Author Archives: Andrew Schank

About Andrew Schank

Andrew Schank is an Independent Baptist Missionary/Pastor who loves to blog about spiritual matters! His main ministry website is http://www.togetherinthegap.com. Andrew is also a contributing author to two other blogs/websites including http://linked2leadership.com and http://www.ifbkjv.com. Pastor Schank's Church website is http://www.greatcommissionbaptist.org
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Show Me Your Scars

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When I was a boy, I had many scrapes with knives, bicycle wrecks, and the general “rough and tumble”. With each encounter, a scar was left. Some more nasty than others, but all still relatively visible. As we serve the risen Christ, scars are engraved upon our souls, as well upon our bodies physically.

Do you have scars? Do you understand their implications? Thomas would not believe unless he saw the ones on Jesus to prove His authenticity. That is very profound to meditate on, isn’t it? May this outline help you!

Text: “Show Me Your Scars!”

Title: John 20:24

(John 20:24-31) But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.  (KJV)



Introduction:

•    Our text shows a description of the Resurrected Christ. This plainly depicts the BODILY resurrection of Jesus.
•    The identifiable marks of the cross are what Thomas wanted to see for proof that who his fellow disciples saw was, in fact, JESUS!
•    There are many Thomas’ in this world who will not believe unless they see. We should note that Jesus pronounced a blessing on those who would believe, yet not see with their eyes.
•    The scars or marks of the cross have always been a sign of the genuineness of Christianity.
•    They can be faked by impostors, but usually that comes to light!
•    The resurrection of Jesus provided the opportunity for all of mankind to benefit from the scars of Christ!

(Isaiah 53:5) “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.”  (KJV)
(1 Peter 2:21-25) “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.”  (KJV)

Proposition: There are four thoughts I want to speak to in regard to the scars of Jesus being ingrained into our lives as believers.

I.    Notice That Genuine Scars Are A Sign Of A Crucified Life!

A.    Without a doubt one can see that Jesus’ scars were genuine, but that cannot be said of every scar in a person’s life

B.    Paul spoke of his scars which he bore!

(Galatians 6:17) “From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the marks of the Lord Jesus.”  (KJV)

C.    His marks also testified of a crucified life!

(Galatians 2:20) “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”  (KJV)

D.    Can it be seen that our marks and scars, if any, show that we are a consecrated Christian who is dead to self and letting the resurrected Christ live through us?

II.    Notice That No Scars Are A Sign Of A Callous Christian!

A.    The absence of scars usually testify of one who has neither been saved or of a Christian which has failed to completely understand the way in which he or she should live their life as a believer!

B.    For a Christian, the lack of scars gives no evidence of any identification of their life with that of Jesus’; other than that of the lips and selected acts.

C.    They cannot identify themselves with Paul and his apostolic example which he left for us.

(1 Corinthians 15:31) “… I die daily.”  (KJV)
(Romans 12:1-2) “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”  (KJV)

D.    We may have calluses. Usually they are in our heart and displayed by our actions and attitude. We should have the bleeding wounds of Jesus in our life.

III.    Notice That Scars Speak Louder Than The Voice Of Any Christian!

A.    Jesus let His wounds speak for themselves!

B.    Paul let his scars speak to the doubting Thomas’ of his day!

C.    There are some people whom God wants you to reach who will only believe on the Lord Jesus, after seeing you and your scars which you have in your life.

D.    Think about it! You actions and your testimony speak louder than your lips. They add weight to your admonition to others to be saved and live for God!

IV.    Notice That Scars Have A Unique Story To Publish!

A.    Every scar has a story to tell!

B.    Jesus’ could tell of the agony of the cross which he willingly bore for the sins of the human race!

C.    Paul’s spoke of one who lived for God in spite of it all. Stoned, beaten, whipped, destitute on the waves of the Mediterranean, and shipwrecked on beaches (much more can be said) and yet this was willingly endured because he died to self years previous and continually did it every day!

D.    What do your scars tell of? A praying and dedicated wife? A loving parent who is broken over the sins of their children? Have you endured heated words with those of whom you love dearly about your faith in Christ? Have you been treated maliciously because you were steadfast in your walk with God!

Conclusion:

To The Sinner:

•    Repent and believe the gospel!

To The Christian:

•    Can You Show Us Your Scars?
•    Do you have any scars that would resemble Paul’s which would convince any gainsayer that you are a crucified Christian?
•    Are your scars just from your own sins and from your own self-will?
•    May we seek not to be a martyr necessarily, but to die to self and let Christ live His life through us!

