Baptismal Service

This transcript was generated automatically. Its accuracy may vary

Short Summary
The discourse celebrates the commitment of individuals choosing to follow Jesus through baptism, emphasizing the importance of consecration as a lifelong, intentional journey distinguished from sanctification. It highlights key spiritual tools such as diligent Bible study, earnest prayer, fellowship with believers, selfless service, and continual praise, encouraging the new believers to live purposefully on the narrow path with faith and perseverance. The message concludes with an affirmation of God’s support and a call to remain steadfast despite challenges, trusting in His guidance and grace.

Long Summary
Detailed Summary of the Discourse on Consecration and Living with Intention

Opening and Encouragement for Candidates
– The speaker warmly welcomes the candidates, Sonya and Eddie, celebrating their decision to follow Jesus wholeheartedly—“with all your heart, your mind, your soul.”
– Emphasizes that the Creator of the universe watches and rejoices in their commitment.
– Contrasts worldly goals (happiness, fame, fortune) with the eternal and meaningful goal chosen by the candidates: to suffer with Jesus, be joint heirs with Him, restore mankind’s relationship with God, and bring honor to God.

Biblical Foundation for Treasures and Priorities
– Quoted Matthew 6:19-21 and 6:33:
> “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon the earth… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.”
– This Scripture underscores the importance of prioritizing spiritual treasures over earthly ones.

Concept of Consecration and Sanctification
– Consecration is defined scripturally as setting apart oneself for God’s service, a word used extensively in the Old Testament (especially relating to priesthood and Levites).
– Distinction made:
Consecration: a one-time, intentional decision to dedicate oneself to God.
Sanctification: the ongoing daily process of living out that decision through continual choices.
– Cites Romans 12:1 (KJV):
> “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God…”
– Encourages entering the “straight and narrow way” (Matthew 7:13-14):
> “Strive to enter in at the straight gate; for many… shall not be able… straight is the gate, and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”

Historical and Inspirational References
– Quotes Charles Russell’s *Divine Plan of the Ages* (1886), emphasizing the call to consecrated children of God to run patiently the race, lay aside hindrances, and rely on God’s strength through His Word.
– References 2 Peter 1:2-4 on grace, peace, and partaking in the Divine nature through knowledge of God and Christ.

Living with Intention
– Title of the discourse: *Live with Intention*.
– Encourages developing habits that lead to righteousness, sacrifice, and success.
– Advises journaling progress and spiritual growth.
– Quotes Peter (2 Peter 1:10):
> “Give diligence to make your calling and election sure… and ye shall never fall.”
– Quotes Paul (1 Corinthians 9:26; Philippians 3:14):
> “I therefore so run, not as uncertainly… I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”
– Quote used: “Sow a thought, reap an action; sow an action, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny.”

Tools for the Journey (The “Toolbox”)
1. Study (Bible)
– The Bible is the foundational spiritual food; “you are what you eat.”
– Cites 2 Timothy 3:16-17:
> “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness…”
– Encourages deep and ongoing study, noting the Bible’s divine structure and timeless relevance.
– Quotes Deuteronomy 8:3, 6:13, 6:16, and 6:6-8 emphasizing reliance on God’s word and diligent teaching.
– Encourages knowing the Bible thoroughly—“fight not as one that beateth the air” (1 Corinthians 9:26).

2. Prayer
– Defined as sincere, devout communication with God.
– Hebrews 4:16 encourages “boldly to the throne of grace.”
– Jeremiah 29:12:
> “Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.”
– Warns against rote prayers and encourages listening for God’s response.
– Illustrates humility in prayer with the Pharisee and publican story (Luke 18:10-14).
– Advises cultivating a daily intentional prayer life and avoiding distractions.
– References Ephesians 6:10-18 (Armor of God), emphasizing praying always with all prayer and supplication.

3. Fellowship
– Based on Hebrews 10:25, stresses the importance of assembling together and encouraging one another.
– Fellowship creates a spiritual synergy, sharing experiences, and fortifying faith.
– Uses metaphor of burning embers (youth camp song) to illustrate strength in unity.
– Warns against isolation as the adversary’s tactic (“divide and conquer”).
– Urges support and bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2; Hebrews 10:24).
– Shares the example of Simon helping Jesus carry the cross (Luke 23:26) as a model of service.

