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Genesis 49:10-12 The passage discusses Jacob/Israel gathering his twelve sons to give them blessings. The scepter shall not depart from Judah, meaning the kingship will never leave Judah. This is a picture of the birth of the kingdom to come. “Until Shiloh come” refers to the Messiah, Jesus Christ. “And unto him shall the gathering of the people be” Exodus 12 Over 430 years of coming out of Egypt, with 400 years under hard bondage. The people cried out to the Lord, and He heard their cry. After coming out of Egypt, they complained to Moses that they were led out to die. Moses went up on the mountain to receive the Ten Commandments, written on tablets of stone by God’s own hand. The commandments include “Thou shalt not kill” and “Thou shalt not steal.” Also, “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy” and “Honor your father and your mother.” The people could not bear the weight of the commandments. Brother Cody emphasizes that “I can’t” and “you can’t,” but “He can.” Brother Cody expresses gratitude for God’s faithfulness and love. Paul’s Credentials Paul gave his credentials, including being circumcised on the eighth day and being of the stock of Benjamin. Paul counted all of his credentials as loss for the excellency of the Lord Jesus Christ, considering them as belonging in the “dump pile.” Suffering and Persecution All who live godly shall suffer persecution. If you live for God, a fight is coming, and the world will hate you. The House of God Men have turned the house of God into a den of thieves. They walk around as representatives of God in long robes, seeking the admonition of men and standing on street corners to show off their religiosity. Brother Cody notes that this tendency is in everyone. Deceiving Oneself If any man thinks himself to be something when he is nothing, he has already deceived himself. Brother Cody admits to deceiving himself in the past but notes that God was faithful and walked far out of the maze. The Valley vs. The Mountain An old preacher said he’d rather spend his time in the valley. Brother Cody initially preferred being on the mountain with the Lord. Growing occurs in the valley, through repeated experiences. Something must die before something can come up. 400 Years of Silence There was about 400 years of silence before John the Baptist began to preach in the wilderness. John preached repentance, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. When Jesus stepped into the river Jordan and was baptized, God opened the heavens, and the Holy Ghost came down. Brother Cody believes the law was fulfilled at this moment, not at Calvary. The law was the schoolmaster that brought us to Christ. The law teaches that you are a sinner and that the rights of God are on your hands, which you cannot carry. Temptation in the Wilderness Jesus went into the wilderness and was tempted for 40 days. Afterward, He began to preach, pointing to God and performing miracles to show that the power of God had not diminished. Law of the Willer vs. Law of the Giver In the fulfillment of God’s law, people are on the mountain with God. Brother Cody encourages listeners not to be concerned with what the world is doing, as the Bible says it will happen. Brother Cody battles with his flesh and relies on Psalm 73 until he understands. Blessed Are They Blessed are they that hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled. When sin was revived, Paul died, revealing that he was dead in his trespasses and sins. He was alienated and an enemy of God, with the wrath of God abiding on his head. Only Jesus Christ could get him out of that state. Damascus Road Paul was persecuting the church, thinking he was doing God’s will. God met him on the road to Damascus and said, “Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?” It is hard to kick against the pricks, a reference to the person of the law. Thorns When transgression took place and they were cast out of the garden, thorns came up out of the ground, and they were under a curse. If a man strives for mastery, he does not prevail unless he does it lawfully. Enoch and Noah Enoch walked with God and was not, for God took him. Noah found grace in the eyes of God and also walked with God. To walk with God, it must be done the correct way. Grace Grace came to where Brother Cody was, revealing by the law of God that he had trespassed against the Lord and broken His commands. Brother Cody emphasizes that he doesn’t want to go to heaven if just anything and everything is let in. It is by grace through faith, but not Brother Cody’s faith, but what He has given in measure. It increases every time Brother Cody denies himself, takes up his cross, and bothers after Him. Faith increases when one sees that He is faithful. Victory Ground Brother Cody stands on the victory ground, nose to nose with the devil, and sees pieces of art, every one of them is Jesus Christ. Armor of God Brother Cody references the armor of God, including the helmet of salvation and the breastplate of righteousness. David said, “Restore unto me the joy of my salvation.” Brother Cody’s righteousness is filthy rags; it is not his work of righteousness but the precious blood of the Lamb. Feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, in hope of eternal life, which God cannot lie about. God brought peace between Brother Cody and his maker, reconciliation. Brother Cody urges true believers to be reconciled unto God. Invitation Brother Cody says that if he is lifted up, he will draw all men unto himself. He is still drawing and saving today, calling men to preach and serve Him. Delight in the Law David said, “I delight in thy law.” The law is precious, and Brother Cody is no longer under a curse because he spent a fee and that was written in his heart. He has been made free by the perfect law of liberty, by the law of faith. His performance in keeping the law is not what is getting him there, but God is ahead of him to keep it. Advocate If any man sins, he has an advocate with the Father. Brother Cody believes in preaching the truth, not tickling ears. It is not because of grandma and grandpa or what church you go to that you get into heaven. It is God’s doing, God’s drawing. Lord, Lord On that day, many will come saying, “Lord, Lord.” They will plead, “Did we not pray? Did we not go to church? Did we not hand out pamphlets?” But that will not be enough. You must be born again and get His Spirit. He puts His Spirit in you and helps you to walk godly. Shiloh The Savior of Judah shall not depart, nor the lawgiver from between His feet, until Shiloh comes. Riding into the City When Jesus came into the city, He was riding on an ass and a colt. Brother Cody notes that the colt is shorter than the ass, meaning the choice part of the true vine is under His feet. You can come under His feet and acknowledge that He is Lord today. Salvation A salvation act is getting to walk with Him, talk with Him, and know Him. Every day, Brother Cody gets to see Him come where he is and see how faithful He is to pick him up. Brother Cody will cast every crown at His feet, acknowledging that He has done it all. God’s Perspective God is not a man that He should lie; He does not see as man sees; He looks at the heart. Everything God has been ministering to Brother Cody has been said on the phone while driving and in prayer. God is not concerned about your performance but will perform it through you. When you get born again, you will know Him. The King of Sinners On this side, Brother Cody has to face a dirty, rocked, low-down, no-good sinner that loves sin, the king of sinners. Yet, He wore my crown. Brother Cody should have been the one crucified, beaten, mocked, and crucified. He was beaten so badly that His visage was marred more than any man’s, unrecognizable. The only one who never knew sin, without spot or blemish, prayed for Brother Cody and you on that cross. Thieves on the Cross Both thieves railed at Him, but one had a changed heart. God ponders the heart of man. Brother Cody can fool others, but he cannot hide from God. There is no profit in being fake. Knowing Him To know Him is for Him to reveal what you really are. You do not know yourself like you think you do. The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked. That is why He puts His Spirit in your heart. You must be honest with yourself; it is just you and Him. He sent His Son to die for a bunch that did not deserve it. He who knew no sin was made to be sin. Death could not hold Him; now He has eternal life. Walking Miracle Brother Cody is a walking miracle. Do not neglect so great salvation. God has been good to Brother Cody. He needs God because he knows what he is capable of. He has drunk in the ditches his whole life. If you can just reach a finger out there and grab a hold, you will find that He never will leave you nor forsake you. Perception is not right; God is doing exactly what it takes for you to get where you need to be. Job When God said Job was perfect, He was talking to the dead. God was thinking about His own mother. We are going to be made like Him; we are going to be changed. David said, “I will behold his face in righteousness; I shall be satisfied when I awake in his likeness.” Abundance of God His teeth are white with milk so we can get in on the abundance of God. There are valleys on the mountain that become a place where Brother Cody knows he is fixing to draw near to God. He is fixing to learn more about who He is and find out that He is faithful and loves him to the uttermost. When he fell, he has been justified. A just man falls seven times and gets back up. Elijah When Elijah sent his servant to see if there was rain, the servant came back and said there was nothing. Elijah said, “Go again.” When you think that there is nothing, just go again. There will be a little cloud po

Psalms 51 Elder Roger feels unable to preach God’s word without God and the Holy Spirit. Asks for prayers. The message comes from a Monday night men’s meeting and has been contemplated for a couple of weeks. Brother Tommy was expected to preach on it Sunday but didn’t directly address it. Elder Roger is focusing on Psalms 51, emphasizing that the interpretation is personal and divinely inspired. Have Mercy Upon Me, O God Elder Roger believes asking for God’s mercy should be a daily practice. Acknowledges personal shortcomings and the need for divine mercy, regardless of perceived goodness. This sentiment should be shared by all born-again Christians. Asks God to reveal shortcomings and iniquities. Expresses gratitude to the Lord. Churches today don’t want people to think badly about them. Wash Me Thoroughly From My Iniquities Recalls own baptism shortly after being saved. Baptism is not essential for salvation but is a desired act of cleansing before God. Believes in full immersion baptism, symbolizing complete cleansing under the blood of Jesus Christ. Acknowledges personal sinfulness post-baptism. Only Jesus was without sin. Emphasizes the availability of forgiveness through God. Cleansing is internal, transforming the soul. God replaces the “old stony heart” with a pure one. Internal change is more important than outward appearances or religious displays. Example: One can dress well and attend church regularly, but the internal state matters most. Asks for daily cleansing to avoid carrying “filthy stuff” in the heart. One should strive to be as clean as on the day of salvation. Allowing God to cleanse enables one to walk with Christ and have Jesus in their heart. Restore Unto Me My Joy Christians should exhibit joy due to their salvation and eternal life with God. Contrasts this with the sad demeanor sometimes seen in those claiming to be born again. Being washed in the blood of Jesus Christ is something to be proud of. Encourages those who have lost their joy to ask God to restore it. God is just and righteous to do so. Elder Roger values the joy of salvation more than any amount of money. Finds joy and comfort in knowing that heaven awaits. Something changed internally upon salvation. The comforter didn’t leave us. If lost, one should be worried. Jesus loves everyone and they need to come to him to ask him to save them. Renew a Right Spirit Within Me Expresses concern that some churchgoers, even in sister churches, may not truly understand the Spirit of God. Fear that the true Spirit of God would scare them. God speaks to everyone, not just preachers. Encourages taking time for one-on-one connection with God. Examples: Go to the basement, swing outside, walk. Listen to what God and the Holy Spirit have to say. Laments the decline in people’s willingness to listen to God. Recalls stories of past revivals with large crowds inside and outside the church. Salvation of people is not old-fashioned. Attributes such revivals to the Holy Spirit working through the prayers of church members. Questions when the last time a lost person was seen in the church. If lost people come through the doors of the church, God will do the rest. Emphasizes the importance of attracting lost people to the church. God can save people anywhere, but the church is a good place to experience love. The church should show love to lost individuals who may walk through the doors. Otherwise, they might turn around and walk back out. Invitation Believes an invitation should be given every time the church doors are open. Offers to pray with anyone in need, while acknowledging personal limitations in helping others. Refers to Psalm 23.

