JESUS MAKES THE DIFFERENCE!

John 2:1-11

INTRO: John tells us in chapter 20 that he wrote to help people know and believe Jesus as Savior. He chose 7 miracles which he called signs. Here is the first one, a wedding in Cana.

THE SCENE

   Wedding at Cana, this is near Nazareth

   Jesus mother is there and Jesus and disciples are invited

      Apparently a family situation

   A usual part of life

THE SITUATION

   Mary came and told Jesus they were out of wine.

      Jesus seems to dodge any responsibility.

   Mary simply told the servants to do whatever he said.

THE SUPPLY

   Six large water pots used for cleansing

   Jesus had them filled with water

   Then some was taken to the head waiter

   It became wine better than any other

THE SIGNIFICANCE

   Jesus made the difference

   The old (cleansing water) replaced with new

   He revealed His glory

   The disciples believed

   Best saved for last

            When we come to faith in Jesus, we find that He does indeed make the difference. He is concerned about our every need. Life with Him is better than any life without Him was or could be. The glory of the Father shines on our everyday lives!

===============

Presented Sunday, January 17, 2010, Greenville (CA) Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred D. Kerr    fred.kerr@frontier.com

Main outline from John MacArthur

JOHN THE BAPTIST

A MAN WITH PURPOSE

John 1:6-9; 19-23; 29-30; 3:22-30

INTRO: John the Baptist is a man who appears on the stage of history for a brief period. Even in that brief appearance he was a man with a purpose and went about doing it.

THE PURPOSE ANNOUNCED (John 1:6-9)

   A man (his humanity –vs.- divinity of Jesus)

   Sent from God (divine commission)

   To testify about the Life giving Light.

THE PURPOSE ACKNOWLEDGED (John 1:19-23)

   John's baptizing caught the attention of the Jewish leaders.

   They sent investigators out to see him.

   Who are you? Not the messiah!

            Elijah?  --  "I am not." Prophet? – "No."

   Then who are you?

            A voice crying in the wilderness ….

               "Prepare the way of the Lord"                           

THE PURPOSE FULFILLED (John 1:29-30)

   Baptism to prepare the way for Jesus to come.

   Pointed people to Jesus: "Behold the Lamb of God,

                                     Who takes away the sin of the world."

   He prepared people to receive Jesus. He pointed people to Jesus.

        Then he withdrew from the spotlight.

A CONTINUING PURPOSE (John 3:22-30)

   Two other events of John's life are mentioned.

   In John 3 we see his continuing ministry.

     Still pointing people to Jesus.

      "He must increase, I must decrease."

   In Matthew 11, we see the account of his arrest, imprisonment and eventually death.

   Sometimes it may seem that our ministry is past.

            Never! As long as we live we will continue having purpose as God places us where he wants.

            Our first purpose is to hear God's call and come to Him through Jesus Christ. – Then we must point others to Him.

========================

For delivery January 10, 2010, Greenville Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred Kerr

WHEN GOD CAME TO EARTH

John 1:1-18

INTRO: This is one of the grandest passages in the Bible. It speaks to both the Greek and the Jewish world about God coming to the earth. We can see it in three segments:

THE DIVINE WORD (vs. 1-5)

   The Word was from the beginning

   The Word was with God. The Word was God.

   The Word was the Creator.

   The Word was Life.

   The Life gave light and life to man.

   The darkness of the world cannot overcome it.

RESPONDING TO THE WORD (vs. 6-13)

   A man named John came to bear witness to Him.

       He was different from the light.

   The Word/Light came to His own people.

       Most of them rejected Him

       Those who did receive Him by believing on His Name

          Received forgiveness and the right to be sons of God

EXPERIENCING THE GLORY! (vs. 14-18)

   The Word became flesh and revealed the glory of God

       John again testifies about Him

   He brought grace and truth to the world

   He revealed God to the world

============

APPLICATION: God has revealed Himself through Jesus Christ. In Him we know the fullness of God's glory and grace. That is available to all who believe and receive Him. Those who reject Jesus cannot experience God. Will you accept and live in Him? You then will experience Him in your life!

----------------------

Sermon for January 3, 2010, Greenville Southern Baptist Church

Greenville, CA, Pastor Fred D. Kerr

MOVING AHEAD

(Facing the New Year)

Joshua 1:1-10

INTRO: Joshua and the people of Israel stood on the brink of the future. It was time to claim the Promised Land. What would they do? How could they do it? We learn lessons from them that will help us face the New Year (or any future).

TAKING STOCK OF THE SITUATION

    Moses has led the people for 40 years.

    Moses is dead.

   Joshua is now in charge.

   The Jordan is between them and the Promised Land.

THEIR ACTION PLAN

   Let go of the past. (1:1-2)

   Affirm the presence of God. (1:5)

   Rely on the power of God. (1:5)

   Take action. (1:2-3)

   The result is history. They took the Promised Land!