4. Service
– Defines selflessness as a synonym for agape love.
– Cites James 2:15-16 and Matthew 25:35-40 about caring for the needy as serving Christ.
– Quotes John 13:4-17 on Jesus washing the disciples’ feet, modeling humble service.
– Encourages serving joyfully and continually.

5. Witness
– Witnessing comes from a heart filled with God’s love and truth.
– Encourages boldness, quoting Jesus’ response to Pharisees (Luke 19:39-40) and Jeremiah 20:9 about the word being a burning fire.
– Reminds that believers are ambassadors, “salt of the earth” and “light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-16).
– Urges living in a way that glorifies God, being the Bible others read.
– References the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20).

6. Praise
– Praise as a natural outflow of gratitude.
– Cites Psalm 100:4 and Psalm 145:1-21 extensively, reflecting on God’s greatness, goodness, and compassion.
– Encourages regular, heartfelt praise as a spiritual discipline.

Encouragement and Assurance
– Encourages fearlessness and courage, quoting Deuteronomy 31:6 and Hebrews 13:5:
> “Be strong and of good courage, fear not… For the Lord thy God… will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.”
– Reminds the candidates they have been called for a holy purpose and have what it takes.
– Quotes Philippians 1:6:
> “He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”
– Encourages “fail forward” — learn from failures and press on.

Reflection on the Parable of the Sower
– Reference to Matthew 13:22:
> “He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world… choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.”
– Importance of resisting worldly distractions that choke spiritual growth.

Closing Questions to Candidates with Scriptural Support
1. Acknowledge sinful condition? Psalm 51:5:
> “Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.”
2. Accept Jesus Christ’s sacrifice? Romans 5:6; 1 John 2:2; 1 John 4:10:
> Christ died for the ungodly; He is the propitiation for our sins.
3. Present yourself as a living sacrifice? Romans 12:1:
> “Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God…”

Gifts and Encouragement to Candidates
– Presented with bookmarks featuring Proverbs 3:5-6:
> “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
– Encouraged to live contentedly and with intention, trusting God fully.

—

Summary of Key Bible Verses Quoted or Referenced:

– Matthew 6:19-21, 6:33 (“Lay up treasures in heaven,” “Seek first the kingdom of God”)
– Romans 12:1 (“Present your bodies a living sacrifice”)
– Matthew 7:13-14 (“Straight is the gate, narrow is the way”)
– 2 Peter 1:2-4 (Grace and peace multiplied)
– 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (All Scripture inspired and profitable)
– Deuteronomy 6:6-8, 8:3, 6:13, 6:16 (God’s word in the heart, man lives by every word)
– Hebrews 4:16 (Boldly approach the throne of grace)
– Jeremiah 29:12 (Call upon God and He will hear)
– Luke 18:10-14 (Pharisee and publican’s prayer)
– Ephesians 6:10-18 (Armor of God)
– Hebrews 10:24-25 (Exhort one another, do good deeds)
– Galatians 6:10 (Do good especially to the household of faith)
– James 2:15-16 (Faith without works is dead)
– Matthew 25:35-40 (Serving Christ through serving others)
– John 13:4-17 (Jesus washing disciples’ feet)
– Luke 19:39-40; Jeremiah 20:9 (Boldness in witness)
– Matthew 5:13-16 (Salt and light of the world)
– Matthew 28:19-20 (Great Commission)
– Psalm 100:4; Psalm 145 (Praise and thanksgiving)
– Deuteronomy 31:6; Hebrews 13:5 (Do not fear; God will never forsake)
– Philippians 1:6 (God will complete the work He began)
– Matthew 13:22 (Parable of the sower and thorns)
– Psalm 51:5 (Acknowledgment of sin)
– Romans 5:6; 1 John 2:2, 4:10 (Christ’s sacrifice)
– Proverbs 3:5-6 (Trust in the Lord)

—

Overall Themes:

– The greatness and joy of consecrating one’s life to God.
– The necessity of intentional living and daily sanctification.
– Emphasis on study, prayer, fellowship, service, witness, and praise as essential spiritual tools.
– Encouragement to rely on God’s strength and promises.
– Assurance of God’s presence, love, and guidance.
– The importance of community in spiritual growth and perseverance.
– Living as ambassadors of Christ in a world that often opposes faith.
– The eternal significance of choices made today.

