17/09/2017 12:57
LISTEN TO THIS MESSAGE
Date: 14 September, 2017
Text: I Samuel 2 and 3
Title: God Finds His Man
Theme:
Proposition: God is looking for men and woman whom He can call into full time service.
Rhetorical: Would God consider you?
Introduction:
Filling out survey for what kind of dog best suits you....
1) Are you an energetic person?
2) Do you like picking up pet hair?
3) Are you a frisbee thrower or a couch potato?
4) Do you like to hear a dog barking?
After 20 or so questions, you finally get to find your perfect dog match - I didn't like any of them.
However, the truth is - when we are looking to find something we have certain criteria.
Why would God make decisions with any less scrutiny or wisdom? He doesn't. AND, He is looking. HE IS SEEKING for men!
Eze 22:30 And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none. (SCRUTINY)
2Ch 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. (SCRUTINY)
Isa 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.
His servants are COMMANDED TO BE looking for these faithful men.
2Ti 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
God's Spirit is willing to equip and call these men.
Luk 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.
exp. Those he sends He will call.
THERE IS A WORLD IN NEED OF GOD CALLED SERVANTS PROCLAIMING THE TRUTH OF THE GOSPEL!
Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
Exp. The world is on it's way to Hell and we need faithful men whom God will call into His service.
As God looks for a man, does he find in you any qualities WHICH BY HIS GRACE HE CAN USE FOR HIS GLORY?
I want us to consider this morning that, "GOD IS LOOKING FOR MEN AND WOMEN WHOM HE CAN CALL INTO FULL TIME SERVICE! WOULD GOD CONSIDER YOU?"
Samuel is our example - a young man who was an answer to his mother's prayer and a young man who was given unto the Lord.
I Samuel 1:25 And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to Eli.
26 And she said, Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the LORD.
27 For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him:
28 Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there.
WHAT WAS THERE ABOUT SAMUEL THAT MADE HIM USEFUL TO THE LORD?
I. A young man of conviction.
exp. Eli had son's which could have followed in their father's steps - but God rejected them because of their disobedience.
2:25 (Eli saying....) If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them.
ill. This is what God reveals in the dream to Samuel and what takes place in battle against the Philistines when they also capture the Ark of God.
(In contrast to the wickedness of Eli's sons....)
2:26 And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men.
exp. A person of conviction does what is right even if everyone else is doing what is wrong.
ill. Eric Liddel - 1924 Olympics - didn't run in the race on the Lord's day - because He had conviction. The fact that we know Eric Liddel today - shows that God honored that decision.
Before he ran a different race - a steward gave him a note with a portion of - 1Sa 2:30 Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.
THAT VERSE WAS GIVEN TO ELI - FULFILLED IN THE DESTRUCTION OF HIS SONS AND THE HONOURING OF SAMUEL - A YOUNG MAN OF CONVICTION.
note: Eric Liddell got the gold medal and the world record in the 400 meter race.
app. Liddel BY GOD HONORING CONVICTION was like Samuel and God honoured Him. Are you a person of conviction. Do you "sware to your own hurt and change not?"
II. A young man of humility.
I Samuel 2:18 But Samuel ministered before the LORD, being a child, girded with a linen ephod.
I Samuel 3:1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision.
2 And it came to pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, that he could not see;
exp. Samuel was a little servant boy in the house of God. He had the privilige of doing whatever needed to be done in the House of God on that day.
ill. Preaching in NYC Sunday School - a subject similar to this - a servant does whatever he is asked to do - nothing is below him. (The sewer backed up into the church hallway during the service and several men had to hurry out to clean it up.
app. Some people only want to serve where other's can see or where they don't have to get too dirty. God is just looking for those who will grab ahold of whatever needs to be done and do it for the Lord. 1Co 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. GOD FOUND HUMILITY IN THE LITTLE DOOR KEEPER IN THE HOUSE OF GOD AND GOD MADE HIM A GREAT MAN OF GOD.
III. A young man of submission.
3 And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep;
exp. I imagine that Samuel had experienced his normal full day of ministry and that it wasn't without thankfulness that he laid his head down on his pillow that evening. But, just when he thought he could rest, there was a call. "Samuel." And Samuel submitted WITH DISCIPLINE.
