Firm Foundation with Bryan Hudson

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TEACHING NOTES

Hebrews 12:26, Whose voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, “Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven.” 27 Now this, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. 28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. 29 For our God is a consuming fire.

These are unstable times. But this is not news to anybody listening because there is no stable, perfect place in this world. The Bible says in Romans 8:22, “For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now.”

2020 has been a year of reminding us that we live on earth, not in heaven. An invisible virus has wreaked havoc on our world and has amplified the foolishness of foolish people and careless leaders.

Unstable times are created by the following people and conditions:

Ephesians 2:2, In which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience

2 Timothy 3:13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.

Proverbs 28:5, Evil men don't understand justice, but whoever seeks the LORD understands it all

Into this context, the Hebrew writer says in Chapter 12:27 Now this, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. 28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. 29 For our God is a consuming fire.

I would like you to focus on that statement, “since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.”

That is the hope in the midst of shaky times. This is the provision that Jesus has provided. To fully appreciate with the latter part of the book of Hebrews is saying, we have to go back up to the top of Hebrews to gain context and perspective.

Hebrews chapter 12 presents five topics of context and focus.

1. The Race of Faith

2. The Discipline of God

3. Renewal of Spiritual Vitality

4. The Glorious Heavenly Company

5. Following the Heavenly Voice

The statement about receiving a kingdom cannot be shaken comes from following the Heavenly Voice. But this cannot happen until we understand the first four topics. We will go quickly through this today and return to study deeper in future messages. All of this is a part of God's justice among us as Christ followers. In the Bible, justice equals righteousness.

We have looked at justice as only a matter of what happens in society, but for believers it begins with what happens in God and what He does in us.

The Race of Faith - How we walk with God

Hebrews 12:1, Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

The Discipline of God - How we Receive Correction From God

5 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons:

“My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; 6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.” 7 If you endure chastening, God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom a father does not chasten?

Renewal a Spiritual Vitality - How we are Renewed in God

12 Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be dislocated, but rather be healed.

The Glorious Company - How with Relate with others in God

18 For you have not come to the mountain that may be touched and that burned with fire, and to blackness and darkness and tempest,

22 But you have come to Mount Zion and to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, to an innumerable company of angels, 23 to the general assembly and church of the firstborn who are registered in heaven, to God the Judge of all, to the spirits of just men made perfect,

Following the Heavenly Voice - How we obey God

25, See that you do not refuse Him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven, 26 whose voice then shook the earth; but now He has promised, saying, “Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven.” 27 Now this, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. 28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. 29 For our God is a consuming fire.

What's interesting about this text is that the Hebrews writer refers to the of Moses communicating God's commands. Moses was a messenger for God. He was a mouthpiece through which God spoke. Hebrew says that even what Moses communicated would result in punishment if people did not follow and obey

What is more amazing is the following statement says that God will shake not only the earth, but the heavens and the earth. “He has promised, saying, “Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven.”

It is important to recognize that Moses was a transmitter of God’s message, he was not the voice of God. The Hebrew word used pertaining to Moses voice speaks of someone transmitting a message from another.

On the other hand there is Jesus. The Hebrew word that used here for “voice” speaks of direct speech from God. The word used of him (lalein, GSN2980) implies the direct speech of God. Jesus was not merely the transmitter of God's voice, he was God's voice.

For if they did not escape who refused Him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from Him who speaks from heaven

One of the keys from this text is the understanding this statement: receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken.

God’s kingdom is more than being part of an organization. In our new member’s class we teach that there are two types of members:

1) “Club-Type” member: One who “joins” something that will make him feel good and look good. A Club-Type member determines his own level of commitment and involvement. Club-type members operate under Judges 17:6; “In those days there was no king...everyone did what was right in his own sight.” Club-Type members hope from church to church, looking for a better club to join

2) “Body-Type” member is a Christ Follower who is “joined” by God and recognizes his or her interdependence with others. Body-type members have “received God’s kingdom and express it within their local congregation, pastor, and leaders. Body-Type” members are aware of the necessity of participation and coordination with the rest of the body. Body-type members operate under Hebrews 10:24-25, “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the day approaching.”

We are receiving a Kingdom that cannot be shaken. We are not receiving a membership or an association. We have received A RELATIONSHIP!

AVAILABLE NOW!

www.biblicaljusticebook.com 

"Biblical & Social Justice, What Is it?" by Bryan Hudson. Get the book in Print, eBook, and Digital Voice formats.  

Justice = Righteousness.

I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ (Acts 20:35)

Justice is both a reality and a dream. It is a source of hope and of frustration. Justice, like a mountain, affords many perspectives depending upon which side one is viewing. For persons who are well-established in life, justice is a wall of protection. For persons struggling with obstacles or battling mistreatment, justice is a door through a wall. The appropriate interaction between biblical justice and civil justice is difficult to define. There is also the term “social justice” which is controversial due to misunderstanding its biblical application. In the Bible, the words justice and righteousness have the same essential meaning. 

