Sermon: The foremost convulsion (Matt 24:29-30)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Convulsion (Matt 24:29-30)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2012

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

There are certain unpleasant events that, if possible, a person would want to avoid.

Ed was applying for a job as a signalman with the local railroad and was told to meet the inspector at the signal box. The inspector gave Ed a quiz. "What would you do if you realized that two trains were heading toward each other on the same track?" Ed answered, "I would switch one of the trains to another track." "What if the lever broke?" asked the inspector. "Then, I would run down to the tracks and use the manual lever there," Ed replied confidently. "What if that lever had been struck by lightning and was inoperative?" the inspector challenged. "In that case," Ed continued, "I'd run back up here and use the phone to call the next signal box." "What if the phone was busy?" the inspector asked. "Well, then," Ed countered, "I would run to the street level and use the public phone near the station." "What if it had been vandalized?" inquired the inspector. "In that case, I would run into town as fast as I could and get my Uncle Bert." This puzzled the inspector, so he asked, "Why would you do that?" ..."Because Uncle Bert's never seen a train crash!"

There are certain unpleasant events that, if possible, a person would want to avoid...but sometimes all he can do is watch it happen. That will be the case for many of those who witness The Foremost Convulsion.

As Matt 24 opens, the disciples ask Jesus how circumstances will unfold leading to his eventual reign.

Matt 24:3b [W]hat will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?

Jesus warns them not to be misled by events that will be unpleasant but not uncommon, events that will occur several times in the course of history, be they natural or man-made, but are not the ones immediately preceding his return.

Sermon: The foremost concession (Ps 106:15)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Concession (Ps 106:15)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2012

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

We face options everyday in the decisions we make. Some decisions test our character, and we can look back with satisfaction when we choose well.

The college faculty members were in their annual planning meeting when, suddenly, an angel appeared. Addressing the Dean, the angel said, "I will grant you one of three requests. You may ask for infinite wisdom, infinite wealth, or infinite health." The Dean thought for a minute, then replied, "Wisdom." "So be it," the angel responded and disappeared. In the silence that followed, the Dean sat thoughtfully, saying nothing and staring off into the distance. Finally, one of the other faculty members exclaimed, "Do you have anything to say? What words of wisdom can you offer us?" The Dean replied... "I should have taken the money."

Some decisions test our character, and we can look back with satisfaction when we choose well...or not. In certain cases, what we should do is clear, because God's will is clear. In other cases, what we should do is not clear, not because God's will is unclear but because we want something different and assume He will not mind. Still, what God permits to us may not be what He prefers for us, and it may actually represent The Foremost Concession.

Sermon: The foremost confusion (Exod 23:27)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Confusion (Exod 23:27)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2012

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

When we encounter something out of the ordinary, it can be somewhat... confusing.

A family from the hills was visiting the city and was in a large mall for the first time. The father and son were strolling around while the wife shopped. They were amazed by almost everything they saw, but especially by two shiny, silver walls that could move apart and then slide back together again. The boy asked, "Pa, what's that?" The father, never having encountered an elevator, said, "I don't know, son. I've never seen anything like it in my entire life." While the boy and his father were watching with amazement, a large, elderly lady in a wheel chair rolled up to the moving walls and pressed a button. The walls opened, the lady rolled into a small room, and the walls closed behind her. The boy and his father watched the small circular numbers above the walls light up sequentially, eventually reaching the last number; then the numbers began to light in reverse. The walls opened again, and a beautiful young woman stepped out. The father, not taking his eyes off her, said quietly to his son, "Boy...go get your Momma."

When we encounter something out of the ordinary, it can be somewhat...confusing. That is how it will be for Israel's enemies, because God will ensure that an encounter with His people results in The Foremost Confusion.

When the Israelites leave Egypt, they are not an indomitable military. Far from it, they are more like an undisciplined mob.¹ While they have some fighting men, these are a lightly armed, probably poorly trained, and certainly untested militia. Moreover, the majority of the group is primarily civilians and livestock, difficult to maneuver and difficult to defend. Although God redeemed the Israelites, He could not now leave them to fend for themselves and to find their own way. They would need His direction and protection, protection He would give in a variety of ways, including...

Sermon: The foremost confession (Rom 10:9-10)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Confession (Rom 10:9-10)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2012

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

You have probably received comfort or encouragement through the thoughtful words of others.¹ As the sage said...

Prov 16:24 Pleasant words are...sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

Words can be very powerful, especially if they have significant meaning.

An elderly woman returned to her house one evening after a revival service at church and was startled to discover an intruder. As he was in the act of robbing her home of its valuables, she yelled the first thing that came to mind, "Stop! Acts 2:38!" The burglar halted dead in his tracks. The woman calmly called the police and explained what she had done. As the responding officers cuffed the man to take him in, one of them asked the burglar, "Why did you just stand there? All the old lady did was yell a scripture passage at you." "Scripture?" the burglar replied... "She said she had an axe...and two 38s!" (Acts 2:38a Repent and be baptized....)

Words can be very powerful, especially if they have significant meaning...and there is significant meaning in The Foremost Confession.

Paul's letter to the church in Rome is arguably the most theological New Testament book. In it, the apostle outlines five steps of God's dealing with man: sin, salvation, sanctification, sovereignty, and service.² In the fourth section, Paul explains how God exercises His sovereignty by placing the same expectations on everyone, Jew and gentile alike. No one gets preferential treatment. All must approach Him the same way, and that way includes making...

