Rock Mountain Lakes Baptist Church
By Jason Dollar
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Podcast Description
The preaching ministry of pastor Jason Dollar of Rock Mountain Lakes Baptist Church in McCalla, AL.
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In the School of Christ | Guest preacher Mark Colvin on discipleship. | 5/20/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Drowning Swine | Pigs were considered unclean by the Levitical Law and by Jesus Christ. How does that reality help us interpret Matthew 8:27-34? And how do unclean pigs connect to unclean people? TEXT: Matthew 8:27-34 SERIES: Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: May 6, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 8:27-34 And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?” 28 And when he came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men met him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. 29 And behold, they cried out, “What have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?” 30 Now a herd of many pigs was feeding at some distance from them. 31 And the demons begged him, saying, “If you cast us out, send us away into the herd of pigs.” 32 And he said to them, “Go.” So they came out and went into the pigs, and behold, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the waters. 33 The herdsmen fled, and going into the city they told everything, especially what had happened to the demon-possessed men. 34 And behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him, they begged him to leave their region. Interpretive Questions: 1. What would Jesus have thought of the swine industry in this area? Jesus would have been repulsed by this “unclean” industry. He might have felt the way we feel about sex trafficking, the porn industry, the drug industry, or the religious-huckster business (He turns over the tables) would be comparable. It would have revealed to him that the two demoniacs were not the only darkness of this particular area. These people had openly disregarded God’s Law and were living in blatant rebellion against Him. (Keep in mind, Jesus wrote the following) - Leviticus 11:7-8 And the pig, because it parts the hoof and is cloven-footed but does not chew the cud, is unclean to you. You shall not eat any of their flesh, and you shall not touch their carcasses; they are unclean to you. (read the entire chapter to get the whole picture) Jesus actually verbalizes his discussed when He tells the story of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:15-16). 2. If Jesus is the Creator, why did he create pigs to begin with if they are unclean? God DID NOT create unclean animals (see Gen 1). But as a result of sin, some animals were declared unclean in order to picture man’s sin. (Remember the Prodigal Son) Thus, we should identify ourselves with the swine in the story!! But the glory of Redemptive History is God’s plan to save unclean pigs like us — Acts 10:9-43 The next day, as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the housetop about the sixth hour to pray. 10 And he became hungry and wanted something to eat, but while they were preparing it, he fell into a trance 11 and saw the heavens opened and something like a great sheet descending, being let down by its four corners upon the earth. 12 In it were all kinds of animals and reptiles and birds of the air. 13 And there came a voice to him: “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” 14 But Peter said, “By no means, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean.” 15 And the voice came to him again a second time, “What God has made clean, do not call common.” 16 This happened three times, and the thing was taken up at once to heaven… (24) And on the following day they entered Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25 When Peter entered, Cornelius met him and fell down at his feet and worshiped him. 26 But Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I too am a man.” 27 And as he talked with him, he went in and found many persons gathered. 28 And he said to them, “You yourselves know h[...] | 5/6/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Naming Your Demons | When people give something a name, they are identifying it and showing some understanding of it. Jesus called for the name of the demons who possessed the two men in the country of the Gadarenes. We should follow his example and name our demons. TEXT: Matthew 8:27-34 SERIES: Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: April 22, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 8:27-34 And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?” 28 And when he came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes,two demon-possessed men met him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. 29 And behold, they cried out, “What have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?” 30 Now a herd of many pigs was feeding at some distance from them. 31 And the demons begged him, saying, “If you cast us out, send us away into the herd of pigs.” 32 And he said to them, “Go.” So they came out and went into the pigs, and behold, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the waters. 