THE LESSON FOR US:

   As we face the New Year (Any future)  

      We look back on some victories.

      We look around at some dismal realities.    

      We look ahead to some big challenges.

   Our action plan should be the same as Joshua's.

What does the New Year promise for you? Maybe you don't have any idea! Maybe you have some fears. But one thing is sure, we must go ahead. The choice is ours. Move ahead in fear or move ahead with confidence in God.

==============

Sermon for December 27, 2009

Greenville Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred D. Kerr

THE SAVIOR IS BORN

Luke 2:1-20

INTRO: Christmas time is a time to go home. For students, soldiers, and anyone, Christmas time is a time to return to our roots. For the Christian, Christmas time should be time for us to go back to our roots as we go to Bethlehem. While we cannot go there physically, we can do so in our mind and our heart. Someone has said that takes 5 things:

THE STABLE

   The stable reminds us of the humility of Christ.

   He left the glories of heaven to come to show us God's love.

   While there was no room for Him in the inn, here was room.

   While the world does not have room, we can and should.

THE SHEPHERDS

  The announcement to the shepherds brings us into the picture.

  Jesus birth was first announced to lowly who would believe.

   The shepherds sought the child and worshiped him. Will we?

SINGING

   The angels sang the glories of God.

   They sang the praises of the new born king.

   We should sing his praises today.

A STAR

   We have to go to Matthew and the wise men to find the star.

   The star is a reminder of God's guidance.

   It is also a fore gleam of who Jesus would be.

   He is the bright and morning star.

THE SAVIOR

   Jesus is the central figure. Too often we forget.

   Without Jesus there is no Christmas.

   Without him all the rest is just tinsel.

CONCLUSION: Remember the star. It has 5 points. 5 things Jesus gives us: hope, love, peace, joy, eternal life. Do you have these? He will give them. Without Him, you will not find them.

====================================

This is an old story, but ever new! God sent forth His son that He might bring us to the Father! His forgiveness is the only way this can be. So at Christmas time we celebrate the love that God has for us. Without Him we have no hope and without Him there is nothing to celebrate! So Merry CHRISTmas to each of you. Let's celebrate.

===========

Sermon for December 20, 2009

Greenville Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred D. Kerr, fred.kerr@frontier.com

DON'T MISS CHRISTMAS!

Matthew 1:18-2:12 (Luke 2:6-7)

INTRO: All of you have probably heard the story of the man who got locked in his safe and spent Christmas there, and no one missed him. In the account of Jesus' birth, there are different groups of people who missed the significance of His birth. At this Christmas, let's be careful that we not make the same mistake.

THESE MISSED THE FIRST CHRISTMAS

   The innkeeper missed the event in the rush of his business.

   Herod missed it because of his jealous fears of an opponent.

         Herod equated king and Messiah.

   The priests missed Jesus

      Even though they knew the scriptures about his birth,

         They did not go looking for Him!

HOW ABOUT US TODAY?

   Are we like the innkeeper?  

            Do we sometimes miss the real meaning in the hassle?

   Are we like Herod?  

            We sometimes fear the cost of recognizing Him?

   Are we like the priests?

            We know all the facts, but still miss the real essence.

WHAT SHOULD THE TIME BE?

   A time of celebration:

            The Savior (Jesus) has been born. (1:21)

   A time of redemption:

            The Christ (Messiah) has been born. (2:4)

   A time of joy:

            The shepherd-ruler has come! (2:2 & 6)

DON'T MISS CHRISTMAS! Take time to reflect on the real event we celebrate. There is something to celebrate. If not, it is just another day! Remember, the Shepherd Savior Deliverer!

=====================

Sermon delivered at Greenville (CA) Southern Baptist Church, Dec. 6, 2009

RESPONSIBLE FREEDOM

Hebrews 10:19-25

INTRO: The writer has affirmed that Jesus has made the final sacrifice. In this passage he calls us to recognize the responsibility that brings to us.

  Since (1) we can enter God's presence with boldness through the blood of Jesus, and (2) we have a great high priest, therefore what is our lifestyle to be?

LET US DRAW NEAR TO GOD (vs. 22)

   With a sincere heart

   Full assurance of faith

LET US HOLD TO THE HOPE WE PROFESS (vs. 23)

   Without wavering

   For He who promised is faithful

LET US SPUR (STIMULATE) ONE ANOTHER (vs. 24)

   To love and good works

     (See Hebrews 9:14; Ephesians 2:10)

   LET US not give up meeting together (vs. 25)

      Fellowship is the way we stimulate one another.

   LET US encourage one another

      … all the more as we see the Day approaching

         Day? Return of Christ? More persecution?

-----------------------------

    We have a firm foundation in Jesus Christ. We must live upon that foundation and trust it in all situations. In this life, we need one another. Let us never forget that. We need to know we are loved, regardless of our failure or success.

