God’s Redemptive School

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Scripture: Psalm 27:11-12

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David got it right when it came to some really critical things in His life. He understood that life was about learning and lessons. Therefore, he approached life from the attitude and perspective of a student. He always wanted to learn as much as he could. He knew that God’s Word in particular is the means given to teach us and instruct us in God’s Ways. But most importantly, he understood that God himself, the LORD is the Teacher.

Teach me your way, Lord; lead me in a straight path because of my enemies. (Psalm 27:11)

Three Reasons To Live Life As a Student

1) God’s University Is The School of Wisdom (Proverbs 1:9)
There is no knowing that does not begin with knowing God. (John Calvin)

• Abraham went to school in a tent
• Joseph got his training in a pit and then a prison
• Moses studied on the back side of the desert
• David went to university in a cave

2) Students Search the Depths of God’s Wisdom
Six characteristics of being a student:

• A healthy cynicism toward your own wisdom
• A humble sense of need
• A willing and open heart
• Discernment, focus, and determination
• Commitment to act on what you’re learning
• Resisting the temptation to think we have arrived

3) Students understand the danger life presents
Psalm 27:11 – Lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies. Do not deliver me to the will of my adversaries; For false witnesses have risen against me, And such as breathe out violence.

• God’s Way – the paradigm of His Word (Psalm 119)
• God’s Way – by Jesus (Ephesians 4:20-21)
• God’s Way – dealing with our enemies (1 Peter 2:21-23)

The Proverbs on Wealth

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Last of a 10-part series on Proverbs

Scripture: Proverbs 8:12-21, 1 Timothy 6:6-10

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The slogan on our currency reads “In God We Trust” but is that true? The American motto really seems better expressed in the words of Gordon Gekko, the fictional character played by the movie Wall Street who said “Greed is Good!” The truth is, how we handle our money really does determine whether or not we trust in God. We will either worship our money or we will worship God with our money (Matthew 6 24).

Proverbs show us four categories of financial status.

• Wealthy and righteous (Proverbs 13:11)
• Poor and righteous (Proverbs 19:1)
• Wealthy and unrighteous (Proverbs 11:1)
• Poor and unrighteous (Proverbs 14:23)

The problem with wealth is not “money” but our hearts.

1 Timothy 6:10 – For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.

Our greatest need is wisdom before wealth!

Proverbs 8:17-18 – I love those who love me, And those who seek me diligently will find me. Riches and honor are with me, Enduring riches and righteousness.

Wisdom teaches us how to understand true wealth.

1. Wisdom warns us of the limitations of financial wealth!

• Wealth is a poor source of happiness. (Proverbs 3:13-15)
• Wealth is a strong source of temptation (Proverbs 28:6; 1 Timothy 6:6-10)
• Wealth compared to eternity is worthless (Proverbs 11:4; Luke 12:25)

2. Wisdom tells us that financial haste is foolishness!

Proverbs 21:5 – The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, But those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.

• Financial haste often leads to sin.
• Financial haste seldom works.

3. Wisdom teaches that wealth comes through diligence!

Proverbs 13:11 – Wealth gained by dishonesty will be diminished, But he who gathers by labor will increase.

4. Diligence is more than  working hard, it’s working smart!

Proverbs 3:9-10 – Honor the LORD with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase; So your barns will be filled with plenty, And your vats will overflow with new wine.

The wise investments of first-fruits giving!

• Sacrificial
• Regular
• Joyful
• Proportional
• Generous

The Proverbs on Addiction

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Ninth in a 10-part series on Proverbs

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Our culture often speaks of addictions as being a disease. And while many addictions do cause both physiological and psychological affects, the Bible addresses addictions as a sin issue. By definition an addiction is a sin pattern that the persons believes is beyond their ability to control. The writer of Proverbs identifies at least six different addictions and addresses the root issue underlying them.

• The immoral (Proverbs 5:7)
• The sluggard (Proverbs 6:6)
• The greedy (Proverbs 15:27)
• The proud (Proverbs 16:5)
• The drunkard (Proverbs 23:29)
• The glutton (Proverbs 23:21)

Behind every addiction is an idol of the heart!

