Sermon – Pine Lake October 22, 2023, Dale Meade
Intro: Last week we learned to find out where the person is religiously:
Sometimes that is easier than others.
A. Theodicy books.
B. Ecl. 3:1-11 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the sun…A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn, and a time to dance
C. It is at such times the Lord opens a very special door for us to share His good news!
- for I become all things to all people that I might win a few. I Cor. 9:22
I. The birth of a baby I Sam. 3:1-11 (Natural Symbol: Mary Douglas)
A. New life has begun, and God has hope in the future!
B. A time to be born, a time to be born again. Jn. 3:3 Born again.
C. Baptism is a birth like unto the first birth Gal. 3:26-29
II. A Death in the Family…and a time to die.
A. Death is a doorway, not the end of life Ps. 116:15 blessed in the eyes of the Lord
B. We can celebrate the receiving of a crown of life James 1:12 crown of life
C. We leave the unbeliever in the hands of a just God Ps. 116:5 Our God is merciful
D. Everyone on that side wants us to obey God Lazarus and the rich man. Lk 16:19-31
III. A serious illness affecting someone or a loved one.
A. All good things come from God James 1:17
B. All bad things and all illnesses come from the effects of sin and from Satan. Job
C. We have hope for the future. Jer. 29:11
Conclusion:
A. We should be opportunistic, not to use people but to help them!
- Rom. 12:15
B. We use the realities of life, both good and bad to help people for good!
- Gal. 6:9 let us not grow weary of doing good.