The David Spoon Experience

The David Spoon Experience 10-20-23 part 1

A) James 1:9 challenges us to recognize that sometimes our humble circumstances, though we don’t like them, should not create complaints. Instead, we should exalt in our position that we have with the Lord. Simultaneously, when the blessings come, we ought to be careful not to exalt in those blessings, for they are like flowers that will pass away. The reality is that man will fade in the midst of his pursuits, which is an interesting way of saying that while mankind is looking for things, life will escape him. B) With every practical teaching, there are challenges and exhortations. The scripture makes it clear that we are to recognize that a man who perseveres under trial is blessed by God. That person is blessed by God because God will give them the crown of Life. That person is blessed by God because, in their perseverance, the trials and testing don’t overwhelm them and lead them to despair. Perseverance prevails against trauma. A reason to persevere is because God has made a promise to us; His promises will never fail.

The David Spoon Experience 10-19-23 part 2

1) We now come to a very interesting portion of scripture that gets very little response or attention. Something unique happened for the people at Ephesus to worship the great Artemis. Something so weird that, in truth, if it happened today, people would worship the same way. What could we possibly be talking about? What could Satan possibly use to throw a wrench into everybody’s theology and focus the world on worshiping something other than God? We will examine this.2) I hate to say this as a Bible believer, but as we dive into this experience that took place at Ephesus, we find out that one of the leaders has a better perspective on how to approach the people’s faith and religious mindsets than the church does. It's hard to believe that this insight can come from an unbelieving mayor 2000 years ago. But guess what? He says one thing that we all, as Christians, should live by. Luke 6:18 states, "For the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light."3) As I’m apt to do, I would like to point out a very brilliant principle laid out in scripture relating to standing for the truth. In this text, the mayor of Ephesus makes it clear that, in a very real sense, the Apostles, the disciples, and the Christians did not speak out specifically against the great Artemis. That’s important because he recognized that it wasn’t an attack on what they believed as much as a promotion of what the disciples believed. The key is that sometimes, we need to speak for something and not against it. Attacking something is not always the best strategy, though it is called for from time to time. Promoting the truth is always correct.
 

The David Spoon Experience 10-19-23 part 1

A) Now, here is a challenging thought, one that we have to balance between wisdom and pride. Paul says, “If anyone thinks that they belong to Christ, he reminds them that we also belong to Christ just as much as they do.” Most Christians don’t like this thinking. You’re genuinely a born-again Bible-believing Christian. You know you belong to Christ. But sometimes, it’s hard to give way and acknowledge that in the same way you know you’re in Christ, other people know that they’re in Christ. Of course, that’s why we have certain plumb lines, like the word of God and the fruit of the spirit.B) Paul makes a hidden theological gem in his statement. He makes it clear that God is giving him his authority as an apostle, as a kingdom builder, as a brother, and that this design and position is for the purpose of building people up and not tearing them down. There is nothing wrong with being challenged to walk in an upright and holy life before the Lord. But there is something altogether wrong with ministries that spend most of their time ripping people to shreds and just leaving them out there to bleed.C) One of the unique defenses of Paul’s apostolic ministry is that he tells people, “If you think that I’m being tough when I write, you better watch out when I get there because my words and letters are going to be the manifestation of my actions. And so far, I’ve been pretty kind.” But time is getting thin.D) Then Paul puts a dagger in the American spirit of keeping up with the Joneses. He says some who commend themselves measure themselves by themselves. Guess what? If you measure yourself by yourself, you’ll always meet the exact measure you are. The problem is that that measure can turn out to be wrong, but you don’t see it because you measure yourself by yourself, as Paul states. This is simply ignorance.

The David Spoon Experience 10-18-23 part 2

1) Oh, how I adore the classics! The preaching of something I love and hold dear. This particular piece is a classic that I taught on this show three years ago, and I plan to teach it in the exact same manner now. You might wonder, given that the show has only been running for four and one-half years? Shouldn’t all the material be fresh? Not necessarily. Jesus left the example by repeating His teachings multiple times within a three-year period. 2) So, you might ask, what do I consider a classic? Excellent question. To me, a classic involves crying out to the Lord with deep, agonizing shouts… despite being rebuked or rebuffed either by people or by principalities. We express our deepest desires and emotions, not because we don’t trust His kindness but because we seek His attention. Some may advise us to be dignified in our approach, but my response to them is simple: No.3) Does this mean that Christians shouldn’t be dignified? Yes. My belief stems from the Bible. Numerous figures from both the Old and New Testaments didn’t precisely exude dignity. The pursuit of the King of the Universe involves faith, passion, desire, hope, confidence, love, and tenacity. These attributes may not be in order, but they are what come to mind when I think about our pursuit of Him. He desires nothing less from us because it shows our dedication towards Him. We yearn for His presence in our lives and situations because He is the epitome of all that is excellence.

