According to the Pattern
Introduction:
As
Christians and as a local congregation, we need to be committed to having a
biblical identity. The key to having a biblical identity is give heed to Jesus
(Acts 3:19-22). Having a biblical identity: means we must examine the
scriptures and conform our lives & religious practices to what has been
revealed. God wants us to do what He said to do: not as we please.
I. A look
at a familiar text: Heb. 8:5
A.
Moses was warned by God to: make all things according to the pattern.
B.
Many features of OT system were put into place by God
to picture what would eventually become reality through Jesus.
1.
Heb. 9:11; 10:1 – law – a shadow of good
things to come.
C.
When studying passages like this – we must
carefully explore for any underlying principles that pertain to us.
1.
God has expressed His mind to us: Heb. 1:1-2 –
we have instructions to follow.
II. The principle in Hebrews 8:5.
A.
God’s purpose is carried out when His plan is
followed.
B.
We might restate the principle in this context:
1.
God, in his perfect mind, forms a purpose, then He
reveals His pattern, with admonitions to follow His instructions.
2.
Only when man follows His pattern is God’s purpose
carried out.
3.
Stated negatively: if we do not follow God’s pattern, we fail to carry out His purpose.
C.
What if Moses ignored God’s pattern – followed
his own plan?
III. A practical application: the local church.
A.
God, in His wisdom, set up the local church.
B.
When God set up the church – let there be no
doubt – God had certain purposes in mind.
C.
What does the pattern suggest:
1.
On elders/deacons? Acts 14:23
2.
On our preaching & teaching? Col. 3:17; 1 Pet. 4:11; 1 Cor. 4:6
a)
If we refuse this – our souls in danger –
Gal. 1:6-9
3.
on the way we use church resources in benevolence
– 1 Cor. 16:3; 2 Cor. 9:11-13
a)
What is the pattern? Church funds sent to brethren.
4.
On the way we worship.
a)
There’s a reason for singing a cappella. Eph. 5:19; Col. 3:16
a)
We put 100%
trust/faith in God, knowing our souls depend on it.
b)
Same true w/the LS; prayer; preaching; giving. Follow
pattern so worship will be acceptable.
IV. What about those who do not follow the pattern?
1.
God has spoken clearly about participation &
association.
B.
Eph. 5:11 – what does God say? See also 2 John 9;
Psa. 1:1
C.
This is not arrogance. Not haughtiness. It IS respecting
the pattern.
1.
1 Pet 3:15 – w/gentleness; meekness; 2 Tim.
2:24-26
Conclusion:
A.
What we have talked about today – not a matter
of being conservative or sound. It is a matter of being right.
1.
Acts 2:42 – it about continuing in the apostle’s
doctrine.
B.
God’s instruction manual tells us how to be
saved? Have you been saved?