33 The herdsmen fled, and going into the city they told everything, especially what had happened to the demon-possessed men. 34 And behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him, they begged him to leave their region. Luke 8:30 Jesus then asked him, “What is your name?” And he said, “Legion,” for many demons had entered him. INTRODUCTION: Theology of spiritual warfare overview Justification by grace / faith / Christ alone must be balanced in our understanding with the process of sanctification. We are becoming what we are and are doing so in a dark, demonic world. But we are assured of the victory by the power of the Holy Spirit! Two Major Advantages to Naming Your “Demons” 1. Names Help with Identification a. As Adam teaches us (Gen 2:19), names give a “face” and should correspond to the nature of the thing being named (like automobile, or Eve). b. Both types should be named: (1) Demons with personality (fallen angels) and (2) one’s personal demons (the flesh) There are demons who have mind, will, and emotions (or personality). There is a leader of these created, fallen beings named Satan. There is a way or system (called “the world” in the NT) of Satan and the demons that negatively influence all people. Sometimes actual, personal demons attack and possess people. The flesh of fallen human beings is often in league with the world and the demons. Sometimes people’s flesh embrace demonic ways, being influenced by the system of the word, and we often call these shortcomings our “demons.” This is not the same as being possessed by a personal demon. Whether we are naming an actual, personal demon or whether we are naming demonic action we have built into our own lives, these “demons” need to be identified. c. One demon may be named “lying,” another “hate,” another “addiction,” another “depression,” another “rage,” etc. 2. Names Help with Strategy Once they have a name (and if it is an accurate name) we comprehend their work better. Sometimes the strategy involves… “Casting out” if “Legion”(or one of his cohorts) enters in Confession of the named demon (if the “demon” in question is one’s own sin) Pleading the promises of the Word of God to drive away darkness Serious prayer about the named demon Fellowship of the believers | 4/22/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Understanding the Dark of Darkness | The reality of darkness is evident in the system of the world, the activity of the devil and his demons, and in the sinful desires of our own flesh. This darkness must be understood and confronted in order to fight against in for the glory of God. TEXT: Matthew 8:27-34 SERIES: Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: April 15, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 8:27-34 And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?” 28 And when he came to the other side, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demon-possessed men met him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. 29 And behold, they cried out, “What have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?” 30 Now a herd of many pigs was feeding at some distance from them. 31 And the demons begged him, saying, “If you cast us out, send us away into the herd of pigs.” 32 And he said to them, “Go.” So they came out and went into the pigs, and behold, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea and drowned in the waters. 33 The herdsmen fled, and going into the city they told everything, especially what had happened to the demon-possessed men. 34 And behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus, and when they saw him, they begged him to leave their region. INTRODUCTION: Was there one demoniac or two? (does the Scripture contradict here?) Defining the dark side – Any place where the light and truth of Christ are absent because he has “turned them over” to their darkness (Rom 1). The next sermons will be more focused on the actual demons Jesus encountered in this story (come back next time!). Here, we are only going to explore the dark side of life (and the cosmos itself) more generally. 1. The Dark Side Is Real a. The land of the Gaderenes was a dark land (a fact implied by both swine farming and the presence of the demoniacs). It was “the other side” (v.28). b. There is the “other side” of your own heart. It is always a potential threat: he next channel, the next click, the next thought, the next statement uttered in anger. c. Types of darkness: financial darkness, sexual darkness, character darkness – lacking the Fruit of the Spirit. 2. The Dark Side Is Powerful a. Mark 5:3-4 He lived among the tombs. And no one could bind him anymore, not even with a chain, for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but he wrenched the chains apart, and he broke the shackles in pieces. No one had the strength to subdue him. (see also Luke 8:29) b. Darth Vadar to Luke Skywalker: “You don’t know the power of the dark side…You are beaten! It is useless to resist!” c. ILL) Ozzie, Hinds Rd. d. Because of our curiosity and the magnetic pull of the dark side, we must be ready and willing to fight / flee. 3. The Dark Side Is Illogical a. It loses its logical foundations The dark side does not say, “I did this on the basis of that” like “I dressed nice on the basis of my desire to respect my co-workers.” It goes deeper: “I go to church to worship God on the basis of my foundational theistic beliefs.” The dark side does not think like this. b. It loses its logical boundaries Luke 8:27 For a long time he had worn no clothes, and he had not lived in a house but among the tombs. Matt 8:28 So fierce that no one could pass that way. The dark side does not respect sexual boundaries, private property boundaries, or body-intake boundaries (food, drugs, alcohol) The bottom line: Satanic / demonic action may be clever (at times) but it does not reason wisely, nor can it be reasoned with. (Imagine trying to talk Hitler out of his plans for example). 