A. With discipline.
4 That the LORD called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I.
exp. Are you one of those people that once you are in bed - that is it - there is no hope of you getting out - if the light is on it can either stay on or someone else will have to turn it off. Or you try to throw things at the light switch until you suceed or run our of ammunition.
note: Samuel wasn't lazy - he got himself out of bed in SUBMISSION TO AUTHORITY.
B. With immediacy.
5 And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down.
exp. He didn't delay - in fact the word of God is clear that he didn't walk - he ran to Eli.
song. Patch the Pirate - song about obedience which says, "To delay is to disobey."
note: Anyone in authority - knows what a blessing it is to say, "Please do this" and you know that it is as good as done. Samuel was like that - he trusted the wisdom of His authority and ran in submission to Eli.
C. With consistence.
6 And the LORD called yet again, Samuel. And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And he answered, I called not, my son; lie down again.
7 Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, neither was the word of the LORD yet revealed unto him.
exp. He didn't just get out of bed once, now he has gotten out of bed twice. He may have thought as he got back into bed after the first time, I must be hearing things.... but then clearly he hears again his name being called - OUT OF BED HE GOES - THIS TIME NOT AS ENERGETICALLY BUT WITH PERSISTENCE GOING BACK TO ELI IN OBEDIENCE.
note: It is not the case here - but even if Samuel was obeying someone who was inconsistent - he was still going to submit and obey.
I Peter 2:18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.
19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
20 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
app. Just because you get out of bed once - does not make you submissive. A submissive person "get's up" again and again and again - even if it seems ridiculous.
D. With confidence.
8 And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me.
exp. Samuel knew that he was hearing his name and perhaps wondered if Eli was testing His obedience. He comes again and says, "I know that you have called me." He's obeying with confidence knowing that he has been called.
IV. A young man of favor.
And Eli perceived that the LORD had called the child.
9 Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, LORD; for thy servant heareth. So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
exp. Eli, God's old servant, seeing that his own son's were rejected, see's now that God's favor is going to go to Samuel. He recognizes God's call upon the child - even before Samuel.
ill. John Knox - Knox displayed an initial reluctance to enter the Christian ministry. And after receiving the pastoral call of the congregation, Knox burst forth into tears, and withdrew from society for several days. "The scene," says Thomas M'Crie, "will be extremely interesting to such as are impressed with the weight of the ministerial function, and will naturally awaken a train of feelings in the breasts of those who have been entrusted with the gospel. It revives the memory of those early days of the church, when persons did not rush forward to the altar, nor beg to 'be put into one of the priest's offices, to eat a piece of bread;' when men of piety and talents, deeply affected with the awful responsibility of the office, and with their own insufficiency, were with great difficulty induced to take on them those orders which they had long desired, and for which they laboured to qualify themselves. What a contrast did this exhibit to the conduct of the herd which at that time filled the stalls of the popish church!" (Life of John Knox [Edinburgh, 1855], p. 27).
app. There may be in the heart of someone whom God calls a reluctance - but there will also be in the eyes of godly men and understanding that God is working. IF GOD CALLS YOU TO MINISTRY IT IS ONE OF THE GREATEST HONORS THAT GOD WILL GIVE.
quote: Spurgeon - "If God has called you to be His servant, why stoop to be a King?"
V. A young man of attention.
10 And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.
exp. Samuel hadn't heard from God before but when he did - he answered God call with full attention.
ill. Jesus would often get finished preaching and say, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." GOD'S SERVANTS WILL BE ATTENTIVE TO GOD'S WORD.
note: Average Briton spends 24 hours a week in front of the television. That is 3 and 1/2 hours a day.
We live in an age of "noise." Internet, social media, news media, entertainment, video games, music.... Few people (fewer young people) know what it is to LISTEN TO GOD.
Rom 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
1Jn 2:17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
app. Are you listening to God today? Or have you tuned him out? Can you say this morning, speak Lord for thy servant heareth.
VI. A young man of growth.
19 And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground.
exp. Samuel wasn't just developing into a man physically. He was developing into a man spiritually.
Luke 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
ill. David Livingstone - 12 hour days working in the mill from the age of ten - still studied for two hours a day afterward.
app. Young people, you can read the Bible - our generation has the idea that children and teens are too immature to discipline themselves TO GROWTH. That you have to wait to be an adult - Samuel was developing because he was a young man of growth - ARE YOU?