The David Spoon Experience 10-18-23 part 1

A) Psalm 42:5 is a powerful passage for dealing with depression and discouragement. It reads, “Why are you downcast, oh my soul? Why are you disquieted within me?” The author is questioning himself, asking why he feels so low. He encourages himself not to be downcast. We call this “SELF-TALK.” B) The author finds his answer in his faith, stating, “Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him.” The key here is to maintain hope in God, understanding that we will continue to praise Him. This implies that deliverance is on its way; the discouragement will end and the downcast spirit will be lifted because deliverance comes from God, who is reliable. So even in times of despair, the author counters it with the affirmation, “Yet will I praise Him.”C) The passage continues to address this issue: “Why are you down, oh soul? Why are you discouraged? Why are you kicking the dirt? Why are you pouting?” The answer lies in remembrance of the Lord. While the first part dealt with self-talk, this part focuses on God-talk. The antidote to discouragement is to REMEMBER THE LORD.D) The depth of man cries out to the depth of God - the deepest part of our being reaching out to the deepest part of God’s being.

The David Spoon Experience 10-17-23 part 2

A) In Galatians chapter 5, verse 9, Paul warns of the dangers of negative influence, writing, “It only takes one misguided individual among you to infect all the others.” This sentiment echoes the well-known saying, “One bad apple spoils the whole bunch.” Essentially, a person who harbors doubt or legalism can infect and weaken the faith of others. That’s why it’s crucial to seek guidance from Jesus, our spiritual physician. B) The central theme of Galatians is faith versus works. Paul expresses deep concern for those who started with faith but have regressed into a works-oriented mindset. In verse 10, he expresses hope that they will return to a faith-based life, stating, “I’m trusting in the Lord to bring you back to believing.” He emphasizes that living by faith demonstrates genuine trust in Jesus Christ.C) Paul then addresses a controversial issue with a touch of sarcasm. He criticizes those who insist on circumcision as a requirement for salvation. “This action proves…” is the formula. He argues that faith in Christ alone is sufficient for salvation. He urges them to stop adding unnecessary conditions. True believers will naturally do good deeds, but salvation comes solely through Jesus and His redemptive work. In a sarcastic remark, Paul wishes that those insisting on circumcision would go even further and emasculate themselves.D) Paul concludes with powerful theological statements. He asserts our freedom in Christ but reminds us that this freedom should be used to serve one another out of love for God. In modern terms, we have been liberated from slavery only to willingly become servants to one another, out of love.

The David Spoon Experience 10-17-23 part 1

1) In Matthew Chapter 13, Verse 53, it is written that after Jesus finished telling the stories and parables, He left that part of the country and returned to his hometown, Nazareth. The people there were astounded, asking in disbelief, “Where does He get this wisdom? How does He perform these miracles?”2) They remembered him as a child and found it hard to accept that he could be a prophet. They thought, “Isn’t He just the carpenter’s son?” As Keith Green wrote, “Prophets don’t grow up from little boys, do they?” They knew His mother, brothers, and sisters.3) Because they knew His background and upbringing, they took offense at Him. They rejected him. Jesus responded by saying that a prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his own family. It’s a sad testimony that in Nazareth, Jesus performed only a few miracles due to their unbelief.

The David Spoon Experience 10-16-23 part 2

1) For those keeping count, we are nearing the end of the book of Job with only about six lessons remaining. This book has been a rich source of teaching material, and we will proceed from Job chapter 38, verse 16. Here, God presents a question that no human being, either from the past or present, could answer, except for Jesus Christ: “Do you know where the gates of death are located?” The answer is a resounding no; such knowledge is beyond our grasp. Hence, silence is our best response. This theme of God’s grace and our need for humility echoes throughout the remainder of the book, reminding us that perhaps we should embrace silence more often. 2) God asks a fantastic question that most people don’t catch onto: ‘Do you know where the channels for torrents of rain are? Do you know where the rain is stored? Who makes the rain fall in the desert where no one lives? Who sends the rain to satisfy parched ground? Does the rain have a father? And while we’re at it, who’s the mother of ice and who gives birth to frost?’ The only answer is God and God alone, not weather patterns, as some might think. 3) Speaking of which, how can we not follow the wisdom that comes from verse 31: ‘Do you know the movements of the stars and how they’re going to take place? Can you ensure the proper sequence of seasons?’ Of course not. Only God can. No man, in his lack of infinite wisdom, could ever figure it out. Then God drops this really cool thought: ‘Do you know the laws of the universe?” The only law that I know is that God is in charge.