4. The Dark Side Is Suicidal a. The behavior of Satan and the demons is always self-destructive and suicidal (consider Hitler, Columbine). b. Mark 5:5 Night and day among the tombs and on the m | 4/15/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Our Problems and Resurrection Day | Does the resurrection of Jesus Christ really matter to me personally? Sometimes hearing about Christ’s resurrection has an archaic feel to it, like it is something from another world, or a myth perhaps. But actually no event in human history could be more life-changing for an individual than the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Find out in this message how his resurrection solves your biggest problems. TEXT: Matthew 28:1-10 SERIES: Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: April 8, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 28:1-10 Now after the Sabbath, toward the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And behold, there was a great earthquake, for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone and sat on it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. See, I have told you.” So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Greetings!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” 1. The Story Triumphal Entry / Cleansing the Temple / Passover Meal / Last Supper / Betrayal and trials / Crucifixion / Resurrection 2. Problems Solved by Christ’s Resurrection Death / Hell / Misery 3. The Problem of Response Intellectual Block / Appetite Block | 4/8/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Exploring Palm Sunday Problems | As Jesus entered Jerusalem on the back of a donkey, many people watching had problems with Jesus. Furthermore, Jesus was creating problems for others. Explore the nature and solution of these problems in this message. TEXT: Matthew 21:1-13 SERIES: Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: April 1, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 21:1-13 Now when they drew near to Jerusalem and came to Beth-phage, to the Mount of Olives, then Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go into the village in front of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them to me. 3 If anyone says anything to you, you shall say, ‘The Lord needs them,’ and he will send them at once.” 4 This took place to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet, saying, 5 “Say to the daughter of Zion, ‘Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, and on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.’” 6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them. 7 They brought the donkey and the colt and put on them their cloaks, and he sat on them. 8 Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 And the crowds that went before him and that followed him were shouting, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!” 10 And when he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred up, saying, “Who is this?” 11 And the crowds said, “This is the prophet Jesus, from Nazareth of Galilee.” 12 And Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who sold and bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. 13 He said to them, “It is written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ but you make it a den of robbers.” INTRODUCTION: Part of the difficulty in understanding our problems lies within possessing a proper definition of “problem.” A problem is anything, good or bad, that impedes or interferes with progress toward a specific goal(s). A problem is a gap between an actual and a desired situation. - For example, a flat tire impedes progress to Wal-Mart. A power outage interferes with the progress of cooking dinner. A thunderstorm impedes the progress of a baseball game. A certain opinion held strongly interferes with the progress of a marriage (she likes it warm, he likes it cool). Thus, the solving of a problem is the removal of it, or adjustment to it that allows the progress to continue. However, a problem may be so severe that it stops progress altogether (perhaps redirecting it toward a different goal). - For example, the city of Hiroshima’s plans were dramatically altered when an atomic bomb destroyed it. What are some of the problems we observe from the first Palm Sunday? PROBLEM 1 – A triumphant King shouldn’t ride a humble donkey But this is only a problem for those who have a different goal (perhaps a forceful king to overthrow Rome). This was not a problem for Jesus since his mission was substitutionary atonement. Humility is a must for the One willing to die for sinners. PROBLEM 2 – Relationship with God is often twisted into Religious Big Business The Temple was instituted by God as a picture of true and real relationship with him through cleansing, sacrifice, and priesthood. These moneychangers had turned the Temple into a place to squander money from the devoted. This is a problem since it impedes the progress of knowing the Lord personally. It gets in the way. CONCLUSION Are you allowing religious exercise to block your pathway to relationship with God? | 4/1/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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The Purpose of Problems | What would life be like if we had no problems? Sounds great but hard to imagine. A major part of our lives could be defined as problem management. When the disciples were nearly drowned in a storm on the Sea of Galilee they learned first hand how problems are truly solved. TEXT: Matthew 8:23-27 SERIES: Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: March 25, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast PROBLEMS AND THE GOSPEL: A Series of sermons on the Nature and Solutions to Problems Sermon 1: The Purpose of Problems Matthew 8:23-27 And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing.” And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?” INTRODUCTION 