The goals of this book are to shine a bright light of insight and educate readers by increasing understanding of both scriptural and unbiased lessons from history. It is also the aim of this book to bring matters related to racial minorities out of the historical shadows. In a world of false narratives and low information, it is essential that we have a firm grasp of facts, both historical and contemporary. This book will present many insights and opinions, which I will offer as one man's perspective. I trust you will find these insights relevant, reliable, valid, and useful to your life and our times.

CHAPTERS INCLUDE

1. What is Biblical Justice?
2. Social Justice and Church Engagement
3. Social Justice and Preparedness to Act
4. The Reign of Narratives
5. A Nation Founded on Christian Principles?
6. Christianity v. Christ
7. Dr. King’s Concept of Justice: Letter From the Birmingham Jail
8. May 25, 2020 - George Floyd
9. Perceptions, PTSD, Incarceration, & Re-Entry
10. Blessings of Education and Perils of Mis-Education
11. Race Relations: Ten Suggestions
12. In the Words of John Wesley, “Thoughts On Slavery”
13. The Myth of The Monolith
14. What Can We Do?
15. Success Stories
16. Justice and Governing Authorities

Frequent Statements & Questions

Glossary of Civil Justice

Bibliography & Recommended Resources

Thank You for Your interest and Support!

Bryan Hudson, D.Min.

Researcher and Author

www.biblicaljusticebook.com

“Pray at all times—on every occasion, in every season—in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God's consecrated people).” Ephesians 6:18 Amplified (Also read Timothy 2:1-4)

The Apostle Paul exhorted the Ephesians believers to pray with “all prayers" or "all manner of prayer." Prayer is certainly not a technical issue, so we don't have to fret about how we pray, so long as we are earnestly praying to God.

That said, it is helpful to examine and practice all types prayers so that we may be more focused and motivated to pray. The scriptures show various types of prayers. Below is brief overview of common types of prayer.

1. Prayer of supplication. 1 Kings 8: 37-40, 54 - 55, Luke 11: 9 - 13, James 5: 17-18
Supplication is a specific request. Theses three scriptures show people were seeking (or asked to seek) for something specific. When you know what is needed, you can offer a prayer of supplication.

2. Prayer of intercession. Genesis 18: 22-33 (Abraham) 1 Kings 18: 41-46 (Elijah) 2 Kings 4: 32-36 (Elisha) Acts 12:1-18 (The early church)
To intercede means to plead or mediate on behalf of another person. Jesus intercedes for us (Hebrews 7: 25). The Holy Spirit prays for us and through us as we pray in the Spirit (Romans 8: 26 - 27).

When we pray earnestly for other people, we enter into the realm of intercession, in which we present people and their needs to God. There is also a dimension to intercession where we "stand in the gap" for people for special blessing or protection. (Eze. 22:30)

3. Prayer of faith. Mark 11:12-14, Mark 11:20-25, Luke 7: 1-10, James 5:13-18, Matthew 9:18-26
The prayer of faith is a supernaturally confident type of prayer, that is absent of doubt. The woman with the issue of blood (Matthew 9) knew that touching Jesus would get her healed. Her faith gave her the strength to press through the crowd. Strong faith and boldness accompany the prayer of faith. This manner of faith releases special blessings and miracles.

4. Prayer of agreement. Genesis 11:1-9, Matthew 18: 19-20, Exodus 17: 8-13, Psalm 133: 1-3, Acts 4:23, Hebrews 10: 24-25
The prayer of agreement occurs when two or a few people come together (the fewer the better), in agreement with one another and with the Word of God on something God wants to do. The prayer of agreement is connected the authority of God has vested in His church. Prayers of agreement can multiply the effects of God blessings beyond what one can do by oneself.

5. Prayer of praise, worship and thanksgiving. Psalm 100, Acts 16:16-34, Psalm 149:4-9
Praise, worship and thanksgiving can be a form a prayer that brings us into the presence of God. When we praise and thank God, we are affirming our faith in Him. This pleases God and helps our faith. Praise and thanksgiving disarm two of the most deadly enemies to our Christian walk, doubt and fear. No wonder the scriptures call praise a two edged sword (Psalm 149: 4-9)

6. Prayer of Dedication. 1 Kings 8:62-64, Mark 14:36, Acts 7:59, 9:6, 13:3, 14:23
The prayer of dedication is used to consecrate or dedicate someone or something to God. In the Old Testament, priests, altars, and tabernacles were dedicated by prayer. In the New Testament, Jesus and others dedicated (or ordained) disciples, apostles, elders deacons to the work of God.

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LESSON NOTES

Isaiah 30:1 “Woe to the rebellious children,” says the Lord, “Who take counsel, but not of Me, And who devise plans, but not of My Spirit, That they may add sin to sin;

Proverbs 18:1, A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire; He rages against all wise judgment.

The simple definition of rebellion is: “The action or process of resisting authority...”

Rebellion is a major program in every area of life and society. There are also instances were rebellion is warranted. We'll touch on that later.

Rebellion is an artifact of human nature. It naturally occurs in all people, including you and me. In fact, we were born with rebellious tendencies because people are born and shaped in iniquity.

Psalm 51:5, Behold, I was brought forth in iniquity, And in sin my mother conceived me.