VII. A young man of good testimony.
20 And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba knew that Samuel was established to be a prophet of the LORD.
exp. Samuel has been given a very priviliged position - it wasn't long until that good testimony was going before him.
ill. Eric Liddel - was known as the great Scottish olympian - but that testimony changed in Christian (at the olympics) and missionary soon afterwards.
app. What will you be known for? Will you be known as a servant of the Lord?
VIII. A young man of devotion.
21 And the LORD appeared again in Shiloh: for the LORD revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the LORD.
exp. In His youth - Samuel didn't yet know the Lord - but once he startred speaking with God, it continued for the rest of His life. He was a devoted servant of the Lord.
question: When do you pray?
ill. Hudson Taylor - man of prayer.
Robert Murray McCheynne - man of prayer
George Mueller - man of prayer
app. You'll never be a great servant of Lord unless you are a person of devotion - walking with the Lord.
conclusion: WE NEED MEN AND WOMAN TODAY WHO ARE EQUIPPED TO BE CALLED OF GOD INTO FULL TIME MINISTRY! Would God consider you?
Are you a person of....
conviction
humility
submission
favor
attention
growth
good testimony
devotion
Isa 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?
Date: 14 September, 2017
Text: I Samuel 2 and 3
Title: God Finds His Man
Theme:
Proposition: God is looking for men and woman whom He can call into full time service.
Rhetorical: Would God consider you?
Introduction:
Filling out survey for what kind of dog best suits you....
1) Are you an energetic person?
2) Do you like picking up pet hair?
3) Are you a frisbee thrower or a couch potato?
4) Do you like to hear a dog barking?
After 20 or so questions, you finally get to find your perfect dog match - I didn't like any of them.
However, the truth is - when we are looking to find something we have certain criteria.
Why would God make decisions with any less scrutiny or wisdom? He doesn't. AND, He is looking. HE IS SEEKING for men!
Eze 22:30 And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none. (SCRUTINY)
2Ch 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. (SCRUTINY)
Isa 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.
His servants are COMMANDED TO BE looking for these faithful men.
2Ti 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
God's Spirit is willing to equip and call these men.
Luk 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.
exp. Those he sends He will call.
THERE IS A WORLD IN NEED OF GOD CALLED SERVANTS PROCLAIMING THE TRUTH OF THE GOSPEL!
Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
Exp. The world is on it's way to Hell and we need faithful men whom God will call into His service.
As God looks for a man, does he find in you any qualities WHICH BY HIS GRACE HE CAN USE FOR HIS GLORY?
I want us to consider this morning that, "GOD IS LOOKING FOR MEN AND WOMEN WHOM HE CAN CALL INTO FULL TIME SERVICE! WOULD GOD CONSIDER YOU?"
Samuel is our example - a young man who was an answer to his mother's prayer and a young man who was given unto the Lord.
I Samuel 1:25 And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to Eli.
26 And she said, Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the LORD.
27 For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him:
28 Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there.
WHAT WAS THERE ABOUT SAMUEL THAT MADE HIM USEFUL TO THE LORD?
I. A young man of conviction.
exp. Eli had son's which could have followed in their father's steps - but God rejected them because of their disobedience.
2:25 (Eli saying....) If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them.
ill. This is what God reveals in the dream to Samuel and what takes place in battle against the Philistines when they also capture the Ark of God.
(In contrast to the wickedness of Eli's sons....)
2:26 And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men.
exp. A person of conviction does what is right even if everyone else is doing what is wrong.
ill. Eric Liddel - 1924 Olympics - didn't run in the race on the Lord's day - because He had conviction. The fact that we know Eric Liddel today - shows that God honored that decision.
Before he ran a different race - a steward gave him a note with a portion of - 1Sa 2:30 Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.
THAT VERSE WAS GIVEN TO ELI - FULFILLED IN THE DESTRUCTION OF HIS SONS AND THE HONOURING OF SAMUEL - A YOUNG MAN OF CONVICTION.
note: Eric Liddell got the gold medal and the world record in the 400 meter race.
app. Liddel BY GOD HONORING CONVICTION was like Samuel and God honoured Him. Are you a person of conviction. Do you "sware to your own hurt and change not?"
II. A young man of humility.
I Samuel 2:18 But Samuel ministered before the LORD, being a child, girded with a linen ephod.
