Sermon on 1 John 2:1-2 (KJV)

Scripture: "My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world." - 1 John 2:1-2 (KJV)

Introduction:

Beloved, today we gather to reflect on the profound message found in 1 John 2:1-2. This passage reassures us of the advocacy and atonement provided by Jesus Christ. Let's delve into this scripture and uncover its powerful implications for our daily lives and spiritual journey.

1. The Call to Holiness:

John begins by addressing us affectionately as "my little children," urging us to avoid sin. This call to holiness is a reminder of our identity as children of God and our duty to live righteously.

• Application: In our daily lives, we should strive to resist temptation and pursue holiness. This involves prayer, reading scripture, and surrounding ourselves with a community that encourages godly living.

2. Our Advocate, Jesus Christ:

Despite our best efforts, we may still fall into sin. John comforts us by revealing that Jesus Christ serves as our advocate with the Father. He intercedes on our behalf, pleading our case before God.

• Application: When we falter, we should not fall into despair. Instead, we can turn to Jesus, our advocate, and seek forgiveness, trusting in His righteousness to restore our relationship with God.

3. The Propitiation for Our Sins:

Jesus is not only our advocate but also the propitiation for our sins. His sacrifice on the cross appeased God's wrath and atoned for our transgressions. This atonement extends beyond us, covering the sins of the entire world.

• Application: This profound truth should inspire gratitude and humility in us. We are called to share this message of grace and redemption with others, knowing that Jesus' sacrifice is sufficient for all.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on 1 John 2:1-2, let us embrace the call to holiness, rely on Jesus as our advocate, and appreciate His atoning sacrifice. By doing so, we can live in the light of His grace and extend that grace to others.

May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may His atoning sacrifice guide you in all your endeavors. Amen.

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 1/19/2025

1. Bible Hub - 1 John 2 KJV
2. Got Questions - What does it mean that Jesus is our advocate?
3. Desiring God - What is propitiation?

Sermon on Proverbs 16:3 (KJV)

Scripture: "Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established." - Proverbs 16:3 (KJV)

Introduction:

Beloved, today we gather to reflect on a powerful verse from the Book of Proverbs. Proverbs 16:3 calls us to commit our works unto the Lord, promising that our thoughts shall be established. Let us delve into the depths of this scripture and uncover its profound implications for our daily walk with Christ.

1. Commit Thy Works Unto the Lord:

The act of committing our works to the Lord signifies dedicating our actions and endeavors to His will. It is a call to align our purposes with God's purposes, recognizing His sovereignty in all aspects of our lives. By entrusting our works to God, we acknowledge that He is the ultimate guide and protector of our paths.

• Application: In your daily life, start each day with a prayer of dedication. Offer your plans, tasks, and goals to the Lord. Seek His guidance and wisdom in all that you do. Remember, when we commit our works to God, we invite His presence and blessings into our endeavors.

2. Establishing Our Thoughts:

The promise that our thoughts shall be established reveals a profound connection between our actions and our inner thoughts. When we commit our works to the Lord, He provides clarity and direction to our minds. Our thoughts become aligned with His will, and we experience peace and confidence in our decisions.

• Application: Practice mindfulness and reflection. Take time to meditate on God's Word and seek His counsel through prayer. As you commit your works to the Lord, be attentive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, who will guide your thoughts and actions in accordance with God's will.

3. Trusting in God's Plan:

Committing our works to the Lord requires trust in His perfect plan. It involves relinquishing control and relying on God's wisdom and timing. By doing so, we demonstrate faith in His ability to lead us towards fulfillment and purpose.

• Application: Embrace a spirit of surrender and trust. In moments of uncertainty or doubt, remind yourself of God's faithfulness. Trust that His plans for you are good and that He is working all things together for your benefit. Lean on His promises and find comfort in His unfailing love.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on Proverbs 16:3, let us commit to dedicating our works to the Lord and trusting in His divine guidance. By aligning our actions with His will, we invite His presence and blessings into our lives. Through prayer, scripture, and surrender, we can experience the peace and confidence that comes from having our thoughts established by God.

May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may His strength and wisdom guide you in all your endeavors. Amen.

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 1/12/2025

1. Bible Hub - Proverbs 16:3 - Commentaries
2. Enduring Word - Proverbs 16 - Commentaries
3. Bible Study Tools - Proverbs 16:3 - Gill's Exposition of the Bible - Bible Commentaries

Sermon on Acts 10:33 (KJV)

Scripture: "Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God." - Acts 10:33 (KJV)

Introduction:

Beloved, today we gather to reflect on a profound verse from the Book of Acts. This verse, Acts 10:33, captures a moment of divine instruction and eager anticipation. Cornelius, a Roman centurion, expresses his gratitude for Peter's arrival and declares their readiness to hear the Word of God. Let us delve into this scripture and explore its implications for our lives and our readiness to receive God's commands.

1. The Act of Sending:

Cornelius' decision to send for Peter was driven by a divine vision and an earnest desire to know God more deeply. This act symbolizes our own journey towards seeking divine guidance and truth. We too must be willing to reach out and seek God's wisdom in our lives.

• Application: In your daily life, be proactive in seeking God. Whether through prayer, reading the Bible, or attending church, always be open to receiving His guidance. Just as Cornelius sent for Peter, send your requests and desires to God, trusting that He will answer.

2. The Welcome of God's Messengers:

Cornelius' words, "thou hast well done that thou art come," reflect a warm welcome and an appreciation for Peter's arrival. This teaches us to recognize and honor the messengers that God sends into our lives, whether they are pastors, mentors, or fellow believers who bring the Word of God to us.

• Application: Be receptive to the wisdom and counsel of those God places in your path. Show gratitude and respect for their guidance, knowing that they are instruments of God's message. Embrace the teachings and insights they offer, as they are meant to edify and strengthen your faith.

3. The Readiness to Hear:

The declaration, "we are all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God," signifies an attitude of readiness and openness to God's Word. This readiness is essential for spiritual growth and transformation.

• Application: Cultivate a heart that is always prepared to hear God's Word. Approach every sermon, Bible study, and prayer session with an eagerness to listen and learn. Allow God's commands to penetrate your heart and guide your actions, leading you to live a life that honors Him.

Conclusion: As we reflect on Acts 10:33, let us strive to be like Cornelius, eager to seek God's wisdom, welcoming His messengers, and ready to hear His commands. By doing so, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God's Word in our lives.

May the Lord bless you and keep you, and may His wisdom and guidance illuminate your path always. Amen.

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 1/5/2025

1. King James Bible Online
2. Bible Gateway passage: Acts 10:33 - King James Version
3. StudyLight.org - Acts 10:33 - Bible Commentaries