, Peter remembers, his eyes, and the eyes of the smitten Christ come together. He remembers, he knows the truth about himself. He admits the truth about himself. He leaves, weeping bitterly.

Application: It is hard to look at Jesus when you feel that you have betrayed him. Haven’t we all? How do you even dare look to Christ, when you can only be reminded of your failure by doing so?


Point number three: When I don’t know where to go.

Now, let’s take a walk along the seashore. It is true that you know that Christ has risen from the dead. You know that Christ has resurrection power, but you (Peter) are not certain as to what that means to you. You are Peter. You are fishing. You are fishing because it is all you know. It is a “secular” job. You are out of the spot light. Nobody seems to be paying much attention to you now. But you are fishing all night and catching nothing.

But you are wrong, someone is watching. You are still in the spot light. That person is Christ. He is watching you. He sees your helplessness from the seashore. Jesus takes on the shepherding role once again. He bids you to “cast your nets on the other side.” You do so, because something about the voice of the shepherd on the shore, demands obedience. Something about his voice bids hope. That someone is Jesus. John hears it. John tells Peter, “It is Christ.” Only a few minutes before this, you did not know where to go? Now you do. You run to the throne! You run to Jesus. He has not condemned you. He has prepared a meal for you. He longs for you to “come and dine!”

Application: Run to the throne. As in the story of the return of the prodigal son, the Father is running! He is running to you!


Point number four: When you don’t know what to think…. I’ll stand on his truth.

You are having breakfast with Jesus. You keep looking in wonder at the “all of him.” He is no longer the crucified Christ, he is the risen King. You are so eager to please him. You would do anything to reenter his good graces. He has assignment for you. “Love my lambs.” (You would rather be killing wolves!) It is such a simple request. But in it you find your life again. You have grown in grace. You are no longer seeking the comforts of this world. You now realize that whatever you are to do in this life, it is to be done with eternity in view. Life is not about occupying a throne, hearing the applause of men. Life is about loving one tender lamb at a time for “thy kingdom’s sake.”

Conclusion: In the book of acts, Peter is commanded by the courts, “You are not to speak in the name of Jesus anymore.” Peter’s response, “Whether or not I should obey you, I do not know, but I do know that I cannot help but to speak the things which I have heard an seen.”

Paraphrasing the words of Polycarp, “Christ has never denied me, I cannot deny him now.”

Peter, the one who once denied Christ, would deny him no more.


Hope you enjoyed the message, Son. I enjoyed sharing it with you. I’ll let you close us in prayer.

Dad

PS. I read your blog tonight…. What you wrote two hours before you were sentenced. What can separate me from the love of Christ? Nothing…. Nothing…. Nothing… Nothing.

I love you Son. I am proud of you.

I asked the Muskegon Chronicle not to publish my editorial. Although, I believe the words that I have written to be true, many people in this world are not interested in the truth. The truth doesn't really matter to them. The article would only bring to the Chronicle one more reason to give the enemy something to scream "crucify" about.

I also realize that someone might interpret these comments of that of an angry Father. Although I do not deny my anger, I do not want to be an angry person. God cannot flow through a bitter vessel. God has put within my a heart a resolve to believe that Romans 8:28 is true. It was written for me.

Here are my notes for this week's Sunday School Lesson. You are invited to attend with us Sunday morning's at 10 AM... hope to see you there!

FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH PASTOR’S SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
JAN. 11, 2009 “RAHAB’S COMMITMENT” JOS. 2:1-4, 8-14, 6:22-23,25

1And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot’s house, named Rahab, and lodged there.

· How many men did Joshua send into Jericho to spy out the city? Why do you think he sent only two? How well do you remember the story of the twelve spies that Moses has sent into the land of milk and honey? How many of the spies returned with a good report?
· Is their anything wrong with a country sending out spies? Isn’t that a lack of faith on Joshua’s part?
· Into what house did the spies enter once they had gotten themselves within the walls of the city? Why do you think that they did this? Is it wrong for a man of God to enter into the home of a harlot? Have you ever entered into the home of a sinner?
· How much time did they spend in the harlots home? Do you believe that they might have indulged themselves in her occupation? Why not?