XXXIII. The Foremost Confession³

Sermon: The foremost confinement (Rev 22:14-15)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Confinement (Rev 22:14-15)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2012

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

There are times you might like to have a stand-in, someone to take your place when you face a difficult task, especially if that someone would be better at the task than you.

The Pope met with his Cardinals to discuss a proposal from the Prime Minister of Israel. In the interest of ecumenical relations, the Prime Minster suggested that he and the pope play a friendly game of golf. The Pope thought it was a good idea, but he had never even held a golf club let alone played the game. "Would one of you Cardinals represent me?" he asked. "None of us plays very well," one of them replied. "But there is an American golfer named Jack Nicklaus, who is a devout Catholic. We can make him a temporary Cardinal, then ask him to play the Prime Minister as your representative. It would show our spirit of cooperation, and...we'd win the match." The Pope and the other Cardinals thought it was a good idea. Jack Nicklaus was, of course, honored and agreed to play.

After the match, Jack Nicklaus reported to the Pope. "I have good news and bad news, your Holiness." "Tell me the good news first, Cardinal Nicklaus," said the Pope. "Well, I don't like to brag, but even though I've had some pretty terrific rounds of golf in my life, this was the best I have ever played, by far. I must have been aided from above. My drives were long and true, my irons were accurate, and my putting was perfect. With all due respect, my play was truly miraculous." "So what's the bad news?", the Pope asked. Nicklaus sighed. "I lost by seven strokes...to Rabbi Tiger Woods."

There are times you might like to have a stand-in, someone to take your place when you face a difficult task. You have a stand-in, not to take your place on the golf course but to take your place at the bar of divine judgment. That stand-in, of course, is Jesus, whose sacrifice spared you from The Foremost Confinement.

The apostle John offers a rare and extended view of the future, including the rise and fall of the antichrist, the defeat of Satan, and the final disposition of both the righteous and the unrighteous. Throughout Revelation, John relates what he sees and hears in his vision, often through the guidance of an angel.¹ That changes abruptly halfway through the final chapter, as Jesus speaks to him.²

Sermon: The foremost consignment (Rev 20:10)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Consignment (Rev 20:10)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2012

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

What determines an individual's eternal fate? Does he get to choose, or does someone else make that decision for him?

On the outskirts of town was a large pecan tree by the cemetery fence. One day two boys filled a bucket with nuts, sat down by the tree, out of sight, and began dividing the nuts. "One for you, one for me. One for you, one for me." In the process, several dropped and rolled toward the fence. Another boy came riding along on his bicycle. He heard voices from inside the cemetery. "One for you, one for me. One for you, one for me." He reasoned what that was. "It's Satan and St. Peter dividing the souls at the cemetery." He rode off and met an old man. "Come quick," said the boy, "Satan and St. Peter are in the cemetery dividing up the souls." Dubious of the boy's story, the man followed him to the cemetery. Standing by the fence he heard, "One for you, one for me. One for you, one for me." The old man whispered, "Boy, you've been telling the truth. Let's try to get a closer look. Shaking with fear yet compelled by curiosity, they peered through the fence, but were still unable to see anything. Then they heard, "One for you, one for me. That's all.... Now let's get those nuts by the fence."¹

What determines an individual's eternal fate? Does he get to choose, or does someone else make that decision for him? ...The answer is that he gets to choose, and neither Satan nor St. Peter have any say in the matter. In fact, because of Satan's own choices, he has his own problems and will have his own place in eternity, his own apartment or compartment, as John describes in The Foremost Consignment.

Sermon: The foremost confrontation (Dan 7:9-10)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Confrontment (Dan 7:9-10)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

One day you will come face to face with God. What will you say to Him? ...More importantly, what will He say to you?

A middle-aged woman had a heart attack and was taken to the hospital. While on the operating table she had a near death experience. Seeing God, she asked "Is my time up'?" "No," he replied, "you have another 40 years to live." Upon recovery, she decided that since she had so much more time than she thought, she might as well make the most of it. So she stayed in the hospital to have some work done. She had a facelift, liposuction, and a tummy tuck. She even had someone come and dye her hair. After her last operation, she was released from the hospital. While crossing the street on her way home, though, she was hit and killed by an ambulance. Arriving in front of God (again), she asked Him, "You said I had another 40 years. Why didn't you save me from being hit by the ambulance?" God replied, "Sorry about that...I just didn't recognize you!"

What will you say when you come face to face with God? More importantly, what will He say to you? ...Hopefully it will go better than it did for this woman. Certainly, it will go better than The Foremost Confrontment, when another individual encounters the presiding of God at his trial.

The recent birth to Prince William (Duke of Cambridge) and Kate (Duchess of Cambridge) of a son who might one day become King of England (and head the Church of England) has captivated the attention of people around the world. All the excitement is something of a curiosity to many in America, because we do not have a royal class (although politicians in Washington may come close). The type of government we have, a democracy in the form of a republic,¹ dates back to the Greeks. The type of government Great Britain had at one time, a monarchy, goes back much farther and is one of the oldest kinds of government known to man. It is the form of ancient superpowers—Egypt, Assyria, Babylon—and is the form God chose for His people,² Israel, perhaps because it mirrors His own realm.

