The Epic Life - Bob Hallman

    May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

    May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

    May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

The meaning of the parables: The Parable of the Virgins: Be ready for His coming! The Parable of the Talents: Be faithful until His coming! I  The Delegation of Authority The Kingdom of Heaven is like a man traveling to a far country: [Verse 14] Traveling to a far country = Apodemeo = “To visit a foreign land” Matt 21:33  “Hear another parable: There was a certain landowner who planted a vineyard and set a hedge around it, dug a winepress in it and built a tower. And he leased it to vinedressers and went into a far country.” He called his own servants Servants = Doulos = “Bond slaves” (used 6 times in this parable) 1 Cor 6:19-20  “… you are not your own?  For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.” He delivered his goods to them Delivered = Paradidomi = “To entrust or commit” Illustration: The disciples were made fiduciaries of the Kingdom of Heaven Definition: “A fiduciary is a person legally appointed and authorized to hold and manage the assets of another person for their benefit rather than for his or her own profit.” May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

The meaning of the parables: The Parable of the Virgins: Be ready for His coming! The Parable of the Talents: Be faithful until His coming! I  The Delegation of Authority The Kingdom of Heaven is like a man traveling to a far country: [Verse 14] Traveling to a far country = Apodemeo = “To visit a foreign land” Matt 21:33  “Hear another parable: There was a certain landowner who planted a vineyard and set a hedge around it, dug a winepress in it and built a tower. And he leased it to vinedressers and went into a far country.” He called his own servants Servants = Doulos = “Bond slaves” (used 6 times in this parable) 1 Cor 6:19-20  “… you are not your own?  For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's.” He delivered his goods to them Delivered = Paradidomi = “To entrust or commit” Illustration: The disciples were made fiduciaries of the Kingdom of Heaven Definition: “A fiduciary is a person legally appointed and authorized to hold and manage the assets of another person for their benefit rather than for his or her own profit.” May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

I  The Delayed Coming The parable of the “Two Servants” in Mt 24:45 addresses the Rapture of the Church! The parable of the “10 Virgins” in our text today addresses the 2nd Coming of Christ!  The proper interpretation of parables: Allegorical: Everything in the parable has a mystical, deeper meaning Historical: The parable has a plain meaning and one primary truth Background on the three stages of Jewish weddings: The engagement: a formal agreement made by the fathers. The betrothal: the ceremony where mutual promises are made in the presence of family and friends. The marriage (gamos= wedding celebration and feast): following a year of preparation, the bridegroom would come at an unexpected time and make his way to the home of his bride to retrieve her and take her to place the had prepared for her! The bridesmaids, along with others, would then make their way to the home of bridegroom (often at night with lighted torches), where there would be a week of feasting and celebration! May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com  