Proverbs 4:20-23 – Keeping Your Heart Focus on Proverbs 4:20-23. Verse 20: “My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings.” Verse 23: “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” The Enemy’s Attack The enemy is after every heart, saved or lost. Yielding to the enemy leads to destruction of oneself and family. The enemy will tear down everything you love and leave you with nothing. Personal Responsibility There is a responsibility to keep our heart. Not keeping oneself, but guarding the heart from the enemy’s attacks. Need help from the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, and the church. This does not relieve the personal responsibility to pray and keep your heart according to the Word of God. Letting your guard down allows the enemy to ruin your testimony and steal your joy and peace. Importance of Heeding God’s Word Pay attention to God’s word to avoid a high price from the enemy. Focus on and remind yourself of the adversary. The adversary seeks to devour and can tear up your home, family, and work. This happens when we open our heart and don’t keep it with all diligence. Personal Responsibility and Holiness Importance of personal responsibility in serving God, walking right, and living right. God has called everyone to righteousness and holiness. The only way to please God is to do what He says. The Heart as the Source of Issues Every issue comes from the heart. Mark 7:21-23: Out of the heart of men proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within and defile the man. The heart is capable of both good and evil. Luke 6:45: A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things, and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil things. The heart needs attention and care. People are often more careful about their flesh and mind than their heart. When something not of God is in your heart, it will manifest one day. The Example of David David’s failure as an example of not guarding the heart. David saw Bathsheba and lusted after her because his heart had not been guarded. He should have been with his men in battle, but he was idle in the king’s castle. If you’re going to guard your heart, you better be where you’re supposed to be. If you’re in a place you ain’t supposed to be, you need to get out of there. David didn’t wake up wanting to commit adultery, but he didn’t keep his heart. If he had kept his heart, he would have been with his people and not in a position where the enemy could tilt his heart. The suffering David endured after his sin wasn’t worth it. If your heart is leaning toward something, make sure you’re keeping it with all diligence. Introspectively look and see where you’re at with God. Every evil thing starts in the heart. Giving attention to the flesh leads to being in a mess like David. It took a year for David’s heart to get right with God after Nathan’s message. David’s actions after getting Bathsheba pregnant. Calling on Joab to send Uriah home. Writing a letter for Uriah to carry, which was his death warrant. David thought he had fooled God, but Nathan revealed his sin. God spared David’s life but took the life of the child. The sword would never depart from David’s house. David recognized the problem started in his heart. Psalms 51:10: “Create within me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” He fell to the snare of the enemy because something was hidden and neglected in his heart. God restored David, but it cost him his son’s life and Uriah’s life. David showed up at the temple, but still fell. Diligence and Focus on the Heart Keep your heart with all diligence. Diligence means being focused and having all your attention pointing to it. Focusing on the flesh will lead to a road that will cost you dearly. Prayer is essential for keeping your heart. Commitment to prayer, getting serious with God, and opening yourself before Him. Let the Holy Spirit look in you. David asked God to search him and see if there was any wicked way in him. If you’re not praying, you’re leaving the door wide open for the devil. God helps every time you pray, either strengthening you, blessing you, or giving you what you need. Make time for prayer. You don’t have time not to pray. Our ancestors had a commitment to prayer. The Word of God is full of truth and stands against the lies of the world. Hide the Word in your heart that you might not sin against God. Give attention to the Word of God. The Word of God shines into our heart. Need to get focused on our heart and honest before God. Ask God to cleanse and purge your heart. The Word of God, prayer, and the Holy Spirit of God work together to fortify, restore, protect, and keep your heart. Three Key Actions for the Heart Love God with all your heart (Deuteronomy 6). Love Him more than the world, your husband, your wife, or your children. Seek God with all your heart (Psalm 119:2). Blessed is the man that keepeth his commandments, and seeketh the Lord with all of his heart. Trust in the Lord with all your heart (Proverbs 3). Loving, seeking, and trusting God with all your heart provides help. Consequences of Neglecting the Heart If they had kept their focus on their heart, they wouldn’t have failed. David would have gone back and done things differently if he could. He would have gotten out of the castle and back to where he was supposed to be. Need help to protect our heart from the world, its wickedness, deception, and lies. There is too much at stake to fall. Issues of life, good or bad, come from the heart. Romans 10:10: With the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. God saved the invisible part, the soul. We ought to do our part. Need the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, and prayer every day to build fortification around us. When the heart falls, the flesh quickly falls. God is a God of second chances. Confess your sin, and He is faithful and just to forgive you and cleanse you of all unrighteousness. Each person has a responsibility to keep their heart and an opportunity every day to love God, seek God, and trust God. If you don’t keep your heart with all diligence, the enemy will exploit that weakness. Take this message into your heart and remind yourself every day to ask for God’s help to focus on your heart. Final Encouragement Every person is important and precious in the eyes of God. God has given us prayer, His Word, and the Holy Spirit to help us. The Holy Spirit will help you when you look over the fence or off the terrace like David did. The enemy wants to destroy you, your family, and every opportunity of salvation they might get by making you fall. Do what David did: go back to God. David begged God for seven days to spare the child. David knew he had lost his heart and prayed for forgiveness. When the child died, David got up, cleaned up, ate, and went to the house of God and worshiped. David began to focus on his heart again that day. There are issues of the heart that will get you. Do everything you can to guard your heart. If you need to pray, come pray. If you haven’t prayed about your heart in a while, get started. Give up whatever you have to in your life to get back to focusing on your heart.