Idolatry is a worship issue! (Romans 1:25)

Idols become our functional gods! “To whatever we look for any good thing and for refuge in every need, that is what is meant by ‘god.’ To have a god is nothing else than to trust and believe in him from the heart… To whatever you give your heart and entrust your being, that, I say, is really your god.” – Martin Luther

“Inordinate desire” is the New Testament word for idolatry!  “If ‘idolatry’ is the characteristic and summary Old Testament word for our drift from God, then ‘desires’ (epithumiai) is the characteristic and summary New Testament word for the same drift. Both are shorthand for the problem of human beings.. .The New Testament merges the concept of idolatry and the concept of inordinate, life-ruling desires.” – David Powlison

• Idols promise but they don’t deliver
• Idols always demand a sacrifice
• Idols enslave

What’s the answer to our addiction? The Gospel of repentance unto faith, confession and forgiveness.

• Repentance is a gift from God (2 Timothy 2:24-26)
• Repentance is turning away from our sin (Isaiah 55:7)
• Repentance is coming to our senses (Luke 15:17)
• Repentance is true godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10)
• Repentance is the first step toward freedom (2 Corinthians 7:10)

1 Thessalonians 1:5-10 – For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake. And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out, so that we do not need to say anything. For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.

The Proverbs on Discipline

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Eighth in a 10-part series on Proverbs

Scripture: Proverbs 6:23

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If you are in parenting stage of life, or hope to be there one day, Proverbs reminds us how critically important raising children is. Being a parent is one of the most challenging, painful, and joyous experiences we can encounter. But it is also incredibly important to the kingdom of God. If you have children, there is no more important calling in your life than to raise them according to the “training and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). But of course carrying out that responsibility day after day, year after year is a huge responsibility. Now here is the good news! God doesn’t leave us to ourselves. He gives us an abundance of grace through His Word and the Holy Spirit so we can raise our children.

Parenting is a call to discipline! For the commandment is a lamp, and the law a light; Reproofs of instruction are the way of life. (Proverbs 6:23)

Discipline must begin in the heart! (Proverbs 4:23)

Parents are singers too and need help! (Psalm 51:5)

What is discipline? Instruction, teaching, training, correction.

Why discipline?

1. We discipline for the good of the child. He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him. (Proverbs 13:24) Loving parents seek to correct the faults of their children because… their children’s lives, favor, protection, healing, dignity and prosperity are at stake. Unloving parents turn their backs on them and hand them over to death, social ruin, public exposure, calamity, and shameful poverty. (Bruce Waltke)
2. We discipline for the good of society. Better to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than a fool in his folly. (Proverbs 17:12)
3. We discipline so there can be peace in the home. Correct your son and he will give you rest (or peace); yes, he will give delight to your soul. (Proverbs 29:17)
4. We discipline  to bring glory to God! The wise shall inherit glory, but shame shall be the legacy of fools. (Proverbs 3:35)

The Proverbs on Marriage (part 2)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Seventh in a 10-part series on Proverbs

Scripture: Proverbs 11:17

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The Book of Proverbs has much to say about marriage. Foremost in the writer’s mind is the idea that marriage is a covenant relationship (Proverbs 2:16-17). As a covenant relationship the marriage partners are called upon to demonstrate Godly character toward their mate. Solomon offers profound advice for both husbands and wives that help build a strong marriage.

Two directions of wisdom for marriage

1. Wisdom to choose a good marriage partner

• Seek Christ (Proverbs 19:14)
• Seek character (Proverbs 31:30)
• Seek counsel (Proverbs 15:22)

2. Wisdom to build a good marriage (Proverbs 12:4)

Just as there are two kinds of wives, there are two kinds of husbands. Notice what Proverbs says about husbands. Proverbs 11:17 – “The merciful man does good for his own soul, but he who is cruel troubles his own flesh.” Cruelty here means to act harshly, violent, uncaring and insensitive.

