The Ashland St. Pulpit

In this special Thanksgiving Podcast, we explore a profound biblical story from Luke 17:11-19,

Let's explore the story of the Ten Leper's

1. The Opportunity Presented (Luke 17:11-12)

2. The Opportunity Taken (Luke 17:13)

3. The Protocol Obeyed (Luke 17:14)

4. The Praise Lavished (Luke 17:15-16)

5. The Ingratitude Displayed (Luke 17:17-18)

6. The Greater Cleansing (Luke 17:19)

Dr. Harry Ironsides said, “We would worry less if we praised more. Thanksgiving is the enemy of discontent and dissatisfaction.” Another hero of the faith, Charles Haddon Spurgeon said, “There should be a parallel between our supplications and our thanksgivings. We ought not to leap in prayer, and limp in praise.”

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Credit to Johnny Pope for Outline

Christchurch Baptist Fellowship: Houston, TX > Pastor's Word 2015

"Keep Thyself Pure"

Text: 1 Timothy 5:22 Theme: Personal holiness in relationships, speech, and conduct.

Introduction

• Paul’s letter to Timothy gives guidance to a young pastor navigating life and ministry.
• Key verse: 1 Timothy 3:15 – "...that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God..."
• Chapter 5’s theme: "Keep thyself pure."
• Purity isn’t just about abstinence or morality but encompasses our relationships, words, and lifestyle.

Main Points

1. Be Pure from the Parrots (v. 19)

• Illustration: Parrots repeat everything they hear, symbolizing gossip and careless talk.
• Warning: Gossip distracts people from God and aligns with Satan’s purpose.
• Practical Wisdom: 7 Times to Remain Silent:
  • When not Spirit-filled (Ephesians 5:18).
  • When lacking full information (Proverbs 18:13).
  • When tempted to gossip (Proverbs 26:22).
  • When angry (Proverbs 15:1).
  • When you haven’t listened carefully (Proverbs 29:20).
  • When words don’t edify (Proverbs 17:27).
  • When wisdom advises silence (Proverbs 22:17).

2. Be Pure from the Preferrers (v. 21)

• Challenge: Show no partiality.
• Scripture: James 2:1-9 reminds us to treat everyone equally, regardless of status.
• Action Step: Pray for others to be saved, and avoid favoritism that compromises purity in relationships.

3. Be Pure from the Partakers (v. 22)

• Warning: Associating with sinful behaviors can make us complicit.
• Illustration: A white plant growing at a coal mine’s entrance remains unspotted despite the surrounding dirt.
• Lesson: Like the plant, Christians should reflect purity amid the world’s moral pollution.
• Biblical Example:
  • Enoch walked with God for 300 years (Genesis 5:22), even in a time of rampant wickedness.

Practical Applications

1. Guard Relationships: Choose companions who encourage godliness.
2. Filter Your Words: Think before speaking, and avoid conversations that dishonor God.
3. Shine Your Light: Matthew 5:15 – Be a beacon of purity in a dark world.

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Text: 1 Kings 19 (KJV) Speaker: Guest Speaker

In this powerful message from 1 Kings 19, we’re reminded that even God’s most faithful servants, like Elijah, can face moments of deep discouragement and exhaustion. Elijah had just experienced a tremendous victory on Mount Carmel, yet soon after, he found himself fleeing for his life, feeling overwhelmed and alone.

This message highlights the timeless truth that God’s people are called to persevere, even when the road gets tough. Elijah’s story teaches us that God meets us in our weakness, renews our strength, and equips us to keep moving forward in His purpose.

Key Moments in Elijah’s Journey:

• The Struggle: Elijah flees into the wilderness, feeling defeated and praying for God to take his life.
• God’s Provision: In his despair, God sends an angel to minister to Elijah, providing food, water, and rest.
• The Gentle Whisper: God speaks to Elijah—not in dramatic displays like the wind, earthquake, or fire, but in a still small voice, reminding him of His constant presence.
• A Renewed Mission: God reassures Elijah that his work is not finished, calling him to anoint new leaders and continue his prophetic ministry.

Takeaways for Today:

• Even when we feel like giving up, God is faithful to sustain us.
• Renewal often comes through small, quiet moments with God.
• God’s purpose for our lives doesn’t end with discouragement; He has more in store for us.
• We are not alone—just as God reminded Elijah that there were 7,000 others who had not bowed to Baal, He reminds us that His people are never without a community of faith.