I  The Delayed Coming The parable of the “Two Servants” in Mt 24:45 addresses the Rapture of the Church! The parable of the “10 Virgins” in our text today addresses the 2nd Coming of Christ!  The proper interpretation of parables: Allegorical: Everything in the parable has a mystical, deeper meaning Historical: The parable has a plain meaning and one primary truth Background on the three stages of Jewish weddings: The engagement: a formal agreement made by the fathers. The betrothal: the ceremony where mutual promises are made in the presence of family and friends. The marriage (gamos= wedding celebration and feast): following a year of preparation, the bridegroom would come at an unexpected time and make his way to the home of his bride to retrieve her and take her to place the had prepared for her! The bridesmaids, along with others, would then make their way to the home of bridegroom (often at night with lighted torches), where there would be a week of feasting and celebration! May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction The focus of Matthew: The King: Jesus Christ the Messiah The kingdom of God: The rule and reign of the Messiah The citizenry of that kingdom: Believers and followers of Jesus Christ The message: “Repent for the kingdom is at hand!” The response:  Rejection of the Messiah by Israel’s religious leaders The sentence: Desolation, wrath and judgment upon the nation of Israel! Consequently, the disciples ask Jesus two questions: What will be the sign of the end of the age? The Abomination of Desolation! There will be an ever-increasing succession of judgments that will come upon the earth during the first 3 ½ years of the Great Tribulation! At the halfway point of the Great Tribulation, the peace treaty between the anti-Christ and Israel will be broken and the next pivotal sign will occur: the “Abomination of Desolation” as prophesied in Dan12:11-12. Following the Abomination of Desolation, the world will suffer the second half of the Great Tribulation followed by the 2nd Coming of Christ! What will be the sign of your coming? The worldwide, visible, unmistakable return of Christ in His unveiled Shekinah Glory! May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction The focus of Matthew: The King: Jesus Christ the Messiah The kingdom of God: The rule and reign of the Messiah The citizenry of that kingdom: Believers and followers of Jesus Christ The message: “Repent for the kingdom is at hand!” The response:  Rejection of the Messiah by Israel’s religious leaders The sentence: Desolation, wrath and judgment upon the nation of Israel! Consequently, the disciples ask Jesus two questions: What will be the sign of the end of the age? The Abomination of Desolation! There will be an ever-increasing succession of judgments that will come upon the earth during the first 3 ½ years of the Great Tribulation! At the halfway point of the Great Tribulation, the peace treaty between the anti-Christ and Israel will be broken and the next pivotal sign will occur: the “Abomination of Desolation” as prophesied in Dan12:11-12. Following the Abomination of Desolation, the world will suffer the second half of the Great Tribulation followed by the 2nd Coming of Christ! What will be the sign of your coming? The worldwide, visible, unmistakable return of Christ in His unveiled Shekinah Glory! May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Background: The disciples asked two questions in Matt 24:3 What will be the sign of your coming? What will be the sign of the end of the age? Having answered the disciples’ second question in verses 4-14, Jesus now turns His attention in verses 15-31 to answer the first – the sign of His coming. Prophetic sequence of Pretribulation events (Arnold Fruchtenbaum): World Wars I and II - Mt 24:1-8 The Re-Establishment of Israel in 1948 - Ezek 20:33-38; 22:17-22; Zeph 2:1-2 The temple will be reconstructed (AKA; 3rd Temple or Tribulation Temple) and be under Jewish control - Dan 9:27; Mt 24:15; 2 Thess 2:3-4; Rev 11:1-2 The Rapture will precede the Tribulation - 1 Thess 4:16-17 The Russian invasion of Israel (with Iran, Ethiopia, Somalia, Germany and Armenia) - Ezekiel 38:1-39:16 The One-World government - Dan 7:23 The ten kingdoms - Dan 7:24a The rise of the Antichrist - Dan 7:24b; 2 Thess 2:1-3 The period of peace and false security - 1 Thess 5:1-3 The seven year covenant - Dan 7:27; Is 28:14-22 (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Background: The disciples asked two questions in Matt 24:3 What will be the sign of your coming? What will be the sign of the end of the age? Having answered the disciples’ second question in verses 4-14, Jesus now turns His attention in verses 15-31 to answer the first – the sign of His coming. Prophetic sequence of Pretribulation events (Arnold Fruchtenbaum): World Wars I and II - Mt 24:1-8 The Re-Establishment of Israel in 1948 - Ezek 20:33-38; 22:17-22; Zeph 2:1-2 The temple will be reconstructed (AKA; 3rd Temple or Tribulation Temple) and be under Jewish control - Dan 9:27; Mt 24:15; 2 Thess 2:3-4; Rev 11:1-2 The Rapture will precede the Tribulation - 1 Thess 4:16-17 The Russian invasion of Israel (with Iran, Ethiopia, Somalia, Germany and Armenia) - Ezekiel 38:1-39:16 The One-World government - Dan 7:23 The ten kingdoms - Dan 7:24a The rise of the Antichrist - Dan 7:24b; 2 Thess 2:1-3 The period of peace and false security - 1 Thess 5:1-3 The seven year covenant - Dan 7:27; Is 28:14-22 (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Most people are curious about the future -- the Jews of Jesus’ day were no different! Background: This is the last public speech Jesus ever gave to the people of Israel. In chapter 21-23, He pronounced judgment on the nation Israel, judgment on the false leaders and judgment on the people who followed their deceptions – culminating in two profound statements:          --One of judgment: “Your house is left unto you desolate”, which would  be fulfilled in 70 AD in the destruction of the temple.          --One of prophetic hope: “For I say unto you, you shall not see Me                     henceforth till you shall say, ‘Blessed is He that cometh in the name of  the Lord’”, which will be fulfilled when all Israel will be saved (Rom 11:26).       3. The Jewish understanding of eschatology was limited:  There would be a time of great tribulation (Roman rule); The coming of a herald who would announce the Messiah. (John the Baptist); The Messiah would come (and He did) ; The Messiah would gather the dispersed Jews and establish His kingdom. They had no concept of a 1st Coming of the Messiah as a Suffering Servant followed by a 2nd Coming as a reigning and ruling King! As a result, they were filled with a heightened sense of eschatological anticipation! (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Most people are curious about the future -- the Jews of Jesus’ day were no different! Background: This is the last public speech Jesus ever gave to the people of Israel. In chapter 21-23, He pronounced judgment on the nation Israel, judgment on the false leaders and judgment on the people who followed their deceptions – culminating in two profound statements:          --One of judgment: “Your house is left unto you desolate”, which would            be fulfilled in 70 AD in the destruction of the temple.          --One of prophetic hope: “For I say unto you, you shall not see Me                     henceforth till you shall say, ‘Blessed is He that cometh in the name of               the Lord’”, which will be fulfilled when all Israel will be saved (Rom 11:26).       3. The Jewish understanding of eschatology was limited:  There would be a time of great tribulation (Roman rule); The coming of a herald who would announce the Messiah. (John the Baptist); The Messiah would come (and He did) ; The Messiah would gather the dispersed Jews and establish His kingdom. They had no concept of a 1st Coming of the Messiah as a Suffering Servant followed by a 2nd Coming as a reigning and ruling King! As a result, they were filled with a heightened sense of eschatological anticipation! (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

There have always been (and will be) leaders like this in the church: In the OT, God repeatedly confronted Israel’s corrupt leadership - Ezekiel 34 In the NT, Jesus warned of “false prophets who come in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” - Matt 7:15 Paul warned the elders that “from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves - Acts 20:30 Theme of this passage: The scribes and Pharisees are identified as religious bullies! Jesus stands up to them as the Deliverer and Champion of the church! (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

There have always been (and will be) leaders like this in the church: In the OT, God repeatedly confronted Israel’s corrupt leadership - Ezekiel 34 In the NT, Jesus warned of “false prophets who come in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” - Matt 7:15 Paul warned the elders that “from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves - Acts 20:30 Theme of this passage: The scribes and Pharisees are identified as religious bullies! Jesus stands up to them as the Deliverer and Champion of the church! (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

I  The Flawed Leadership Model of the Pharisees Background on the scribes and Pharisees: The scribes and the Pharisees were the religious leaders and scholars of the day. They had made it their life's vocation to study the law, interpret its application to daily life and enforce it’s observance. Together, they dominated the common people's understanding and practice of their religion. The Pharisees (the Separated Ones) They were Israel’s religious Navy Seals! There were only 6,000 of them at any one time They spent all their lives observing every detail of the scribal law They had codified the Scriptures into 365 negative commandments and 248 positive commandments (613 in total) They taught that if men kept all these, they would be acceptable to God! The teachers of the Law Teachers = Scribes = Grammateus = “To write” Civil: Notaries and secretaries (Shimshai in Ezra 4:8) Ecclesiastical: Interpreters/articulators of the Law (Ezra 7:10, 12) - They were learned in the Mosaic Law and in sacred writings - They were experts-authorities on the interpretation of the Scriptures - They preserved and defended the Law - They devoted themselves to the careful study of the text and laid down rules for transcribing it with the most scrupulous precision   (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