1. A cruel husband hangs with the wrong friends. Proverbs 14:1-2 – Don’t envy evil people or desire their company. For their hearts pilot violence, and their words always stir up trouble.
2. A cruel man strays from home. Proverbs 27:8 – Like a bird that wanders from its nest is a man who wanders from his place.
3. A cruel man harms with words and will not be honest. Proverbs 12:18-19 – There is one who speaks like the piercing of a sword, … But a lying tongue is but for a moment.
4. A kind husband learns to understand his wife. 1 Peter 3:7 – Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding.
5. A kind husband communicates properly. Proverbs 12:18b-19 – But the tongue of the wise promotes health. The truthful lip shall be established forever.
6. A kind husband loves only his wife! Proverbs 5:18-19 – Let your fountain be blessed, and rejoice with the wife of your youth. As a loving deer and a graceful doe, let her breasts satisfy you at all times; and always be enraptured with her love.

The Proverbs on Marriage (part 1)

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Sixth in a 10-part series on Proverbs

Scripture: Proverbs 2:1-17

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The Book of Proverbs has much to say about marriage. Foremost in the writer’s mind is the idea that marriage is a covenant relationship (Proverbs 2:16-17). As a covenant relationship the marriage partners are called upon to demonstrate Godly character toward their mate. Solomon offers profound advice for both husbands and wives that help build a strong marriage.

The Big Idea: Marriage is a Covenant

• Marriage is not contractual.
• Marriage portrays Christ-like love.
• Marriage is for a lifetime.
• Marriage is to bring glory to God.

Proverbs tell us there are two kinds of wives and two kinds of husbands. First let’s look at what the writer had to say about wives.

An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, But she who causes shame is like rottenness in his bones. (Proverbs 12:4)

An excellent wife brings her husband blessing and honor, both privately and publicly. In the home she supports and respects her husband’s God-given call to less the marriage and the family with dignity respect and appreciation. In public, her actions and words are such that bring honor and esteem to her husband. (Proverbs 31:10-12)

A shameful wife destroys a man inwardly. She is like decay in his bones. In the home, her demanding, arguing, and critical ways become a source of pain and heartache, which undercuts his manhood and robs him of his ability to lead the household with strength and confidence. In public she is demeaning and disrespectful to the point you can almost see in a marriage. The wife’s character is often reflected in her husband’s demeanor.

• She is demanding and quarrelsome. (Proverbs 27:15-16)
• She creates emotional and physical distance. (Proverbs 21:19; 25:24)
• She destroys instead of builds. (Proverbs 14:1)

An excellent wife builds her house in wisdom and the fear of the Lord. (Proverbs 31:30)

To be continued next week.

The Proverbs On Our Speech

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Fifth in a 10-part series on Proverbs

Scripture: Proverbs 18:21

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The Bible has a lot to say about our words. Jesus in particular warned us how important this issue of our speech is even from an eternal perspective (Matthew 12:34-37). When you come to the Book of Proverbs, Solomon addresses the subject of our words often. In fact it is the one issue he addresses most with over 130 references having to do with our words and speech.

1. Wisdom is a verbal virtue

Proverbs comes to us in the form of a personal conversation, not a sermon or a even a book. Wisdom is constantly taught to us through personal conversations of…

• a loving parent
• a faithful friend
• a wise counselor
• a Godly leader
• sometime, through the words of a fool

2. Jesus conversed the Gospel in honest, wise conversations so He could speak to the issues of the heart. (Mark 7-11)

3. Our ability to talk and listen to one another biblically greatly affects how we grow as Christians and as a church. (Ephesians 4:11-29)

4. Proverbs on our speech

A. The power of words (Proverbs 18:21)

1. They penetrate for good and for bad (Proverbs 12:18)
2. They spread for good and for evil (Proverbs 17:14)

B. The weakness of meaningless words

1. They are no substitute for deeds (Proverbs 14:23)
2. They don’t change the facts (Proverbs 26:23-28)
3. They cannot compel a response (Proverbs 29:19)

C. Words at their best

1. They are honest! (Proverbs 16:13)
2. They are few (Proverbs 17:28)
3. They are calm (Proverbs 17:27; James 3:17)
4. They are apt (Proverbs 15:23)

Proverbs 15:28 –”The heart of the righteous studies how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours forth evil.”