Sermon: The foremost conferment (2 Tim 4:7-8)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Conferment (2 Tim 4:7-8)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

Whenever children want to get from one place to another, they often run, even if there is no urgency. Most adults, however, are content to take life at a stately pace...unless there is some urgency.

Two lawyers walking through the woods spotted a vicious-looking bear. The first lawyer immediately opened his briefcase, took out a pair of sneakers, and put them on. The second lawyer looked at him in disbelief, "Are you crazy? You'll never be able to outrun that bear!" "I don't have to," the first lawyer replied.... "I only have to outrun you."

Most adults are content to take life at a stately pace...unless there is some urgency, in which case, they may run. While not out of urgency, Christians do run, because the Christian life is a race of sorts, one that ends with The Foremost Conferment.

Sermon: The foremost concealment (Esth 4:14)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Concealment (Esth 4:14)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

There is a saying that "timing is everything." It is true in cooking, where the difference of a few minutes can mean the roast is underdone or overdone. It is true in finance, where a person might buy stock just before or right after a company releases its hot new product. Timing is everything.¹

An irate customer called her local newspaper office with a complaint: "Where is my Sunday paper?" Despite the fact that she had waited patiently for it, the Sunday edition she so enjoyed reading had not arrived. "Ma'am," the newspaper employee replied, "today is Saturday. The Sunday paper is not delivered until tomorrow, on Sunday." There was a long pause on the other end of the phone, after which she muttered... "That's why no one was at church today!"

Timing is everything. That principle is evident in God's activity as well, even when His role may not be obvious, as in The Foremost Concealment.²

Among all the books in scripture, Esther has the distinction of not mentioning God. It does, however, note His activity behind the scenes on behalf of His people.

Sermon: The foremost concern (Num 14:21)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Concernment (Num 14:21)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

When an opportunity presents itself, it may be important that we take advantage of it, even if we do not feel properly prepared.

A man goes into a fancy restaurant wearing a shirt open at the collar and is met by the maitre d who tells him he must wear a necktie to be admitted. So the man goes out to his car and looks around for a necktie. Unfortunately, he doesn't have one. All he can find is a set of jumper cables in the trunk. In desperation he ties them around his neck, manages to fashion a fairly acceptable looking knot and lets the ends dangle free. He goes back to the restaurant, where the maitre d looks him over for a few minutes then says, "Well, OK, I guess you can come in...just don't start anything."

When an opportunity presents itself, it may be important that we take advantage of it, even if we do not feel properly prepared. The Israelites faced something similar when they first came to the border of Canaan, and their decision was the occasion for The Foremost Concernment.

When Moses begins to write the Pentateuch for God's people Israel, he starts Genesis by documenting for them God's activity, appropriately, "in the beginning." Moses describes what God did in the creation, in response to the fall of man, in the flood, in confusing the languages at Babel, and in His involvement with the patriarchs: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. These fifty chapters contain a lot of information about God, about His might but little about His motive, some about His personality but not about His purpose. The reader sees God at work but may wonder: What is He up to?

Sermon: The foremost contentment (Phil 4:11b-13)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Contentment (Phil 4:11b-13)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

Many people have secrets, things they do not want others to know, because they fear the consequences that exposure might produce, from persecution to prosecution, depending on the gravity of the secret.

Four psychiatrists were attending a convention and, during the dinner break, they decided to share a table at a local restaurant. While they were eating, one said, "People come to us with their guilt and fears, and we keep what they tell us in confidence, but we have no one to consult when we have problems. Since we're professionals, why don't we take some time now to hear each other out?" They all agreed.

The first psychiatrist confessed, "Some of my patients drive me nuts, and I'm often tempted to prescribe something that will put them out of their misery...permanently."

The second psychiatrist confessed, "I love expensive things, so I find ways to overcharge my patients to buy the things I want."

The third psychiatrist confessed, "I sell drugs on the side, and sometimes I get my patients to sell them for me."

The fourth psychiatrist confessed, "I know I'm not supposed to, but no matter how hard I try...! can't keep a secret."

Many people have secrets, things they do not want others to know. Some secrets are secure not because people do not want others to know them¹ but because people themselves do not want to know them. That seems the case for a secret Paul describes. Few people want to know it because of the expectation that comes with it.

In our expanding understanding of What Is Foremost?, we recognize that giving these priorities the attention they deserve can be difficult, especially when we become distracted by other, seemingly more pressing concerns. Today, we will examine what enables us to resist those distractions and to retain our focus on the right priorities. From one of Paul's epistles, it is...

XXVI. The Foremost Contentment²

...which is relying on...

• The provision of God (Phil 4:11b-13)

The apostle Paul did not have an easy life. In his second letter to the church at Corinth (A.D. 55), he writes...³

2 Cor 11:25 Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked.... 26b I have been in danger from rivers, in danger from bandits, in danger from my own countrymen, in danger from Gentiles; in danger in the city, in danger in the country, in danger at sea; and in danger from false brothers.... 27b I have known hunger and thirst and have often gone without food; I have been cold and naked.

The foremost contingent (Matt 13:49-50)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Contingent (Matt 13:49-50)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

Any confrontation between opposing military forces comes with a host of challenges, from determining an efficient deployment to developing an effective strategy. One of those challenges can be dealing with equipment shortages.