--------------------------------------

Sermon for November 15, 2009

Greenville Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred D. Kerr

JESUS – GOD'S FINAL WORD

Hebrews 1:1-4; 2:1-4; 3:1-6

INTRO: God had called a people to Himself and established them as His unique people. Through them, He would reach out to the whole world. Here the author tells us how that is. It was through Jesus, one of those people that God would reach out to the whole world. He is superior to the old system.

JESUS

   Superior to the prophets 1:1

   Superior to angels   1:4

      Superior name to the angels

   Greater honor than Moses   3:3

   Great high priest 4:14

WARNINGS

   Pay attention, lest you drift away 2:1

   Don't have an unbelieving heart

      But encourage one another daily 3:12-13

   Don't fall short of His rest 4:1

PROMISED PROVISIONS

   Purification – salvation 1:3

   Sabbath rest 4:9

   Mercy and grace to help 4:16

            Through Jesus Christ, God continues to draw us to himself. We are called to respond to such calling by trusting Jesus as savior and then trusting Him to lead and provide in our daily lives. Have you? Do you? If not, why not today?

------------------

Sermon Ourlinw for November 8, 2009

Greenville Southern Baptist Church

OUR CALLING TO  MINISTRY

2 Timothy 1:11 – 2:7

INTRO: Last week we looked at 2 Thessalonians, one of Paul's first writings. Today we look at 2 Timothy, perhaps his last letter. He writes to encourage and challenge Timothy. As we study it, we see a message to all who would follow Paul in his service to our Savior.

EVERYONE A MINISTER (1:11-14)

   May bring suffering

   Be not ashamed

   Assurance of victory

   Hold fast to sound words (teachings)

   … with faith and love

EVERYONE NEEDS AN ONESIPHORUS (15-18)

   Discouraged (some have turned away)

   But … Onesiphorus refreshed me

      He sought me out – not ashamed

   He ministered to me in Ephesus

STRENGTH FOR THE TASKS (2:1-2)

   Be strong in the grace in Christ Jesus.

   What you have received …

            Entrust to faithful men

            Who will teach others

MINISTRY IS DIFFICULT (3-7)

   Endure hardships as a good soldier of Christ

   Examples:     Soldier subject to commanding officer

                        Athlete competes according to rules

                        Farmer gets reward for his labors

   Discipline: requires delayed gratification

                        Accepts responsibility

                        Dedication to the truth

                        Involves balance – flexibility

REMEMBER JESUS CHRIST! That is the next words. As we seek to serve God, we must keep our focus on Him.

====================

Message for November 1, 2009

Greenville (CA) Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred D. Kerr

DIALOG WELCOMED

STRENGTH FOR THE DAY

2 Thessalonians 2:13 – 3:5

INTRO: Note the phrase, "Brothers loved by the Lord." That is a great assurance when we face various trials. We are loved by God! With that in mind we can stand firm with Him in whatever state we find our self. We need to REMEMBER:

OUR STANDING WITH GOD

   God chose us to be saved,

            Through the work of the Holy Spirit

            And, faith in the truth.

   He called us through the gospel

   His calling is to responsibility

   That we might share in the glory of Christ.

OUR RESPONSE TO THE CALL

    Stand firm – be faithful

         There will be opposition.

    Hold to the teachings (traditions) received.

OUR SUPPORT BY GOD

    He has loved us.

    He has given us eternal encouragement.

    He has given us good hope by grace.

OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH OTHERS

    Paul asked for prayer for himself

       That the word of God may spread rapidly.

       That he be delivered from wicked men.

THE FAITHFULNESS OF GOD

   The Lord is faithful.

   He will strengthen and protect you.

THEREFORE: Stand firm in the faith which you have placed in God through Jesus Christ. He is faithful.

 -----------------------------

Sermon for October 25, 2009

Greenville (CA) Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred D. Kerr

KNOWING JESUS

Philippians 3

INTRO: Toward the end of his life, Paul wrote these words to encourage us in living out the Christ life. His goal was to know (experience) Christ Jesus.

THAT INVOLVES:

FORGETTING THE PAST

            Accomplishments (3:5-6)

            Failures also

LOOKING BEYOND CIRCUMSTANCES

            Paul was in chains for Christ (1:7, 13, 16)

            He was undecided about the future. (1:23-24)

            He lived in a crooked generation. (2:15)

SHARING THE MINISTRY

            He recognized them as partners. (1:5)

            He was concerned for Epaphroditus. (2:25-27)

            He accepted gifts from Philippians. (4:10-16)

PRESSING ON (3:14)

            He was confident in God's working. (1:6)

            Know Jesus – Study the Bible.

            Know the power of his resurrection. – Live in victory.

            Accept the fellowship of suffering.

            Know that God has called us heaven-ward. (3:14)

            Be a good example for others. (3:17)

            Rejoice in the Lord always. (3:1; 4:4)

KNOWING JESUS begins at the cross when we ask God's forgiveness. It continues in our daily life as we let Him live His life out in ours.