Introduction: In Spite of the Devil, I’m Here Pastor Tommy acknowledges the presence of an adversary, the devil, who hates and seeks to destroy. The devil is described as a liar and the father of lies, who comes to steal, kill, and destroy. Despite the devil’s efforts, Pastor Tommy is present, emphasizing that the devil’s attempts to stop Jesus failed. The devil is given too much power when allowed into one’s heart and mind, enabling him to destroy, kill, and steal. It is argued that individuals have the power to deny the devil access to their hearts, minds, and lives, citing the scripture that “greater is he that’s in you than he that’s in the world.” Pastor Tommy expresses hatred and contempt for the devil and sin, having witnessed their destructive impact on lives. Examples include ruining lives, causing people to sacrifice peace and joy for things of little eternal value. Despite personal tendencies and weaknesses, Pastor Tommy affirms that getting right with God provides power over the devil. The Devil’s Attempts from the Beginning From the creation of Adam and Eve, the devil has tried to thwart God’s plans. God created Adam and Eve in perfection and instructed them not to eat from a specific tree, warning of death as a consequence. The devil, in the form of a serpent, tempted Eve, leading to their disobedience. The devil continues to try to tear lives apart, leading people down a path of misery. Pastor Tommy gives God all the credit for keeping him safe and trusting God to lead him home. Keeping one’s eyes on Jesus provides power over the devil, who must filter his actions through God. Jesus Defeated the Devil at the Cross There is no need to live to feed the devil, as Jesus defeated him at the cross, holding the keys of death and hell. Adam and Eve’s fall resulted in a sinful nature inherited by all humans, leading to death. Jesus provided a remedy for sin through his death on the cross, offering a way to go free. God made a way for Adam and Eve, sacrificing a lamb to clothe them after their eyes were opened to their sin. God cast them out of the garden to prevent them from partaking of the tree of life, which represents salvation through Jesus. God is Greater Than the Devil If the devil could have destroyed Adam and Eve or God’s creation, he would have, but he couldn’t. God is greater than the devil, who is a created being, not a god, and will ultimately be destroyed by God. God told the serpent that “her seed shall bruise your head,” indicating a future defeat of the devil. Pastor Tommy expresses anger towards the devil and a desire for others to see they don’t have to live under his influence. God has never lost a battle and remains in charge, despite the presence of sin and wickedness in the world. God prophesied throughout the Old Testament about sending a savior with power over the devil, coming through Abraham’s seed. Isaiah 7:14 prophesied that a virgin would conceive and bring forth a son named Immanuel. God has never been defeated and has all power. God Told the Devil How He Would Bring the Savior God revealed that the Savior would be born of a virgin, conceived through the Holy Spirit, as the God-man Emmanuel. The devil tried to kill out the people of God, knowing the Messiah would come through them, from Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, down to David. God told the devil how he would bring the Savior, and the devil couldn’t stop it. God also told the devil when and where the Savior would be born, in Bethlehem, during a time of great desolation. The devil didn’t even know when Jesus was born. The three wise men asked Herod, “Where is he that is born King of the Jews?” The devil relies on what he can see, hear, and what other devils tell him, but he doesn’t know everything. People should resist the devil and let God help them. The Birth of Jesus Despite the Devil The devil didn’t know where Jesus was, and Herod asked the wise men to find him and report back. The devil didn’t hear the angel’s announcement to the shepherds about the birth of a savior in Bethlehem. Jesus was born in the quiet of a Bethlehem night, with only him, his mother, and Joseph present. The devil is a liar and a cheat who steals what belongs to people through Christ, and they shouldn’t give him that power. Herod sent his men out too late, about two years after Jesus’ birth, to kill the children in an attempt to eliminate Jesus. God warned Joseph in a dream to take the young child and his mother to Egypt, and they left without trouble. The devil didn’t even know Jesus walked into his own house in Egypt. The Devil’s Power is Limited The devil doesn’t have all power and is a created being. The only time Pastor Tommy wrestles with the devil is when he resists him. The devil is an angelic being who would destroy if he could, but Jesus prays for believers. Herod’s strategy was to hope he killed Jesus among the infants, but the devil was present on Jordan’s bank when John the Baptist preached. The devil didn’t know John was the forerunner of Christ or that Jesus was the Lamb of God. John baptized Jesus, and the Holy Spirit descended like a dove, with God declaring, “I’m here, I’m here, I’m here,” to the devil. They started trying to kill Jesus from that day, but they couldn’t. Greater is He That’s in Me Pastor Tommy affirms that his God has never lost a battle and won’t start with him. Greater is he that’s in me than he that’s in the world. Every time Pastor Tommy prays for help, God is there, and the devil has no answer for him. Resisting the devil causes him to flee, and drawing near to God results in God drawing near. The best way to resist the devil is through one’s flesh, which is the root of sin, including lust of the eye, pride of life, and lust of the flesh. God created humans with the ability to decide, and creating the devil, knowing he would turn, allows for the knowledge of good. God created the devil without all power or the ability to create himself again. The devil rebelled in his heart against God and was cast out with a third of the angels, wreaking havoc on earth. The devil is limited in what he can do and must be let in. Calvary and the Resurrection For 28 years, the devil may have thought he had killed Jesus through Herod’s actions. For three and a third years, the devil tried to get rid of Jesus, leading to Calvary. The devil thought he had Jesus when he was being scourged and crucified, but he didn’t realize that this was the very thing that would save humanity. The devil was nervous when Jesus willingly laid down his life, not knowing that his crucifixion was part of God’s plan. On the third day, when the angel rolled away the stone, the devil realized Jesus was gone and he didn’t have that power. Jesus appeared to Mary in the garden, and the devil didn’t even know it. Jesus met with his disciples and appeared to 500 people after his resurrection. The devil realized he couldn’t prevent what had already happened or stop Jesus from returning. The Devil’s Current Strategy The devil’s primary goal today is to stop believers, targeting them from the moment they are saved. Despite the devil’s efforts, believers are still here because he has nothing on God. If believers quit messing around with the devil and his ways and give themselves to Christ, walking in the spirit, he has no choice. Pastor Tommy has found refuge in prayer, scripture, and fellowship with other believers, where the devil cannot go. God fills his house with his spirit, providing relief and driving the devil away. The devil only has the power that is given to him. Through Christ, believers can do all things, and none of those given to Jesus will be lost. The devil’s attacks make believers stronger, and he should give up. The devil is trying to stop the church and will use every angle to make believers give up. People need to bow before the king of glory and let him transform their lives.

The Word of God The importance of the Bible. Without it, knowledge would be limited. It sets people free and offers a new life. Matthew 28:1-6 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary visit the sepulcher. A great earthquake occurs. An angel descends, rolls back the stone, and sits on it. The angel’s appearance: countenance like lightning, raiment white as snow. The keepers shake with fear and become as dead men. The angel tells the women not to fear. He knows they seek Jesus, who was crucified. Jesus is not there; He has risen as He said. The angel instructs them to tell the disciples that Jesus is risen and will go before them into Galilee. The Empty Tomb The ladies were seeking Jesus. Their responsibility was to take care of the body after it was delivered to the tomb. Jesus gave up his life; it was not taken from him. Isaiah’s prophecy: Jesus bore the iniquity of us all. God put the iniquity of all mankind on Jesus. Jesus bore the embarrassment, humiliation, rebellion, and unlovingness of sin. Jesus died for future sins. Every sin He died for was future for those born after that day. God accepted the blood of Christ as atonement for sin. Galatians 4: God sent His Son to redeem those under the law so we might receive the adoption of sons. Having Jesus in one’s heart because He died for our sins. Joseph of Arimathea Joseph of Arimathea, a rich man and counselor, was secretly a disciple of Christ. Being a disciple of Christ secretly for fear of the world. Being afraid of ridicule or standing out for one’s faith. Joseph went to Pilate to ask for Jesus’ body. It was approaching evening, and they needed to take the body off the cross before sundown. Pilate marveled that Jesus was already dead. The legs of the others were broken to hasten their death, but Jesus was already dead. To be sure, they pierced Jesus in the side, and blood and water came out. Every drop of Jesus’ blood was for sin so that people could go free. Joseph went back to the cross to take the body off. Joseph was not alone; Nicodemus showed up. Nicodemus, who had previously come to Jesus at night, now revealed his belief. Nicodemus brought about a hundred-pound weight of ointments and spices. Joseph and Nicodemus prepared Jesus’ body and wrapped it. They carried the body to a new tomb that Joseph had hewn out. No corpse had ever been in this tomb. The Burial and the Guard Jesus was dead. The penalty for sin is death. Adam was told he would surely die if he ate the forbidden fruit. Jesus Christ became the propitiation for all our sins. Mary Magdalene and the other Mary followed them as they carried Jesus’ body to the tomb. They stooped down to enter the tomb. Humbling oneself before God leads to seeing the light and finding life. They laid Jesus in the tomb and rolled a great stone at the door. Mary and Mary Magdalene witnessed exactly where