I  The Flawed Leadership Model of the Pharisees Background on the scribes and Pharisees: The scribes and the Pharisees were the religious leaders and scholars of the day. They had made it their life's vocation to study the law, interpret its application to daily life and enforce it’s observance. Together, they dominated the common people's understanding and practice of their religion. The Pharisees (the Separated Ones) They were Israel’s religious Navy Seals! There were only 6,000 of them at any one time They spent all their lives observing every detail of the scribal law They had codified the Scriptures into 365 negative commandments and 248 positive commandments (613 in total) They taught that if men kept all these, they would be acceptable to God! The teachers of the Law Teachers = Scribes = Grammateus = “To write” Civil: Notaries and secretaries (Shimshai in Ezra 4:8) Ecclesiastical: Interpreters/articulators of the Law (Ezra 7:10, 12) - They were learned in the Mosaic Law and in sacred writings - They were experts-authorities on the interpretation of the Scriptures - They preserved and defended the Law - They devoted themselves to the careful study of the text and laid down rules for transcribing it with the most scrupulous precision (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Summary of events:  Jesus heads to Jerusalem as the prophesied Passover Lamb to make atonement on the cross for the sins of the world! Sat/Sun: He arrived in Bethany and stayed with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Monday: He fulfilled prophecy by riding into Jerusalem on a colt with the multitudes declaring, "Hosanna, blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord, the Son of David." Then, he returned again to Bethany. Tuesday: He returned to Jerusalem and cleansed the temple and then, once again, returned to Bethany to spend the night with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Wednesday: He curses the fig tree and then proceeded to the temple where He confronted the pride, self-righteousness, hypocrisy, rebellion and wickedness of Israel’s spiritual leadership by means of a series of parables. He is stopped by these religious leaders who ask Him a series of questions in their effort to discredit Him. Thurs-Sun: He will celebrate the Last Supper with the disciples on Thursday, be crucified on Friday and rise from the dead early Sunday morning!! I  The Question of Marriage The Pharisees: They accepted both the OT scriptures and oral traditions as equally inspired. They believed in the resurrection of the dead (Acts 23:6). They believed in an afterlife, with appropriate reward and punishment on an individual basis. They believed in the existence of angels and demons (Acts 23:8). They were considered the people’s spiritual leaders. Sadducees: They accepted the Pentateuch as divinely inspired, but not the oral traditions of the Rabbis. They denied any resurrection of the dead (Mt 22:23; Mk 12:8-27; Acts 23:8). They denied any afterlife, holding that the soul perished at death, and therefore denying any penalty or reward after the earthly life. They denied the existence of a spiritual world – angels or demons (Acts 23:8). They were highly unpopular because of their wealth, their legalistic doctrine and their political support of Rome. Both groups deeply resented Jesus for a number of reasons: He contradicted their teachings and way of life He demonstrated miraculous powers they envied He was wildly popular and they were jealous He posed a direct threat to their power and influence (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Summary of events:  Jesus heads to Jerusalem as the prophesied Passover Lamb to make atonement on the cross for the sins of the world! Sat/Sun: He arrived in Bethany and stayed with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Monday: He fulfilled prophecy by riding into Jerusalem on a colt with the multitudes declaring, "Hosanna, blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord, the Son of David." Then, he returned again to Bethany. Tuesday: He returned to Jerusalem and cleansed the temple and then, once again, returned to Bethany to spend the night with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Wednesday: He curses the fig tree and then proceeded to the temple where He confronted the pride, self-righteousness, hypocrisy, rebellion and wickedness of Israel’s spiritual leadership by means of a series of parables. He is stopped by these religious leaders who ask Him a series of questions in their effort to discredit Him. Thurs-Sun: He will celebrate the Last Supper with the disciples on Thursday, be crucified on Friday and rise from the dead early Sunday morning!! I  The Question of Marriage The Pharisees: They accepted both the OT scriptures and oral traditions as equally inspired. They believed in the resurrection of the dead (Acts 23:6). They believed in an afterlife, with appropriate reward and punishment on an individual basis. They believed in the existence of angels and demons (Acts 23:8). They were considered the people’s spiritual leaders. Sadducees: They accepted the Pentateuch as divinely inspired, but not the oral traditions of the Rabbis. They denied any resurrection of the dead (Mt 22:23; Mk 12:8-27; Acts 23:8). They denied any afterlife, holding that the soul perished at death, and therefore denying any penalty or reward after the earthly life. They denied the existence of a spiritual world – angels or demons (Acts 23:8). They were highly unpopular because of their wealth, their legalistic doctrine and their political support of Rome. Both groups deeply resented Jesus for a number of reasons: He contradicted their teachings and way of life He demonstrated miraculous powers they envied He was wildly popular and they were jealous He posed a direct threat to their power and influence (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction The historical setting:  For three years Jesus has been preaching and teaching the gospel of the Kingdom.  He has been proclaiming Himself as the Messiah, the Son of God, the Savior of the world.  And He has been offering Himself and His Kingdom to the people of Israel -- but His own people rejected Him!   Summary of events:  Jesus heads to Jerusalem as the prophesied Passover Lamb to make atonement on the cross for the sins of the world! Sat/Sun: He arrived in Bethany and stayed with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Monday: He fulfilled prophecy by riding into Jerusalem on a colt with the multitudes crying out, "Hosanna, blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord, the Son of David." Then, he returned again to Bethany. Tuesday: He returned to Jerusalem and cleansed the temple and then, once again, returned to Bethany to spend the night with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Wednesday: He curses the fig tree and then proceeded to the temple where He confronted the pride, self-righteousness, hypocrisy, rebellion and wickedness of Israel’s spiritual leadership by means of a series of parables. Thurs-Sun: He will celebrate the Last Supper with the disciples on Thursday, be crucified on Friday and rise from the dead early Sunday morning!!   I  The Intimacy of a Wedding Invitation “The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son ..” Interpretation: The Kingdom of heaven is the sphere of God's rule. The king and father of the Son is God. The king’s son is the bridegroom, Jesus Christ. The wedding feast is the "Marriage Supper of the Lamb" - Rev 19:7-9. The initial guests are the Jews of that generation. The servants who are sent out are preachers of the gospel. The alternate guests are the Gentile nations. The wedding garment is the righteousness of Christ. He sent out his servants to call those who were invited [Verse 1-3] Sent out = Apostello = “To set apart for a mission” Background on Jewish weddings: The wedding date was set and invitations were sent out Once the preparations had been made, servants would be sent to remind the invited guests that everything was ready The wedding ceremony would be performed followed by a 7-day wedding feast -- paid for by the father of the groom.   (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction The historical setting:  For three years Jesus has been preaching and teaching the gospel of the Kingdom.  He has been proclaiming Himself as the Messiah, the Son of God, the Savior of the world.  And He has been offering Himself and His Kingdom to the people of Israel -- but His own people rejected Him!   Summary of events:  Jesus heads to Jerusalem as the prophesied Passover Lamb to make atonement on the cross for the sins of the world! Sat/Sun: He arrived in Bethany and stayed with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Monday: He fulfilled prophecy by riding into Jerusalem on a colt with the multitudes crying out, "Hosanna, blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord, the Son of David." Then, he returned again to Bethany. Tuesday: He returned to Jerusalem and cleansed the temple and then, once again, returned to Bethany to spend the night with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Wednesday: He curses the fig tree and then proceeded to the temple where He confronted the pride, self-righteousness, hypocrisy, rebellion and wickedness of Israel’s spiritual leadership by means of a series of parables. Thurs-Sun: He will celebrate the Last Supper with the disciples on Thursday, be crucified on Friday and rise from the dead early Sunday morning!!   I  The Intimacy of a Wedding Invitation “The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son ..” Interpretation: The Kingdom of heaven is the sphere of God's rule. The king and father of the Son is God. The king’s son is the bridegroom, Jesus Christ. The wedding feast is the "Marriage Supper of the Lamb" - Rev 19:7-9. The initial guests are the Jews of that generation. The servants who are sent out are preachers of the gospel. The alternate guests are the Gentile nations. The wedding garment is the righteousness of Christ. He sent out his servants to call those who were invited [Verse 1-3] Sent out = Apostello = “To set apart for a mission” Background on Jewish weddings: The wedding date was set and invitations were sent out Once the preparations had been made, servants would be sent to remind the invited guests that everything was ready The wedding ceremony would be performed followed by a 7-day wedding feast -- paid for by the father of the groom.