A young soldier, just before battle, told his sergeant that he didn't have a rifle. "That's no problem, son," said the sergeant. "Just take this broom, point it at the enemy, and say, 'Bangety Bang Bang." ..."Sarge, what about a bayonet?" the young (and gullible) recruit asked. The sergeant pulled a piece of straw from the bristles of the broom and attached it to the handle end. "Use this and just say, 'Stabity Stab Stab."

Later, the young recruit ends up alone on the battlefield, holding just his broom. Suddenly, an enemy soldier charges at him. The recruit points the broom and says, "Bangety Bang Bang!" ...The enemy soldier falls over. More soldiers appear. The recruit, amazed at his good luck, says, "Bangety Bang Bang! Stabity Stab Stab!" Dozens succumb to this unconventional defense, until the battlefield is littered with fallen enemy troops... except for one soldier walking slowly toward him. "Bangety Bang Bang!" shouts the recruit. The enemy keeps coming. "Bangety Bang Bang!" repeats the recruit, to no effect. In desperation, the young recruit employs his entire arsenal. "Bangety Bang Banc,! Stabity Stab Stab!" But the enemy just keeps coming.... As the enemy stomps the recruit into the ground, the young soldier hears him say... "Tankety Tank Tank."

Any confrontation between opposing military forces comes with a host of challenges, from efficient deployment to effective strategy, even dealing with equipment shortages. None of those issues will be a concern for The Foremost Contingent of God's forces when, in the end, they confront the wicked.

The foremost contrast (Rom 6:23)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Contrast (Rom 6:23)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

If you need to make a point, it is often helpful to use a comparison that highlights a clear contrast.

Two brothers in town had a scandalous reputation after years of continuous carousing. Getting on in age, they wanted to be remembered well when they were gone. They asked a local minister to conduct the funeral of whichever brother went first, promising to make a large donation to the church if the minister would say in his eulogy that the deceased brother was a saint. The minister agreed. When one of the brothers died, the other brother approached the minister, reminding him about their arrangement, and gave him a check for a sizable amount. At the funeral, the minister did not hold back. "He was an evil man," he said. "He cheated on his wife and abused his family." After going on like this for a while, he finally concluded, "but, compared to his brother...he was a saint."

If you need to make a point, it is often helpful to make a comparison that highlights a clear contrast...assuming there is one. When the apostle Paul needed to make a point, he used a comparison to highlight The Foremost Contrast.

Sermon: The foremost combustion (2 Peter 3:10

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Combustion (2 Pet 3:10)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

Are you a patient person? ...You might say, "That depends on the situation." Indeed, some situations require more patience than others.

A man with a swollen foot goes to the doctor. After a careful examination, the doctor hands the man a pill big enough to choke a horse. "I'll be right back with some water," the doctor tells him and leaves the room. The doctor is gone quite a while, though, and the man loses patience. He hobbles out to the drinking fountain, forces the pill down his throat, following it with large quantities of water until the pill is finally clear, and hobbles back to the examining room. Just then the doctor returns with a bucket of water. "Okay," he says, "after the pill dissolves...soak that foot for about 20 minutes."

Some situations warrant more patience than others. That is sometimes the case when we wait for a doctor, and that is surely the case when we wait for God to wrap things up with The Foremost Combustion.

Paul began his ministry by bringing the gospel to fellow Jews but shifted the focus of his ministry later, calling himself "an apostle to the gentiles" (Gal 2:8b), although he often addressed his epistles to mixed congregations. Peter also began his ministry by bringing the gospel to fellow Jews, branching out to include gentile converts,¹ but maintained the original focus of his ministry, leading Paul to call Peter "an apostle to the Jews" (Gal 2:8a), and he addressed his (two) epistles to (predominantly) Jewish congregations.² Despite their different audiences, though, recipients of the apostles' letters often faced similar problems, including the insinuation of false teachers into the congregations.³ Please turn to chapter 3 of Peter's second letter, where he warns about those who deny Jesus' return.

4 They...say, "Where is this 'coming' he promised? Ever since our fathers died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation."

Sermon: The foremost commutation (Col 2:13)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Commutation (Col 2:13)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

When faced with the fact that we have done something wrong, there is often the hope that we can somehow avoid the consequence of our misdeed.

Rushing to work, Katrina—not our Katrina—was driving too fast and was pulled over by a highway patrolman. The trooper noticed that one of the books on her seat had a GACTC logo. "I teach math there," she explained. The trooper smiled, and said, "Okay, here's a problem. A teacher is speeding down the highway at 16 m.p.h. over the limit. At $12 for every mile, plus $40 court expenses, plus the rise in her insurance, what's her total cost?" She replied, "Taking that total, subtracting the low salary I receive, multiplying by the number of students who hate math, then adding to it the fact that none of us would be anywhere without teachers, I'd say... zero." The trooper handed back her license and said... "Math was never my favorite subject. Please slow down."

When faced with the fact that we have done something wrong, there is often the hope that we can somehow avoid the consequence of our misdeed. While it may be possible to talk one's way out of a policeman's ticket, it will require a much more compelling argument to avoid the Lord's judgment. It will, in fact, require The Foremost Commutation.