This discourse serves as a comprehensive guide and encouragement for new consecrated believers and all listeners to live with purpose, grounded in Scripture, with a heart devoted fully to God.

Transcript

That prospect is so transporting. Candidates, I am confident that I speak for everyone here when I say that we are delighted to see this day, and we rejoice. For we know there’s no better decision to make in life than to follow Jesus and to serve God, the Creator of the universe. With all your heart, your mind, your soul.

And think about it. Our Lord Jesus and our Heavenly Father also watch and smile and rejoice. I believe that they take special note of this occasion. Imagine that the Creator of the universe watching on, taking note of this occasion. You know, the world has many allurements, many goals that we strive for.

Happiness, fame, fortune. But you, Sonya and Eddie, have selected by far the greatest goal you could ever possibly imagine. You have chosen the best, the most eternal and the most meaningful. To suffer with Jesus, to be joint heirs with him to the end of helping to restore and rehabilitate the world of mankind back to a relationship with our Heavenly Father, and in the end, to bring honor to God.

Matthew says. In Matthew, Jesus says, lay not up for yourselves treasures upon the earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt and where thieves break through and steal. But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.

My heart is happy. My heart is smiling on this day to hear of your journey, to have met you to this point, and to experience your enthusiasm, and now to participate in this service, your baptism, tomorrow morning. Let me take a second to introduce. Haven’t had a chance.

Please do. It’ll elevate your will, and this is Brother Eddie Brown. Fate see your brethren from a different perspective. But thank you.

And so each of you have made a consecration in your hearts, and we use that word, consecration. It’s a scriptural word. It appears about 40 times in the Bible in various forms. It is most seen in the Old Testament.

38 times in the Old Testament, usually pertaining to the priesthood, consecration of the priesthood and the Levites. Outside of our fellowship, consecration is not a commonly used word. The dictionary might say that consecration means the setting apart of something to dedicate it to the service of God. But we seem to use that same definition as a definition for sanctification. So we might ask, what’s the difference between consecration and sanctification?

Well, let me suggest, and it’s not original, that the consecration is one initial decision. These brethren made that decision Several months or weeks ago, maybe more. Sanctification is the doing of that decision, the enacting, the implementation of it. Consecration is one decision, while sanctification is a million tiny day by day, moment by moment decisions. Paul says, I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies, a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service, transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

My Son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways. These scriptures point us to the way of consecration. So as you enter the straight or narrow gate, and you step onto the narrow way, strive to enter it at the straight gate. For many, I say unto you, may seek to to enter in, and shall not be able, because straight is the gate, and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

In 1886, Charles Russell publishes a book and names it, or renames it, the Divine Plan of the Ages, and after spending 15 chapters outlining God’s plan for all mankind, he comes to the final chapter, calls it Concluding Thoughts, and in the heart of that chapter he writes these words. If knowledge of these things in the evidences that they are nigh even at the door, should have a powerful influence upon all, but especially upon the consecrated children of God, who are seeking the prize of the Divine nature, we urge such while they lift up their heads and rejoice, knowing that the redemption draweth nigh to lay aside every weight and hindrance, and to run patiently the race in which they have started, look away from self in its unavoidable weaknesses and imperfections, knowing that all such weaknesses are covered fully by the merits of the ransom given by Christ Jesus our Lord, and that your sacrifices in self denials are acceptable to God through our Redeemer and Lord, and thus only let us remember that the strength sufficient which God has promised us, and by use of which we can be overcomers, is provided in his word.

It is a strength derived from a knowledge of his character and plans, and of the conditions upon which we may share in them. Thus Peter expresses it, saying, Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ our Lord, according as his divine power hath given unto all all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who hath called us to glory in virtue, whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises, that by these ye might be partakers of the Divine nature, you have been called. In your heart. You have heard the follow me, and you have responded, I will, Lord.