Jesus was laid and the stone being rolled over the door. The Pharisees and Sadducees were nervous and went to Pilate. They reminded Pilate that Jesus had said He would rise again in three days. The Pharisees, unlike the disciples, seemed to believe Jesus’ prophecy. They feared the disciples would steal the body and claim Jesus had risen. Pilate instructed them to make the tomb as secure as possible. They sealed the stone with Herod’s seal. The Visit to the Sepulchre Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the sepulcher at the end of the Sabbath. They wondered who would move the stone. Doubt and unbelief can keep people from seeing the empty tomb. The world needs to know the truth: Jesus is not dead anymore. At the very moment one begins to seek Jesus, He has already sought them. The tomb was sealed and had a rock in front of the door. Divine help intervenes when it is needed most. Unbelief leads to torment. Hell is full of the wicked, agnostic, and atheist. They could not get past the stone. No one finds God on their own; divine help is needed. If there were another way to heaven, God would not have sent His Son to be crucified. Divine intervention moves the rock of earthly intellect and human understanding, giving faith. Never having been to Jerusalem or seen the tomb. It doesn’t matter if one has seen the tomb; what matters is that Jesus is alive in one’s heart. He is Risen The people of God are too quiet about the truth. The life-giving force for believers is the three words: “He is risen.” The ladies wondered who would move the stone. The Holy Ghost convinces people that they are lost and need a Savior. It is expedient that Jesus went away so the Comforter could come. The Comforter, the Spirit, will guide and lead in all truth and righteousness. If one is not saved through the power of the Holy Spirit, they are not saved. There is only one way to heaven: through the shed blood of Jesus Christ. Being born in the Spirit is essential; religion, church membership, and baptism alone do not save. When the Holy Spirit speaks to the heart and invites one to come to Him, that is the moment to bow one’s heart. Jesus gives eternal life, and believers shall never perish. The angels helped the ladies. The guards were hired to keep watch over the tomb. The stone was not holding Jesus in; He came out on His own. The stone was rolled back so that others could see the empty tomb. What is behind the stone of unbelief? It covers the heart and separates one from the truth of Jesus Christ. The ground began to shake. When one gets born again, earthly experiences fade away. Divine intervention takes place, and one’s attention is solely on God. God moves the stone, and unbelief drifts away. The angel of the Lord descended and rolled back the stone. The keepers fell as dead men. Everything that would keep the ladies from knowing the truth about Jesus Christ had been dealt with. When Jesus comes to someone, everything else melts away. The stone had to move. Even the disciples didn’t believe at first because they still had a stone in the way. The Holy Ghost will show up and move the stone so one can see the truth. The truth is that Jesus died for our sins, shed His blood, and is alive. The stone was moved by the angel, and the keepers were no longer a problem. The Truth The only thing needed was the truth. Salvation requires divine intervention; one cannot be saved apart from the Holy Spirit. No one seeks after God on their own. The Holy Spirit moves in one’s life. Each person is given a measure of faith, just enough. The greatest gift is when God moves the stone and gets rid of the keepers. The ladies heard that Jesus was not there. The three words “He is risen” changed their lives. The greatest news is that He is risen. Someone has to help with the stone of unbelief. When the Holy Ghost shows up, one starts paying better attention. When the heart listens instead of the ears, it’s getting close. When one hears Him speak and say, “I’ve come for you. I want to save you,” one will know in their heart that He is alive. He is alive forevermore. The angel said, “I know who you’re looking for. You’re looking for Jesus. He’s not here.” He is risen. The primary difference between all other religions and Christianity is that our Savior is alive. In Revelation, Jesus says, “I am he that was alive and was dead, and am alive forevermore.” The reason to believe is that He now lives within. One needs their own experience to know that He is alive. All that is needed is for some things to be moved out of the way. What better day to be born again than Easter morning? Surrender to Christ and believe.

Gratitude and Testimony Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to preach and fellowship. Feeling blessed and thankful for health and strength. Mentioning struggles and expenses, but trusting in the Lord’s timing. Reading from 1 Samuel 12, emphasizing fearing and serving the Lord. Verses 18-24 are highlighted, focusing on avoiding wickedness and serving in truth. Specific verses mentioned: 1 Samuel 12:18-24 Psalms 145:17-20 Sharing a message about great things God has done. Referencing Mark 5:15, 19, about a man possessed who was healed and told to share God’s compassion. Connecting personal experiences to the scripture, emphasizing God’s love for sinners. Easter and God’s Love Focusing on the true meaning of Easter: the crucifixion and resurrection, not just “rabbits and eggs.” Highlighting Romans 5:8, emphasizing God’s love while we were sinners. Referencing Jeremiah 31:3, speaking of God’s everlasting love. Defining spiritual love versus “puppy love,” emphasizing Christ’s love in the heart. Mentioning 1 John 4:8 and 4:19, stating “God is love” and we love Him because He first loved us. Reflecting on personal experiences and acknowledging being saved and thankful. Repentance and Salvation Expressing gratitude for being called to repentance. Recalling an experience at an old-fashioned altar. Sharing a story about a man running from the Lord who eventually surrendered at the altar. Referencing John 6:37, emphasizing that those given by the Father will come to Jesus and not be cast out. Acknowledging past “mean” behavior and expressing gratitude for God changing his life. Highlighting John 6:44, stating that no one can come to Jesus unless drawn by the Father. Sharing a story about praying with a man for several nights who felt turned over to a reprobate mind. Warning against being hard-hearted and rejecting the word of God. Referencing 1 John 1:9, emphasizing confession of sins and forgiveness. Mentioning Ephesians 1:7, highlighting redemption through Christ’s blood and forgiveness of sins. Acknowledging personal imperfections and looking forward to a glorified body. Expressing confidence in his calling to preach, despite occasional self-doubt. Emphasizing the need to live for God and trust in His grace for every need. Trusting God and Overcoming Sharing a testimony about a son’s recovery, attributing it to God’s blessing. Referencing Luke 13:5, warning that without repentance, one will perish. Sharing a story about a girl who shared a problem and later received bad news, emphasizing the need for prayer. Highlighting Matthew 11:28, inviting all to come to Jesus for rest. Emphasizing the importance of daily prayer and seeking forgiveness. Reflecting on past sins and the devil’s attempts to drag one down. Emphasizing the need to stay close to God for victory. Salvation by Grace Emphasizing salvation through grace by faith, not by works. Referencing Ephesians 2:8-9 to support this point. Stating there is nothing to boast about. Sharing an experience at the hospital where someone acknowledged his work for God. Sharing a personal health experience and attributing healing to God. Highlighting Romans 10:9, emphasizing confession and belief for salvation. Stating there is no place to hide from God, referencing Jeremiah and Revelation 6:16. Emphasizing the need to wake up and realize God’s love and protection. Referencing Romans 4:21, emphasizing being fully persuaded that God can perform what He has promised. Mentioning praying for various individuals, including Branson and a neighbor named Custer. Acknowledging God’s mercy in daily life. Sharing a story about a brother on a breathing machine in the hospital. Referencing Acts 17:28, stating that in Him we live, move, and have our being. Highlighting Psalm 150:6, stating that everything that has breath should praise the Lord. Sharing an anecdote about a preacher making a humorous point about breathing. Eternal Life and Readiness Expressing anticipation for eternal life with the Lord. Referencing Philippians 1:21, stating that to live is Christ and to die is gain. Sharing the story of Lazarus and emphasizing God’s perfect timing. Referencing 1 Samuel 1:24, sharing the story of Hannah and emphasizing that God supplies our needs. Expressing being sheltered in the arms of God. Emphasizing the need for God’s mercy and love. Highlighting the soon return of Christ for the saints. Sharing an experience at a wedding and anticipating the marriage supper of the Lamb. Emphasizing the endless ages with God in heaven. Warning about the dangers on the highway and the need to be ready for Christ’s return. Referencing Revelation 19:7, emphasizing the marriage of the Lamb and the bride arrayed in fine linen. Judgment and Salvation Emphasizing the coming judgment and the need to be saved. Sharing a story about being called “too wild” and emphasizing the need to wake up to the end times. Expressing joy in being saved and praising God. Highlighting 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, describing the Lord’s descent from heaven and the catching up of believers. Emphasizing God’s purpose in gathering together. Acknowledging personal limitations and expressing gratitude for salvation. Emphasizing the suddenness of Christ’s return. Extending an invitation to come to the altar for prayer and thanksgiving. Expressing love for the pastor and the church. Encouraging love and prayer for one another. Sharing a story about a boy who lost his leg but is now doing well, and another who had a health scare that woke him up. Emphasizing the need to be on our knees and seek God’s help. Acknowledging the bad shape of the world and the need for a friend in Jesus. Encouraging everyone to get closer to God and listen to Him. Expressing a desire to help others and sharing an example of offering help to a lady. Expressing confidence in the fellow preachers and their willingness to help. Encouraging those present to thank God for their families and blessings. Acknowledging that life is not perfect but emphasizing God’s help. Praying for God to speak to hearts and inviting people to come forward.