The David Spoon Experience 10-16-23 part 1

A) As we conclude another chapter in the New Testament, our journey through First Timothy comes to an end. Jesus, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords is the sole possessor of immortality. It’s crucial for people to realize that the so-called fountain of youth is not the answer. The key to eternal life lies solely with Jesus Christ, who bestows immortality.B) Paul concludes his teachings by reminding Timothy to ensure that wealthy individuals do not adopt an arrogant or superior attitude, as this would displease the Lord. Such individuals often place their trust in their wealth. Instead, they are urged to enrich themselves with good deeds, which hold eternal value. Moreover, those blessed with wealth should be willing and prepared to give as the Lord guides them.C) People often forget that when we contribute to Kingdom works, we are storing treasures in heaven. This aligns perfectly with Jesus’ teachings and his instructions on how to live our lives. By storing treasures in heaven, we prepare for what is yet to come. A wise investment is one that yields the highest returns over the longest period; this undoubtedly includes any contributions made to the kingdom of God. D) Paul advises Timothy to safeguard what has been entrusted to him. The Lord has bestowed upon us great truths, principles, and understandings of His nature and His expectations of us. This letter instructs us to protect them, implying that there are forces attempting to take them away from us - a loss we cannot afford.
 

The David Spoon Experience 10-13-23 part 2

1) Don't you love early sci-fi movies? They were fantastic. Aliens would land on Earth within seconds, right in the middle of a field. Crowds of people would gather. It was cool, awesome, and totally science fiction. The reason we know it's science fiction isn't because of the aliens, but because of what the aliens said. Remember, angels are aliens to us humans in their own way. But in the sci-fi movies, they said, "Take us to your leaders." In biblical reality, everything is about humble belief. The leaders weren't worthy to hear the message first because they weren't leading to serve. 2)Every time I discuss politics, I cringe with an air of yuck. The scriptures are filled with political engagements between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of men. For those who think that everything should be like Israel, remember that Israel was so unfaithful that God dispersed the entire nation. We're going to examine basic principles, and that is, people who think that life's solutions are political are the very people who need to have their heads examined. You might think that's rude to say, but I didn't say it - God did. 3) Here's a hard pill for some people to swallow. If what I have to say really bothers you, please do me a favor and never read the book of Ruth because then it'll be God who's directly bothering you with His word. As we consider First Samuel, Job, and Ecclesiastes, we find out that there's more to what the Lord allows than we want Him to. Yes, I know certain pastors and teachers try to stay away from teaching the full council. But I won't beg your pardon because God never promised you a rose garden on this planet.4) Knock, knock, knock, knock, knock, knock, knock, knock, knock. Is that irritating? Somebody get up and answer the door, for crying out loud! That is just going to drive us crazy. So, we venture back into the beautiful Yiddish concept that helps us understand Jesus better. We talk about the incredibly irritating Nagging Power Theory of the Kingdom of God. We jump into it with Samson and Delilah, move over to a parable from Jesus, and close it out with the Sermon on the Mount.

The David Spoon Experience 10-13-23 part 1

A) The excellence of James as an epistle lies in its practicality. Verse 6 states that if someone asks without doubting in faith, they will receive what they ask for. However, a person who operates in doubt should not expect to receive anything. The reason is straightforward: doubt destroys faith, creates disbelief, and shuts down the opportunity for the kingdom to manifest. B) It’s almost a sad testimony because people who operate with that level of doubt won’t receive anything from the Lord. Not receiving anything from the Lord because of doubt means not receiving the peace that passes all understanding, the comfort from a God who comforts those who are hurting, or a growing of Grace and mercy. By operating in doubt, we cut off the blessings the Lord has available to us consistently. We put a block or a wall against those blessings.

The David Spoon Experience 10-12-23 part 2

1) David takes the time to add an addendum to yesterday's teaching regarding the Holy Spirit. It's very important for people to review it because it helps them demonstrate the difference between being assured of their salvation, being afraid that they're not saved, living by feelings, and having confidence in the truth.2) In Acts chapter 19, verse 31, we see the mentality of the mob. When a mob gathers together, they do so out of a fleshly unification, which usually has no specific direction or purpose other than the ultimate manifestation of wounding people. Most people in a mob don’t even know why they’re there; they’re caught up in the excitement.3) Dave closes the show by talking about a dream he had when he was not sure if he was saved or not. He then goes through a very unique, modified system of the Romans Road for people to understand that salvation has assurance attached to it. It's God's work, God started it, and He knows how to finish.