In your heart you have heard the words, are ye able to drink of the cup that I will drink up, and you have responded, yes, Lord. So now for about the next 45 minutes or so, I will be speaking primarily to Eddie and Sonia. But I expect that all will listen in on the conversation, especially after the day that we’ve had in cherished support of their decision to walk in the narrow way and at the same time to reflect on our own decision to do the same. This event gives all of us an opportunity to reflect on our own lives, our own vow, our own walk in the narrow way.

It gives us an occasion to consider and reconsider and renew and review the principles of consecration and to take inventory of how we’re progressing, and for that, we’re grateful. Paul wrote, therefore, if any man be in Christ, he’s a new creature. Old things are passed away. Behold, all things are become new.

So we title these thoughts, live with intention.

So Eddie and Sonya, all of us have a plan. Develop habits that lead to righteousness, to sacrifice and to success, and keep track of your progress journal.

Peter says, wherefore the rather brethren give diligence to make your calling and election sure. For if ye do these things, ye shall never fall. Paul says, I therefore so run not as uncertainly, so fight I not as one that beateth the air, and in Philippians, he writes, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Brother Russell uses this quote taken from elsewhere.

Sow a thought, reap an action. So an action reap a character. Sow a character, reap a destiny. Again, live your life, your consecrated life, with intention, and as you begin your journey in the narrow way, we ask, what can we give you to take on your way?

So we’ve got a few things to put in your toolbox, and what you’re going to see is Brother Mark’s extent of technology.

There’s the first one.

Study. You’ve heard it said, you are what you eat. The food you eat provides your body the building blocks for it to build bone, muscle, metabolize. Likewise, what you feed your spiritual body, the new creature, is what you provide it to grow and develop. This book.

How did I come without my Bible up here? The Bible? Your Bible has the words of life. You’ve got yours. Thank you, though.

See? See that generosity.

Adrian Rogers writes, the Bible is not a book of the month, but the book of ages. 66 books written by 40 different authors over 1600 years, and it tells one story and it has one theme and it promotes one central character. I cannot emphasize and reinforce enough to the candidates and to all of us and those online the value and importance and the magnitude of the gift of God’s holy Word, and thus to encourage each of us to reinvest time and energy in becoming more familiar and and more capable and more passionate and more dedicated to the learning and understanding and implementing of God’s Word to us.

The Bible is so divinely structured in one chapter, in one parable, in one verse. God can bring meaning to the young and the old, to the farmer and to the lawyer, to the new believer or the seasoned Christian. It may reveal something to you this year and in five years something else and another 10 years yet even deeper, because Jehovah wrote it that way. One section might have a very practical day to day application and at the very same time a flawless prophetic projection 500 or 1000 years into the future. The book itself is a divine miracle.

It’s unmatched, it’s unequaled. The scriptures themselves testify to their divine development. Rogers also wrote, it is so majestically deep that scholars could swim and never touch the bottom, yet so wonderfully shallow that a little child could come and get a drink of water without fear of drowning. The Bible is so divinely structured and the content is so rich. All scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

So bind them continually upon thy heart, and tie them about thy neck. When Jesus is in the wilderness, as we heard earlier, tempted of the adversary, he responds, man does not live by bread alone. He is quoting from Deuteronomy. Man shall not live by bread alone. Deuteronomy 8:3 Thou shalt not tempt the LORD thy God.

Deuteronomy 6:16 Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only. Deuteronomy 6:13 as we find ourselves in the wilderness, let’s also remember the words of Deuteronomy 6:6 8 and these words which I command thee this day shall be in thine heart and thou shalt teach them diligently unto your children. We’ve heard that today, and shall talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up, and when you get gas delivered, and thou shalt bind them for a Sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.

Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Prove all things. Hold fast that which is good. There are naysayers. We live in a world of them.

Doubters will doubt and mockers will mock. But God’s word will not change. Your word, Lord, is eternal. It stands firm in the heavens. The Gospel changes lives.