Summary of events: Jesus has concluded His Galilean and Perean ministry, crossed the Jordan River, entered Jericho, healed two blind men, one by the name of Bartimaeus, brought Zacchaeus into the Kingdom and traveled to Jerusalem for Passover. Having arrived in the vicinity of Jerusalem, He stays in the home of Mary, Martha and Lazarus that first Saturday night and then spent Sunday with the multitude who either followed Him or actually lived in Bethany. On Monday, He sent His disciples to find the colt, which He rode triumphantly into the city of Jerusalem while the multitudes threw palm branches and clothing in His path and hailed Him, "Hosanna, blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord, the Son of David." Then, once again, He returned to Bethany to spend the night in the home of Mary, Martha and Lazarus. On Tuesday, He returned to Jerusalem and cleansed the temple – chasing out those who sold animal sacrifices and those who changed money. And by doing so, He infuriated the religious leaders who already despised Him and wanted Him dead. Then, once again, He returns to Bethany to spend the night with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. On Wednesday, He curses the unfruitful fig tree and then proceeds on to the temple where He will spend the next 2 chapters of Matthew confronting the wickedness of Israel’s spiritual leadership, which will end in His crucifixion.   (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Summary of events: Jesus has concluded His Galilean and Perean ministry, crossed the Jordan River, entered Jericho, healed two blind men, one by the name of Bartimaeus, brought Zacchaeus into the Kingdom and traveled to Jerusalem for Passover. Having arrived in the vicinity of Jerusalem, He stays in the home of Mary, Martha and Lazarus that first Saturday night and then spent Sunday with the multitude who either followed Him or actually lived in Bethany. On Monday, He sent His disciples to find the colt, which He rode triumphantly into the city of Jerusalem while the multitudes threw palm branches and clothing in His path and hailed Him, "Hosanna, blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord, the Son of David." Then, once again, He returned to Bethany to spend the night in the home of Mary, Martha and Lazarus. On Tuesday, He returned to Jerusalem and cleansed the temple – chasing out those who sold animal sacrifices and those who changed money. And by doing so, He infuriated the religious leaders who already despised Him and wanted Him dead. Then, once again, He returns to Bethany to spend the night with Mary, Martha and Lazarus. On Wednesday, He curses the unfruitful fig tree and then proceeds on to the temple where He will spend the next 2 chapters of Matthew confronting the wickedness of Israel’s spiritual leadership, which will end in His crucifixion.   (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Matthew 21 initiates the last week of the life of Jesus Christ the Messiah! Jerusalem was to be the end. He never ever leaves the vicinity of Jerusalem. This is it. He dies in the city. This is the end of Jesus’ 33 plus years. Thirty years of obscurity, three-plus years of ministry, it all ends here. This is the end of the pilgrimage. The goal of the Lord's life and ministry is about to be reached.  In just 6 more days he would be crucified for the sins of the world! I  The Messianic Preparations Jesus and the disciples drew near Jerusalem [Verse 1] (To Bethphage at the Mount of Olives) On Saturday, 6 days before the Passover, as they approached the city of Jerusalem, Jesus stops at the little village of Bethany: Located 2 miles east of Jerusalem on the backside of the Mount of Olives. A village of several hundred people The hometown of three dear friends - Mary, Martha and Lazarus. John 12:1-3  “Then, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead.  There they made Him a supper; and Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him.  Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil.”   (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Matthew 21 initiates the last week of the life of Jesus Christ the Messiah! Jerusalem was to be the end. He never ever leaves the vicinity of Jerusalem. This is it. He dies in the city. This is the end of Jesus’ 33 plus years. Thirty years of obscurity, three-plus years of ministry, it all ends here. This is the end of the pilgrimage. The goal of the Lord's life and ministry is about to be reached.  In just 6 more days he would be crucified for the sins of the world! I  The Messianic Preparations Jesus and the disciples drew near Jerusalem [Verse 1] (To Bethphage at the Mount of Olives) On Saturday, 6 days before the Passover, as they approached the city of Jerusalem, Jesus stops at the little village of Bethany: Located 2 miles east of Jerusalem on the backside of the Mount of Olives. A village of several hundred people The hometown of three dear friends - Mary, Martha and Lazarus. John 12:1-3  “Then, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead.  There they made Him a supper; and Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him.  Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil.” (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction The biblically blind The spiritually blind The physically blind I  Jesus Foretold of His Death to His Disciples Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem [Verse 17] Note: This is the 4th time Jesus predicted His suffering, death and resurrection! 3 times with all 12 disciples (16:21; 17:22-23; 20:18-19) Once with Jesus’ inner circle (17:12). The disciples knew that Jesus was the Messiah, but they only understood Him as the conquering King, but not the Suffering Servant! No matter how much Jesus declared it, they just couldn't comprehend it! The Son of Man will be betrayed [Verse 18a] Betrayed = Paradidomi = “To surrender, deliver or yield up” Ps 41:9  “Even my own familiar friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread has lifted up his heel against me.” (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction The biblically blind The spiritually blind The physically blind I  Jesus Foretold of His Death to His Disciples Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem [Verse 17] Note: This is the 4th time Jesus predicted His suffering, death and resurrection! 3 times with all 12 disciples (16:21; 17:22-23; 20:18-19) Once with Jesus’ inner circle (17:12). The disciples knew that Jesus was the Messiah, but they only understood Him as the conquering King, but not the Suffering Servant! No matter how much Jesus declared it, they just couldn't comprehend it! The Son of Man will be betrayed [Verse 18a] Betrayed = Paradidomi = “To surrender, deliver or yield up”   Ps 41:9  “Even my own familiar friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread has lifted up his heel against me.”   (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction One of the most common complaints in life: “That’s not fair!”  - You hear it from children on the playground when someone is picked and they’re not! - You hear it from employees when someone gets promoted first or is paid more for the same work. - You hear it from pro athletes who demand multimillion contracts only to later complain about being underpaid because someone else gets bigger payday. - You here it when otherwise reasonable siblings argue over an inheritance. Truth is, we tend to be very concerned about the “fairness” of life! Most, if not all, of our complaints are based on: Presumed rights: “The belief that a person has inalienable rights, according to some legal system, social convention, or ethical theory.” Assumed entitlements: “The belief that one is inherently deserving of unique privileges or special treatment.” Unmet expectations: “The belief that some slight, offense or injustice has occurred (violated rights and entitlements) due to the failure of a person or institution to provide what is rightly due.” But let me ask you this: Do you really want what you deserve? Do you really want to be rewarded according to your conduct? Do you really want God to treat you with justice?  Of course not, because none of us want HELL!  