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An Important, Self Examining Question | Coping With Criticism – A Pastor’s Nightmare

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Usually a leader does not like to be questioned about their conduct or instructions. It is only natural to be a little defensive because of pride and such. After all, most criticism is, in the very least, critical in nature. However, the godly, and diligent spiritual leader will ask themselves an all important question when being criticized.

“Is This Something I Need To Correct Or Change?” 

As every leader would challenge others to do, so must the leader do in his/her life. When criticized, everyone needs to ask themselves an all important question, “Is This Something I Need To Correct Or Change?” If we are honest with ourselves, then we will have to admit that most of the time very little consideration is given to this question. Furthermore, when we do ask this question, many times, we hide the answer from others and ourselves.

A Caution Must Be Heeded…

“in every criticism there is an element of truth!“

For some reason, we think people are picking on us when they share a criticism or we think they are being OVERLY critical of something. For these reasons, we dismiss what was sent from Heaven to help us! How many times a day does a spiritual leader ask God for wisdom and instruction? They beg God for it, but won’t take it when it comes in the form of a criticism.  REMEMBER… in every criticism there is an element of truth!

EVERY Pastor…

Every pastor should be careful to ask themselves this question when someone approaches them with a criticism. The answer is very simple. We either say, “Yes!” or, “No!” If we need to work on the issue presented, then, by all means, implement a change or remedy so it won’t happen next time. If we see that the criticism is unfounded, then brush it off and move on. This question will work with any kind of criticism, constructive or non-constructive.

Bottom Line…

The truth of the matter is that if pastors/spiritual leaders are not willing to ask themselves this important question when criticized, then how can they preach or teach anyone else. Think about it… each time someone mounts a pulpit or lectern, they are preaching and teaching for a decision. They ask people to consider making some sort of change in their lives. If they are not willing to make changes in their own lives when confronted, then they are not much of a leader. In fact, they won’t be leading for very long!

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Pastor, How Can I Be Better Able For God’s Work

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This sermon outline helps us see how we ought to be carrying out our service for Jesus Christ. It also shows us how we can be better able to do the work of God. Brother John Moxley’s book entitled The Tabernacle In The Wilderness was invaluable and cited in part of this outline. Just putting this message together was a walk through the life of a Levite! May it help each servant of God to pay the strictest attention to their calling in life!

Title: “Pastor, How Can I Be Better Able For God’s Work?”

Text: I Chronicles 9:13 Read from verse 10

(1 Chronicles 9:10-13) “And of the priests; Jedaiah, and Jehoiarib, and Jachin, And Azariah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son of Ahitub, the ruler of the house of God; And Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchijah, and Maasiai the son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer; And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand and seven hundred and threescore; very able men for the work of the service of the house of God.”  (KJV)

Introduction:

•    We find, in the genealogies and records of God’s people, a description of the aptitude of certain individuals that God wants us to remember.
•    These priests were men that evidently were fit for the work of God in such a way that God wanted all to know about it.
•    God wanted mankind to see this example so much that the Holy Ghost had them penned in the pages of our Bibles!
•    1, 760 men were ABLE FOR THE WORK OF THE SERVICE OF THE HOUSE OF GOD!
•    The Bible plainly declares that we who are “in Christ”, men, women, and children that are saved, are PRIESTS unto God!

(Revelation 1:6) “And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.” (KJV)

(Revelation 5:10) “And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.” (KJV)

(Revelation 20:6) “Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.”  (KJV)

•    We have an example to live up to here in our text. I know that Christ is our pattern for living, but we have human examples here. My point is that if they can have this testimony, then we can too!
•    We all want God to say to us when we see Him, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant”!
•    If you are like me, then we want to please God and do what we can to serve Him adequately!
•    What can we learn from these Godly men? What was it about them that would cause them to be exceptional in their conduct of service!

Notes derived from John Moxley’s book entitled The Tabernacle In The Wilderness

Proposition: There are three things that pervaded their life that I believe moved them to serve God in a marvelous way!

I.    Notice They Knew About Their Calling FROM God!

     A.    Pedigree

          i.    Born into service – Numbers 17:1-8 (We are born into service through our Salvation experience!)
          ii.    God ordained that the descendents of Levi would be apart of the spiritual leadership of Israel!

     B.    Longevity of Calling

          i.    They served God in different ways, but unless an age was prescribed, they serve as long as they were able to do the work as they were right with God!

     C.    We are called to salvation in Christ, then we are called to serve him in many fronts; for example:

          i.    As a disciple
          ii.    As an Ambassador
          iii.    As a servant
          iv.    As a soldier
          v.    As a co-laborer
          vi.    As a vessel
          vii.    As a priest

     D.    We must get a hold of the truth that God has called each of us into an arena of service for Christ!

          i.    What a privilege!
          ii.    What an honor!
          iii.    What an opportunity!