1. This world is filled with problems a. Problems often arise when least expected b. Problems often arise in a seemingly unfair way 2. When faced with problems we should go to Jesus a. Why was Jesus sleeping? b. Possible ways to approach Jesus when problems arise: (a) not at all (b) in anger (c) in fear (d) with faith 3. When we plead for help Christ responds a. He might let the “storm” kill b. He might let the “storm” torture c. He might make the “storm” cease 4. One purpose of problems is knowing God better Problems often lead to really good questions – like “What sort of man is this” – and often the motivation to find answers. | 3/25/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Combating the Idolatries of House and Family | Our houses and our families are both very good gifts from God. However, we often twist these good gifts into excuses to disobey our Lord when he calls us to mission. Find out why Jesus declared, “Let the dead bury the dead.” TEXT: Matthew 8:18-23 SERIES: Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: March 18, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 8:18-23 Now when Jesus saw a great crowd around him, he gave orders to go over to the other side. And a scribe came up and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” Another of the disciples said to him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” And Jesus said to him, “Follow me, and leave the dead to bury their own dead.” And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. ANALYSIS: Jesus gave the “orders” and “his disciples followed him” (18; 23) The scribe and house idolatry (19-20) The other disciple and family idolatry (21-22) Why do house and family become such powerful idols? Because they are both good gifts from God. Because they both feed pride (or self-idolatry). Because they both provide safety and security. | 3/18/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Be Filled With the Spirit | Ephesians 5:18 says, “Do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.” But what does this mean? In this message, Dr. Lawrence discusses how idolatry often gets in the way of the Spirit-led life. TEXT: Ephesians 5:18 SERIES: Single Message SPEAKER: Dr. Craig Lawrence DATE: March 11, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast | 3/11/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Ten Do Not’s for Church Elders | God gives pastors / elders to local churches as a gift. RMLBC is celebrating the recognition of Dr. Craig Lawrence as an ordained elder at RMLBC. In this charge message, you will learn ten things a church elder should never do. TEXT: 1 Peter 5:1-7 SERIES: Single Message SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: March 11, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast 1 Peter 5:1-7 So I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is going to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight,not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you;not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the unfading crown of glory. Likewise, you who are younger, be subject to the elders. Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility toward one another, for “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. INTRODUCTION: Pastor / Elder are a gift to the church Ephesians 4:11-14 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ… Who is this sermon for? (1) Craig (2) Craig and Jason (3) Future pastors and elders (4) Everybody that loves and values the Church 1. Do not ignore inspired instruction (“exhort”) 2. Do not misunderstand the calling (“shepherd the flock”) 3. Do not serve from forced duty (“not under compulsion”) 4. Do not lead for profit (“not for shameful gain”) 5. Do not be power hungry (“not domineering”) 6. Do not think of yourself as above the Law (“being examples to the flock”) 7. Do not neglect to remember the reward (“when the Chief Shepherd appears…”) 8. Do not hesitate to be a leader (“be subject to the elders”) 9. Do not allow pride to ruin your ministry (“clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility…humble yourselves”) 10. Do not carry the cares of your ministry (“casting all your anxieties on him”) | 3/11/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Why the Lord Jesus Gives Us So Much | Not only is Jesus Christ our Savior, and not only is he the most brilliant person who ever lived, but he also provides and supplies everything his people need. He radically gives of himself (even going to the cross) filling his children with eternal joy. Why does the Lord Jesus give his people so much? TEXT: Matthew 8:14-17 SERIES: The Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: March 4, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 8:14-17 And when Jesus entered Peter’s house, he saw his mother-in-law lying sick with a fever. He touched her hand, and the fever left her, and she rose and began to serve him. That evening they brought to him many who were oppressed by demons, and he cast out the spirits with a word and healed all who were sick. This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah: “He took our illnesses and bore our diseases.” INTRODUCTION: In this passage we find Christ giving so much of himself once again. Reflect on everything the Lord Jesus gives his children. He gives us life He gives us the earth and all its resources He gives us marriage and children He gives us food to eat and water to drink He gives us light and warmth He gives us direction in living (Law) He gives us knowledge of himself and his holiness He gives us knowledge and conviction of sin He gives us the sacrifice of his own body He gives us union with him in death and resurrection He gives us full salvation from sin and the punishment for it He gives us adoption into the family of God He gives us the Holy Spirit within as a seal of our redemption He gives us answers to our prayers He gives us the hope of the New Heavens and New Earth Why does the Lord Jesus give us so much? This passage reveals at least three reasons he does it. 1. Because He Cares a. In the passage i. “He saw” ii. “He cast out…and healed all” b. Love is the essence of the heart of God i. I John Examples 1 John 3:1 See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. 