There at two truths that are key to understanding this parable: “What I deserve I don’t want and what I want I don’t deserve!” Professing Christians are called to depend solely on God’s mercy and grace – for salvation, for life, for EVERYTHING!  Jesus sets out to dismantle these manmade presuppositions that He owes us something by answering Peter’s earlier question about compensation for their obedience and sacrifices for the kingdom of God in Matthew 19:30. And He does so by illustrating the right side up realities of the Kingdom of God, over against the wrong headed thinking of “rights, entitlements and expectations”, by telling the parable of the Workers in the Vineyard, which makes two things abundantly clear: Participation in the kingdom is solely dependent upon grace! God is no man’s debtor! (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction One of the most common complaints in life: “That’s not fair!”  - You hear it from children on the playground when someone is picked and they’re not! - You hear it from employees when someone gets promoted first or is paid more for the same work. - You hear it from pro athletes who demand multimillion contracts only to later complain about being underpaid because someone else gets bigger payday. - You here it when otherwise reasonable siblings argue over an inheritance. Truth is, we tend to be very concerned about the “fairness” of life! Most, if not all, of our complaints are based on: Presumed rights: “The belief that a person has inalienable rights, according to some legal system, social convention, or ethical theory.” Assumed entitlements: “The belief that one is inherently deserving of unique privileges or special treatment.” Unmet expectations: “The belief that some slight, offense or injustice has occurred (violated rights and entitlements) due to the failure of a person or institution to provide what is rightly due.” But let me ask you this: Do you really want what you deserve? Do you really want to be rewarded according to your conduct? Do you really want God to treat you with justice?  Of course not, because none of us want HELL!  There at two truths that are key to understanding this parable: “What I deserve I don’t want and what I want I don’t deserve!” Professing Christians are called to depend solely on God’s mercy and grace – for salvation, for life, for EVERYTHING!  Jesus sets out to dismantle these manmade presuppositions that He owes us something by answering Peter’s earlier question about compensation for their obedience and sacrifices for the kingdom of God in Matthew 19:30. And He does so by illustrating the right side up realities of the Kingdom of God, over against the wrong headed thinking of “rights, entitlements and expectations”, by telling the parable of the Workers in the Vineyard, which makes two things abundantly clear: Participation in the kingdom is solely dependent upon grace! God is no man’s debtor! 2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Interesting facts about money: The first paper money was invented in China about 1,400 years ago! Ever wonder why quarters have has 119 grooves on its edge and dimes 118? In the early days, coins were made of silver or gold and it wasn’t uncommon for thieves to sell coin shavings off the edge of coins without being detected. A penny costs 2.4 cents to manufacture A stack of dollar bills one mile high would be worth 14.5 million dollars and weigh 2,040.8 pounds.5. Your money may be dirtier than your bathroom toilet! 90% of bills carry trace amounts of Cocaine! And 94% of dollar bills contains bacteria, viruses and pathogens including staphylococcus?  These sicknesses, like the flu for instance, can be transmitted via your cash for up to 17 days. There are 293 ways to make change for a dollar. If you have $10 in your pocket and no debt, you are wealthier than 25% of Americans. I The Insufficiency of Temporal Riches The young ruler, recognizing his own spiritual emptiness: [Verse 16] Background on this man: He was a man (a cultural advantage) He was young (a physical advantage) He was rich (a financial advantage).  From a rabbinic standpoint, his material wealth was an indicator of God’s divine favour, blessing and assurance of eternal life. He was a ruler (a sociological advantage).  The president of a synagogue or a member of the Sanhedrin. Unusual for a young man of his age He was a man of integrity: Devout, honest, prominent, influential, respected, transparent He was a man of humility: He ran to Jesus - Mk 10:17a; He knelt before Jesus - Mk 10:17b;  He publically and openly confesses his spiritual emptiness! (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Interesting facts about money: The first paper money was invented in China about 1,400 years ago! Ever wonder why quarters have has 119 grooves on its edge and dimes 118? In the early days, coins were made of silver or gold and it wasn’t uncommon for thieves to sell coin shavings off the edge of coins without being detected. A penny costs 2.4 cents to manufacture A stack of dollar bills one mile high would be worth 14.5 million dollars and weigh 2,040.8 pounds.5. Your money may be dirtier than your bathroom toilet! 90% of bills carry trace amounts of Cocaine! And 94% of dollar bills contains bacteria, viruses and pathogens including staphylococcus?  These sicknesses, like the flu for instance, can be transmitted via your cash for up to 17 days. There are 293 ways to make change for a dollar. If you have $10 in your pocket and no debt, you are wealthier than 25% of Americans. I The Insufficiency of Temporal Riches The young ruler, recognizing his own spiritual emptiness: [Verse 16] Background on this man: He was a man (a cultural advantage) He was young (a physical advantage) He was rich (a financial advantage).  From a rabbinic standpoint, his material wealth was an indicator of God’s divine favour, blessing and assurance of eternal life. He was a ruler (a sociological advantage).  The president of a synagogue or a member of the Sanhedrin. Unusual for a young man of his age He was a man of integrity: Devout, honest, prominent, influential, respected, transparent He was a man of humility: He ran to Jesus - Mk 10:17a; He knelt before Jesus - Mk 10:17b;  He publically and openly confesses his spiritual emptiness! (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Pastor Bob concludes the Divorce Dilemma series with Questions and Answers.   (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Matthew 19:1 marks an important transition in the Messianic story: To this point in the narrative, the Synoptic Gospels have focused attention on Jesus’ Galilean ministry However, from this point, the Gospel writers record the Lord’s determination to fulfill his redemptive purposes by setting his face toward Jerusalem. Furthermore, the narrative highlights the growing intensity of the hostility of the Jewish leaders and their insistence on killing the Lord. I  The Reality of Divorce The statistics of divorce Every year about 2.3 million marriages take place in the US 40%–50% of all first marriages will end in divorce 60% of second marriages will end in divorce And beneath the rubble of those numbing statistics, lie the crushed lives of men, women and 5-6 million children. (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Matthew 19:1 marks an important transition in the Messianic story: To this point in the narrative, the Synoptic Gospels have focused attention on Jesus’ Galilean ministry However, from this point, the Gospel writers record the Lord’s determination to fulfill his redemptive purposes by setting his face toward Jerusalem. Furthermore, the narrative highlights the growing intensity of the hostility of the Jewish leaders and their insistence on killing the Lord. I  The Reality of Divorce The statistics of divorce Every year about 2.3 million marriages take place in the US 40%–50% of all first marriages will end in divorce 60% of second marriages will end in divorce And beneath the rubble of those numbing statistics, lie the crushed lives of men, women and 5-6 million children. May God bless you through this message!  (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com  