     E.    I believe that because these particular men referred to in our text knew they were called of God, that this moved them to “go the extra mile” for God!

II.    Notice They Knew About Their Calling UNTO God!

     A.    It is important to distinguish priests from the High Priest.

          i.    High Priest – go between, intercessor
          ii.    Priest – Levite – They help maintain the place of worship and helped the High Priest, by their acts of service!

               1.    If they did not do their jobs, then the High Priest would be limited!

     B.     “Since we are priests of God and of Christ, we have access into the presence of God. The priests who were appointed for the service of the Tabernacle could come into the presence of God only one time each year. How wonderful for us that we may come at any time.” – Moxley page 51

(Hebrews 4:15-16) “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.”  (KJV)

     C.    “The priests who were appointed for the service of the tabernacle had specific jobs. We also have specified jobs in the church. All of the Levites did not offer sacrifices. Some Levites were shepherds, tent repairers, farmers, wood cutters, kitchen workers, etc. Some were appointed as maintenance men and laborers in the construction of the Tabernacle. Moses was the overseer, Bezaleel, Aholiab were under him, and others worked to construct the Tabernacle.” – Moxley page 51

     D.    “Some of us must be content to be unnoticed in God’s work. We must be workers together in building the church of which Christ is the head. While the pastor has the most visible role, some will have to teach, some will sing, some will keep the nursery, some will help keep the church grounds maintained, etc., and ALL are to win lost men to Christ. Numbers 1-4 gives information about the different services to be performed.” – Moxley page 51

     E.    With all of this stated, we must realize that these men new their calling required work in many areas, and they were glad to do what God has chosen them to do!

III.    Notice They Knew About Their Calling FOR God!

     A.    The Levites, among their peers, were somewhat a spectacle.

     B.    Their clothing set them apart from everyone else in the entire world; not just Israel.

     C.    They actions that were seen from close and from afar were a testimony of God!

     D.    They were leaders in many ways to their fellow man. Their functions in the day to day worship of Israel to the Most Holy One were very special and these men of whom we are referring to in text knew this all too much. It caused them to go for God!

     E.    Remember that God set a cloud over the Tabernacle by day and a pillar of fire by night. The Levites followed this guidance and when the Levites acted everyone else followed suit throughout the camp!

     F.    “One of the primary duties of the Levites was moving the Tabernacle. The tabernacle was designed in such a way that it could be taken down and moved whenever God led them to do so. God led them by a cloud in the day time and a pillar of fire in the night. As long as the cloud remained on the Tabernacle during the day and the fire remained on the Tabernacle at night, the children of Israel remained where they were – – whether it was for two days, a month, or a year. When the cloud was taken up, they knew it was time to pack up and move. By this, they always knew God was leading them and that He had not forsaken them.
Each family of the Levites – The Kohathites, the Gershonites, and the Merarites – had specific jobs to do in the moving of the Tabernacle from one location to another:

          i.    Kohathites:

               1.    They carried the instruments and furnishings of the sanctuary of the tabernacle (the ark, table, candlestick, altars, etc.) when Israel moved forward – after they were covered and prepared by Aaron and his sons.

(Numbers 4:5-6) “And when the camp setteth forward, Aaron shall come, and his sons, and they shall take down the covering vail, and cover the ark of testimony with it: And shall put thereon the covering of badgers’ skins, and shall spread over it a cloth wholly of blue, and shall put in the staves thereof.”  (KJV)

                See Numbers 4:1-15

          ii.    Gershonites:

               1.    They carried the curtains of the tabernacle, the first covering, the covering of badgers’ skins, the hanging of the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, the hangings of the court, and the hanging for the door of the court. Ithamar, Aaron’s son, was in charge of the Gershonites. See Numbers 4:21-28.

          iii.    Merarites:

               1.    They carried the boards of the Tabernacle, the bars, the pillars and sockets. They also carried the pillars of the court, the sockets, pins and cords of the court. The sons of Merari were also in Ithama’s charge. See Numbers 4:29-36″ – Moxley pages 142-143

     G.    When they moved everyone followed and moved as well.

     H.    This speaks to us that we are to Call others for God! Their actions spoke to others for God as well as the people seeing the cloud and fire signs.

     I.    These individuals were very aware that they communicated truths to other for God and they conducted themselves accordingly!

Conclusion:

•    To make a long story short, we need to realize that God said these men we “VERY ABLE” to do the work of God.
•    I hope you can see why I think God said this about them.
•    I hope that you will strive to let God work in your life so you can be “VERY ABLE” AS WELL!

To The Sinner:

•    Be saved!

To The Christian:

•    Learn from these people’s examples and be better able to serve God!

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