Encouragement for the Listener: If you’re feeling weary or discouraged, know that God sees you, hears you, and is ready to renew your strength. He’s calling you to keep on keeping on. Trust Him, and let Him guide you forward, one step at a time.

Key Verse: “And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord. And, behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice.” (1 Kings 19:11-12)

Stay encouraged, stay faithful, and remember—you’re never walking this journey alone. Keep on keeping on!

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This episode dives into the spiritual struggles faced by God’s people in Judges 3 and the parallels to the challenges Christians face today. We'll explore how to identify and confront the enemies of the Christian life using God’s strength, wisdom, and Word.

Outline

1. Introduction

• The State of Israel:
  • God's chosen people are struggling. Why?
  • “There was no king in Israel.”
    • The Leader was Absent: Without leadership, chaos reigned.
    • Their Lacking was Obvious: Their faith and focus were diminished.
    • Their Lesson was Lasting: Their struggles became a warning for future generations.
• The Root of Their Struggles:
  • Who were they running with? (Judges 3:5)
  • How were their relationships compromised? (Judges 3:6)

2. The Danger of Unholy Alliances

• Relationships turned into unholy unions.
• Compromising with sin ruined their spiritual walk (Judges 3:7-8).

3. God’s Mercy in the Midst of Ruin

• God Hears Their Cry:
  • Despite their failure, God raises up Othniel as a deliverer (Judges 3:9-10).
  • God’s rest and strength are available when His people return to Him.
• Warning: When sin rules the heart, God’s strength for you can be given to your enemies.

4. Facing the Enemies of the Christian Life

a. The Wickedness (Judges 3:13-14)

• The people’s sin led to oppression. Similarly, unchecked sin in a Christian’s life can lead to spiritual bondage.

b. The Warrior (Judges 3:15)

• God’s Deliverer: Israel couldn’t fight its battle alone—and neither can the Christian.
• We must rely on God’s provision for victory.

c. The Weapon (Judges 3:16)

• Ehud’s Dagger:
  • Represents the Word of God—our ultimate weapon against sin.
  • “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword” (Hebrews 4:12).

d. The Wisdom (Judges 3:16-19)

• A Brilliant Plan: Ehud’s actions weren’t random; they followed God’s direction.
• The wisdom of God is crucial for victory:
  • “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God” (James 1:5).
• Application: Do it God’s way, not your own!

e. The Word (Judges 3:20)

• Ehud’s Message to Eglon:
  • “I have a word for you.”
  • Ehud came to destroy the enemy and declare God’s judgment on sin.
• Takeaway:
  • Confront sin decisively, knowing God’s power is on your side.

5. Closing Reflection

• Victory and Rest (Judges 3:26-28):
  • God’s deliverance brings more than relief—it brings rest.
  • “And the land had rest” (Judges 3:30).
• Encouragement for Christians:
  • After you face the enemies of the Christian life, there is more rest for you!

In this episode, we explore one of the Bible’s most sobering and significant topics: the Great White Throne Judgment. Drawing from Revelation 20:11-15, we reflect on the final day of reckoning for humanity and the eternal consequences of rejecting God’s offer of salvation.

Outline

1. Introduction

• The Vision of the Throne:
  • A great throne: Represents God’s majesty and power.
  • A white throne: Reflects God’s unchanging holiness.
• This is the final judgment, a moment of doom for those who rejected salvation. Unlike the resurrection of the righteous, this is a scene of condemnation and despair.

2. Who Will Judge?

• Jesus Christ, the Judge (John 5:22-23):
  • All judgment is entrusted to the Son.
• The saved have already stood before Christ at the Bema Seat and now rejoice in eternal union with Him. This judgment is for the lost.

3. Who Will Be Judged?

• The Lost (Revelation 20:12):
  • The dead, small and great, stand before God.
  • No hope, rescue, or grace remains. The time for repentance has passed. (John 3:18)

4. How Will They Be Judged?

• Standing Before God:
  • No escape: "From whose face the earth and heaven fled away" (Revelation 20:11).
• The Books Are Opened (Revelation 20:12):
  • The Book of Life: Their names are absent, confirming their rejection of salvation.
  • According to Their Works:
    • Many believe their good deeds will outweigh their bad, but Isaiah 64:6 reveals our righteousness is as filthy rags.
    • God’s standards are impossible to meet (Matthew 5:27-28).