2And it was told the king of Jericho, saying, Behold, there came men in hither to night of the children of Israel to search out the country. 3And the king of Jericho sent unto Rahab, saying, Bring forth the men that are come to thee, which are entered into thine house: for they be come to search out all the country. 4And the woman took the two men, and hid them, and said thus, There came men unto me, but I wist not whence they were:

· Where did the men of Jericho say that the spies went into? How would they have known this? Do you think others know about your secret sins? Would like to share with us any of your secret sins this morning? Perhaps you would like for us to guess what your secret sins are?
· What did the men of the city demand of Rahab? Was this an unreasonable demand? Why do you think that Rahab did not comply with their demand?
· Did Rahab lie to the men of the city? Do you think that Rahab had any love for the men of the city? Do you think that the harlot had “made love” with any of these men of the city? Does a harlot really love her lovers?
· What did Rahab do to protect the two spies? Why do you think that she did this? Have you ever helped someone who was in need of hiding?
· Have you read the diary of “Ann Frank?” Are there any similarities between Rahab and the people who helped the family of Ann Frank? What was Ann Frank nationality?
· Was Benedict Arnold a hero or a man of treason? What is the difference?
· When is it alright to lie to a “policeman?” Isn’t that what Rahab was doing?
· Why did the men of the city tell Rahab that these men had come into the city of Jericho? Were they telling her the truth?
· Didn’t Rahab have duty to protect her fellow county men?


8And before they were laid down, she came up unto them upon the roof; 9And she said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you. 10For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed. 11And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the LORD your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath.

· What did Rahab say she had heard about the God of Israel? How would Rahab have known of these things? Are there any benefits to being a harlot? Are harlots talked to? Do harlots talk?
· Do you believe that it is possible for a person to be a harlot while harboring a “fear of God” in their hearts?
· What made Rahab a good candidate for the gospel? Have you ever thought to take the time to witness to a harlot?


12Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD, since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father’s house, and give me a true token: 13And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death. 14And the men answered her, Our life for yours, if ye utter not this our business. And it shall be, when the LORD hath given us the land, that we will deal kindly and truly with thee.

· What was the concern of Rahab? Is it possible for a woman to be a harlot and still have a concern for her family?
· Are all harlots harlots because they want to be a harlot? Does anyone in the bondage of sin really want to be in bondage?
· Was Rahab a self centered person? Did she care whether or not her fellow country men died by the hand of the Israelites? Why was she only concerned for her immediate family?
· What bargain did Rahab make with the two spies? Is it ever wrong to make a “bargain” God? Did the spies have a right to make this deal with her?
· Is accepting the gift of salvation a good bargain? What does a person have to trade in for in order to become “saved?”

22But Joshua had said unto the two men that had spied out the country, Go into the harlot’s house, and bring out thence the woman, and all that she hath, as ye sware unto her. 23And the young men that were spies went in, and brought out Rahab, and her father, and her mother, and her brethren, and all that she had; and they brought out all her kindred, and left them without the camp of Israel. 25And Joshua saved Rahab the harlot alive, and her father’s household, and all that she had; and she dwelleth in Israel even unto this day; because she hid the messengers, which Joshua sent to spy out Jericho.

· Was Rahab’s house destroyed by the falling of Jericho? Was Rahab saved? What saved her?

This is the Sermon outline that I preached Sunday Morning, January 4, 2009, enjoy:

Text (Acts 2:41-47) Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the

Title: “Time to Change”

Introduction: If I were a politician, I too, would run for election on the platform, “Things must change!”

Unemployment is up. People can’t make their house payments. Marriages are on edge. Church attendance is down. Things must change!

Note the lives of the people at the end of Acts Chapter two. They changed.

1. These people were humble.
They were a generous giving people. Everyone had their needs provided for the kindness of those within their Church family.

2. These people were holy.
They were always having prayer meetings and going to Church.

3. These people were happy.
They were praising God with singleness of heart.

Wow and what happened? What brought about the change?

It happened when the Church took Christ to the streets.

What happened at the Church to make the Church move into the streets?

How these people changed?

1. They lingered.

They stayed on their knees waiting for the movement of the Holy Spirit.

(Acts 1:4 KJV) And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me.

2. They listened.

Whatever the Holy Spirit told them to do through the scriptures, they were willing to obey.

(Acts 1:20 KJV) For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishopric let another take.

3. They let the Holy Spirit take control.

They let the Holy Spirit make the choices in their lives.

(Acts 1:24 KJV) And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, show whether of these two thou hast chosen,

When the disciples began to preach on the public streets, their message was a message of repentance.

To change means to repent.

For things to change, you must change.

For things to change, you must repent.