The words of Jesus endure forever, and this is the word that was preached to you. God is reliable and so is his Word. Every jot and tittle, even the smallest marks, even the smallest letter of the law will be fulfilled. Even the smallest pen strokes of the prophets will be accomplished.

The new living translation translates the verse this way, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved.

If I am a student of the Bible, a Bible student, we ask ourselves, how well do I know my Bible? Fight not as one that beateth the air. Rather practice to become intimately familiar with the Word of God, capable with my sword of the Spirit. All scripture, all 31,102 scriptures, all scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. We love the book because we love its author.

Fall in love and grow in love with your Bible.

For Paul warns us again in Ephesians, we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Phillips writes, First Peter 5:8. This way. Be self controlled, controlled and vigilant always for your enemy. The devil is always about promise, Howling like a lion roaring for its prey.

I delight to do thy will, O my God. Yea, thy law is within my heart. The Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. Knowing this first that there shall come in those days, scoffers walking after their own lusts and saying, where is the promise of this coming? For since the Father slept, all things continue the way they were from the beginning.

But we know, be diligent, make it a habit, make it a mission to be in your scriptures daily. We are what we eat, Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

At the end of this session, we’re going to ask these candidates a couple of questions. You know that I’m going to give them a gift and one of them a Little bit different. It’s a brick of post it notes. We call this refrigerator art, and we’re going to suggest that you take and you write a scripture on it periodically and put it somewhere where you’re going to see it, maybe your refrigerator.

And the beauty of these, thank you, Sister Rochelle, is when you go to Hobby Lobby and you buy a sign, you put the sign on your wall. After a few months, you just walk by the sign, you don’t see it anymore, Right? But with the post it notes, you can change them and you can see them. So you’re going to go home with your own set of post its number 2.

Pray. Prayer is communication with God. Devout, sincere, genuine communication with our Heavenly Father.

In Hebrews. We’re encouraged to go boldly unto the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. As a child to a father, Jeremiah said, then shall ye call upon me the Lord, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.

Be deliberate and intentional about your prayer life. Set specific time aside. Work to be careful not to fall into rote repetition and prayer, and think diligently to word your prayers. Sure, sometimes we all just don’t have the words.

But resist the habit of often saying, just saying to God, you know what I mean? As part of your prayer life, don’t forget to listen for responses, and our physical posture is not that critical. Standing, kneeling, sitting, lying down, looking up, looking down, walking. What is critical is the posture of our hearts.

Remember the story of the beggar and the Pharisee. Two men went up to the temple to pray. The one a Pharisee, the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself. God, I thank thee that I am not as other men that are extortioners and unjust and adulterers and publicans.

I fast twice in a week I give tithes, and the publican, standing afar off, would not lift his head up so much as his eyes into heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God, be merciful, merciful to me, a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house, justified rather than the other. For everyone that exalteth themselves shall be abased, and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. There are 1,440 minutes in a day.

How many of them will you spend in prayer with our Heavenly Father and our Lord Jesus? We live in a world in a time that is very noisy. The adversary wants nothing more than to keep us Distracted, discontent off balance. Pray without ceasing. Calibrate the compass of your mind to return quickly to your Heavenly Father as soon as the tasks that require our mental attention are complete.

Our Heavenly Father is not a genie in the bottle. Try hard not to just go to the Heavenly Father with our list of requests or instructions. Dear God, please do this. Please change this. Please, I need this.

Rather try from time to time. God, what can I do for you today? How can I help? Father, I love you.

I’m going to shorten this, but you remember from Ephesians 6, 10:18, the armor of God. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers, and it goes through the items of the armor, and often we end with above all taking the shield of faith, wherewith we shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, and then we sort of stop there.

But thank you Brother Julius, for often reinforcing this. Depending on your translation. It’s not a period, it’s a colon or a semicolon, maybe a comma. Praying always after the armor. Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints.

Pictures we glean from the tabernacle show us that our prayers, especially those prayers that come forth from us in trial, go up to our Heavenly Father as incense as a sweet smell. In quoting Brother Tim Armstrong, who was quoting somebody else, but I can’t remember who, but I remember Brother Tim. If you’re too busy to pray, you’re too busy.