Sermon: The foremost commendation (Matt 25:21)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Commendation (Matt 25:21)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

When we encounter someone whose ability is out of the ordinary, an obvious cut above the rest, we readily acknowledge it.

A mother cornered the concert violinist in his dressing room and insisted that he listen to a recording of her talented son playing the violin. The man agreed, and the woman switched on the player. "What music!" the violinist thought. It was a difficult piece, but played with such genius that it brought tears to his eyes. He listened spellbound to the entire recording. "Madam," he whispered, "is that your son?" "No," she replied. "That's Itzhak Perlman....But my son sounds just like him."

When we encounter someone whose ability is out of the ordinary, an obvious cut above the rest, we readily acknowledge it. That is what God will do for believers who distinguish themselves, when He bestows on them The Foremost Commendation.

Sermon: The foremost compensation (Matt 19:29)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Compensation (Matt 19:29)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

Whether contemplating what you will do next week, next month, or next year, it is generally good to plan ahead. This is certainly true for retirement.

Now that they were retired, Jack and Jill were discussing various aspects of their future, including how they would get by on their fixed income. "What will you do if I die before you do?" Jack asked Jill. After some thought, she said that she'd probably look for a house-sharing situation with three other single or widowed women who might be a little younger than her, since she was still active for her age. Then Jill asked Jack, "What will you do if I die first?" He replied... "Probably the same thing."

While it is good to plan for retirement, it is better to plan for eternity, and one thing you will not have to worry about is how to get by, because the pension plan is out of this world.

Sermon: The foremost competition (Heb 12:1-2)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Competition (Heb 12:1-2)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

When you need to make progress in a particular direction, it is often helpful to have incentive, a goal set before you.

A young lion was chasing a hunter but did not catch him, which caused the older lions to make fun of him. "Well," said the young lion, "you have to remember, I was running for my supper...he was running for his life!"

When you need to make progress in a particular direction, it is often helpful to have incentive, a goal set before you. That is what the author of Hebrews does for his readers. He describes the goal before them, as he explains The Foremost Competition.

In the mid-first century, after Jesus' crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension, the believing Jewish community has to sort through different views about him. Is he the pivotal figure in the divine program that some claim, or does he actually fall a bit lower in the cosmic hierarchy, somewhere below angels, even below Moses and Aaron? The author of Hebrews addresses this issue by stressing the messiah's supremacy in many areas, including over angels, Moses, and Aaron. He also says to his readers that they will meet Jesus one day, and he describes their movement toward that goal as...

XIX. The Foremost Competition¹

...which is how believers make...

• The progress (performance, push) toward God (Heb 12:1-2)

Please turn to...

Heb 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. 2 Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Sermon: The foremost combination (1 Tim 6:6-7)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Combination (1 Tim 6:6-7)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

How do you gauge success? ...The main determinant is usually whether a particular action produces the desired result.

A man received a strongly worded "second notice" that his taxes were overdue. Hurrying to the collector's office, he paid his bill, apologizing that he had overlooked the first notice. "Oh" confided the collector with a smile, "we don't send out first notices.... We've found that second notices are more effective."

Not all employees are so keenly focused on success. Some do the bare minimum needed to get by. They exist in their job but do not excel at it, which is often how people approach life in general.

While some people are content to drift through life, taking whatever comes their way, and others, with even less ambition, allow themselves to fall farther and farther behind, a few are not satisfied with the status quo and strive to improve their situation. This drive to achieve something better can be manifest in different areas, although it usually relates to the belief that more or bigger is better. For example...

• Finances, making more money
• Possessions, acquiring more or better things,
• Education, increasing one's knowledge or learning a new skill
• Career, climbing the corporate ladder
• Family, having more kids or seeing them in more prominent roles
• Friends, accumulating more contacts on Facebook or Twitter

Often a person's success in this endeavor also determines his sense of self-worth. Accomplishment justifies his existence, at least in his own mind, confirming that he is not a failure.

Sermon: The foremost communication (Eph 6:18)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Communication (Eph 6:18)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

As Christians, we know that prayer is important, because it is one of the ways God enables us to make contact with Him, and it is a powerful tool in realizing the good things He has planned for us.

"Anyone with needs to be prayed over, come to the front at the altar," the preacher announced. Leroy got in line and, when it was his turn, the preacher asked, "Leroy, what do you want me to pray about for you." Leroy said, "I need you to pray for my hearing." The preacher put one finger in Leroy's ear, placed the other hand on top of Leroy's head, and prayed...and prayed...and prayed. He prayed a blue streak for Leroy. After a few minutes, the preacher removed his hands, stepped back, and asked, "Leroy, how is your hearing now?" "I don't know," Leroy replied... "It ain't til next Wednesday!"

As Christians, we know that prayer is important, because it is one of the ways God enables us to make contact with Him. Its effectiveness, though, depends on our proper use of this, The Foremost Communication.

When God, by His mercy, saved you from the punishment your sin deserved, you then became responsible to develop your relationship with Him.

• As Paul describes it, "to work out your salvation with fear and trembling" (Phil 2:12).

• As Peter describes it, to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Pet 3:18).

To that end, God has made available what theologians term, "means of grace," spiritual disciplines that, with regular practice, enable you to develop godly character. These disciplines include both individual practices like Bible study and fasting, as well as communal practices, like worship and fellowship. Another of the individual practices is...