Conclusion:
Instead of looking to the government for things to change, look to Christ, and let him change you.

Then things will change!

If you are in my Sunday School Class, you can prepare yourself to discuss the following text with all of its questions:

FAMILY BIBLE CHURCH PASTOR’S SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS
JAN. 4, 2009 “COMMITMENT OF THE MIDWIVES” EXODUS 1:8-21

8Now there arose up a new king over Egypt, which knew not Joseph. 9And he said unto his people, Behold, the people of the children of Israel are more and mightier than we: 10Come on, let us deal wisely with them; lest they multiply, and it come to pass, that, when there falleth out any war, they join also unto our enegypt?mies, and fight against us, and so get them up out of the land.
· What type of government did the people of Egypt have? How could things so quickly change for the Jews in the land?
· Do you think that things are going to improve for the Christian community now that we are about to have a new president?
· What was the fear of the Egyptian people? Do you believe that there are any politicians who are afraid of the “Moral Majority?”
· Was there any real fear that the Egyptians had to deal with?

11Therefore they did set over them taskmasters to afflict them with their burdens. And they built for Pharaoh treasure cities, Pithom and Raamses. 12But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew. And they were grieved because of the children of Israel.
· What was the initial plan that the Egyptians had in order to keep the Jews in check? Was there any thing wrong with that plan?
· Have you ever seen any of the great architectural wonders in ancient Egypt? How could anyone build such wonders? Who does this text say helped to build some of them? What does that tell you about the Jewish people?
· How did the harsh treatment of the Jews affect them? How do you respond when people make things difficult for you? What can we learn from this? Who was the best school teacher that you ever had?

13And the Egyptians made the children of Israel to serve with rigour: 14And they made their lives bitter with hard bondage, in morter, and in brick, and in all manner of service in the field: all their service, wherein they made them serve, was with rigour.
· In that the Jews were doing all of the work for the Egyptians, what does that tell you of how that they ultimately would come to depend upon the Jews for all of their labor?
· Can you ever “depend” upon others too much? What would happen if our government failed, would you have the ability to take care of your family in a crisis situation?
· Why do you think that the Jews put up with should bondage? Why do people allow themselves to get into bondage to begin with?
· What are the many forms of bondage that people can be enslaved by? Have you ever bought anyone to our “Celebrate Recovery” ministry?
15And the king of Egypt spake to the Hebrew midwives, of which the name of the one was Shiphrah, and the name of the other Puah: 16And he said, When ye do the office of a midwife to the Hebrew women, and see them upon the stools; if it be a son, then ye shall kill him: but if it be a daughter, then she shall live.
· What is a midwife? Do you have an opinion about the reliability of using a midwife? Have any of our ladies ever used a midwife in their child bearing experience? Would you recommend a midwife for someone else?
· What did the Egyptians ask the midwives to do? Should doctors be allowed to do whatever they decide they should do without repercussions?
· Do you believe that there are too many law suits made against doctors for failures that might occur in surgery? Should all surgeries come with a guarantee of success? Why do people try to sue other people so often? Has this made America a safer place because of law suits?
· Should parents know what sex their child is before it is born? What if the parents should want a male child, and the child is a girl child, and they decide to abort the child if it is a girl, what then? Do you think that that might ever really happen? Is abortion murder? What if you are “commanded” do so by your own government?

17But the midwives feared God, and did not as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the men children alive. 18And the king of Egypt called for the midwives, and said unto them, Why have ye done this thing, and have saved the men children alive? 19And the midwives said unto Pharaoh, Because the Hebrew women are not as the Egyptian women; for they are lively, and are delivered ere the midwives come in unto them.
· How did the midwives respond to the commandment of the government? How would you have responded?
· Did the midwives lie to the government? Is it ever wrong to lie to the government? Have you ever lied to the government, Lois?
· How would the Egyptians have known that the babies being born were not being killed? How would they have gone about determining the “sex” of a child? Isn’t that a form of government intrusion? Do you believe that we have too much government intrusion into our lives? How did this come about? Who allowed all of this to happen to us?

20Therefore God dealt well with the midwives: and the people multiplied, and waxed very mighty. 21And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he made them houses. 22And Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, Every son that is born ye shall cast into the river, and every daughter ye shall save alive.
· Was God angry with the midwives for not obeying the government? What did he do for them because of their obedience to him? Does God build houses today?
· Do you believe that most of the Jews obeyed the new commandment to have their children thrown into the River? Did the mother of Moses?