Number three.

See how this works. Ian.

Paul writes to the Hebrews warning them to not forsake or don’t avoid, don’t disregard the assembling of ourselves together as the manner of some, but exhorting one another and so much the more, as you see the day approaching. Fellowship is a reference to the dynamic that occurs when we are together. That one on one or few with a few interactive relationship of sharing information and experiences and successes and enlightenments and questions. It is an entering into one another’s experience as new creatures and the benefits are plentiful. One of them.

There is a synergy that occurs when the brethren are together in conversing about spiritual things, a sharing of ideas and experiences. We become a spiritual think tank, so to speak. 2. There’s a sharing of experiences, positive and negative, stressful and Uplifting, and three, there’s a fortifying factor in coming together.

At the youth camps, we sing a song called Burning Embers. The song paints the picture and likens us to the coals of a fire. When those coals are together and the breezes of life blow, that fire stays hot and burns brightly. When the coals move apart from each other, they cool down. Actually, one of the first steps in extinguishing a fire is to move the embers, the coals, apart, separating them so they cool off.

And think of this metaphor. Each coal becomes more individually exposed to the elements around them and, and they become cooler and cooler until soon they are cold. One brother testified that at a critical time in his life, and still now today, the fellowship of the Brethren was a lifeline.

You probably heard the phrase in military strategy, divide and conquer based on a predator attacking a flock of sheep, and as we saw with the embers of the fire, in the case of sheep, real sheep, sheep are pretty defenseless. They have no teeth on their upper jaw. They can’t bite well. They don’t kick real well.

They kick sort of, but not real well. Their fleece makes them like Velcro, so they’re easily snagged, and in the event that they end up upside down, they can’t right themselves. They cannot turn themselves over. They need help.

The sheep’s best defense is to stay clustered together and look bigger and more formidable than any of the individual sheep. How similar this is to our adversary who wants to separate the sheep from the flock so that he has a better opportunity to attack. We wrestle not against flesh and blood. Stay closely together, especially as we see the day draw near. Blessed be the tie that binds.

We share our mutual woes, Our mutual burdens share bear. Excuse me. Let us think of one another and how we can encourage each other to love and do good deeds. From Hebrews 10:24. Again, the Phillips version going to go back to October 24th, that manna.

I’m just going to read the comments. They refer to the story of Simon. Timely story at this time of the year. But this comment is in October 24th, where Simon helps to carry Jesus cross and as they led him away, these are the comments. They laid hold upon one Simon and on him they laid the cross that he might bear it after Jesus.

We have often wondered where Peter and John and James that they did not see the Master’s burdens and run to proffer assistance. If disposed to envy Simon his privilege of assisting the Master in the bearing of the cross, let us reflect that many of the Lord’s brethren are daily bearing symbolic crosses, and that it is our privilege to assist them, and that the Lord agrees to reckon any service done to his faithful followers as though it were rendered to his own person. As the wooden cross was not our Lord’s heaviest burden, so too his followers have crosses which the world sees not, but which the brethren should understand. Bear ye one another’s burdens, and thus fulfill the law of Christ.

We know we have passed from death unto life because we love the brethren. A brother in our study once commented, if we don’t treat fellowship with reverence, we’ve missed the point.

Service Galatians 6:10 as we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are the household of faith. I submit that a synonym for agape love is selflessness. Selflessness, Agape love. I think we see this type of love in sacrifice and service, modeled best by a mother’s care for her children.

Love, sacrifice, example. That’s not expecting anything in return. There’s a passage of Scripture in James. It says, if a brother or sister be naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, depart in peace. Be ye warmed and filled, notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body.

What does that proffer?

In Matthew 25 in the parable of the sheep and goats, Jesus explains that the person was hungry and thirsty, a stranger without clothes, and sick in prison.

And they respond, when did we see you without clothes, or hungry, or thirsty, or stranger without clothes, or sick, or in prison? In Matthew, and Jesus responds in the parable, verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come, he and he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own, which were in the world, he loved them unto the end and supper being ended, and I’m going to take Excerpts from John 13, maybe you’ve read it. This season he rising from the supper and laid aside his garments, and took a towel and girded himself, and after that he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded, and Jesus said later, I then your Lord and Master have washed your feet.