1 John 3:16 By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. 1 John 4:7-8 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. ii. This is true even if God’s love is often misunderstood ERROR 1: God cannot be both loving and just at the same time. (yes he can) ERROR 2: God loves people most of all. (no he loves himself more) 2. Because He Can a. He can because one touch or word from Christ is all it takes b. He can because he is the designer and creator of the human body c. He can because he is more powerful than Satan and his minions 3. Because He Must a. He must because the God-inspired prophet Isaiah said he must (Is 53:4) b. He must because the giving of Christ is the plan of God to glorify himself for eternity Isaiah 53:1-12 Who has believed what they heard from us?And to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or majesty that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows,and acquainted with grief;and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions; he was crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that b | 3/4/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Power and Faith in the Kingdom of Christ | Christians must learn to think about and live like citizens of the Kingdom of Christ. This message explores what power, faith, and citizenship look like in this great kingdom. The story of a Roman Centurion serving his servant is the context. TEXT: Matthew 8:5-13 SERIES: The Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: February 26, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 8:1-12 When he came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. And behold, a lepercame to him and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” And Jesusstretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. And Jesus said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a proof to them.” When he entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, appealing to him, ”Lord, my servant is lying paralyzed at home, suffering terribly.” And he said to him, “I will come and heal him.” But the centurion replied, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof, but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I too am a man under authority, with soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes, and to my servant,’Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard this, he marveled and said to those who followed him, “Truly, I tell you, with no one in Israelhave I found such faith. I tell you, many will come from east and west and recline at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” INTRODUCTION: What do lepers and centurions have in common? 1. How Power Works in the Kingdom of Christ a. Power in the Kingdom is centered on the ability of Christ b. Power in the Kingdom is marked by total servanthood 2. How Faith Works in the Kingdom of Christ a. Real faith is humble in Christ’s presence b. Real faith is in the ability of Christ (not his mere existence) c. Real faith “marvels” God 3. How Citizenship Works in the Kingdom of Christ a. Citizenship is not geographically bounded b. Citizenship is not religiously bounded c. Lacking true faith in the power of Christ leads to a lack of citizenship | 2/26/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Help from the Able and Almighty Christ | When followers of Christ reflect deeply on his ability to do anything he pleases, it changes us. The man with leprosy also learned that when Christ redeems and saves, he also commands. He is almighty and has every right to command his followers any way he pleases. TEXT: Matthew 8:1-4 SERIES: The Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: February 19, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 8:1-4 When he came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. And behold, a lepercame to him and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” And Jesusstretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. And Jesus said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a proof to them.” INTRODUCTION: –A major theme of Matthew is the deeper identification of Jesus Christ. This story of the cleansed leper provides a sharpening effect to our understanding of Christ’s full identity.– 1. Christ Is Available (1) 2. Christ Is Approachable (2) 3. Christ Is Able (3) a. He reaches to us: “And Jesus stretched out his hand” | Isaac’s reactions b. He connects with us: “And touched him” | Power of a handshake and Facebook c. He speaks healing into our lives: “Saying, ‘I will; be clean.’” | Power of words d. He succeeds in his task: “And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.” 