I Samuel 3:1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision.
2 And it came to pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, that he could not see;
exp. Samuel was a little servant boy in the house of God. He had the privilige of doing whatever needed to be done in the House of God on that day.
ill. Preaching in NYC Sunday School - a subject similar to this - a servant does whatever he is asked to do - nothing is below him. (The sewer backed up into the church hallway during the service and several men had to hurry out to clean it up.
app. Some people only want to serve where other's can see or where they don't have to get too dirty. God is just looking for those who will grab ahold of whatever needs to be done and do it for the Lord. 1Co 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. GOD FOUND HUMILITY IN THE LITTLE DOOR KEEPER IN THE HOUSE OF GOD AND GOD MADE HIM A GREAT MAN OF GOD.
III. A young man of submission.
3 And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep;
exp. I imagine that Samuel had experienced his normal full day of ministry and that it wasn't without thankfulness that he laid his head down on his pillow that evening. But, just when he thought he could rest, there was a call. "Samuel." And Samuel submitted WITH DISCIPLINE.
A. With discipline.
4 That the LORD called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I.
exp. Are you one of those people that once you are in bed - that is it - there is no hope of you getting out - if the light is on it can either stay on or someone else will have to turn it off. Or you try to throw things at the light switch until you suceed or run our of ammunition.
note: Samuel wasn't lazy - he got himself out of bed in SUBMISSION TO AUTHORITY.
B. With immediacy.
5 And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down.
exp. He didn't delay - in fact the word of God is clear that he didn't walk - he ran to Eli.
song. Patch the Pirate - song about obedience which says, "To delay is to disobey."
note: Anyone in authority - knows what a blessing it is to say, "Please do this" and you know that it is as good as done. Samuel was like that - he trusted the wisdom of His authority and ran in submission to Eli.
C. With consistence.
6 And the LORD called yet again, Samuel. And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And he answered, I called not, my son; lie down again.
7 Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, neither was the word of the LORD yet revealed unto him.
exp. He didn't just get out of bed once, now he has gotten out of bed twice. He may have thought as he got back into bed after the first time, I must be hearing things.... but then clearly he hears again his name being called - OUT OF BED HE GOES - THIS TIME NOT AS ENERGETICALLY BUT WITH PERSISTENCE GOING BACK TO ELI IN OBEDIENCE.
note: It is not the case here - but even if Samuel was obeying someone who was inconsistent - he was still going to submit and obey.
I Peter 2:18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.
19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
20 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
app. Just because you get out of bed once - does not make you submissive. A submissive person "get's up" again and again and again - even if it seems ridiculous.
D. With confidence.
8 And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me.
exp. Samuel knew that he was hearing his name and perhaps wondered if Eli was testing His obedience. He comes again and says, "I know that you have called me." He's obeying with confidence knowing that he has been called.
IV. A young man of favor.
And Eli perceived that the LORD had called the child.
9 Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, LORD; for thy servant heareth. So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
exp. Eli, God's old servant, seeing that his own son's were rejected, see's now that God's favor is going to go to Samuel. He recognizes God's call upon the child - even before Samuel.
ill. John Knox - Knox displayed an initial reluctance to enter the Christian ministry. And after receiving the pastoral call of the congregation, Knox burst forth into tears, and withdrew from society for several days. "The scene," says Thomas M'Crie, "will be extremely interesting to such as are impressed with the weight of the ministerial function, and will naturally awaken a train of feelings in the breasts of those who have been entrusted with the gospel. It revives the memory of those early days of the church, when persons did not rush forward to the altar, nor beg to 'be put into one of the priest's offices, to eat a piece of bread;' when men of piety and talents, deeply affected with the awful responsibility of the office, and with their own insufficiency, were with great difficulty induced to take on them those orders which they had long desired, and for which they laboured to qualify themselves. What a contrast did this exhibit to the conduct of the herd which at that time filled the stalls of the popish church!" (Life of John Knox [Edinburgh, 1855], p. 27).
app. There may be in the heart of someone whom God calls a reluctance - but there will also be in the eyes of godly men and understanding that God is working. IF GOD CALLS YOU TO MINISTRY IT IS ONE OF THE GREATEST HONORS THAT GOD WILL GIVE.
quote: Spurgeon - "If God has called you to be His servant, why stoop to be a King?"