========================

Sermon for October 11, 2009.

Greenville (CA) Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred Kerr

CONFIDENT FAITH

Psalm 27

INTRO: The psalmist had lived through various situations and found God to be faithful. In this Psalm he proclaims that faithfulness and his trust in God. Let's consider his CONFIDENCE:

IN GOD'S PROTECTION (vs. 1-3)

   Light, salvation, stronghold.

   God will confound my enemies.

   He has confidence in face of conflict.

IN GOD'S PRESENCE (vs. 4)

   He wants to dwell in the house of the Lord.

      … all the days of his life!

   Gaze on the Lord and seek His face.

IN GOD'S PROVISION (vs. 5)

   He will keep me safe in the day of trouble.

   He will hide me in his tabernacle.

   He will set me high upon a rock.

THE PSALMIST'S RESPONDING PROMISE (vs. 6)

   He will make a sacrifice of thanksgiving.

   He will rejoice in the Lord.

   He will recognize God's provision

APPLICATION: As the psalmist had learned to depend on God, he knew he would need to constantly do so. We have experienced His provision, but sometimes forget it. Let's dwell in His presence at all time. Thus we can expect deliverance and will be quick to give thanks. Of course, this confidence comes from a relationship with God. Do you know Him? Through Jesus Christ? If not, why not now?

==================

Presented October 4, 2009, Greenville (CA) Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred D. Kerr

LIVING BY GRACE

Ephesians 2:1-10

INTRO: This is the classic passage about grace. We want to examine it and two other passages which talk about grace in different situations.

GRACE FOR SALVATION (Ephesians 2:1-10)

   Former life described: worldly lifestyle

                      Dead in sin

   But God: rich in mercy

            Because of his great love

            Made us alive together with Christ

               And raised us with Christ

               And seated us in heavenly places

            Saved us by grace --- not works

GRACE FOR ROUTINE LIFE (Hebrews 4:14-16)

   We were created for good works (Eph 2:10)

   We have a great high priest

            Who understands our temptation and weakness

   We can draw near to Him for mercy and grace for life.

GRACE FOR CHALLENGES (Matthew 11:28-30)

   To the weary and heavy laden, Jesus promises rest.

   We are to be joined to Him.

   He promises rest and an easy load

      This comes when we are joined to Him in faith and trust.

CONCLUSION: Life brings various challenges to us. If we are joined to God through Jesus Christ, He will see us through life because of His grace and mercy. Without Him we are helpless and hopeless.

====================

Sermon for September 27, 2009 at Greenville (CA) Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred D. Kerr,    fred.kerr@gmail.com

WORSHIP

Isaiah 6:1-8

INTRO: Why did you come to church today? Habit? Pressure? Fellowship? Hurting? Entertainment? Maybe several of these, but hopefully we have come to worship. Isaiah gives us a picture of what worship does.

WORSHIP HONORS GOD

   Holy, Holy, Holy is the LORD Almighty

   Isaiah came to the temple to see God.

WORSHIP LEADS TO FEELING OF AWE

   Isaiah stood in awe with the seraphs

   He recognized God as the One he needed.

WORSHIP BRINGS AN AWARENESS OF SIN

   Woe is me! I am a man of sin!

   I live among sinful people.

WORSHIP BINGS A SENSE OF JOY     

   One of the seraphs brought a live coal

   Isaiah's sins were forgiven

   God's forgiveness should bring joy to us

WORSHIP WILL CALL PEOPLE TO SERVE GOD (vs.8)

   Whom shall I send? God said

    Isaiah said, "Here am I. Send me!"

    We should go away willing to do whatever God wants!

WORSHIP WILL ATTRACT PEOPLE TO GOD

    Jesus said they will know us by our love.

    They will know us by what is important in our lives.

As we come into the presence of the Lord, He reminds us of who He is and what He wants to do for us. He also will lead us to minister to those around us. When we worship Him, we will want to share Him with others as we share any good news!

-------Outline adapted from the late Pastor Glenn Weekly, FBC, Hendersonville, TN.

______________

Preached September 13, 2009, Greenville (CA) Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred D. Kerr     fred.kerr@gmail.com

SERVANTHOOD

I Corinthians 4:1-21

INTRO: I was reminded this week somewhere that life should all be about God. We so often focus on what God will do for us in such a way that the focus is on His blessings. Rather the focus needs to be on HIM. Thus we speak of servanthood!

SERVANTHOOD:

INVOLVES FAITHFUL STEWARDSHIP (vs. 1-5)

   God expects faithfulness.

   Authentic servants are faithful to do what God wants.

INVOLVES HUMBLE MINISTRY (vs. 6-8)

   Don't take pride.

   What do you have that you did not receive?

   Servants minister with humility.

INVOLVES WILLING SACRIFICE (vs. 9-13)

   Servants willing sacrifice where needed.