4. Christ Is Almighty (4) a. Generally, Jesus has every right to make commands. He is not merely Savior but also Lord. b. Analysis of his commands: Command #1: “And Jesus said to him, ‘See that you say nothing to anyone’” What is this Messianic Secret all about? Command #2: “‘But go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a proof to them.’” Why does Jesus command the man to keep the Levitical Law (Lev 13-14)? How will this be “a proof to them”? Leviticus 14:1-7 The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, ”This shall be the law of the leprous person for the day of his cleansing. He shall be brought to the priest, and the priest shall go out of the camp, and the priest shall look. Then, if the case of leprous disease is healed in the leprous person, the priest shall command them to take for him who is to be cleansed two live clean birds and cedarwood and scarlet yarn and hyssop. And the priest shall command them to kill one of the birds in an earthenware vessel over freshwater. He shall take the live bird with the cedarwood and the scarlet yarn and the hyssop, and dip them and the live bird in the blood of the bird that was killed over the fresh water. And he shall sprinkle it seven times on him who is to be cleansed of the leprous disease. Then he shall pronounce him clean and shall let the living bird go into the open field…” c. Application: Christ is both compassionate Savior and ruling King! Thus He has the right to command us to obey all Ten Commandments. | 2/19/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Help from the Available and Approachable Christ | Sometimes people suffer because they do not realize a remedy for their malady is available. It is ashamed to die from a disease that could have been cured with medicine that is in a bottle in the medicine cabinet. When Jesus heals the leper in Matthew 8 he shows himself to be the available remedy for the deepest ailment of the human heart. Are you willing to approach this available Savior and speak to him regarding your need? TEXT: Matthew 8:1-4 SERIES: The Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: February 12, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 8:1-4 When he came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. And behold, a leper came to him and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” And Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. And Jesus said to him, “See that you say nothing to anyone, but go, show yourself to the priest and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a proof to them.” INTRODUCTION: Overview of Matthew 1. The Stage Is Set for Jesus’ Kingdom Ministry (1-4) a. The birth and childhood of Jesus (1-2) b. The baptism of Jesus (3) c. The temptation of Jesus (4:1-11) d. The early ministry of Jesus (4:12-25) 2. The Kingdom Ministry of Jesus Christ (5-25) a. DISCOURSE 1: The Principles of the Kingdom (5-7) b. Kingdom proof and the calling of disciples (8-9) i. First series (3 miracles over disease and a ministry overview) ii. Second series (3 miracles over the storm, demons and sin and a ministry overview) iii. Third series (3 miracles over death, blindness, and deafness and a ministry overview) c. DISCOURSE 2: Instructs the Twelve Apostles (10) d. The King faces rejection (11-12) e. DISCOURSE 3: Explanation of the Kingdom with Parables (13) f. King Jesus in Kingdom Ministry (14-17) g. DISCOURSE 4: Humility is the mark of Kingdom Greatness (18) h. King Jesus Travels to Jerusalem and is Rejected (19-23) i. DISCOURSE 5: Preparation of His Disciples for the end of the Age (24-25) 3. The Final Rejection of the King and the Vindication of Jesus Christ (26-28) a. Arrest (26:1-56) b. Trial (26:57-27:26) c. Crucifixion (27:27-66) d. Resurrection (28) –A major theme of Matthew is the deeper identification of Jesus Christ. This story of the cleansed leper provides a sharpening effect to our understanding of Christ’s full identity.— 1. Christ Is Available (1) a. Jesus made himself voluntarily available in Mosaic Fashion (Ex 19-34 Moses is the prophet / priest between God and the Israelites): “When he came down from the mountain” b. Many avail themselves of the availability of Christ: “Great crowds followed him.” But others do not (ILL – Opting out of SS) c. The availability of Christ helps us avoid Bad Theologies: i. Absolute Transcendence ii. Absolute Immanence 2. Christ Is Approachable (2) a. Anybody can approach i. “And behold, a lepercame to him” ii. The worst of all cases can approach him – Leprosy is an outward picture of a wretchedly sinful heart Hebrews 10:19-22 Therefore, brothers,since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. b. How can Jesus be so approachable? i. He cares (Mark parallel – “moved with pity”) ii. He is eternal (plenty of time) iii. He is omnipresent (always accessible) iv. He is omniscient (plenty of knowledge) v. He is omnipotent (plenty of power) c. Proper approach is needed: “Knelt before him” d. When you approach supplication can be made: “Saying, ‘Lord…’” e. Mak | 2/12/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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The Glorious Allurement of Jesus Christ and Why Many Leave Him Behind | Jesus Christ drew large crowds wherever He went. Why? What was it about Him that led many people to sacrifice much just to be near Him. Jesus also had the ability to scatter a crowd. People often left Him just as quickly as they came to Him. Why? What is it about Jesus that leads so many people to leave Him behind? TEXT: Matthew 7:28-29 SERIES: The Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: February 5, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 7:28-29 And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes. INTRODUCTION: The Gospel of Matthew records the fact that Jesus often drew a “crowd” of people, and they often were “astonished” at him. “Astonished” – Imperfect Tense What is it about Jesus that draws the crowd? His “sayings” The words “sayings” and “teachings” indicates to us a body of doctrine that Jesus taught. (These can be collected | ILL-Politicians