V. A young man of attention.
10 And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.
exp. Samuel hadn't heard from God before but when he did - he answered God call with full attention.
ill. Jesus would often get finished preaching and say, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." GOD'S SERVANTS WILL BE ATTENTIVE TO GOD'S WORD.
note: Average Briton spends 24 hours a week in front of the television. That is 3 and 1/2 hours a day.
We live in an age of "noise." Internet, social media, news media, entertainment, video games, music.... Few people (fewer young people) know what it is to LISTEN TO GOD.
Rom 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
1Jn 2:17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
app. Are you listening to God today? Or have you tuned him out? Can you say this morning, speak Lord for thy servant heareth.
VI. A young man of growth.
19 And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground.
exp. Samuel wasn't just developing into a man physically. He was developing into a man spiritually.
Luke 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
ill. David Livingstone - 12 hour days working in the mill from the age of ten - still studied for two hours a day afterward.
app. Young people, you can read the Bible - our generation has the idea that children and teens are too immature to discipline themselves TO GROWTH. That you have to wait to be an adult - Samuel was developing because he was a young man of growth - ARE YOU?
VII. A young man of good testimony.
20 And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba knew that Samuel was established to be a prophet of the LORD.
exp. Samuel has been given a very priviliged position - it wasn't long until that good testimony was going before him.
ill. Eric Liddel - was known as the great Scottish olympian - but that testimony changed in Christian (at the olympics) and missionary soon afterwards.
app. What will you be known for? Will you be known as a servant of the Lord?
VIII. A young man of devotion.
21 And the LORD appeared again in Shiloh: for the LORD revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the LORD.
exp. In His youth - Samuel didn't yet know the Lord - but once he startred speaking with God, it continued for the rest of His life. He was a devoted servant of the Lord.
question: When do you pray?
ill. Hudson Taylor - man of prayer.
Robert Murray McCheynne - man of prayer
George Mueller - man of prayer
app. You'll never be a great servant of Lord unless you are a person of devotion - walking with the Lord.
conclusion: WE NEED MEN AND WOMAN TODAY WHO ARE EQUIPPED TO BE CALLED OF GOD INTO FULL TIME MINISTRY! Would God consider you?
Are you a person of....
conviction
humility
submission
favor
attention
growth
good testimony
devotion
Isa 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?
Will it be you? Are you a person whom God will call? Is God calling you?
Will it be you? Are you a person whom God will call? Is God calling you? Date: 14 September, 2017
Text: I Samuel 2 and 3
Title: God Finds His Man
Theme:
Proposition: God is looking for men and woman whom He can call into full time service.
Rhetorical: Would God consider you?
Introduction:
Filling out survey for what kind of dog best suits you....
1) Are you an energetic person?
2) Do you like picking up pet hair?
3) Are you a frisbee thrower or a couch potato?
4) Do you like to hear a dog barking?
After 20 or so questions, you finally get to find your perfect dog match - I didn't like any of them.
However, the truth is - when we are looking to find something we have certain criteria.
Why would God make decisions with any less scrutiny or wisdom? He doesn't. AND, He is looking. HE IS SEEKING for men!
Eze 22:30 And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none. (SCRUTINY)
2Ch 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. (SCRUTINY)
Isa 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.
His servants are COMMANDED TO BE looking for these faithful men.
2Ti 2:2 And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
God's Spirit is willing to equip and call these men.
Luk 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.
exp. Those he sends He will call.
THERE IS A WORLD IN NEED OF GOD CALLED SERVANTS PROCLAIMING THE TRUTH OF THE GOSPEL!
Romans 10:13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?
15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
Exp. The world is on it's way to Hell and we need faithful men whom God will call into His service.
As God looks for a man, does he find in you any qualities WHICH BY HIS GRACE HE CAN USE FOR HIS GLORY?
I want us to consider this morning that, "GOD IS LOOKING FOR MEN AND WOMEN WHOM HE CAN CALL INTO FULL TIME SERVICE! WOULD GOD CONSIDER YOU?"
Samuel is our example - a young man who was an answer to his mother's prayer and a young man who was given unto the Lord.
I Samuel 1:25 And they slew a bullock, and brought the child to Eli.