Ye also ought to wash one another’s feet for I have given you an example that ye should do as I have done to you Verily, verily, I say unto you, the servant is not greater than his Lord, neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

I appreciate this thought that I attribute to Brother George Tabeck, who referenced it from the reprint 5413. But the little flock will serve the Lord with such delight that they will scarcely know how to cease their efforts. They recognize that their bodies are fully consecrated to the Lord and they are daily putting them to death in a reasonable, rational manner. Two quotes one of them, Sister Vicki Urie, took from me. One of them is from Theresa of Calcutta.

She says, wash the plate not because it’s dirty or because you are told to wash it, but because you love the one who will use it. Next, and Vicki gave you this quote earlier from Maya Angelou. People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.

Witness beautiful last hour hearing examples out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. If our heart is filled with the love of God, if our heart is filled with truth about God’s character, about his love and wisdom and power and justice in his Son, our Savior and Lord, it will burn within us.

When Jesus followers in Luke began to make quite a ruckus, They were advised by the Pharisees to keep the disciples quiet. Said.

The multitude, said to the master, he said, the Pharisees came and said, master, rebuke thy disciples, and this was his response, and he answered and said unto them, I tell you that if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out. Jeremiah likewise said, then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more of his name in frustration. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones.

And I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay. Brethren, Eddie, Sonya. We are ambassadors. We are representatives of Christ and our Heavenly Father and the truth and the plan and the kingdom. We are.

Ye are the salt of the earth. But if the salt has lost its savor, wherewith shall it be salted? Ye are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick, and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Be the salt, be the light. You may be the only Bible someone ever reads Preach the gospel wherever you go, and when necessary use words.

In Matthew 28, Jesus instructs in verses 19 and 20 Go ye therefore, and teach all the nations, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you. I’ve heard this referred to as the Great Commission. I heard somebody say it’s the Great Commission, not the Great Suggestion.

Praise.

Praise is a sign of gratitude.

Out of the abundance of the heart we praise, we offer gratitude.

You may find that gratitude and praise will exude from you naturally, just spontaneously. I like the first stanza of hymn 179. Endless song my life flows on in endless song above earth’s lamentation I catch the sweet not far off hymn that hails a new creation. Through all the tumult and the strife I hear the music ringing. It finds an echo in my soul.

How can I keep from singing Reading some excerpts from psalms, mostly from David Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise. Be thankful unto him and bless his name. For you have made me rejoice, Lord, by what you have done. I will shout for joy because of the works of thy hands. I will extol thee.

I’m going to read Excerpts from Psalm 145. If you have time on your own or. Well, that would take a lot of sticky notes. Read through all. 21.

I will extol thee, my God, O King, and I will bless thy name forever and ever. Every day will I bless thee, and I will praise thy name forever and ever. Great is the Lord, and great greatly to be praised. His greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall praise thy works to another and shall declare thy mighty acts.

I will speak of the glorious honor of thy majesty, and of thy wondrous works and men shall speak of thy might and of thy terrible acts, and I will declare thy greatness. They shall abundantly utter the memory of thy great goodness, and shall sing of thy righteousness. The Lord is gracious and full of compassion, slow to anger, and of great mercy. The Lord is good to all his tender mercies are over all his works. All thy works shall praise thee, O Lord, and thy saints shall bless thee.

18 the Lord is nigh unto them that call upon his name, to all that call upon him in truth, in verse 21 My mouth shall speak praise of the Lord, and let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever.

Well, these are the things we have for the toolbox. So as Eddie and Sonya go forth through the straight gate into the narrow way, we hope these are some of the tools, and if I miss something. Please share with them and share with me. I’d like to add some more.

You’ve been called to a life dedicated to being set apart for a holy purpose, consecrated, sanctified, and if our Heavenly Father has called you, you indeed have what it takes. Our Heavenly Father would not have called if that weren’t the case. So fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom, being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. The angel of the Lord encampeth around you to protect you, to watch over you.

