25-0615p - Detailed Summary

The scripture reading sets the tone for the sermon, which is part two of a series titled “The Blessing of Reading.” Mike notes that the morning sermon did not delve into specific scriptures but introduced the topic of reading the Bible, and he now transitions into a deeper exploration, emphasizing warnings from God about handling His word.

Mike highlights three biblical warnings against adding to or subtracting from God’s word. The first is from Deuteronomy 4:2, where Moses, speaking God’s command, instructs the Israelites not to alter the commandments to keep them faithfully. The second is Proverbs 30:6, which warns against adding to God’s words to avoid being rebuked and found a liar. The third, from Revelation 22:18-19, is a severe warning that adding to the prophecy will result in receiving the plagues described, while taking away from it will lead to exclusion from the book of life and the holy city. These warnings underscore the sanctity of scripture and the importance of adhering strictly to its teachings.

Returning to the theme of reading, Mike emphasizes that the morning sermon encouraged reading the Bible to let it speak for itself without human embellishment. He warns against veering from scripture or imposing personal interpretations, noting that some people react negatively when corrected by the Bible, becoming angry rather than receptive. Additionally, he addresses the tendency of some to seek contradictions in the Bible, setting the stage for an example he will explore to refute such claims.

Mike presents a perceived contradiction raised by some: in 1 Samuel 15:1-3, God, through Samuel, commands King Saul to destroy the Amalekites completely, including men, women, children, and livestock, as punishment for their ambush of Israel during the Exodus. Critics point out that this seems to conflict with the Sixth Commandment, “Thou shalt not kill” (Exodus 20:13). Mike clarifies that the commandment more accurately prohibits murder, not all killing, and that God’s command to Saul was a divine judgment against the Amalekites for their aggression. He explains that God chose to work through Israel to execute this punishment, addressing questions about why God didn’t act directly. Mike argues that expecting God to do everything negates human responsibility and that God’s sovereign decisions, like punishing the Amalekites, are just, even if they involve human action. He notes that this lesson is particularly aimed at young people but relevant to all.

Mike shifts to 1 Timothy 4:15, where Paul instructs Timothy to “meditate on these things,” meaning to deeply reflect on scripture. Meditation involves turning over the subject in one’s mind, questioning, and re-reading to ensure understanding. He references 2 Timothy 2:15, which calls for diligence in studying to rightly divide the word of truth, essential for Timothy’s role as an evangelist. This underscores the need for thoughtful, diligent engagement with scripture to avoid misinterpretation and to grow spiritually.

Mike applies the message to young people, citing 1 Timothy 4:12, which urges Timothy to let no one despise his youth but to be an example in word, conduct, love, spirit, faith, and purity. He laments that many young people today are involved in evil acts, like violence and robbery, giving youth a bad reputation. He encourages them to resist this by living as examples of righteousness, listening to authority (parents, teachers, police), and adhering to Christ’s doctrine. By continuing in these practices, Timothy—and by extension, the congregation—can save themselves and others through faithful living.

Mike ties the sermon back to Matthew 7:7-8, explaining its relevance to reading scripture. He encourages diligent reading, studying, and meditating on God’s word as a way to hear God speak. However, he stresses that communication with God is two-way: believers must also pray, asking God to help them seek truth in scripture. He refutes claims of biblical contradictions, asserting that the Bible’s 66 books are consistent because truth does not contradict itself. Mike compares the relationship with God to that with parents, where children receive guidance but should also communicate their needs. He urges the congregation, especially young people, to persistently ask, seek, and knock through prayer and study to grow in faith and understanding.

Mike emphasizes the importance of consistently engaging with God’s word and prayer, not as a one-time act but as a lifelong practice. He urges the congregation to develop the habit of learning from scripture and praying to God, acknowledging that his own prayer life could be stronger. He stresses that just as God communicates through His word, believers must respond by communicating with God through prayer. Specifically, Mike encourages seeking God’s guidance in prayer to understand the truth found in scripture, reinforcing that God’s word is the ultimate source of truth.

Mike transitions to extending an invitation for salvation, outlining the steps God’s word prescribes for those seeking salvation. He explains that one must believe in the word, repent by turning away from sin, confess with their mouth that Jesus is the Christ, and be baptized for the remission of sins. This call to action is directed at those who have not yet followed these steps, urging them to respond to the gospel message by taking these essential steps toward salvation.

Mike broadens the invitation to include those who are already believers but may need restoration or support. He encourages those who have strayed from their faith to seek restoration and those facing personal problems to make their struggles known so the church can pray for them. He emphasizes the role of the church community in supporting its members through prayer, helping them overcome challenges and return to faithful living. The sermon concludes with a call for anyone subject to the gospel invitation—whether for salvation, restoration, or prayer—to come forward as the congregation stands and sings.