The Proverbs on Making Wise Plans

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Fourth in a 10-part series on Proverbs

Scripture: Proverbs 12:5

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God is sovereign – He is in control of every person, every thing, and every outcome that ever has been or ever will be. Yet, Proverbs has much to say about planning for the future. We should plan wisely and plan with flexibility, meaning make plans that honor God yet be willing to change when God calls you to something else.

We need to work “on” our life not just “in” our life!

Five reasons why we should plan:

1. The complexity of life
Proverbs 20:18 – Plans are established by counsel; by wise counsel wage war.

2. The uncertainty of life
Proverbs 27:1 – Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth.

3. The brevity of life
Psalm 90:12 – So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

4. The frailty of life
Proverbs 16:33 –The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.

5. God Himself is a planner!
Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.”

Five ways to plan wisely

1. Choose not to do evil
Proverbs 6:18 – …A heart that devises wicked plans,

2. Pray
James 4:15 – Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.”

3. Seek Counsel
Proverbs 15:22 – Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established.

4. Work hard at your plan
Proverbs 21:5 – The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, But those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.

5. Be Flexible
Proverbs 16:9 – A man’s heart pins his way, But the LORD directs his steps.

The Proverbs on the Heart

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Third in a 10-part series on Proverbs

Scripture: Proverbs 4:23

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The Book of Proverbs is intensely practical and altogether relevant for today’s Christian. One of the great themes throughout Scripture and in particular the Book of Proverbs is the “heart.” Depending on the translation you read, the word ‘heart’ is mentioned at least 900 times and in Proverbs it is used over 50 times

Jesus and Solomon agree we have a sin problem in our heart. (Matthew 22:37, Matthew 5:8, Proverbs 20:9)

What is sin? Disobedience, dishonor and disregard for God and His Word
How do we deal with sin? Freud, Jung, Rogers and the Bible

Jesus said there is an undeniable connection between our heart and our behavior. Roots = Fruit (Luke 6:43-45)

Lasting change must take place through the pathway of the heart.

Change that ignores the heart will seldom transform the life.

Behavioral change alone doesn’t work!

1. it’s only rearranging the flesh
2. it tends toward pride or despair
3. parenting often focuses on behavior and not the heart

God always focuses on the heart when He seeks to bring change in our life. (Titus 3:3-7, Doctrine of Regeneration)

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

Ezekiel 36:26 I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you;

The heart should always be our target in personal growth and ministry.

Proverbs 20:5 Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water, But a man of understanding will draw it out.

The Proverbs on Wisdom

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

Second in a 10-part series on Proverbs

Scripture: Proverbs 9:1-10 and Ephesians 5:15-21

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The Book of Proverbs is intensely practical and altogether relevant for today’s Christian There are many good and rich themes throughout the book of Proverbs. As you read it, it is important to identify and group together the major themes that run throughout the book. One of the major themes that you find running throughout the entire book of Proverbs is this idea of wisdom

How Does Solomon teach us wisdom?

1. Teaching us the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7, Proverbs 9:10)
2. Using key words (wisdom, understanding, knowledge and instruction)
3. Showing us our need for wisdom (Proverbs 9:1, Proverbs 24:3)

Two great myths of wisdom:

- the older you become the wiser you become

- education and intellect equal wisdom

4. Contrasting wisdom with foolishness

Solomon tells us that we can learn wisdom from watching both the wisdom and folly of others.

I. The Wisdom of Prudence is set against the foolishness of careless living.

Proverbs 22:3 A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.

II. The foolishness of laziness is compared to the wisdom of being industrious.

Proverbs 6:6-11 Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, Which, having no captain, Overseer or ruler, Provides her supplies in the summer, And gathers her food in the harvest. How long will you slumber, O sluggard? When will you rise from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, A little folding of the hands to sleep—So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler, And your need like an armed man.