The very hairs of your head are numbered. You were fearfully and wonderfully made, and the Creator of the universe knows you and loves you. So live contently, live with intention, and seek ye first the kingdom of God. Trust God with every detail of your life.

And if you get discouraged. No, actually, when you get discouraged, when you feel I missed the mark, I fell short. Fail forward. Fail forward. That means learn from the experience, renew your zeal and continue to press toward the mark of the high calling.

When we fail, rise up. Rise up.

In the parable of the sower, Jesus tells the story of the sower that went forth and scattered seeds. Some fell by the wayside, some fell in stony places, some fell by the thorns, and others fell into good ground, and they brought forth fruit, and he goes. He later explains. This is one of the parables that he explains the meaning of.

And when he gets to 22, that’s the one that always catches me in the explanation is the third one. He also that receives seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word. In the care of this world, in the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word and they become unfruitful. I think that one is particularly important for the day that we live in. The adversary is working hard to keep us discontent and off track.

So be strong and of good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them. For the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee. He will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. That’s Deuteronomy 31:6. Be strong and of good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them.

For the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee. He will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. In Hebrews, Paul says, for he hath said, I will never, never, never lead thee. I added the two others because that’s the way it is in the diagram. Leave thee, nor forsake thee enter the joy of the Lord.

So Sonia and Eddie, lean on your brethren. We have a wonderful cloud of witnesses. Whether they’re the prophets of old, or those brethren that have mentored us, that are no longer with us in the flesh, or those that we still have to lean on for friendship and fellowship and guidance and instruction. We have so many whose shoulders we might stand on.

So be blessed as you enter the straight gate onto the narrow way and live your consecration with intention. The prospect of the Lord’s well done, thou good and faithful servant. Thou has been faithful over a few things. I will make the ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of my Lord is a truly transporting prospect.

So in a couple minutes, I’m going to go over to Sonia and Eddie and I’m going to ask them three questions. You know the questions. Do you acknowledge your sinful condition from which you yourself cannot save yourself? Psalm 51:5 says, Behold, I was shapen in iniquity and in sin. Did my mother conceive me?

Question 2. Do you recognize Jesus Christ as the one who died to redeem mankind? And have you personally accepted his sacrifice on your behalf and the basis of your justification? Romans 5:6. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

1st John 2:2, and he is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. John 1st John 4:10. Herein is love. Not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son to be a propitiation for our sins.

In the third question, having done this, have you presented yourself in full, unreserved consecration to God as a living sacrifice, to do his will even unto death? I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

This gentleman several years ago found in a bookstore a first volume many years ago and read it and it resonated. He said, that’s the truth, and in that book was Rick and Ruth Cunningham’s address, and that’s how he reached out and contacted them, and so, although baptized previously, they want to, now that they have an understanding of the truth, wanted to be baptized again.

So, Eddie, I’m going to ask individually, do you acknowledge yourself, your sinful condition from which you yourself cannot save yourself? Yes. Do you recognize Jesus Christ as the one who died to redeem mankind? And have you personally accepted his sacrifice on your behalf in the basis of your justification and having done this? Have you presented yourself in full, unreserved consecration to God, a living sacrifice to do his will even unto death?

Sonia. Sister Sonia, do you acknowledge your sinful condition from which you yourself cannot save yourself? Do you recognize Jesus Christ as the one who died to redeem mankind? And have you personally accepted his sacrifice on your behalf and the basis of your justification? Justification?

Oh, yes. Having done this, have you presented yourself in full, unreserved consecration to God as a living sacrifice to do his will even unto death?

Thank you, Sister. Don’t go anywhere. I got those special gifts for you.

Bookmark. Traditionally, we give a scripture, and I have the same scripture. It’s Proverbs 3, 5, and 6. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean unto thine own understanding in all thy ways, acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Grateful to Sister Laurie Duhame from helping me or making these.

These bookmarks for you, we’ll have that scripture, and from Brother David, Sister Debbie in the Wilmington Chesapeake City Class A precious promise book. So there we go. There you go. So good again.

God be with you. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

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