Different Ways of Perishing
July 01, 2012 | Todd Cyphers
Luke 13:1-9
Different Ways Of Perishing
Luke 13:1-9
I. Why do “these things happen”?
The real question is this: When calamity comes my way, will I be ready to meet God and or give a good testimony of His greatness?
II. Disasters and Calamities
1. God causes and allows them for His glory and our good.
Isaiah 45:7 - The One forming light and creating darkness, causing well-being and creating calamity; I am the Lord who does all these.
Ra’ (calamity) – Injurious, harmful, the opposite of happiness
Daniel 4:34-36 "… I blessed the Most High and praised and honored Him who lives forever…His dominion is an everlasting dominion… He does according to His will in the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of earth; and no one can ward off His hand or say to Him, 'What have You done?'
2. Very often nothing to do with people “being worse”
3. Warning of worse things to come
III. Real Repentance
1. Involves mind, emotions and will
A. Change of mind about God and our sin
B. Change of emotions –
i. Grieving over hurting God
C. Change of will - direction and lifestyle
1 Peter 1:16 - It is written, "You shall BE HOLY, FOR I am HOLY."
2. Repentance is in His name and power
2 Tim. 2:25 - With gentleness correcting those who are in opposition, if perhaps God may grant them repentance leading to the knowledge of the truth
3. True repentance brings Christ-like fruit
4. Repentance is often accomplished “with” God’s people
Galatians 6:1 Page #1168
FAMILY FAITH SHEET
Monday- Reflecting on this past Sunday
- Read Luke 13:1-9 and review Sunday’s message with someone.
- Read Romans 2:4-5. What leads us to true repentance (change toward God)?
- The statement came up Sunday that if we really love Christ we will love holiness (living like Him) – Discuss what it means to be passionate about living a holy life.
Tuesday - Reflecting on this past Sunday
- Read Daniel 4 or 4:34-36 if you have small children. What do you see concerning God’s ability to change history, remove leaders or create disasters and what should our response be in all these events? Why is knowing Psalm 23:6 important in the middle of calamity?
- Pray for those in disasters like floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, famines etc.
Wednesday- This week’s Transformation Scripture: Jesus said, you are the light of the world…MT 5:14 (Cross References) - 1 Thes. 5:1-11, Rom 13:12, John 8:12, Ps. 34:5 )
Thursday – Preparing for this Sunday
1. Read Psalm 16:3. Who are these very special people whom God delights in? Then read Revelation 20:4-6. Do you see a connection with those He delights in and those who He will reign with in the millennial Kingdom?
2. Read 1 Cor. 6:2 and 2 Tim 2:12 and discuss who are the “saints” who will judge and reign over the world? Do you see yourself as one of those saints? Are you preparing yourself to “reign”?
Friday – Preparing for this Sunday
1. Read John 6:1-12. Andrew is seen “bringing people to Jesus.” First was his brother Peter then a boy in the crowd. Which is more difficult for you, sharing Christ with family or with others? Have you grown jaded in sharing your faith with your family because they do not listen?
2. Are you known as a person who “brings people to Jesus”? How could you grow in this area? Begin praying for your lost family members and ask God to give you a fresh heart in discussing their need for Christ.
Sat – Preparing for this Sunday
Read Psalm 37:1-11. Find the imperative command in each verse and ask God to prepare your heart to worship Him tomorrow.