XVII. The Foremost Communication¹

...which is available through...

• The prayer to God (Eph 6:18)

Sermon: The foremost computation (Matt 24:15-16, 21)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Computation (Matt 24:15-16, 21)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

Because Linda and I have been married for several years, she knows me well, so well that she can often predict quite accurately what I will do in a given situation. It is like that for many couples, even those married not as long.

A young man, wanted to get his beautiful young wife something nice for their anniversary. So, he decides to buy her a cell phone. She is thrilled with the gift, and he shows her how to use it, explaining all the nifty features it has. The next day, she goes shopping and decides to get her hair done while she's out. Her phone rings, and it's her husband. "Hi honey," he says, "How do you like your new phone?" "I love it," she replies. "It's so small, and your voice is clear as a bell. But there's one thing I don't understand.... How did you know I was at the beauty parlor?"

Some things are easier to figure out than others. The same is true for biblical prophecy. Some predictions are easier to figure out than others. To that end, God has provided an important clue with The Foremost Computation.

During the Olivet Discourse, Jesus addressed what people can and cannot know about the time of his return. In the midst of recording Jesus' description, Matthew inserts a rare editorial comment that explains how we can make...

Sermon: The foremost commemoration (Matt 8:11)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Commemoration (Matt 8:11)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

It is important that God's people have a clear and correct understanding of salvation. That requires proper instruction, which can begin quite early.

A children's SS teacher was testing her class to see if the students understood the concept of getting to heaven. She asked them, "If I sold my house and my car, had a big garage sale and gave all my money to the church, would that get me into heaven?" "NO!" the children answered in unison. "If I cleaned the church every day, mowed the lawn, and kept everything neat and tidy, would that get me into heaven?" "NO!" they answered again. By now the teacher was smiling. This was fun! "Well, then, if I was kind to animals and gave candy to all the children, and loved my husband, would that get me into heaven?" "NO!" came the resounding chorus of young voices. It was time for the most important question. With great anticipation, she asked, "How then can I get into heaven?" A five-year-old boy shouted the answer... "YOU GOTTA BE DEAD!"

It is important that God's people have a clear and correct understanding of salvation. That is true for adults as well as for children, for those who would be in attendance at The Foremost Celebration.

Sermon: The foremost compilation (Mic 6:8)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Compilation (Mic 6:8)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

When people are caught doing something wrong, their initial response is often to make an excuse.

A police officer pulls over a speeding car and says to the driver, "I clocked you at 80 miles an hour." The driver replies, "Gee, officer I had the cruise control set at 60, perhaps your radar gun needs to be re-calibrated." Not looking up from her knitting, the wife says: "Don't be silly dear, you know this car doesn't have cruise control."

As the officer writes out the ticket, the husband looks over at his wife and asks, "Can't you please be quiet?" The wife smiles demurely and says, "You should be thankful your radar detector warned you when it did."

As the officer writes a second ticket for the illegal radar detector, the man glares at his wife and says through clenched teeth, "Must you comment on everything?" The officer frowns and says to the man, "I notice you're not wearing your seat belt. That's an automatic $75 fine." The driver objects, "Officer, I had it on but took it off when you pulled me over, so I could get my license out of my back pocket." At this point, the wife says, "Now, dear, you know very well that you didn't have your seat belt on. You never wear your seat belt when you're driving."

As the police officer is writing a third ticket, the driver turns to his wife and barks, "Woman, stop talking!" The officer looks at the wife and asks, "Ma'am, does your husband always speak to you this way?" to which she replies... "Only when he's been drinking."

When people are caught doing something wrong, their initial response is often to make an excuse. That may have been how those in Judah responded when the prophet Micah criticized their disobedience of God's law, claiming that God's law is too lengthy and complicated to remember. The gods of the nations are easier to serve, because they make few if any demands. Micah will have none of it, though, saying they need to focus on The Foremost Compilation, a three-precept list that will direct them back to God.

Sermon: The foremost compulsion (Isa 45:23)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Compulsion (Isa 45:23)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

At times, the compulsion to do or say something can be overwhelming.

• Have you ever listened to a friend or relative recount some event, noted that one or more of the details is not quite right, and feel compelled to correct it.

• Have you ever been in a doctor's waiting room before he arrives, noticed that the frame with his diploma is hanging a bit crooked—because there is usually plenty of time to notice such things—and felt compelled to straighten it?

That urge can be more compelling for some of us than for others.

A priest, a lawyer, and an engineer have all been sentenced to death by guillotine for crimes they committed. The executioner asks the priest whether he wishes to face up or face down when he meets his fate. The priest says that he would prefer to die face up, so he can be looking toward heaven in his final moment. The priest is placed in the guillotine, and the executioner releases the lever. The blade comes speeding down but jams just short of the priest's throat. Taking this as a sign from God, the executioner sets the priest free.

Next, the lawyer comes to the guillotine. Hoping he will be as fortunate as the priest, he too decides to die face up. Again, the executioner releases the lever. The blade comes speeding down but jams just short of the lawyer's throat. Taking this as a sign from God, the executioner sets the lawyer free.

Finally, the engineer comes to the guillotine. He also decides to die face up. Just as the executioner is about to release the lever, the engineer shouts, "Wait! ...I see what the problem is!"