The Story of the Woman with the Issue of Blood The story from Mark 5 is about a woman who had been dealing with an issue of blood for twelve years. She had spent all her money on physicians, but instead of getting better, she grew worse. She was considered unclean due to the blood issue and was not allowed to be among the public. The Woman’s Faith The woman heard that Jesus was coming and decided to do something about her situation. She believed that if she could just touch Jesus’ clothes, she would be made whole. Her faith was so great that she believed she would be healed, and her only question was whether she could get to Jesus. Pastor Tommy contrasts the woman’s great faith with the struggles they sometimes have with faith. Pastor Tommy expresses a desire to have the kind of faith that the woman had. Pastor Tommy wants to trust God for who He is and what He has said He will do. Overcoming Obstacles The woman faced obstacles in getting to Jesus, including her weakness and the large crowd. She pressed through the crowd and touched the hem of Jesus’ garment. Pastor Tommy believes she likely ended up on her knees to reach the hem of the garment. Pastor Tommy emphasizes that a good way to get to Jesus is on one’s knees, humbling oneself before God. Pastor Tommy believes that when faith calls on the faithfulness of God, Jesus will be close. The Healing and its Significance The instant the woman touched the hem of Jesus’ garment, she was immediately healed. She felt it in her body and was filled with excitement and hope. Jesus felt virtue go out of him and asked who touched his clothes. Pastor Tommy emphasizes that when faith intersects with the faithfulness of Christ, a miracle occurs. Pastor Tommy believes that this miracle is something that one could not do themselves and only God could do. Pastor Tommy wants their faith to touch God and receive virtue in return. Pastor Tommy asks if one has really prayed and believed if their faith is not intersecting with God’s faithfulness. The Result of Faith The woman, knowing she was found out, fell down before Jesus and told him the whole truth. Jesus said to her, “Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.” She not only got healed but also received peace. Pastor Tommy believes that when she gets to heaven, the woman will say that the issue of blood never bothered her again. Pastor Tommy emphasizes that Jesus makes people whole, not just better. Pastor Tommy believes that there are people who need the healer that makes them whole. Invitation to Seek Healing and Peace Pastor Tommy invites those who need prayer to trust in God and believe that He is present and moving. Pastor Tommy encourages people to step out on faith and believe God for what they need. Pastor Tommy believes that some have waited too long and allowed a small wound to become infected. Pastor Tommy wants to touch Jesus and be made whole every time, so that they can have a peace that passes all understanding and share it with others. Pastor Tommy believes that one may have to press through pride and oneself to get to Jesus. Pastor Tommy assures that if one gets to Jesus, He will make them whole and fix what is wrong with them.

Initial Feelings and Unworthiness Nervous about speaking. Feels unworthy of the opportunity to speak. Asks for prayers to calm nerves and for the Lord to have His way. Requests prayers for his wife to return to the will and house of God. Recalls a past experience at Mountain View Baptist Church where he made mistakes while preaching. Scripture: 1 Corinthians 2:1-2 Paul did not come with excellency of speech or wisdom. Paul determined to know nothing except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Prayer Asks God to take over his body and use him as a servant. Prays for God to speak to hearts and save those who don’t know Him. Thanks God for the opportunity to proclaim His Word. Expresses gratitude for Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. Observations and Reflections A door slamming shut at work prompted thoughts about God’s work. A strong wind pushed a large rock out of the way to slam the door. Burning brush at night led to reflections on life’s fleeting nature. Life is like a vapor, here today and gone tomorrow. Embers blowing in every direction. The Importance of Knowing Christ Paul focused on knowing only Christ crucified. Wants to be wise enough to win souls for Christ. Doesn’t want to see lives wasted, ending in hell. Noah’s Ark Noah built the ark as God instructed. Noah proclaimed God’s coming judgment and love while building the ark for 120 years. Noah told people about Jesus and the love of God. Noah warned of God’s wrath and the need for safety in the ark. “Pitching” the ark within and without symbolizes the blood of Jesus Christ. Pitch is the same as the blood that Jesus Christ shed. Believes Noah was telling people about Jesus. Whosoever will may enter the ark and be saved. Abraham and Isaac God told Abraham to sacrifice his only son on a mountain. Abraham prepared wood and traveled with Isaac and a servant to the designated place. Abraham got up early and prepared everything. Abraham told his servants that he and Isaac would worship and return. Abraham had faith that God could raise Isaac from the dead. Isaac questioned the absence of a lamb for sacrifice. Abraham said the Lord would provide a sacrifice. The mountain was on the same ridge as Mount Calvary. The blood shed on Calvary is still effective today. Without the shedding of blood, there is no remission for sin. Abraham looked around and saw a ram caught by its horns. It had to be caught by the horns to be without blemish. The ram was Abraham’s perfect sacrifice due to his obedience. Jesus as the Perfect Sacrifice Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, willingly sacrificed Himself. Jesus looked through time and chose to go because of God’s love and man’s wickedness. Jesus offered Himself as a perfect, spotless sacrifice. Jesus willingly laid down His life. Jesus came to take away the sins of the world for those who believe. Offering Oneself to God Wants to lay down his body and offer everything to God. Believes in having faith to trust in God. Sharing Jesus is an honorable act. The gospel provides life and salvation. Jesus regained what was lost in the Garden of Eden. Jesus walked the corridors of hell for us. Accepting Jesus into our hearts is all that is required. The work of salvation is finished; it’s up to individuals to accept it. Impact of Wise Women Miss Ruth Atkins and Miss Bernice Millsaps mentored him early in his ministry. Miss Ruth shared scriptures about being wise enough to win souls. Miss Bernice was 94 and Miss Ruth was 92. They invited him to quilt with them at Coralville Center. He initially sneered at the invitation but later accepted. He brought his mother along, surprising the women. The women were ready to sow the word of God. The Ark and God’s Provision The ark represents a seed with life inside. God shut the door of the ark. God gave mankind seven days to enter the ark. God provided a way through Jesus Christ. The mountain where Abraham was to sacrifice Isaac was on the same ridge as Mount Calvary. The Nail on the Tree Isaiah speaks of a nail hung upon a tree. The key to salvation was hung there for everyone, even the worst sinners. The key was hung in a sure place because of God’s love. Personal Testimony and Challenges Works with people daily and sees himself in them. Uses Greg Watson’s visit to his wife as an illustration. Sees the lost as a challenge. Was backslidden in his teenage years, turning to alcohol and other vices. Three preachers persistently shared the love of God with him. They would come up every night and tell him about the love of God. He initially hated their persistence but knew they were telling the truth. Their faithfulness and prayers eventually led him back to God. A preacher told him to repent or his wife would be lost. He repented and begged God back into his heart. God called him to preach the gospel while he was hunting. He resisted for six years until God saved his house. Doesn’t want anyone to end up screaming from hell because they didn’t know the truth. You can judge a tree by the fruit it bears. The Importance of Faithfulness and Love We need to be like Moses, standing in the gap. We need to be faithful to God. Love is the motivation behind discipline and correction. God’s faithfulness, justice, and grace are special. It’s not a waste to love the way Christ loved. Salvation and the Gift of God The wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). Hell was created for Satan and his angels. The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ. Salvation is simple. Life is near, even at the last. God can cleanse the mind of sin and set captives free. Confessing with your tongue leads to salvation. The law cannot save you; only Jesus Christ can. Salvation is as simple as Peter stepping onto the water by faith. The scriptures are written simply enough for a child to understand. Trust in Him, believe in Him, and invite Him into your heart. God has no respect for a person or age. He knocks on the door and asks to be let in. Closing Remarks If he didn’t already have Jesus in his heart, he would run to the altar. Encourages listeners to renew their relationship with God. If you don’t know Him, this morning would be a good morning. If you have a burden for the lost, God will bless you.