26 And she said, Oh my lord, as thy soul liveth, my lord, I am the woman that stood by thee here, praying unto the LORD.
27 For this child I prayed; and the LORD hath given me my petition which I asked of him:
28 Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And he worshipped the LORD there.
WHAT WAS THERE ABOUT SAMUEL THAT MADE HIM USEFUL TO THE LORD?
I. A young man of conviction.
exp. Eli had son's which could have followed in their father's steps - but God rejected them because of their disobedience.
2:25 (Eli saying....) If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the LORD would slay them.
ill. This is what God reveals in the dream to Samuel and what takes place in battle against the Philistines when they also capture the Ark of God.
(In contrast to the wickedness of Eli's sons....)
2:26 And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men.
exp. A person of conviction does what is right even if everyone else is doing what is wrong.
ill. Eric Liddel - 1924 Olympics - didn't run in the race on the Lord's day - because He had conviction. The fact that we know Eric Liddel today - shows that God honored that decision.
Before he ran a different race - a steward gave him a note with a portion of - 1Sa 2:30 Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.
THAT VERSE WAS GIVEN TO ELI - FULFILLED IN THE DESTRUCTION OF HIS SONS AND THE HONOURING OF SAMUEL - A YOUNG MAN OF CONVICTION.
note: Eric Liddell got the gold medal and the world record in the 400 meter race.
app. Liddel BY GOD HONORING CONVICTION was like Samuel and God honoured Him. Are you a person of conviction. Do you "sware to your own hurt and change not?"
II. A young man of humility.
I Samuel 2:18 But Samuel ministered before the LORD, being a child, girded with a linen ephod.
I Samuel 3:1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision.
2 And it came to pass at that time, when Eli was laid down in his place, and his eyes began to wax dim, that he could not see;
exp. Samuel was a little servant boy in the house of God. He had the privilige of doing whatever needed to be done in the House of God on that day.
ill. Preaching in NYC Sunday School - a subject similar to this - a servant does whatever he is asked to do - nothing is below him. (The sewer backed up into the church hallway during the service and several men had to hurry out to clean it up.
app. Some people only want to serve where other's can see or where they don't have to get too dirty. God is just looking for those who will grab ahold of whatever needs to be done and do it for the Lord. 1Co 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. GOD FOUND HUMILITY IN THE LITTLE DOOR KEEPER IN THE HOUSE OF GOD AND GOD MADE HIM A GREAT MAN OF GOD.
III. A young man of submission.
3 And ere the lamp of God went out in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God was, and Samuel was laid down to sleep;
exp. I imagine that Samuel had experienced his normal full day of ministry and that it wasn't without thankfulness that he laid his head down on his pillow that evening. But, just when he thought he could rest, there was a call. "Samuel." And Samuel submitted WITH DISCIPLINE.
A. With discipline.
4 That the LORD called Samuel: and he answered, Here am I.
exp. Are you one of those people that once you are in bed - that is it - there is no hope of you getting out - if the light is on it can either stay on or someone else will have to turn it off. Or you try to throw things at the light switch until you suceed or run our of ammunition.
note: Samuel wasn't lazy - he got himself out of bed in SUBMISSION TO AUTHORITY.
B. With immediacy.
5 And he ran unto Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou calledst me. And he said, I called not; lie down again. And he went and lay down.
exp. He didn't delay - in fact the word of God is clear that he didn't walk - he ran to Eli.
song. Patch the Pirate - song about obedience which says, "To delay is to disobey."
note: Anyone in authority - knows what a blessing it is to say, "Please do this" and you know that it is as good as done. Samuel was like that - he trusted the wisdom of His authority and ran in submission to Eli.
C. With consistence.
6 And the LORD called yet again, Samuel. And Samuel arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me. And he answered, I called not, my son; lie down again.
7 Now Samuel did not yet know the LORD, neither was the word of the LORD yet revealed unto him.
exp. He didn't just get out of bed once, now he has gotten out of bed twice. He may have thought as he got back into bed after the first time, I must be hearing things.... but then clearly he hears again his name being called - OUT OF BED HE GOES - THIS TIME NOT AS ENERGETICALLY BUT WITH PERSISTENCE GOING BACK TO ELI IN OBEDIENCE.
note: It is not the case here - but even if Samuel was obeying someone who was inconsistent - he was still going to submit and obey.
I Peter 2:18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.
19 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.