have “sayings”) Some “sayings” are extremely valuable. Clinton received $10.7 million for 52 paid speaking engagements last year, a sizable increase from the 36 paid speeches he delivered in 2009 for a total of $7.5 million. Bill Cosby Tickets – $250 floor or $50 balcony His “authority” What is authority? Where does it come from? (“Am I 2nd in charge?” | Presidents, DTrump, BCox, and Pcorn vendors) How did Jesus get so much authority? What is about Jesus that scatters the crowd? His “sayings” John 6:47-66 His “authority” Matthew 28:18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” | 2/5/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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The Great Collapse | A house is usually no match for a powerful tornado. Residents in Alabama saw this truth yet again this past week. Jesus teaches that our lives are much like houses and can collapse just as fast. How do we avoid the great collapse? TEXT: Matthew 7:24-29 SERIES: The Gospel of Matthew SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: January 29, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 7:12-29 “So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. 13 Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 14 For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few. 15 Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. 16 You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. 18 A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus you will recognize them by their fruits. 21 Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22 On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ 23 And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’ 24 Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” 28 And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, 29 for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes. INTRODUCTION: Houses, even well-built houses, are no match for the typical EF3. Likewise the “houses” of our lives are no match for the storms and collapse-agents that seek to cause our lives to fall with a Great Collapse. Collapse-Agents Are Everywhere “Rain”, “floods”, and “winds” will always come. Don’t let it surprise you – it is a fallen world. Especially beware of the world (1 Jn 2:15-17; 4:1-9; 5:4-5), the flesh (Rom 7:5; 8:5), and the devil (Gen 3; 1 Pet 5:8; 1 Jn 3:8-10) Running from collapse-agents doesn’t help. They must be confronted for what they are. Collapse (Often) Happens Progressively Drug abuse for example Total Collapse in the next life: Hell Matthew 10:28 And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Collapse Can Be Avoided (v.24) There is only one truly successful way to life: In Jesus Some practical doctrine: Both are desperately needed: (1) Regeneration / Conversion and (2) Sanctification APPLICATION: To Avoid Collapse… Work really hard learning all you can about the Bible (Move yourself onto the highway God travels). Speak with God about everything in your life. Start making real changes (trust Jesus, confront a sin…do something that you can measure). | 1/29/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Wisdom and the Five Resources | Every church (and every business, school, government, and family) has five basic resources it can use for the glory of God: (1) People (2) Time (3) Space (4) Supplies and (5) Money. How will your church use them? TEXT: Matthew 10:1-14 SERIES: The Gospel of Matthew (Built on the Rock) SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: January 22, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 10:1-14 And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction. 2 The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; 3 Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; 4 Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. 5 These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans, 6 but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. 7 And proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ 8 Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay. 9 Acquire no gold nor silver nor copper for your belts, 10 no bag for your journey, nor two tunics nor sandals nor a staff, for the laborer deserves his food. 11 And whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy in it and stay there until you depart. 12 As you enter the house, greet it. 13 And if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. 14 And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town.” INTRODUCTION: The desire and one of the main functions of church leadership (from an organizational / administrative standpoint) is to distribute the 5 resources to accomplish the 5 goals of RMLBC in the lives of the members. People People must be chosen / identified (1-4) People must be empowered & trained(1; 5f) Time Time is short & should not be wasted (7; 14) Time must be distributed wisely (12) Space Space must be identified for ministry (5-6; 11) Space conflicts must be settled (13-14) Supplies The most important ministry supplies must be identified (10) “Supplies” that hinder ministry need to be discarded (or donated) (“no bag”) Money Money can be very helpful to ministry (it opens up space and supplies) Philippians 4:10-18 18 I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. Money must be managed with extreme care (as good stewards) Matthew 25:13-30 27 Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. Money can become an idol and false security (9) | 1/22/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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The Why and How of Missions | Amazingly, after Jesus had finished preaching the Sermon on the Mount, He comes down off the mountain and begins ministering to people in need. We learn many lessons about why and how to do missions from the example of Jesus. TEXT: Matthew 8:1; Acts 1:8; 13:46-49; others SERIES: The Gospel of Matthew (Built on the Rock) SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: January 15, 2012 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Matthew 7:24 – 8:3 “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on the rock. 26 And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. 