Praise and Gratitude All praise, honor, and glory given to God. Acknowledging dependence on God for everything. Example: “Without God, I couldn’t do nothing.” Dealing with Worldly Cares Not worrying about the cares of the world. Example: “I ain’t worried about the cares of this world… I ain’t going to take it with me and you ain’t going to take it with you.” Message Focus: Commitment to God The message focuses on committing to God without excuses. The devil tries to create excuses to avoid church and reading the Bible. Story of Mike: A Committed Church Member Mike, a church member, passed away last Wednesday. He suffered from chronic pain in his feet, legs, and back. Initially came to church hunched over. Played the guitar and loved talking about the Lord. His condition worsened, making it impossible to stand. Needed help with cleaning and bathing. Despite the pain, Mike never complained. He would say, “Oh, God,” but never complained. Even in severe pain, he talked about the Lord and praised God. His complexion changed, and he would say, “Praise God.” He expressed a desire to attend church despite his condition. Asked for prayers to get well enough to go to church. Visited him the day before he died; he was unresponsive. Showed a slight flinch when prayed for, indicating awareness. Mike’s commitment was inspiring. He would come to church in a wheelchair, praising God. Personal Reflection on Commitment Tired of making excuses. Acknowledges working long hours and feeling tired. Preachers need to stay up, study, visit, and preach. Doing it out of love and without begrudging it. Value of Faith Faith is the most valuable thing, besides family. Wife, grandkids, and sons. The world means nothing compared to God. Not caring about worldly threats. Example: “I don’t care if they send a bomb over here tonight. I know where I’m going.” Personal Improvement Acknowledges having room for personal improvement. The message hit hard and prompted self-reflection. Luke 14:16-24: The Parable of the Great Supper A man gave a great supper and invited many. Those invited made excuses for not coming. Bought a piece of ground and needed to see it. Bought five yoke of oxen and needed to prove them. Married a wife and therefore could not come. The master, angry, instructed his servant to bring in the poor, maimed, halt, and blind. These were the outcasts. There was still room, so the servant was told to compel others to come in. Those who were initially invited will not taste the supper. The scripture is interpreted as an offer of salvation being rejected due to excuses. Excuses and Neglecting Salvation People make excuses for not coming to church. Example: “Good weather sets the lines in your face and they’ll come up with every excuse in the world.” Need to quit making excuses and just do. Falling asleep while reading the Bible is an excuse. The devil stirs up excuses. Telling you, “it’s alright,” but it is not. Wanting to be committed to God, not the world. Trusting in God’s Provision Not worrying about losing a job. God will provide. God will supply needs. Worrying about tomorrow is pointless. Tomorrow may not come. Examples of Excuses in the Bible Moses made excuses, saying he couldn’t talk plainly. God provided Aaron to help him. People worry about worldly things instead of Jesus’ return. Personal Salvation Experience Knowing what happened the night of salvation. Conviction by the Holy Spirit. Had excuses for four years before going to church. Didn’t understand the preaching initially because the heart wasn’t convicted. When convicted, got scared, and it became real. Excuses stopped. Believes that neglecting the final chance would have been a mistake. People neglect salvation by pushing it aside. Attitude of Christians Some Christians look miserable and sad. They have the greatest thing, salvation, but are unhappy. Need to be committed to God. Stop foolishness and separate from the world. God doesn’t care about worldly possessions. He cares if the blood has been applied and if one has a contrite spirit. God is ready to save those with a contrite spirit. Personal Transformation Transformed from disliking people and self to loving God. Raised by a hard mother, but she got it right before she died. Committed to getting right with God. Took 38 years to commit to God due to liking worldly things. These men in the scripture came up with excuses for not getting salvation. God was offering a spiritual meal to save their souls. Jesus died for the soul, which will live in heaven or hell. Sharing Faith A man at work asked about coming to church. The man was a “ghostbuster” and didn’t believe in a God who allows children to get hurt. Explained the curse on the world and free will. Evil targets the vulnerable, like baby animals. Some sick children will be healed, and those who aren’t will be in glory. All could be in glory if they opened their hearts. People don’t want to commit because they think they have to quit certain things. Didn’t quit anything, just changed the way of doing things. Gained a new church family. Family and Commitment Always longed for a family. Son got saved and committed to God in November. Granddaughter committed to God two weeks before him. Another granddaughter wants to get baptized but isn’t ready yet. She is afraid of dying and going to hell. God knows her heart and will call her when it’s time. Grown people are not committed to God. If not committed, one will die and go to hell. Personal Struggles and Commitment Tired of the devil coming at me. Struggles with road rage. Sees people distracted while driving and worries. Acknowledges having issues. The devil never bothered me until I got saved. The calling to preach made it worse. Need to get more committed and remove excuses. Ask God what to do instead of telling Him what He has done. God is looking for good men and women to harvest the fields. When committed, God will put you where He wants you. Ask the Lord how to start and He will show you. Made the decision to get committed to God when saved. Failed, come short, slacked, and slung. Overcoming Weakness Tiredness prevents reading the Bible. Keeps scripture in mind all day. Ponders on it and gets back into the Word. Excuses of being tired and weak. This is going to stop. Made up mind to live for the Lord and improve commitment. Pointing at self, not others. Everyone can do a little better. Not worried about the world or its pain. When told to go home from work, doesn’t argue. Has something else to do. Agrees with Valerie about the chaos in the world. Praying for the “ghostbuster” at work to open his heart to God. Was stubborn for four years, turning God away. Convicted one last time and believes turning away then would have been final. Told God she wouldn’t turn away again if allowed to come back. Tired of excuses and the devil’s interference. These men neglected salvation due to excuses. This is serious; there is healing and evil. Until committed, one will be miserable. Those who were bidden but didn’t come will not taste the supper. They neglected salvation. People neglect salvation every day in church. God knows when one does wrong. Repents when failing and coming short of God’s glory. If hard-hearted, one would forget about it due to lack of commitment. Wrongdoing bothers until repentance. Not trying to get others to come, but doing what God says. Going to get on the altar and make sure things are right with God. Room for improvement and wants to improve for God, not for show. Willing to stand for God, even if the world is burning down. Needs God’s help and will ask for it.

Jeremiah’s Prophecy and Zedekiah’s Dilemma The sermon focuses on Jeremiah chapter 37, highlighting Jeremiah’s role as a prophet and King Zedekiah’s struggle to heed God’s word. Jeremiah was appointed by God to deliver the truth, even when it was unpopular. He had to remain in Jerusalem and witness its destruction. He felt compelled to continue preaching despite facing opposition. Zedekiah reigned during a time of siege by the King of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar. Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem with 200,000 men. Zedekiah and his people did not listen to Jeremiah’s warnings. Zedekiah’s Wavering Faith Zedekiah sought Jeremiah’s prayers but struggled to accept God’s message. He asked Jeremiah to pray for them. Jeremiah told him God’s judgment was inevitable. Zedekiah hoped for deliverance from Egypt, but Jeremiah warned against relying on them. Other prophets were saying Babylon would be gone in two years. Jeremiah insisted that God’s word would prevail. Zedekiah secretly consulted Jeremiah, asking if there was any word from the Lord. Jeremiah confirmed that there was a word. The message was that Zedekiah would be delivered into the hands of the King of Babylon. The Unchanging Word of God The sermon emphasizes the consistency and trustworthiness of God’s word. Examples from the Bible illustrate that God does not change his mind. Adam was warned about eating from the forbidden tree. God promised Abraham that he would be the father of many nations. Abraham was asked to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. The word of God is the power of God unto salvation. It is the truth that remains constant. Moses and the Exodus The story of Moses is used to further illustrate the unwavering nature of God’s word. Moses was instructed to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Despite Pharaoh’s resistance, God remained committed to delivering his people. The Passover lamb and the blood on the doorposts symbolized salvation. The word of God trumps human opinions and stands firm. It is forever settled in heaven. People are accustomed to being told what they want to hear. David, Gideon, and the Power of Obedience Examples from the lives of David and Gideon demonstrate the power of obedience to God’s word. David faced Goliath because God told him to. Gideon defeated the Midianites with a small army because God instructed him. Gideon initially had too big of an army, so God reduced it to 300 men. The army broke pitchers, held up lights, blew trumpets, and cried, “The sword of the Lord and of Gideon.” The enemy soldiers killed each other. Jeremiah stood alone in proclaiming God’s message. Other prophets offered a more comforting but false narrative. Zedekiah sought a different message from Jeremiah, hoping God had changed his mind. Zedekiah’s Final Choice and Its Consequences Jeremiah warned Zedekiah that surrendering to the King of Babylon was the only way to save himself and the city. God always offers an opportunity for repentance. Despising God’s word leads to inevitable consequences. Zedekiah feared the Jews more than God and refused to surrender. He was afraid of being seen as a coward. The Babylonian army broke through the gates and captured Zedekiah. Zedekiah was forced to watch his sons being murdered before his eyes. His wives were also killed. He was then blinded and taken to Babylon, where he died. The Relevance of God’s Word Today The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of adhering to God’s word in the present day. The world is becoming increasingly intolerant of biblical truth. The word of God remains the ultimate authority. It offers promises of salvation and blessings for those who obey. The unchanging nature of God’s word provides a foundation for future generations. It will remain true even after everyone in the congregation is gone. Zedekiah sought something new, but the word of God is the best and most enduring truth. Pastor Tommy commits to continuing to preach the word of God. It has the power to save and transform lives. An invitation is extended for those who need to confess their sins and seek forgiveness.