One of the most important features of child training is to check the rebellious spirit. A child who's allowed to be rebellious will grow up as a rebellious adult. A child who grows up resisting the guidance and authority of his parents will become an adult carrying that same attribute. Rebellious people always wind up in trouble or worse.

Some quotes on rebellion:

“A creature revolting against a creator is revolting against the source of his own powers–including even his power to revolt. It is like the scent of a flower trying to destroy the flower.” C.S. Lewis

“For there is no one so great or mighty that he can avoid the misery that will rise up against him when he resists and strives against God.” John Calvin

“The beginning of men’s rebellion against God was, and is, the lack of a thankful heart.” Francis Schaeffer

The Bible is very clear about rebellion.

1 Samuel 15:23, For rebellion is as the sin of divination, and presumption is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, he has also rejected you from being king. (Speaking to Saul who defied the instructions of the prophet Samuel)

Divination or witchcraft is wicked because it entertains spirits other than the Spirit of God. Presumption is assuming something as true when it is not. Presumption is self-deception.

These behaviors reject the word and instructions of God.

Proverbs 17:11, Evil people are eager for rebellion, but they will be severely punished.

Romans 13:1-2 Everyone must submit to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are instituted by God. So then, the one who resists the authority is opposing God’s command, and those who oppose it will bring judgment on themselves. (This is also used in wrong ways)

In our country, peaceful protest is acceptable. However, rioting is illegal and destructive. It is clearly rebellious and it undermines credibility and achieving justice.

Dr. King and the people of the Civil Rights were correct in their approach. They practiced "civil disobedience" which many called rebellion. They were not rebellious because they remained submitted to authority in other areas of their lives.

There is the story of a wife who was married to an unsaved man. He told her that she could not go to Wednesday evening Bible Study, and that if she went he would lock her out of the house. She went and he locked her out. She came home. When he opened the door the next morning, she fell in because she fell asleep sitting against the door. She got up, said "good morning" and asked him what he wanted for breakfast.

Notice she rebelled against him telling her that she could not go to church, but she remained submitted as a wife. The man got saved and became the great evangelist named Smith Wigglesworth.

A rebellious person is consistently out of order in their lives, not submitted to authority, and not accountable to anyone but themselves. A lack of accountability and being answerable is the soil of a rebellious spirit.

Luke 6:46 “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?”

Isaiah 63:10 But they rebelled against him and grieved his Holy Spirit. So he became their enemy and fought against them.

2 Timothy 4:3-4 For the time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, will multiply teachers for themselves because they have an itch to hear something new. They will turn away from hearing the truth and will turn aside to myths.

Matthew 7:21-23 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.

Hebrews 12:5-6 And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: “My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him; 6 For whom the Lord loves He chastens, And scourges every son whom He receives.”

2 Timothy 3:1-5 But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people.

You have a duty to rebel against ungodly authority like Hezekiah.

2 Kings 18:1, Now it came to pass in the third year of Hoshea the son of Elah, king of Israel, that Hezekiah the son of Ahaz, king of Judah, began to reign. 4 He removed the high places and broke the sacred pillars, cut down the wooden image and broke in pieces the bronze serpent that Moses had made; for until those days the children of Israel burned incense to it, and called it Nehushtan. 5 He trusted in the Lord God of Israel, so that after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor who were before him. 6 For he held fast to the Lord; he did not depart from following Him, but kept His commandments, which the Lord had commanded Moses. 7 The Lord was with him; he prospered wherever he went. And HE REBELLED against the king of Assyria and did not serve him. 8 He subdued the Philistines, as far as Gaza and its territory, from watchtower to fortified city.

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Matthew 6:11, Give us this day our daily bread.

When we see that this is a simple prayer for everyday needs, we understand the following: 

1. We understand that God cares for our bodies. Jesus showed us that; he spent so much time healing men's diseases and satisfying their physical hunger.

2. We understand to live one day at a time, and not to worry and be anxious about the distant and the unknown future. 
When Jesus taught his disciples to pray this petition, He likely remembered the story of the manna in the wilderness (Exo.16:1-21). 

The children of Israel were starving in the wilderness. and God sent them the manna. the food from heaven; but there was one condition--they must gather only enough for their immediate needs. If they tried to gather too much, and to store it up, it went bad. 

We know that God is not against us making plans, but we need to become more appreciative of the day in which we live. As the Pslamist said, “This is the day the Lord has made, we shall rejoice and be glad in it.”

Jesus said in Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.

3. Praying for daily provision puts God in His proper place in our lives. 
We are reminded that it is from God we receive the food which is necessary to support life. No man has ever created a seed which will grow.

4. This pray reminds us of how prayer works. 
If a man sat back and waited for bread to fall into his hands, he would starve.
“You do not have because you do not ask God.” James 4:2

5. Jesus did not teach us to pray: "Give ME my daily bread."  He taught us to pray: "Give US our daily bread."

This prayer teaches us never to be selfish in our prayers.  This prayer is not only a prayer that we may receive our daily bread; it is also a prayer that we may share our daily bread with others. 