5. The Second Death

• Eternal Separation (Revelation 20:14):
  • Hell is not annihilation but eternal separation from God.
• Why Eternal Punishment?:
  • Humanity cannot pay for its sins. Only Christ’s sacrifice is sufficient.

6. A Final Invitation

• God’s Plea for Salvation:
  • "Come... let him take the water of life freely" (Revelation 22:17).
  • The invitation remains open until it is too late.

7. Closing Reflection

• Jonathan Edwards’ Warning: Many who hear of hell never believe they will end up there.
• Illustration of Despair:
  • Carol Fuller’s tragic story illustrates the hopelessness of those who reject salvation.
  • In eternity, the lost will face an inescapable darkness that mirrors this desperation.

Call to Action: Don’t wait until it’s too late. The Great White Throne is not your only option. Today is the day of salvation—come to Christ and accept His free gift of life.

Key Scriptures Referenced:

• Revelation 20:11-15
• John 5:22-23
• John 3:18
• Isaiah 64:6
• Matthew 5:27-28
• Revelation 22:17

Episode Theme: God’s final judgment calls us to reflect on our eternal destiny. Will we stand redeemed or condemned?

Share & Subscribe If this message touched your heart, share this episode and follow us for more reflections on Scripture. Let’s prepare our hearts for eternity.

Title: It’s Time to Clean House S2peaker: Missionary David Aldridge Scripture: Nehemiah 13:1-9 (KJV)

Message Outline:

1. Admit It

• Key Verse: Nehemiah 13:7-8
  • Nehemiah discovered the sin and compromise in God’s house.
• Application:
  • Recognize and confront the areas in your life and ministry where sin has crept in.
  • Admitting the problem is the first step toward restoration.
  • “Acknowledging our sins allows God to start the cleansing process.”

2. Abolish It

• Key Verse: Nehemiah 13:8-9
  • Nehemiah took swift action, casting out Tobiah’s belongings from the temple.
• Application:
  • Remove anything that stands in the way of holiness—whether habits, relationships, or compromises.
  • True repentance often requires bold and immediate action.
  • “Don’t just manage sin—abolish it!”

3. Ajax It (Symbolizing Purification)

• Key Verse: Nehemiah 13:9
  • Nehemiah purified the chambers and restored them to their intended purpose for God.
• Application:
  • Let God’s Word and Spirit cleanse and restore you.
  • Daily renewal through prayer and scripture leads to spiritual cleanliness.
  • “Only God can make you clean, but you must invite Him to do so.”

Takeaways:

• Admit the areas of sin and compromise (Admit It).
• Take decisive action to remove obstacles to holiness (Abolish It).
• Pursue purity through God’s power (Ajax It).

Closing Thought:

• God calls us to clean our spiritual house. Like Nehemiah, be passionate about restoring holiness and dedicating your life and worship entirely to Him.

Introduction

• The book of Judges is a sobering account of Israel's failure to fully obey God's commands after entering the Promised Land.
• The recurring themes: spiritual decline, disobedience, and God's enduring mercy despite Israel’s failure.
• The message centers on Israel's incomplete obedience and its devastating consequences, yet offers lessons for the modern believer.

1) Their Leader Was Absent

Judges 1:1

"Now after the death of Joshua it came to pass..."

• The absence of Joshua: Israel had lost its strong and faithful leader.
  • Under Joshua, the people followed God wholeheartedly, but leadership matters. Without him, the people faltered.
  • Application: Leadership provides vision, stability, and accountability. In our lives, without Christ as our ultimate leader, we are prone to wander.
• Challenge: Who is leading your life? Are you following God's Word, or are you aimlessly drifting?

2) Their Lacking Was Obvious

Judges 1:27-28

"Neither did Manasseh drive out the inhabitants of Bethshean...but the Canaanites would dwell in that land."

• Incomplete obedience:
  • Israel failed to fully drive out the Canaanites, as commanded by God. They allowed compromise to creep in.
  • This disobedience led to idolatry and moral decay.
• Consequences of disobedience:
  • The Canaanites became a snare (Judges 2:2-3).
  • Small compromises lead to great downfalls.
  • Application: Where in your life have you allowed spiritual compromise? Are you tolerating sin or neglecting areas God has called you to address?

3) The Lesson Was Lasting

Judges 2:10

"And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, which knew not the Lord, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel."