   They return good for evil. (vs. 13)

INVOLVES PARENTAL LIKE LOVE/CONCERN (14-15)

   His rebuke is not to shame, but to correct.

   Reflects loving concern like a father.

INVOLVES EXEMPLARY LIVING (16-17)

   Paul called them to follow him.

   He proposed to be living as Christ and as he teaches.

INVOLVES SPIRITUAL POWER (18-21)

   We serve in the power of God, not personal power.

Jesus said that HE came to be a servant. We should also serve. We serve God as we serve others. He is to be our central concern. Let's worship Him daily. Let's SERVE HIM.

---Outline adapted from Dr. Ron Meeks, Blue Mountain, MS----

--------------------------

Sermon for Sunday, September 6, 2009, Greenville Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred D. Kerr

fred.kerr@gmail.com

WORTHY!

Revelation 5:1-14

A SCENE IN HEAVEN

   Throne (4:2)

   Worshipers: 24 elders with crowns

                          4 living beasts

   A sealed book (deed?)

        Who is worthy to open it?

          The Lion of Judah – Lamb is worthy

WORTHY BECAUSE HE DIED (vs. 6)

   Slain

   Redeemed believers by His blood

   For all who would believe

WORTHY TO TAKE THE BOOK (vs. 9)

   He alone was worthy

   He could open the seals

       Reveal judgments for the world

       Reveal victory for saints

WORTHY IS THE LAMB (vs. 12-13)

   To receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength

   To receive honor, and glory and praise

   To receive worship and service

John 4:23 says that God seeks those to worship Him in spirit and truth. Here we see a picture in heaven where Jesus is declared worthy. Jesus is worthy of our worship because He was obedient to death on the cross. (Hebrews 12) Let's commit ourselves to worship HIM!

=============

This was an attempt to focus our attention on Jesus who is the one worthy of our worship. Of course, we cannot separate him from God in this respect. We are created to worship. When we worship, we focus on the one we worship. This will take our attention off self and the situation around us. He indeed is to be worshiped.

===========

Presented August 9, 2009, Greenville Southern Baptist Church

Pastor Fred D. Kerr

fred.kerr@gmail.com

LIVING ABOVE THE STORMS

Psalm 37:1-11, 23-28

INTRO: Peace in storms? Act positively! Do you have a plan of action? Consider this from Psalm 37.

WARNINGS AGAINST FALSE SOLUTIONS

   Fret not thyself. (vs. 1)

   Do not envy others. (1)

   Cease from anger. (8)

GUIDELINES (Commandments!)

   Trust in the Lord (3)

      Trust in God's character – love.

      Trust in God's Word. It is truth.

      Trust in God's purpose – redemption.

      Trust in God's promises.

      Trust in God's power.

   Delight yourself in the Lord. (4)

      Everyone delights in something.

      Everyone desires that in which he delights.

      The object of our delight becomes a magnet drawing us.

      The object will control our thoughts, aims, actions

      Delight in the Lord!

   Commit your way unto the Lord. (5)

   Rest in the Lord. (7) (Be still … )

GOD'S PROMISES

   Security – (3) "safe pastures"

   Satisfaction --  "enjoy"

   Joy (4) He will give desires of heart.

   Hope (5) He will do this …

CONCLUSION

1.      Let us not fear storms that may not come.

2.      Let us not think that no storms can come.

3.      Instead let's develop a faith in God's person, presence, promises, and power so that we will be stable and victorious IF storms come.

DRESSING FOR LIVING (LIFE)

Colossians 3: 1-17

INTRO: In this passage Paul likens the Christian life to clothing. The old must be put off in order to make room for the new. Let's consider:

THIS IS A PROCESS (vs. 10)

   Put off the old …

   Put on the new

         Which is being renewed

                         in the knowledge in the image of Christ

THE NEW CLOTHING (vs. 12)

   Compassion

   Kindness

   Humility

   Gentleness

   Patience

LIVING RESULTS (13 f)

   Bear with each other. (Be patient!)

   Forgive one another

            .. as the Lord forgave you!

   Over all, put on love which binds all together.

COMMANDMENTS OF LIVING (15-17)

   Let the peace of Christ rule in your heart.

   Be thankful!

   Let the word of Christ dwell in you.

   Do all in the name of Jesus.

   Give thanks to God the Father through Jesus

How are you dressed? Are you dressed in Jesus and the garments He provides? Or in clothing of your own making?

We are called to life in Jesus. In Him we can do all this mentioned in this passage. Without Him we can do nothing.

===========================

Message for Sunday, July 26, 2009, Greenville Southern Baptist Church,

Pastor Fred D. Kerr

fred.kerr@gmail.com

PRAYER FOR OUR NATION

2 Chronicles 7:11-22

INTRO: In dedicating the newly built temple, Solomon prayed for God to hear the prayers made from the temple. This passage is God's answer. It was a promise to answer prayers when the people called out in time of need. Let's consider:

MOTIVATIONS TO PRAYER

   The condition of our nation: economic struggles, terrorist threats, and the breakdown of families, to name a few.