27 And the rain fell, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” 28 And when Jesus finished these sayings, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, 29 for he was teaching them as one who had authority, and not as their scribes. 8:1 When he came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him. 2 And behold, a lepercame to him and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” 3 And Jesusstretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. INTRODUCTION Plenty of Bible passages teach us that followers of Christ should do all within our power to spread the truth of the Gospel to the ends of the earth (Isaiah 66:18-19; Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 13:10; Acts 13:47; 2 Corinthians 10:16; etc). These are all powerful, convincing passages. So strong and numerous are they, that surely we cannot conceive of a biblical Christianity that does not include a desperate desire to move the Gospel to those who need to hear it. In addition to these wonderful verses, we bring Matthew 8:1. It simply says “When he came down from the mountain.” This is a picture of our missionary God leaving the mountaintop, upon which he had preached the greatest sermon ever, and coming down to the masses to reach out to those who so badly need him. If Jesus left the mountain for the masses, shouldn’t we His followers do the same? Why Missions? (1) God commands missions Acts 13:46-49 And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly, saying, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken first to you. Since you thrust it aside and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we are turning to the Gentiles. For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, “‘ I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” And when the Gentiles heard this, they began rejoicing and glorifying the word of the Lord, and as many as were appointed to eternal life believed. And the word of the Lord was spreading throughout the whole region. (2) Missions spreads knowledge of the glory of God And thus knowledge of how / why human beings exist at all. Colossians 1:9-10 And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. (3) Missions spreads joy Luke 2:10-11 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (4) Missions is merciful (Mt 8:3) (5) Missions unifies a diversified humanity MLK Day is a good time to celebrate this reality Missions does not destroy the diversity however : Revelation 7:9-10 After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all t[...] | 1/15/12 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Living in Light of the Incarnational Accomplishments of Jesus Christ | The Incarnation of Jesus Christ is one of the most amazing events to take place within human history. Only his Resurrection and Ascension are in the same category of significance and importance. In this Christmas Day sermon we learn some ways to live in light of His amazing incarnational accomplishments. TEXT: Luke 1:51-55 SERIES: Single Message SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: December 25, 2011 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Luke 1:51-55 He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; 52 he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; 53 he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away. 54 He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, 55 as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever. Three Ways… (1) Kill Pride (51-52) God is strong we are not Pride begins with “thoughts” Jesus demonstrated astounding humility in His Incarnation (Phil 2) (2) Be Fed (53) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness The hungry know best how to eat The Lord’s Supper: a vivid reminder of our need to eat (3) Find Help (54-55) How-to help is available for all of life’s issues (parenthood, marriage, work, money, etc.) PREREQUISITE: How-to help is available for salvation (repentance and faith) | 12/25/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
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Meditations and Applications for Christmas | This message is designed to help believers slow down and focus on the incredible nature of the Incarnation of Jesus Christ. TEXT: Luke 2:16-20 SERIES: Single Message SPEAKER: Jason Dollar DATE: December 18, 2011 Subscribe to RMLBC Sermon Podcast Luke 2:16-20 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. Haste – those with great need run toward hope Mary– lowliness made great in the hand of God Joseph – faithful leadership and protection despite the wonder of it all Jesus – eternal divinity in infant form Manger – a sign of loving humility and painful mission Made known the saying– good news must travel Wondered– everyone should wonder at Jesus Treasured up…pondering them– but character is formed by treasuring and pondering Shepherds returned– be missional in your life station Glorifying and praising God – the only appropriate response to the Incarnation of Christ | 12/18/11 | Free | View In iTunes |
| Total: 20 Episodes |
- Free
- Category: Christianity
- Language: English
- Copyright © Rock Mountain Lakes Baptist Church 2011