III. The wisdom of learning and receiving instruction is compared to the foolishness rejecting counsel or input.

Proverbs 9:8-9 Do not correct a scoffer, lest he hate you; Rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be still wiser; Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

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Introduction to Proverbs

Message by Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

First in a 10-part series on Proverbs

Scripture: Proverbs 1:1-7

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Proverbs 1:7 – The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge,  But fools despise wisdom and instruction.

Solomon the author

Solomon means “peaceable” (2 Samuel 12:24)
Son of David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 12:24)
Becomes king over Israel (1 Kings 1:30-53)
He rules the kingdom by wisdom (1 Kings 3:5-9)
He is the wisest man in his day (1 Kings 4:29; 1 Kings 10:1-6)
Prolific writer and composer (1 Kings 4:32)
He is a man of great wealth (1 Kings 10:14-23)
Commissioned to build the temple (1 Kings 5:5)
Great downfall (1 Kings 11:4-5)

The book of Proverbs – Proverbs is “wisdom” literature

• philosophical wisdom
• practical wisdom
• truisms not promises
• principles more than methods

Proverbs is all about wisdom (Proverbs 4:7) - wisdom, understanding, instruction, knowledge

Wisdom is not “intellect” but “life smarts”
The wisdom of Proverbs is anticipated in Jesus (Colossians 2:3)
Wisdom is living your life under the Lordship of Christ

Wisdom begins with the “fear of the Lord” (Proverbs 1:7)
The “fear of God” is both an Old and New Testament concept
(2 Corinthians 7:1; Philippians 2:12-13; 1 Peter 1:17)

What are We Building? (Part 2)

Pastor Craig Diestelkamp

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Series: Christianity, Not the Way God Intended!

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 3:7-23

Paul reminds the Corinthians that they are God’s family, God’s field and God’s temple. In the metaphor “temple” the primary thought Paul is trying to convey is the building of the local church. Many Christians only see the church and Christianity from an individual perspective. Paul gives us six principles to help us understand the importance of building church according to God’s plan. The first three we dealt with last week. Today we will look at the remaining three.

Principle #4 We Must Build With The Right Materials!
1 Corinthians 3:12 Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, each one’s work will become clear;

Paul described two opposite kinds of building materials. Wood, hay and stubble – represents that which is passing, temporary, ordinary, common, cheap, easy to find. Gold, silver and precious stones – represents that which is permanent, beautiful, valuable and rare. There are some materials that are worthless and there are some materials that are valuable, lf you want to build something that will last… you have to build with valuable materials

Proverbs 24:3 Through wisdom a house is built, And by understanding it is established; By knowledge the rooms are filled With all precious and pleasant riches. A wise man is strong, Yes, a man of knowledge increases strength; For by wise counsel you will wage your own war, And in a multitude of counselors there is safety.

How do we find wisdom?
Proverbs 4:7 Wisdom is the principal thing; Therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.

We ask God!
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.

We must learn humility
Psalm 25:4 Show me Your ways, O LORD; Teach me Your paths. Lead me in Your truth and teach me, For You are the God of my salvation; On You I wait all the day……25:9 The humble He guides in justice, And the humble He teaches His way.

We must keep seeking!
Proverbs 2:4 If you seek her as silver, And search for her as for hidden treasures; 5 Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, And find the knowledge of God. 6 For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding; 7 He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly; 8 He guards the paths of justice, And preserves the way of His saints.

Principle #5 We Must Build For Eternity!
1 Corinthians 3:14 If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward.

Paul warns us that everything we do both as Christians and churches will one day be judged by Jesus much like a building inspector coming for final inspection. Some things may appear to be very successful to you and me as look on, but on that day, the Day of Judgment, Jesus is going to come to destroy all the work that has not been built upon Him.

Principle #6 We Must Build With The Right Motive!
1 Corinthians 3:21 Therefore let no one boast in men. For all things are yours: whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or things present or things to come – all are yours.

The motive that must guide everything in our life is the glory of God.

The members of the Corinthian church were glorifying men instead of Christ and that was wrong. If they would have been seeking to glorify God alone, there would have been harmony in the assembly.