   Biblical warnings – As a nation, we have rebelled against God and refused His standards.

THE PRINCIPLES OF GOD DO NOT CHANGE

   Though written to Israel, the principle here applies to God's people of any age.

   If God allowed adversity to come to Israel – His chosen people, why would He spare the United States?

THE PRAYER THAT GOD PROMISES TO HEAR

   "If My people": Israel, the church, God's children

            We have the unique privilege of calling on God.

   "Humble themselves": We must depend wholly on God.

   "And pray": We must pray for all the people of our nation. Not just our family or our church. Pray for revival, marriages, godly living, and honest, capable leaders.

   "Turn from their wicked ways": We must confess our sins and turn from them. Not just the big ones! Any disobedience must be confessed. Note that this is a result of prayer and turning to Him, not a first step!

GOD PROMISES TO HEAR AND ANSWER

   The Lord will hear our prayer.

   He will forgive our sins. (I John 1:9)

   He will heal our land.

     We are called to go to God for the solution of our national problems. Man does not have the answer. God does!

CONCLUSION: We must go to God in behalf of our nation. Ask Him to send another Great Awakening to our land. Claim His promise of healing.

===============

Outline adapted from Charles Stanley

Presented at Greenville Southern Baptist Church, July 5, 2009

HOLY SPIRIT AT WORK

John 14:15-21, 26; 16:5-16

INTRO: In these two chapters, Jesus taught much about the Holy Spirit. He said He must go away and then He would send the Holy Spirit. He lists at least 4 things that the Holy Spirit would do. He continues in this work today.

CONVICTION (16:8-10)

   Concerning sin because man does not believe in Jesus

   Concerning righteousness because Jesus was leaving

            In Jesus is righteousness.

   Concerning judgment because the ruler of this world (devil) has been judged. His judgment passes to men who refuse Jesus offer of forgiveness!

INSTRUCTION

   Inspiration of scripture

   He will teach you all things (14:26)

   He will guide into truth (16:13)

   He will remind us of what Jesus said. (14:26)

CONSOLATION

   He is the Helper (14:16 & 26)

GLORIFY GOD (16:14)

   Points to Jesus, not himself

CONCLUSION: The Holy Spirit is the presence of God within us. He continues in the same work today. Will we let Him do his work??? He leads us to Christ. Then He guides us in our life.

========================

Sermon for Greenville Southern Baptist Church

June 28, 2009

WHAT DO YOU SEE?

John 9:1-8, 19-33

INTRO: The healing of a man born blind gives us occasion to ask ourselves about what we see. How do we see the people and things in our life?

WHAT THE CROWD SAW

   The neighbors and friends saw a beggar!

            Once a beggar – always a beggar!

            They saw the surface – not the real man.

   The apostles saw a theological problem.

            Who sinned that the man had been born blind?

            This was a current debate.

            It is still something we try to solve.

   Jesus saw a man!

            -- a man in need -- opportunity to serve.

WHAT THE PARENTS SAW

   They admitted he was their son.

   They remembered the joy of birth and the pain of blindness.

            They even acknowledged his being able to now see.

   They saw an issue of security.

            If they acknowledged that Jesus did it, they could be                                          excommunicated.

WHAT THE BLIND MAN SAW

   He saw the light of day. He was healed, but more…

   He saw a new truth, Jesus as Messiah, and embraced it.

   His was a growing understanding about who Jesus is.

            Man, prophet, one from God, Son of man, Lord.

WHAT DO YOU SEE?

             A PROBLEM or AN OPPORTUNITY?

================

Sermon for Sunday, June 21, 2009, Greenville Southern Baptist Church

God comes into our lives to save us and to give us many wonderful blessings. His grace and mercy are limitless.

After we know Him as Father,

He comes to minister to our every need.

What is God wanting to do in your life today?

When God Comes to You

John 4:1-30

INTRO: In this chapter we have a classic example of Jesus search for lost mankind. We can study it from Jesus point of view or from the woman's point of view. We look at the hunter or the hunted. We will do a little of both.

OVERCOMING BARRIERS

   Several barriers are observed between Jesus and the woman:

      Race

      Sexual

      Religion

      Moral

WHEN GOD COMES

   He comes to you where you are.

      It may be a time of deep need.

      It may be a time of loss.

      It may be in the midst of a busy life or when life is slow

   He comes with love

      He comes to offer meaning and purpose. Life, peace, etc

   He comes with patience.

HOW WE RESPOND

   We often respond in defense.

   We generally make excuses.

   We don't believe He knows how we feel.

   But we must choose to receive Him.

      Then we will know Him and His love.

      He will make changes to make us as He wants!

   Has God come for you today? What situation are you facing? Is He there calling you to trust Him in that? He calls us to accept life and forgiveness. But He also calls us to give us meaning, purpose, peace, contentment, etc.