We all sin and hurt one another unintentionally or otherwise.  The thing that should differentiate us as believers is the way we handle our own sin and the sin of others.  Biblically, these things should be dealt with in love.  But often we find all kinds of excuses for not dealing with the problem directing and in a biblical manner. In this message, Pastor Bob explains the obstacles to reconciliation, biblical motivation for reconciliation and offers practical steps to reconciling. Click for his Sermon notes and Outline.  (Aug 2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life  

In the Matthew 18 series, Pastor Bob addresses biblical reconciliation.  In this message he uses Luke 17:1-4 to give practical steps in reconciling. We all sin and hurt one another unintentionally or otherwise.  The thing that should differentiate us as believers is the way we handle our own sin and the sin of others.  Biblically, these things should be dealt with in love.  But often we find all kinds of excuses for not dealing with the problem directing and in a biblical manner. In this message, Pastor Bob explains the obstacles to reconciliation, biblical motivation for reconciliation and offers practical steps to reconciling. Click for his Sermon notes and Outline.  Enjoy this audio replay of a sermon message Pastor Bob Hallman delivered 8/17/2014 about Steps to Biblical Reconciliation.  May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com  

This sermon is part of the Matthew series, but is included here as a companion message in the series on Biblical Reconciliation. This passage is often taught as a stand-alone text and therefore misinterpreted and misapplied.  Peter asks Jesus a valid question: What if my brother continues to sin repetitively against me after confessing and repenting of the original sin?  How many times should I forgive him? Important points to remember: Jesus is not talking about civil or criminal offenses: He is referring specifically to Christians who, having been biblically confronted, have already confessed and repented of their sin(s). He is referring to Christians who keep committing the same sin, but keep responding biblically to their repeated failure. If a fellow believer has sinned against you, you have an obligation as a citizen of God’s kingdom, to follow the biblical steps of reconciliation - Matthew 18:15-17.   If your brother or sister confesses and repents of their sin, you are obligated by God to forgive and restore that person.    May God bless you through this message!  (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com  

This sermon is part of the Matthew series, but is included here as a companion message in the series on Biblical Reconciliation. This passage is often taught as a stand-alone text and therefore misinterpreted and misapplied.  Peter asks Jesus a valid question: What if my brother continues to sin repetitively against me after confessing and repenting of the original sin?  How many times should I forgive him? Important points to remember: Jesus is not talking about civil or criminal offenses: He is referring specifically to Christians who, having been biblically confronted, have already confessed and repented of their sin(s). He is referring to Christians who keep committing the same sin, but keep responding biblically to their repeated failure. If a fellow believer has sinned against you, you have an obligation as a citizen of God’s kingdom, to follow the biblical steps of reconciliation - Matthew 18:15-17.   If your brother or sister confesses and repents of their sin, you are obligated by God to forgive and restore that person.    (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Who were these wise men? The Greek word for wise men in this account (magoi) is rendered as astrologers where it occurs in the SEPTUAGINT, the Greek translation of the Old Testament (Dan. 1:20; 2:2) and as sorcerer in its other occurrences in the New Testament (Acts 13:6,8). The Greek historian Herodotus, writing in the fifth century B. C., identified the Magi as a caste of Medes who had a priestly function in the Persian Empire. In the Book of Daniel the "astrologers" (magoi) are grouped with magicians, sorcerers, and Chaldeans as advisers to the court of Babylon with responsibility for interpreting dreams. The role of the star in suggests a connection with astrology. These astrologers, pursuing their observations of the stars in the heavens, encountered a sign of God. God broke through their misguided system to make the great event known. The joy, rejoicing, worship, and gifts which mark the response of these wise men to the birth of Jesus is quite a contrast to the troubled state and murderous intent of Herod and his Jewish advisers in Jerusalem. The tradition that these men were kings dates back to Tertullian (second century).  It probably developed as a result of OT passages that say kings will come and worship the Messiah (Ps 68:29, 31; 72:10-11; Is 49:7; 60:1-2)  The theory that there were three of them is probably a deduction from the three gifts. By the end of the sixth century, the wise men were named; Melchoir, Balthasar, and Gaspar.  But Mathew gives no names. Although these various issues are interesting to consider, the real point of the story is found, not in the identity of, but in the actions and priorities of these wise men. May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life

There are at least three types of darkness a person can experience in life: Physical darkness Emotional darkness Spiritual darkness Fortunately, physical and emotional darkness are usually temporal. But the Good News is that spiritual darkness is something that no man or woman has to live with.  If you want, you can come out of the darkness and into the light!  I The Promise of God's Light: Foreshadowed in the OT In the Creation In the Burning Bush In the Pillar of Fire In the Shekinah glory A visible manifestation of the presence of God in the Holy of Holies of the tabernacle and in Solomon's Temple. The Shekinah was a luminous cloud which rested above the altar in the place of worship and lit up the room.  You can support this ministry: Donate Blessings, The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