• A forgotten generation:
  • Without proper teaching and passing down of faith, an entire generation grew up ignorant of God.
  • Israel's disobedience had generational consequences.
• God's mercy and judgment:
  • Though Israel sinned, God raised up judges to deliver them (Judges 2:16). Yet, the cycle of sin continued.
  • Application: Are you faithfully teaching and discipling the next generation? What legacy of faith are you leaving?

Conclusion

• "There Isn't and They Didn't" reflects Israel's lack of leadership, obedience, and spiritual faithfulness.
• Today, the same lessons apply:
  1. Without strong leadership, we falter.
  2. Compromise in our spiritual walk leads to destruction.
  3. Failing to pass down faith results in spiritual decline.
• Challenge: Examine your heart. Are you fully obeying God, following His leadership, and preparing the next generation to know Him?

A Ministry of Ashland St. Baptist Church

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Scripture Text: Luke 10:25-29

Summary: In this episode, we dive into the well-known parable of the Good Samaritan, exploring the themes of compassion, neighborly love, and the deeper implications of what it means to inherit eternal life. Through this story, Jesus challenges us to go beyond the question, "Who is my neighbor?" and instead ask ourselves, "Am I being a neighbor?"

Main Takeaways:

1. The Question of Eternal Life
   • The episode begins with the question asked by a lawyer, "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" This question centers on the idea of “doing” or “earning” salvation.
   • Jesus points out that eternal life isn’t earned by works; it’s a gift that comes through faith in Christ.
   • This conversation reveals a universal truth: it is impossible for any human to fully obey God’s Law in their natural state.
2. The Inability to Fulfill the Law
   • Jesus reminds the lawyer that to meet God’s requirement, one must love God fully and love others as oneself—a standard no one can meet without divine help.
3. The Lawyer’s Attempt to Justify Himself
   • Seeking a loophole, the lawyer asks, "Who is my neighbor?"
   • Instead of a direct answer, Jesus presents the parable of the Good Samaritan, challenging us to consider not only who qualifies as a neighbor but also how we can embody neighborliness.
4. Who is My Neighbor?
   • The question shifts from “Who qualifies as my neighbor?” to “Am I being a neighbor to those in need?”—a question echoed in Mr. Rogers’ iconic phrase, "Won't you be my neighbor?"
5. Breaking Down the Parable:
   • Those in Need of a Neighbor (Luke 10:30):
     • The man traveling to Jericho, who is attacked and left wounded, represents those who need compassion and help. He embodies the plea for someone to be a neighbor.
   • Those Who Neglect Being a Neighbor (Luke 10:31-32):
     • Both a priest and a Levite pass by the injured man, showing a “change of direction” to avoid him. This symbolizes the ease with which we can overlook others' suffering.
   • The True Neighbor (Luke 10:33-35):
     • A Samaritan stops, moved by compassion. He not only cares for the man’s wounds but provides for his continued recovery, showing genuine love and sacrifice.
6. Key Qualities of a Neighbor:
   • Compassion: The Samaritan is moved with compassion, echoing Jesus’ heart for others as seen throughout the Gospels (Jude 22, Mark 6:34, Matthew 9:36, and Matthew 14:14).
   • Care: He personally tends to the man’s wounds, showing hands-on care.
   • Cost: The Samaritan invests his time and resources, even promising to return and cover any additional costs.

Closing Thoughts: Through this parable, Jesus calls us to a radical neighborly love that goes beyond cultural or social boundaries. We’re reminded that true love is sacrificial and active—it sees a need and responds.

Prayer: Let’s pray together to ask for God’s help in becoming compassionate neighbors, showing His love through our actions.

Welcome to today’s episode! We're diving into the parable of the wise and foolish builders, a powerful story that teaches us about the structure and stability of our lives. In the same way a house needs a solid foundation, our lives need a strong spiritual base.

Jude 1:20-21 reminds us to “build up yourselves on your most holy faith… looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.”

Why is Inspecting Our Foundation So Important?

Just like a building’s foundation, our lives need regular inspection to prevent:

• Safety Hazards
• Decreased Value (in our lives and spiritual walk)
• Loss of Functionality
• Risk of Collapse '' great was the fall of it ''

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to significant damage—both spiritually and physically.