GOD BECAME FLESH

John 1:1-18

INTRO: This beginning of John's gospel is one of the greatest statements of God's working. It brings Jesus from eternity past to the world where we live. As it reveals God to us, it calls us to follow Him. Each of us must decide.

THE ETERNAL ONE …

   The beginning – eternity past 

   "logos" = the word. Summation of all knowledge

      He was with God.

      He was God.

   He was the agent of creation.

   In Him was life and light for men.

… BECAME FLESH

   Dwelt among us

   Revealed the Glory of God

   He was full of grace and truth

   He has made the Father known.

   John the Baptist gave witness to Him.

HE DEMANDS A CHOICE

   He came to His own (Jews)

      His own rejected Him.

   Some received Him, believed in His name

      To them He gave the right to be children of God

         Not by man but by God's will.

THE CHOICE: As God comes to us today, we must make some choices. Our first choice is to choose Him as Savior. Then we choose Him as Lord, Master, Provider to follow in whatever life He chooses to lead us to live. Will you follow Him today?

==============

May 31, 2009, Greenville Southern Baptist Church

GIVING THAT PLEASES GOD

Luke 21:1-4; 2 Corinthians 8:1-5

INTRO: Jesus watched the people put in offerings in the collection urns. He commended the widow who gave just a little. What are reasons He will commend us?

GOD CARES ABOUT OUR GIVING

   Some give because they think God needs it.

   We give in response to what God has done for us.

   Being generous reflects God's love in the world.

   Being generous involves trusting God.

GOD CARES ABOUT HOW WE GIVE

   The attitude of the heart makes all the difference.

      "… God loves a cheerful giver." 2 Cor. 9:7

   Giving that cost us pleases God.

      David said he would not give to God what cost him nothing

GOD CARES ABOUT HOW MUCH WE GIVE

   The rich gave of their abundance.

   The widow gave a little, but all she had.

   Jesus commended her above the rich.

Some one has said that giving is to be measured ---

not by its count, but its cost

not by its amount, but its percentage

not by what is given, but by what is kept

not by money, but by spirit

God leads us to give to support His work. More importantly, we give to express our gratitude. We give financially, but we also give of our time and our talents. All is to honor our God. Lets be generous, cheerful givers. To God's glory!

=================

Greenville Southern Baptist Church, May 24, 2009, Pastor Fred D. Kerr

KNOWING JESUS WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE

Luke 19: 1-24

INTRO: The account of the conversion of Zacchaeus and the parable of the 10 minas seem to be disconnected. But on further thought, they seem to fit. Let's consider:

ZACCHAEUS THE MAN

   Tax collector- Traitor- Possibly dishonest

   Curious about Jesus

   Determined to see Him

      Even to climbing the tree

ZACCHAEUS THE SOUGHT

   Why did Jesus stop under the tree?

   Possibly looking for someone willing to listen to Him

   Come Zacchaeus! I want you!

ZACCHAEUS THE CHANGED MAN

   Willing to repay 4fold anything he had gained dishonestly

   Gave ½ his wealth to help the poor

   Jesus said that salvation had come to this house.

      Why? Did the gifts bring salvation? No, they were a result

   As Jesus had shared with him, he found new meaning to life

   As such, his focus turned to others

THEN THERE ARE THE MINAS

   Each servant was entrusted with funds by the king

   At least two faithfully invested and received various returns

      They were commended and rewarded

   One buried his money for safe keeping

      Focus was on himself and possible loss

   Focus should be on master and others.

-------- As followers of Jesus Christ, our focus will be on Him and His people. We will trust Him and not be fearful about personal loss or needs. This is because we trust Him – not our own efforts. Are you trusting Jesus today? For salvation? For life? Why not?

------------------

May 17, 2009, Greenville Southern Baptist Church

ARE YOU A PRODIGAL?

Luke 15:11-32

INTRO: In this chapter we have three parables about lost things. The central message is that God wants the lost to be found. He is patient in seeking and waiting for the lost to come to Him.

NOTE THE SETTING

   Lost things – sheep, coin, son

   The lost sheep and lost coin were sought and found.

      Celebration said to be like celebration in heaven over one    repentant sinner.

   The shepherd and the woman are symbols of God's seeking.

THE SON WAS A LITTLE DIFFERENT

   He was given his freedom. He chose to leave.

   The father waits and watches for his return.

   The son is given time to "come to his senses" (vs. 17)

   He comes to his father in repentance

   The father welcomes him with open arms as a son

   So God welcomes the repentant sinner. Celebration!!!

THREE KINDS OF LOSTNESS

   The younger son wasted the father's money

      He suffered for it. Suffered famine and hunger

      He missed the blessings of home.

   The older son stayed at home and served the father.

      Possibly out of a sense of duty – rather than love

      He did not take the joy the father could give

      Therefore he was not willing to forgive the brother.