At times, the compulsion to do or say something can be overwhelming, although the urge can be more compelling for some than for others. There will be no exceptions, however, for The Foremost Compulsion.

Sermon: The foremost compression (Ps 90:2,4)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Compression (Ps 90:2,4)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

God expects His people to emulate Him in both character and conduct. For example, He says in Lev 19:2, "Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy." He then follows with several examples of how a holy people should behave. So, how far does imitating God go?

A young boy, visiting his grandmother, asked, "Grandma, do you know how you and God are alike?" Confident that she had set a good example for him, she mentally polished her halo and asked, "No, how are we alike?" His reply was not quite what she expected but was typical of a child's perspective... "You're both old."

As children look at you, I hope that is not the only resemblance to God they notice. In any case, age is not a resemblance at all.

As finite creatures, one of our collective shortcomings is that we are bound by the constraints of time. It is a deficiency that confronts us more as adults than as children. When we are young, we are rarely in a hurry, thinking we have all the time in the world. As we get older, while some people still do not hurry, it begins to dawn on most of us that we do not have all that much time, that there is a limit, not only to what we can do but when we can do it. We mark the passage of time with deadlines, expiration dates, and more candles on our birthday cakes. Some of us are so fixated on this phenomenon of time that we have a clock in almost every room of our home, in addition to one we carry with us, just to keep us on time—not too early and not too late.

Did you know that God does not need a watch? ...He has an innate sense of time, the correct time all the time. Unlike us, He is never in a hurry, and He is never late. In other words, He is always on schedule.¹ That is because He exists outside of time. He does not view events in a linear fashion, one after another, but together, all at once. From our perspective, that appears as...

Sermon: The foremost compassion (Exod 34:6-72)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Compassion (Exod 34:6-72)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

People are not always compassionate. They may find it too inconvenient or too time consuming. Such excuses are irrelevant, of course, in a marriage, which provides many opportunities to be compassionate.

At a family reunion, Fred was recalling all the events of his baby's birth. As he was excitedly describing the trip to the hospital, someone asked, "What would you have done if the expectant mother had developed complications during the car ride?" Fred had obviously thought about that possibility, because he answered right away. "I would have slid her over...and taken the wheel."

People are not always compassionate, even in a marriage. God, however, is, because that attribute is an essential part of His nature. In fact, His is The Foremost Compassion.

When Moses led Israel out of Egypt, it marked the beginning of the people's national identity. It also marked the beginning of its official, recorded history, as Moses began to chronicle events from creation through their preparation to enter Canaan. He compiled what oral traditions the patriarchs transmitted as well as written records he had.¹ His most important source, however, was his access to the author of history, God Himself, with whom Moses spoke "face to face."² Not only could God offer details about the past that Moses lacked, more importantly, the Lord could provide information about Himself that would help the nation understand who it was that had delivered them.

Sermon: The foremost comprehension (1 Cor 13:12

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Comprehension (1 Cor 13:12)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

There are limitations to what a teacher can expect from his students. Homework should not be too time-consuming, and exams should not be too difficult. One thing a teacher can expect though, is that students will pay attention in class.

A college professor had the mysterious habit of removing a tennis ball from his jacket pocket as he walked into the lecture hail each morning. He would set it on the corner of the podium before his lecture and put it back in his pocket after the lecture. No one understood why he did this, until one day a student fell asleep during the class. The professor didn't miss a word of his lecture while he walked over to the podium, picked up the tennis ball, and threw it, hitting the sleeping student squarely on top of the head. The next day, the professor walked into the room, reached into his jacket...and removed a baseball.... No one fell asleep in his class for the rest of the semester.

There are limitations to what a teacher can expect from his students.

In the course of life, we encounter limitations of a different kind. Some limitations are urgent and require our immediate attention. These usually involve physical needs.

• When we are weary, we need rest (like the student).
• When we are hungry, we need food.

Other limitations are not urgent, but they still expose a shortcoming of some sort. These may involve intellectual needs.

• When we encounter a question we cannot answer, we realize the limit to our knowledge.

These limitations are all part of life in this world, a fallen world. Jesus had similar experiences when he was here.¹

Sermon: The foremost commission (Matt 28:19-20)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Commission (Matt 28:19-20)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

Introduction: People have opportunities to speak about their faith. That they do not always take advantage of those opportunities is often because they are at a loss for words. Perhaps they need an experience like that of one particular minister.

The preacher had all of his remaining teeth pulled to make way for new dentures. The first Sunday, he only preached ten minutes; the second Sunday, he preached twenty minutes; but the third Sunday, he preached an hour and a half. When some in the congregation asked about this, he offered the following explanation. "The first Sunday, my gums were so sore, it was uncomfortable to talk. The second Sunday, my new dentures were hurting, just not as bad. The third Sunday, I accidentally grabbed my wife's dentures... and I couldn't stop talking!"

If you find yourself at a loss for words when it comes to speaking about your faith, an experience like that is probably not what you need. It is important, though, to understand what God expects from you.

Background: Early in Jesus' ministry, he gives his "twelve" (Matt 10:1) closest disciples a targeted assignment.

Matt 10:5b Do not go among the Gentiles or enter any town of the Samaritans. 6 Go rather to the lost sheep of Israel. 7 As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.'

Later in Jesus' ministry, he affirms that mission, saying...

Matt 15:24 ..."I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel."