Recognizing Signs of a Failing Foundation

In our spiritual lives, signs of a weak foundation may manifest in various ways, just as in a home:

• Cracks in our relationships (like wall cracks)
• Rigid, closed-off hearts (like sticking doors)
• Instability in faith (like sagging floors)
• Gaps in our connection to God
• Compromised moral standards (like leaning chimneys)

A failing foundation, if left unchecked, can result in a collapse. This concept was tragically illustrated by the 2021 Champlain Towers South collapse in Surfside, Florida, where neglected foundational issues led to disaster. The tragedy reminds us of the importance of addressing our foundation consistently.

Three Critical Truths About God’s Foundation

Let’s explore three aspects of a solid, God-centered foundation:

1. True Foundation Jesus emphasized the importance of building on a true foundation. In John 17:17, He said, "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." Christ’s teachings are not just guidelines but unshakeable truths on which we can build.
2. Trusted Foundation
   • Our Soul: 1 Corinthians 3:11 - "For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ."
   • Our Standards: Are we following Christ's teachings, or have we built on unstable beliefs?
   • Our Service: What are we offering God in return for His steadfastness?
3. Timeless Foundation Christ is not only a solid foundation but a timeless one. He is described as the Rock in the Psalms:
   • Psalm 18:31 – "Who is a rock save our God?"
   • Psalm 31:3 – "For thou art my rock and my fortress."
   • 1 Corinthians 10:4 – "That Rock was Christ."

Christ, our Rock, is unchanging and eternally dependable.

Call to Action: Begin Your Spiritual Remodel

Consider your own foundation today. Give the “keys” of your life to Jesus and let God examine the stability of your life. A divided life cannot stand, but a life built on Christ is built on a solid, unshakeable foundation.

Thank you for joining us on this episode of the Parables Series!

Despite knowing God’s commands, Jonah runs, leading him on a journey filled with critical moments and the need for repentance and trust. Through Jonah’s story, we see the cost of disobedience, the urgency of God’s mercy, and the miracles that follow true surrender.

Key Points

1. A Clear Message from God – Jonah 1:1
   • Message: God often gives us clear instructions on how to live and what to let go of in our lives.
   • Challenge: Our struggle isn’t knowing what God wants but in doing it (James 1:22-24).
   • Reflection: How often do we know God’s will but struggle to follow through?
2. A Critical Moment of Decision – Jonah 1:2
   • Struggle with Obedience: Like Jonah, we may flee or try to avoid God’s commands.
   • Cost of Disobedience: Jonah’s decision to “pay the fare” reflects how disobedience brings costs and consequences (Romans 7:15-22).
   • Reflection: In critical moments, do we choose surrender or resistance?
3. A Cruise of Misery – Jonah 1:3
   • Consequences of Avoidance: When we ignore God’s will, our lives can feel like a stormy sea.
   • Warnings:
     • Don’t lay carelessly asleep (spiritual passivity).
     • Don’t lighten your Christian life in troubled times (Jonah 1:5).
     • Don’t let luck decide your character; live with intention (Jonah 1:7).
   • Reflection: Are we “fair-weather” in our faith, or do we stand firm?
4. A Cry for Mercy
   • Jonah’s Realization: In his pain, Jonah recognizes his need for God’s mercy and finds hope (Jonah 2:9, Jonah 3:1).
   • Urgency: True repentance requires action; God calls us to respond immediately.
   • Reflection: How do we respond to God when we’ve strayed? Are we quick to seek His mercy?
5. A Call to the Miraculous
   • Obedience Brings Miracles: Jonah’s return to God results in powerful ministry opportunities (Jonah 3:5).
   • Transformation Through Faith: When we surrender, God works through us in ways we couldn’t imagine.
   • Reflection: Are we willing to follow God and allow His power to work in our lives?
6. A Contempt for Miracles – Jonah 4:1
   • Disappointment in God’s Grace: Jonah’s reaction shows how our expectations may clash with God’s will.
   • Lessons in Faith:
     • Expectation, example, and exits all matter.
     • Remember, repent, and repeat our commitment to God.
   • Reflection: Are our expectations aligned with God’s, or do we need a perspective shift?

Reflection Questions

• What areas of my life am I reluctant to surrender to God?
• How does my response to God’s instructions reflect my faith and trust?
• Am I prepared to act when God calls, or do I resist?

Takeaway

Jonah’s story reminds us of the importance of obedience, the cost of running from God, and the incredible blessings that follow surrender. When we let go of control and follow His will, we find purpose, peace, and miracles.