20 For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God.
app. Just because you get out of bed once - does not make you submissive. A submissive person "get's up" again and again and again - even if it seems ridiculous.
D. With confidence.
8 And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here am I; for thou didst call me.
exp. Samuel knew that he was hearing his name and perhaps wondered if Eli was testing His obedience. He comes again and says, "I know that you have called me." He's obeying with confidence knowing that he has been called.
IV. A young man of favor.
And Eli perceived that the LORD had called the child.
9 Therefore Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if he call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, LORD; for thy servant heareth. So Samuel went and lay down in his place.
exp. Eli, God's old servant, seeing that his own son's were rejected, see's now that God's favor is going to go to Samuel. He recognizes God's call upon the child - even before Samuel.
ill. John Knox - Knox displayed an initial reluctance to enter the Christian ministry. And after receiving the pastoral call of the congregation, Knox burst forth into tears, and withdrew from society for several days. "The scene," says Thomas M'Crie, "will be extremely interesting to such as are impressed with the weight of the ministerial function, and will naturally awaken a train of feelings in the breasts of those who have been entrusted with the gospel. It revives the memory of those early days of the church, when persons did not rush forward to the altar, nor beg to 'be put into one of the priest's offices, to eat a piece of bread;' when men of piety and talents, deeply affected with the awful responsibility of the office, and with their own insufficiency, were with great difficulty induced to take on them those orders which they had long desired, and for which they laboured to qualify themselves. What a contrast did this exhibit to the conduct of the herd which at that time filled the stalls of the popish church!" (Life of John Knox [Edinburgh, 1855], p. 27).
app. There may be in the heart of someone whom God calls a reluctance - but there will also be in the eyes of godly men and understanding that God is working. IF GOD CALLS YOU TO MINISTRY IT IS ONE OF THE GREATEST HONORS THAT GOD WILL GIVE.
quote: Spurgeon - "If God has called you to be His servant, why stoop to be a King?"
V. A young man of attention.
10 And the LORD came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.
exp. Samuel hadn't heard from God before but when he did - he answered God call with full attention.
ill. Jesus would often get finished preaching and say, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." GOD'S SERVANTS WILL BE ATTENTIVE TO GOD'S WORD.
note: Average Briton spends 24 hours a week in front of the television. That is 3 and 1/2 hours a day.
We live in an age of "noise." Internet, social media, news media, entertainment, video games, music.... Few people (fewer young people) know what it is to LISTEN TO GOD.
Rom 8:14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
1Jn 2:17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
app. Are you listening to God today? Or have you tuned him out? Can you say this morning, speak Lord for thy servant heareth.
VI. A young man of growth.
19 And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground.
exp. Samuel wasn't just developing into a man physically. He was developing into a man spiritually.
Luke 2:52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.
ill. David Livingstone - 12 hour days working in the mill from the age of ten - still studied for two hours a day afterward.
app. Young people, you can read the Bible - our generation has the idea that children and teens are too immature to discipline themselves TO GROWTH. That you have to wait to be an adult - Samuel was developing because he was a young man of growth - ARE YOU?
VII. A young man of good testimony.
20 And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba knew that Samuel was established to be a prophet of the LORD.
exp. Samuel has been given a very priviliged position - it wasn't long until that good testimony was going before him.
ill. Eric Liddel - was known as the great Scottish olympian - but that testimony changed in Christian (at the olympics) and missionary soon afterwards.
app. What will you be known for? Will you be known as a servant of the Lord?
VIII. A young man of devotion.
21 And the LORD appeared again in Shiloh: for the LORD revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the LORD.
exp. In His youth - Samuel didn't yet know the Lord - but once he startred speaking with God, it continued for the rest of His life. He was a devoted servant of the Lord.
question: When do you pray?
ill. Hudson Taylor - man of prayer.
Robert Murray McCheynne - man of prayer
George Mueller - man of prayer
app. You'll never be a great servant of Lord unless you are a person of devotion - walking with the Lord.
conclusion: WE NEED MEN AND WOMAN TODAY WHO ARE EQUIPPED TO BE CALLED OF GOD INTO FULL TIME MINISTRY! Would God consider you?
Are you a person of....
conviction
humility
submission
favor
attention
growth
good testimony
devotion
Isa 6:8 Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?
Will it be you? Are you a person whom God will call? Is God calling you?