There are at least three types of darkness a person can experience in life: Physical darkness Emotional darkness Spiritual darkness Fortunately, physical and emotional darkness are usually temporal. But the Good News is that spiritual darkness is something that no man or woman has to live with.  If you want, you can come out of the darkness and into the light!  I The Promise of God's Light: Foreshadowed in the OT In the Creation In the Burning Bush In the Pillar of Fire In the Shekinah glory A visible manifestation of the presence of God in the Holy of Holies of the tabernacle and in Solomon's Temple. The Shekinah was a luminous cloud which rested above the altar in the place of worship and lit up the room.  You can support this ministry: Donate Enjoy the message, The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction  The church is a holy community created by God and intended to reflect His character and glory in the midst of a fallen world.  God loves the church and His ultimate purpose for His church is to make it a gift to His Son; thus He calls it the Bride of Christ.  For this reason the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are constantly at work to purify the church and bring her to maturity (Eph 4:7-16; 5:25-27). Until He returns for His bride, He has given believers and church leaders the privilege, responsibility and authority to keep it pure, essentially saying, "You represent Me in that church and act on my behalf as an undershepherd of my sheep! But the biblical disciplining of sinning Christians in a church body family is almost unheard of in our society.  The question is, “Why?” We haven’t seen it modeled and don’t know how to do it! (Ignorance) We don’t want to be perceived as judgmental or unloving (Pride) We don’t want the hassle of the corrective process (Apathy/indifference) We fear losing long-time friends and ministry associates (Cowardice) We are afraid of losing church members -- and their tithe (Greed) We are afraid of lawsuits (Fear of man). Prov 29:25  “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” Regardless of what excuse we use for not following God’s directive to exercise church discipline, at the end of the day, it amounts to disobedience to His clear directives and commands! I  The Purpose of Church Discipline       What is Church Discipline?  “It is the corrective process instituted by Christ Jesus to bring repentance, restoration and recovery to a sinning member of His body and to protect the church from the corrupting influence of sin.” ( 7/27/2014) You can support this ministry: Donate Blessings, The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction  The church is a holy community created by God and intended to reflect His character and glory in the midst of a fallen world.  God loves the church and His ultimate purpose for His church is to make it a gift to His Son; thus He calls it the Bride of Christ.  For this reason the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are constantly at work to purify the church and bring her to maturity (Eph 4:7-16; 5:25-27). Until He returns for His bride, He has given believers and church leaders the privilege, responsibility and authority to keep it pure, essentially saying, "You represent Me in that church and act on my behalf as an undershepherd of my sheep! But the biblical disciplining of sinning Christians in a church body family is almost unheard of in our society.  The question is, “Why?” We haven’t seen it modeled and don’t know how to do it! (Ignorance) We don’t want to be perceived as judgmental or unloving (Pride) We don’t want the hassle of the corrective process (Apathy/indifference) We fear losing long-time friends and ministry associates (Cowardice) We are afraid of losing church members -- and their tithe (Greed) We are afraid of lawsuits (Fear of man). Prov 29:25  “Fear of man will prove to be a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe.” Regardless of what excuse we use for not following God’s directive to exercise church discipline, at the end of the day, it amounts to disobedience to His clear directives and commands! I  The Purpose of Church Discipline       What is Church Discipline?  “It is the corrective process instituted by Christ Jesus to bring repentance, restoration and recovery to a sinning member of His body and to protect the church from the corrupting influence of sin.” ( 7/27/2014) You can support this ministry: Donate Blessings, The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Matthew 18 is all about the King’s kids: How they enter the Kingdom of Heaven - Matt 18:3-4 How they're to be treated - Matt 18:5-9 How they're to be cared for - Matt 18:10-14 How they're to be disciplined - Matt 18:15-20 How they're to be reconciled and forgiven - Matt 18:21-35 I  The Simplicity of Children Mark 9:33-34  “Then He came to Capernaum. And when He was in the house He asked them, "What was it you disputed among yourselves on the road?"  But they kept silent, for on the road they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest.” At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying: [Verse 1] “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Greatest = Meizon = “Larger, eldest, greatest” Kingdom of Heaven = “The sphere of God's rule” The Kingdom of God emphasizes the ruler The Kingdom of heaven emphasizes the character of His ruling Jesus had just taught in Matt 16:24 that if any would come after Me: Let him deny himself Let him take up his cross Let him follow Me Let him lose his life and he will find it Summary: “The cross before the crown and grief before glory!” But the disciples are so skewed in their biblical understanding of the mission and agenda of the Messiah that they remained adamant in their pursuit of position, promotion, prominence and personal greatness – and they would remain so until after Christ’s resurrection! May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Introduction Matthew 18 is all about the King’s kids: How they enter the Kingdom of Heaven - Matt 18:3-4 How they're to be treated - Matt 18:5-9 How they're to be cared for - Matt 18:10-14 How they're to be disciplined - Matt 18:15-20 How they're to be reconciled and forgiven - Matt 18:21-35 I  The Simplicity of Children Mark 9:33-34  “Then He came to Capernaum. And when He was in the house He asked them, "What was it you disputed among yourselves on the road?"  But they kept silent, for on the road they had disputed among themselves who would be the greatest.” At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying: [Verse 1] “Who then is greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” Greatest = Meizon = “Larger, eldest, greatest” Kingdom of Heaven = “The sphere of God's rule” The Kingdom of God emphasizes the ruler The Kingdom of heaven emphasizes the character of His ruling Jesus had just taught in Matt 16:24 that if any would come after Me: Let him deny himself Let him take up his cross Let him follow Me Let him lose his life and he will find it Summary: “The cross before the crown and grief before glory!” But the disciples are so skewed in their biblical understanding of the mission and agenda of the Messiah that they remained adamant in their pursuit of position, promotion, prominence and personal greatness – and they would remain so until after Christ’s resurrection! May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

The Bible teaches us that we are to: “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18  "Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise -- the fruit of lips that confess his name.”  Hebrews 13:15   As Christians, we certainly have much to be thankful for: We have been forgiven of our sins We have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit We have direct access and fellowship with God through His Word and prayer We have the knowledge that God is always working for our ultimate good We have been placed in the family God with wonderful sisters and brothers We have assurance of eternal life We have the promise of an eternal inheritance with Christ In light of the many blessing that God has given us, our lives should be full of praise, thanksgiving, and joy.  May God bless you through this message!  The Epic Life 3-2600 Kaumualii HWY STE 1300 #513 Lihue, HI 96766 https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

The Bible teaches us that we are to: “Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.”  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18  "Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise -- the fruit of lips that confess his name.”  Hebrews 13:15   As Christians, we certainly have much to be thankful for: We have been forgiven of our sins We have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit We have direct access and fellowship with God through His Word and prayer We have the knowledge that God is always working for our ultimate good We have been placed in the family God with wonderful sisters and brothers We have assurance of eternal life We have the promise of an eternal inheritance with Christ In light of the many blessing that God has given us, our lives should be full of praise, thanksgiving, and joy.  May God bless you through this message!  The Epic Life 3-2600 Kaumualii HWY STE 1300 #513 Lihue, HI 96766 https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life https://www.theepiclife.podbean.com

Review: Peter, James and John have just witnessed the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ and have heard the testimony of Moses and Elijah who confirm that Jesus is, indeed, the Messianic fulfillment of the OT Law and Prophecies! And now we find them descending into the valley of life’s reality as they come face to face with “Suffering, Death and Taxes”!! Summary: Our brief mountain top experiences are always followed by a return to the unsettling valley of reality! (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life

Review: Peter, James and John have just witnessed the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ and have heard the testimony of Moses and Elijah who confirm that Jesus is, indeed, the Messianic fulfillment of the OT Law and Prophecies! And now we find them descending into the valley of life’s reality as they come face to face with “Suffering, Death and Taxes”!! Summary: Our brief mountain top experiences are always followed by a return to the unsettling valley of reality! (2014) May God bless you through this message!  You can support this ministry: Donate The Epic Life https://www.theepiclife.org https://www.facebook.com/livetheepiclife https://www.instagram.com/Living_The_Epic_Life