After his resurrection, Jesus charges those same, now "eleven," disciples (Matt 28:16), with a broader task in...

IX. The Foremost Commission¹

...which is...

• The promotion of God (Matt 28:19-20)

...among the gentiles as well.² After the resurrection, Jesus instructs a group of his followers. Please turn to Matt 28, where he says...

Sermon: The foremost companion (Isa 43:1-2)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Companion (Isa 43:1-2)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

Dogs are often called man's best friend, largely because of the companionship they provide, but also because of the things they can do for us.

A woman said to her husband one morning, "We've got such a clever dog. He brings in the newspaper every day." Her husband replied, "Lots of dogs can do that." "But," she responded., "our dog is special." "How so?" he asked. "Because," she said..."we don't subscribe to a newspaper!"

Whatever dogs provide, whether companionship only or newspapers as well, they cannot match The Foremost Companion.

In 586 B.C., Babylon invaded Judah for the third time. Each previous incursion resulted in more destruction and more deportations. The third and final assault toppled the weakened Davidic monarchy, burned the sanctuary, and brought the Southern Kingdom to an end. This came as no surprise to those who had been attentive to the prophets' warnings. Jeremiah, still in Judah, and Ezekiel, already in exile, both anticipated the fall of the capital. That event was devastating to all involved, but it may have been especially so for the righteous. They had seen their number dwindle while the unrighteous seemed to flourish. The influence of paganism in the temple was growing at an alarming rate, and it was only a matter of time before the corrupt government collapsed, bringing to an ignoble end what was once a noble enterprise. More disturbing than the national consequence was the religious consequence of these events. To the faithful, it probably seemed as if God had forsaken Israel. That assumption probably grew stronger as the exile continued with no change in Israel's condition and with no relief in sight.

Several hundred years earlier, anticipating this very sequence of events, as well as the emotional toll they would have, God spoke to the exilic community through the prophet Isaiah, assuring His people that He had not abandoned them and that He would continue to be for them....

Sermon: The foremost communion (Gal 6:9-10)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Communion (Gal 6:9-10)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

We all have preferences about how we would like things to be, whether at home, at work, or at school.

Reaching the end of a job interview, the Human Resources manager asked a young engineer fresh out of MIT, "What starting salary are you looking for?" Confident that the interview had gone well, the young engineer said, "In the neighborhood of $125,000 a year, depending on the benefits package." The interviewer replied, "Well, what would you say to a package of 5-weeks vacation, 14 paid holidays, full medical and dental coverage, a matching retirement fund to 50% of your salary, and a new company car leased every two years, say, a red Corvette?" The young engineer sat up straight and said, "Wow! Are you kidding?" The interviewer replied, "Yes...but you started it."

We all have preferences, ideas about how we would like things to be. God also has ideas about how He would like things to be. The difference between His preferences and our preferences is that His are never unrealistic.

In many of the letters Paul writes, he addresses problems the church is facing. In Galatia, the congregation is struggling with an important doctrinal issue, whether a person is justified by faith in God or by works for God. Paul states repeatedly in this epistle that God's declaration of righteousness is not something a Christian can earn.

Gal 2:16 ...a man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ....by observing the law no one will be justified.

Good works, which is what obedience to God's law produces, play no role in establishing a relationship with God. They do play a role, however, in maintaining and developing that relationship, as Paul explains later in the letter, including the way we relate to others, especially other believers. This is...

VII. The Foremost Communion¹

...which reflects...

• The preference of God (Gal 6:9-10)

Please turn to...

Gal 6:9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. 10 Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Sermon: The foremost component (Heb 11:6)

WHAT IS FOREMOST?
The Foremost Component (Heb 11:6)
pdf
Dr. Paul Manuel—2011

(This sermon is part of Dr. Manuel's sermon series: "What is Foremost?" Links to
each of the sermons in the series will be found here as they are posted.)

People often make things more complicated than they actually are or actually need to be.

A SS teacher decided to have her young class memorize one of the most quoted passages in the Bible: Ps 23. She gave the children a month to learn the six verses. Billy was excited about the task but just couldn't remember the Psalm. After much practice, he could barely get past the first verse. On the day the kids were to recite their memory passage, one at a time, in front of the congregation, Billy was nervous, but he had been practicing. When it was his turn, he stepped up to the microphone and said proudly, "The Lord is my Shepherd...and that's all I need to know."

People often make things more complicated than they actually are or need to be, especially about some of the truths in scripture, like The Foremost Component.

The Bible consists of sixty-six books, written by several individuals over hundreds of years.

• For some books, the author is identified (e.g., many psalms by David and epistles by Paul).
• For other books, a reliable tradition identifies the author (e.g., Song of Songs to Solomon, the epistles of Peter to Peter).
• For still other books, the author is unknown (e.g., Job, Esther).

Even when the author is in question, the authority of the book, if it is in the Canon, is well-established and well-accepted. The book of Hebrews falls into that last category, where the author is unknown. Support for the book's Canonicity comes, in part, from its agreement with other books. What the author of Hebrews writes goes right along with what appears elsewhere in scripture, especially in the epistles of Paul. One example is an important biblical principle...

VI. The Foremost Component

...which maintains...

• The prerequisite of God (Heb 11:6)

Please turn to...

Heb 11:6 ...without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.