Context of the Passage Jesus fed the 5,000 with a small amount of fish and loaves, a miracle of great magnitude. The disciples were then instructed to get into a boat and go to the other side. Jesus constrained them, meaning he told them very clearly to go. Jesus dismissed the multitudes and went to the mountain to pray. Later in the night, Jesus walked on the water towards the disciples. It was the fourth watch, the darkest period before dawn. The Last Watch The last watch is the three-hour period in the last 12 hours of darkness, just before sunrise. It’s often the coldest and darkest time. The people of God are under attack, and the enemy is trying to hinder them. It is important to learn from the faithful men in the Bible who followed God’s instructions. Lesson 1: Trouble is Universal Everyone faces trouble, fights, and unexpected hardships. The disciples were doing what the Lord had told them to do, yet they faced a contrary wind. If you are in the will of God and your heart is right with Him, you can have peace even when the winds are blowing. There is a wind for the sinner, the unrepentant, and the rebellious, which should lead them to repentance. The wind isn’t always chastening; sometimes it’s meant to grow you. Being right with God allows you to discern the purpose of the wind. When the wind blows, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re in sin. It’s important to search yourself and ask if there’s something in your life that shouldn’t be there. The wind can strengthen other people of God, like how it stretches a tree’s bark, allowing it to grow. There is value in living in the will of God, especially when the wind starts blowing. Being right with God allows you to remove sin from the equation and focus on staying the course. Just because God tells you to do something doesn’t mean there won’t be a wind or contrary forces. Lesson 2: Keep Rowing The ship was in the midst of the sea, tossed by waves, with a contrary wind. God uses different things to bring people to a place where they trust Him and grow. The disciples were toiling and rowing, doing their best to get to the other side. Even when you can’t see the light of day and the wind feels like it’s pushing you backwards, keep going. Don’t give up rowing; keep doing what you know to do. It’s darkest before the sun begins to shine, but if you’re faithful to God, He will send the light. Even when it feels like you’re spinning your wheels and not making progress, stay right with God. Give it all you’ve got and don’t give up. The devil wants you to quit, but you need God in your wheel. The disciples were in the will of God, doing what Jesus told them to do. When the wind blows and you don’t know what to do, just keep rowing. They had started out right with the Lord and were still in obedience to Him in a troublesome spot. When it gets tough, don’t stop rowing; keep going. Even if you don’t know if your steps are in vain, keep putting one foot in front of the other and trust Him. God has never failed or abandoned those who trust in Him. Lesson 3: Jesus is Close In the last watch, when it seems like you’re hindered by everything, Jesus is close. Even though they couldn’t see Him, they got a glimpse of Him walking on the water. When they saw Him, they didn’t recognize Him and thought He was a spirit, crying out in fear. Jesus called out to them, saying, “Be not afraid; it is I.” In the last darkest hour, when you feel like quitting, that’s when Jesus is closest. Even when it doesn’t feel like He’s near, He has never left nor forsaken you. Whether the wind is blowing or not, Jesus is near. When they needed Him the most, that’s when He was the nearest. They had done all they could do and were still trying when they saw the spirit coming across the water. Jesus said, “Don’t be afraid; it is I.” Additional Insights Jesus isn’t bothered by the wind like we are. He wasn’t hindered by the fact that He didn’t have a boat. Nothing can hinder the Lord from getting to your boat, not the storm, waves, wind, or absence of another boat. He will always be there when you need Him. Jesus can hear you in the wind; it doesn’t distract Him or keep Him from hearing your whisper. He said, “Be of good cheer; it is I.” When you’ve done all you can do and your strength is gone, His voice will speak to you. He’s fixing to say, “Be of good cheer; I’m fixing to calm this for you.” Whether you go to Him or He comes to you, the result is the same: He gets in your boat, and everything gets well. Be glad to be saved and thank God for a shepherd who will never leave or forsake you.

Introduction The sermon focuses on the story of the rich man and Lazarus from Luke 16:19-31. The message emphasizes what the rich man seemingly did not know, and how that applies to listeners today. The core idea is that many people live as if they don’t know certain truths about God, death, and eternity, even though they do. It Seems Like He Didn’t Know That Riches Won’t Do The rich man was clothed in purple and fine linen and fared sumptuously every day. He had worldly wealth beyond comprehension. He put his trust in something that ultimately failed him. Riches are of no value when it comes to death and the afterlife. Death is not concerned with bank accounts or tax brackets. If worldly possessions are prioritized over God, they will be of no use in the end. It’s better to live humbly and be right with God than to have worldly riches and miss out on heaven. The story is not a parable but a true account, as Lazarus’ name is mentioned. God knows the names of those who are His. It Seems Like He Didn’t Recognize That He Was His Brother’s Keeper The rich man failed to recognize his responsibility to help those in need. Cain asked, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” after killing Abel. 1 John 3 warns against shutting up compassion when seeing a need and being able to help. Regardless of one’s own spiritual state, helping those in need is a responsibility. Good neighbors help each other in times of need. The rich man passed Lazarus at his gate every day and could have offered him something. He could have given him bread or water. Everything one has is a blessing from God and can be used to minister to others. Trust God to provide so you can help others. It Seems Like He Didn’t Know That the Beggar Knew Who Jesus Was The rich man didn’t realize that Lazarus, despite his condition, knew God. Lazarus was full of sores and desired to be fed with crumbs from the rich man’s table. The dogs came and licked his sores. One’s worldly condition does not determine their relationship with God. It’s not about appearances but what’s in the heart. Lazarus was closer to God than the rich man. Jesus knew Lazarus’ name. Being born again and transformed by the power of God is what matters. Church membership and good deeds alone are not enough. The closest to God may be those who have nothing in this world. Many people trust in their riches, thinking it will sustain them. It Seems Like He Didn’t Realize That Death Was Close The rich man didn’t seem to understand the brevity of life. Life is like a vapor, here one minute and gone the next. Life is like a flower that blooms, wilts, and fades away. No one is promised another tomorrow. The world lives as if they don’t know death is on their trail. The rich man had no concept of the fragility of life. Every breath is borrowed. People live as if they will have another chance to repent and do something for God. The way one lives reveals the state of their heart. If people truly knew that today could be their last, they would live differently. They would love better, forgive, help, and give more. Most importantly, they would ensure they are ready to go to heaven. The time to make peace with God is now. Today is the day of salvation. It Seems Like He Didn’t Realize There Was a Hell The rich man died and was buried, and in hell, he lifted up his eyes in torment. He didn’t seem to know he was going to die or that he was going to hell. The Holy Ghost reveals the reality of hell. This knowledge should break one’s heart and lead them to call on Christ. The rich man did nothing in his life to prepare to escape hell. Going to church and being good to family is not enough. Anyone who truly knows hell is real would not go there on purpose. It’s irrational to live for worldly pleasures while ignoring the possibility of eternal torment. At nine years old, the reality of hell was revealed, leading to fear, weeping, and a turning to Christ. It Seems Like He Didn’t Remember or Realize That in Hell Was a Great Number of Torments In hell, the rich man could see Lazarus in Abraham’s bosom. There is a great gulf fixed between heaven and hell. Those in hell can see what’s happening in heaven, but not vice versa. The rich man asked Abraham to send Lazarus to dip his finger in water and cool his tongue. One drop of water would be like paradise in hell. Abraham refused. Abraham told the rich man to remember that in his lifetime, he received good things, and Lazarus received evil things. Those in hell will remember what they knew in life. The watchman cries out to warn people so they may know the truth. People will be reminded of what they really do know. Many people know the truth but turn a deaf ear and a blind eye to it. They will not have an excuse when they stand before God. The rich man knew that hell was forever. What matters is being ready to leave this world and having things fixed up for eternity. The rich man pleaded for his five brothers, asking that Lazarus be sent to warn them. He didn’t want them to come to that awful place. Abraham said that his brothers had Moses and the prophets. They had the same opportunity to escape hell that he did. The rich man asked for someone to be sent from the dead, thinking they would believe. If the Word of God can’t save them, neither will a resurrected person. It’s not that they seem to not know; they know. Conclusion It may seem like people don’t know that life is short and that hell awaits those who die without God. The truth is, they do know, and that knowledge makes them accountable. There will be people in hell who will remember the messages they heard, all saying, “You knew.” There is a need to do something about what you know. The Holy Ghost can reveal truths that one will never forget. Trust in Christ to escape hell and have one’s name written in His book.