   A third type is implied

      The younger son did not consider himself worthy.

      He was willing to be a slave w/o privilege of son

      What if he had rejected forgiveness and son ship?

      That's like us when we do not think we deserve forgiveness             and live without blessings of God.

--- Are you like one of these three? Are you enjoying all the joys and privileges of being a child of God? If not, why not?

------------------------

Presented at Greenville Southern Baptist Church, May 10,2009,

Pastor Fred D. Kerr

LESSONS FROM THE GOOD SAMARITAN!

Luke 10: 25-37

INTRO: Jesus' teachings brought forth many reactions. In this passage we find a religious leader seeking to justify himself. Jesus turns the tables on him.

FOUR QUESTIONS

   What must I do to inherit eternal life? (25)

   How do you understand the Law? (26)

   Who is my neighbor? (29)

   Who was neighbor to the man in need? (36)

FOUR GROUPS OF PEOPLE

   Robbers who took what they could.

   Man in need.

   Potential helpers. (Priest and Levite)

   A compassionate stranger. The Samaritan.

REASONS SOME WOULD NOT HELP

   Personal danger

   Blame the man. He should not have been there.

   Inconvenient delay

   Possibly make one unclean

THE CHALLENGE TO COMPASSION

   Whose neighbor can I be?

   What kind of neighbor am I?

   Love seeks the best for others, not for self.

   Make it personal. Who around you needs something?

      Will you be compassionate and help them?

      Or will you find some reason to pass by on the other side? 

Forgive me God, when I do not have time for your people!

When I trust Jesus for eternal life, He will change my life.

The bottom line: Ask whose neighbor can I be? Who can I help?

====================

May 3, 2009, Greenville Southern Baptist Chruch

FOLLOWING THE HEART OF GOD

I Samuel 13:1-14; Acts 13:22

INTRO: David was a man with good and bad on his record. He was a shepherd who ended up as king. He was a talented musician as seen in the Psalms. But he was also guilty of adultery and murder. How can God say that he is a man after His heart?   ---  We need to see that God does have a "heart." Ultimately, Gods evaluation is what matters, not what man says. We can follow and capture the heart of God. One does not have to live a perfect life to follow the heart of God. To follow the heart of God we must:

DECLARE GOD'S PRAISE

   David had a way of passing the praise on to God.

   His blend of confession and thanksgiving is enriching.

   Hebrews 13:15 reminds about the fruit of our lips.

   We must express our worship to God.

DEPEND ON GOD'S PROVISION

   When he went against Goliath, he went in the name of God.

   Even in exile he trusted in God's sovereignty

   "The LORD is my light and my salvation." Psalm 27:1

   "The LORD is a refuge for the oppressed …" Ps. 9:9

DESIRE GOD'S PRESENCE

   Public praise is a vital part of faith.

   But private time with God is mandatory.

   Psalm 119 tells about David's great desire to know the Word.

   His confessions (Ps 32 & 51) tell his desire to live with God.

DISPLAY GOD'S POWER

  David gave God credit for defeating Goliath and wild animals

   He depended on God at all times.

  He wanted to build a temple to display the glory of God.

   God is pleased when we trust Him. Hebrews 11:6

 DO THESE 4 THINGS DESCRIBE YOUR LIFE? THEN GOD WILL BE PLEASED.

------- Outline adapted from Pastor Steve Andrews, Rome GA ---------

Preached April 26, 2009, Greenville Southern Baptist Church

Listening when God Speaks

I Samuel 3: 1-10

INTRO: Samuel was dedicated to God's service before his birth. (See chapter 1) He was brought to Eli to be his servant after he was weaned. In this passage while he is still a young man, God speaks to him. One phrase jumped out to me: "Samuel did not yet know the LORD." I asked myself "Why not?" Let's consider:

GOD HAD CHOSEN TO REVEAL HIMSELF

   God created the world.

   God came to talk with Adam and Eve.

   He had continued to relate to His people.

   Samuel's mother prayed for him dedicating him to the Lord.

   She had raised him to weaning age (perhaps 6 or so).

   Then she took him to the priest.

   Samuel grew up in the temple.

      Why then did he not know the Lord?

            Perhaps he had not been taught. By his mother or Eli!

            Perhaps he was not a good student!

     Then I wondered: Are we raising a generation who does not know the Lord? In our homes and in the church?

   This is a very challenging question for me. Are we faithful to God in teaching those who come after us?

SPEAK, FOR YOUR SERVANT IS LISTENING

   When Eli understood what was happening, he told Samuel.

   Samuel was obedient and spoke as told.

      He was sincere and God gave him a message for Eli.

   While it was not a good message, Samuel was obedient in telling it to Eli.

---- Hopefully this is our response when God speaks. He speaks through His word, through friends, through circumstances, and many ways. Are we listening? Are we teaching others to listen? When He speaks do we recognize Him?

========================

April 19, 2009, Greenville (CA) Southern Baptist Church