Introduction: Jonah’s Disobedience The message is not just for the regular attendees but for anyone who will hear it. Example: Brother Mickey Roddy mentioned family members in two different states listening to the service online. The message serves as a reminder and a warning, urging listeners to get right with God. The sermon’s title is “Down to Joppa.” Understanding the geography is crucial to understanding Jonah’s situation. Jonah lived in Gethsemane, near Jerusalem and the temple. Jonah decided to leave the presence of the Lord, which is a terrifying prospect. Pastor Tommy emphasizes the importance of God’s presence and the fear of being without it. Pastor Tommy acknowledges personal struggles to stay right with God. Jonah’s Decision to Flee Deciding to walk away from the presence of the Lord is the worst decision one can make. The presence of the Lord is constant and provides guidance. Jonah lived close to Jerusalem, near the Mediterranean Sea. Nineveh was about 500-550 miles northeast of Jerusalem, a three-day journey (60 miles) within the city. Jonah chose to flee to Joppa (about 50 miles away) to get a boat instead of going to Nineveh. The devil can convince people to flee from God’s presence. The Consequences of Leaving God’s Presence Leaving the presence of the Lord opens one’s life to negative experiences. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of a living God. There will be times when one must decide to stand for God, even if it’s difficult. One can never truly get away from God. When standing with God, His presence guides forward. Fleeing from God involves leaving behind the church, God’s people, and family. The devil can interrupt one’s whole life after turning away from God. Many people have gone down to Joppa and found it empty and sinful. Even on a boat, one cannot escape God’s presence. Jonah’s Motivation and the Inevitability of God’s Presence Jonah didn’t like Nineveh or the Assyrians and thought they would be spared if he preached to them. Turning against God’s will requires prayer and introspection. God wants people to stay in His presence. Joppa was a short journey away, but Jonah’s decision led him to go further down. Jonah paid for a boat to Tarshish, 2,500 miles away in Spain, thinking he could escape God’s commission. Turning one’s back on God leads to a downward path with no remedy or mercy. It’s important to stay in the presence of the Lord. The Downward Spiral and the Storm Pastor Tommy knows people who have left the presence of the Lord and sought other solutions. Flesh is inclined to run from God. Leaving God leads to paying the price to ride the devil’s boat. Jonah went down into the boat, trying to hide, but God knows everyone’s direction. The Lord sent a great wind and tempest, exposing those who leave His presence to life’s storms without comfort. The presence of the Lord is worth more than anything. Even in storms, Jesus can calm them. Spiritual Sleep and Divine Intervention Many people are spiritually asleep, trying to forget God and their past fellowship. Storms will wake them up. Jonah fell asleep, but the men on the boat cast lots to find the cause of the storm, and the lot fell on Jonah. King David’s story is referenced as an example of straying from God’s presence and facing consequences. David stayed home instead of going to battle. He committed adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband killed. The prophet Nathan confronted David with a story, revealing his sin. One cannot escape the presence of the Lord, who will open their eyes. Jonah’s Confession and the Whale Jonah confessed that he was the reason for the storm. Honesty about sins is crucial. Jonah suggested being thrown overboard to stop the storm, hoping to escape God. God can take away the hope of death. Turning back to where one left God is necessary for improvement. God prepared a great fish (whale) to swallow Jonah. There is always a lower point than one imagines. In the house of God, there is firm footing. The Depths of Despair and the Cry for Help Jonah went to the bottom of the mountains, feeling trapped in the belly of hell. Jesus believed the story of Jonah. Jonah cried out from the belly of hell due to his affliction. It all started when he walked away from the presence of the Lord. People walk away from God for far less. One doesn’t know how far down it is when they leave God’s presence. Jonah thought he would be in the fish’s belly forever. Tears of affliction and sorrow will come when one goes away from God. Turning Back to God Jonah realized God wasn’t giving up on him and would keep him alive in the whale’s belly as long as he was rebellious. He decided to look toward God’s holy temple. God began to move in Jonah’s life when Jonah began to seek God again. One can be in church and still run from the presence of the Lord. There is a father for the child of God. Lost people come to church and then go back to their old ways because they never got changed. How can someone who has experienced the presence of God decide to run from that? The flesh is more powerful than one thinks. Jonah was in a bad spot when he began to look up. Then he was brought up. His prayer went up. He got prayed up. One needs to do business with God to get back on the right track. Turn around, look up, pray up, get ready, and start calling on God. He’ll start lifting you out of where you’re at. Jonah got prayed up in the belly of the whale. Repentance and Restoration Jonah was willing to sacrifice, finally willing to do what God said. The worst thing one can do is turn their back on God. One’s life will crash and end in a nasty mess. God never let Jonah out until he got right. One won’t get out from under the hand of God until they get right if they are His. Jonah got spit up. Jonah was spit out near Jerusalem, back where he started. Jonah still had the same journey to Nineveh that he had when he left. He was just many days behind. Final Exhortations and Conclusion Do not turn your back on the presence of the Lord. It will cost you more, and you will regret it. One doesn’t have to go that way. Jonah hit the ground running and had to go 500 miles. Jonah preached, and the people repented. God had mercy on him and spared that great city. The message is for those who are going down to Joppa. They need to recognize that they have to get out of there and get back to God. They cannot continue on this downward path away from the presence. The book of Jonah is a sad story, but it doesn’t have to be your story. All may have a Jonah-like experience. One may end up in a spot that they can’t get out of. They will have to reckon with God in the end. Get right with God tonight. Let God teach what’s He. Get right with Him and quit going down that wrong and downward path. Flee to Him. Obey God. He’ll make all the difference in your life.

Opening Remarks and Introduction The Holy Spirit is moving and filling those present. Many attendees shared testimonies. Expressing gratitude for the morning’s events. Reference to Matthew 8:23-27, the story of Jesus calming the storm. Invitation to be saved, emphasizing the Holy Spirit’s presence and potential impact. Going to the Other Side Jesus told the disciples, “let us go to the other side.” God is working in ways we may not understand. Personal testimony of faith since 1976, trusting in God’s promises. Jesus was going to the other side to free a man possessed by many devils. Everything the Lord does is on purpose. The Lord showed up with a purpose. Entering the Ship The story in Matthew is a real event with spiritual significance. The Word of God will help, even if it’s bitter at first. Personal testimony about when Christ entered Pastor Tommy’s life. Giving up ownership and control to Jesus as captain. Jesus found Pastor Tommy when he was destitute and lost. Encouragement that nothing can repel the King of Glory from loving you. The Lamb of God wants to come aboard, regardless of the state of the “ship.” The Lordship of Christ To have Christ in your ship, you must give Him the right to run it. He is Lord and Master, not just a friend or co-pilot. Trusting God even when His plans are unclear. Reminder that He is in control and will bring you to the other side. The Tempest Having Jesus in your boat doesn’t mean you won’t face rough waters. The boat may rock and fill with water, but it will float if Jesus is in it. Personal anecdote about forgetting to put the plug in a boat. Feeling in jeopardy and not knowing which way to turn. Assurance that if He’s in the ship, it will keep floating. Don’t let the storm surprise you. There will be winds and news that you can’t control. There is only one that can save you. If he’s in the boat, you’re saved. The Storms of Life There will be times of sweetness and ease, but also times of hardship. God allows winds to rock the boat to keep us awake and ready for His return. Hard times and experiences are a part of the journey. Assurance that He will stay in the boat with you, and it won’t go down. Jesus Asleep There are times when we wonder if He is asleep or has left the boat. Good news: He sleeps no more since the resurrection. He is always awake and able to calm the storm. Reference to Elijah teasing the prophets of Baal, whose god was asleep. In despair, we may think He doesn’t care. One of the disciples asked, “Master, do you not care that we perish?” At some point, we realize we need the Master’s help. Reference to the song “Somebody Woke Up the Master.” Access to the throne of grace to obtain mercy and find grace. Call on the Master Personal testimony of calling on the Master in times of trouble. The boat was riddled, but it stayed afloat. The course is set, and it will make it to the other side. Even in dark places, He is there and sees everything. Reference to John’s message that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. Asking for Help Spiritually, waking up the Master is equivalent to asking for assistance. We have not because we ask not. It’s better to call on Him when your ankles are wet than when your knees are. Eventually, you may have to bow and admit you need help. The disciples woke Him up, explaining their situation in a few words. “Lord, save us, we perish.” Why Are You Fearful? Jesus’ first response was, “Why are you so fearful?” He then answered their question, pointing to their lack of faith. Our problem is not letting Him and the miracles of God be greater than our circumstances. We give more credit to what we see and taste than to the God of glory. He has never lied, and His promises never fail. “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” “Those that believe in him will never perish.” Peace, Be Still Jesus stepped up and said, “Peace, be still.” Both the wind and the waves obeyed Him, and there was a great calm. What is a greater miracle: calming the storm or keeping a full boat afloat? Reference to the story of the man with palsy being lowered through the ceiling. Jesus forgave his sins and then healed him, demonstrating His power. Often, we don’t recognize the miracles occurring during our storms. Even if the boat is full, you are going to the other side. He is in the Ship Jesus was asleep because He knew they were going to make it. Some expect a calm, but God helps even when it’s not calm. The best part is that even when you think you’re sinking, you’re still floating. You’re not going down because He is in the ship. If He’s not in your ship, you’re going down. As a pastor, Pastor Tommy can assure you that you’re not going down if Jesus is in the ship. All Things Work Together for Good Romans 8:28: “All things work together for good to them that love God.” If God is for us, who can be against us? It wasn’t the calm that got them to the other side, but the word of Jesus. The circumstances were irrelevant. The promise of God will sustain you in spite of your faith. It wasn’t their faith that would have drowned them, but their fear. Whether it’s calm or the boat is full, His word doesn’t change. You will go to the other side just like He promised. Closing Remarks There are days when faith won’t cut it, but we’re still here because He’s in the boat. Learning to like the storms because that’s when the greater miracles occur. The question is not if you’re going to make it, but if He’s in your boat. If He’s not in your boat, you have a real problem: you’re without remedy, savior, or hope. You must be born again for the promises to take place. Invitation to let Him in.