The David Spoon Experience

The David Spoon Experience 1-8-24 part 2

1) We’re picking back up in the Book of Genesis, focusing on the creation of mankind. Genesis 1:26 says, “Let us make man in our image.” The “us” and “our” have nothing to do with angels. They refer to the plurality of God’s existence, not implying that there are three separate Gods but one God in three manifestations.2) Many people overlook how we are made in God’s image. While there are certain characteristics we share with God, it’s important to understand how God defines us to be like Him. The first definition is that mankind will be masters over all life - the fish, the sea, the birds, the sky, the livestock, the wild animals, and the small animals. This is the initial aspect of being made in the likeness of God.3) It’s worth noting that scripture states that both men and women are created in God’s image. To think otherwise is simply foolish. God identifies Himself as masculine. Arguing that He’s feminine is arguing with the very being who created you. Some things are dumb, and other things are dumber. Arguing with your Creator would be the dumbest.4) A couple of startling notes should be observed. Firstly, God tells Adam and Eve to be fruitful and multiply. Intercourse is not solely about reproduction, as the Song of Solomon teaches us. There is pleasure in intimacy. This command is not repeated in the New Testament because mankind was already well on its way to populating the Earth.5) Another brilliant point is that God breathed into Adam once, and that same breath continues with every single person who has been born since that very first breath. The very breath that God breathed into Adam is still being breathed into every person on Earth who is conceived. Yes, I said conceived.
 

The David Spoon Experience 1-8-24 part 1

A) In 2 Timothy 1:9, it is said that God has called us not according to our deeds, but in accordance with His own purpose and grace. Let’s ponder on this wisdom. God didn’t summon you based on your actions but on His purpose. He didn’t call you due to your extraordinary righteousness but according to His extraordinary plan. And it was by His grace, not yours or mine, that He called us.B) Please, let’s not overlook this mind-boggling statement. This calling, which is not based on our deeds but on His purpose and grace, was given to us in Christ Jesus before the concept of time even existed. However, in these last days, it has been revealed to us through Jesus Christ.

The David Spoon Experience 1-5-24 part 2

1) It’s Friday, and that means it’s DDDDD Time. It’s beneficial for us to recall the teachings in the books of James and Peter, where we learn that God opposes the proud but bestows grace upon the humble. This means that while God resists the proud, He champions the cause of the humble. As we delve into the Old Testament, we see this principle in action. However, sometimes the Lord permits a degree of hardship to help us discern the difference between serving Him and serving man.2) As we progress through the Old Testament, we examine a section in Nehemiah. Here, Nehemiah acknowledges the ongoing failures of God’s people. But this principle applies to us as well. When God grants us relief, deliverance, or freedom from a struggle, we relish the victory. However, the devil is never far behind, attempting to lead us into failing God again. The crucial thing to remember is that God’s compassion isn’t cheap. It comes at a great cost, but it is also never in short supply.C) It's a plethora of prayers and praise reports as the callers' help direct the show under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. If you're looking to be encouraged and to understand that God is active, you'll want to listen to this.

The David Spoon Experience 1-5-24 part 1

A) James 3:1 cautions, “Not many of you should become teachers.” This may initially seem discouraging for those considering a career in teaching. However, James’ message is not intended to deter but to caution. Those who teach about the Lord are held to a higher standard and face stricter judgment. The role of a teacher carries inherent risks, primarily due to the potential for disseminating false or unrelated teachings about the Lord. James is not advocating for perfection but rather adaptability and humility.B) James continues his epistle with a reality check: we all stumble in many ways. Anyone claiming otherwise is not being truthful. James, despite being an apostle, includes himself in this admission. He acknowledges his own shortcomings but offers a solution to help us improve. The key lies somewhere between the lips and the tonsils - the mouth. We are on the right path if we can control what we say.

The David Spoon Experience 1-4-24 part 2

1) Acts 21:13 is Paul’s response to everyone being so concerned for him and his wellbeing. These people who are warning Paul and encouraging him to stop moving in the direction of trouble are doing this for absolutely the right reasons. They love Paul, and they are only thinking of his wellness. But that’s the problem. Just like when Peter said to Jesus, “No, Jesus, you can’t die for everyone,” these disciples were not thinking with the Kingdom Purposes in mind. It isn’t a bad thing. But it is a short-sighted thing.2) Paul’s response is: “Stop it, Chrissy…you’re breaking your mother’s heart.” Oops. That’s the wrong reference. Paul said, “You’re breaking my heart.” Paul was ready to be jailed for Jesus. Are we? Paul was ready to die for Jesus. Are we? So, the conclusion for the apostle’s brothers and sisters? Let the Lord’s will be done. We could all use a little more of that in our responses to life and family situations.3) Paul, after connecting with an older timer, Mnason, met up with James, the Lord’s brother and the leader of the early church. He then gave everyone present a detailed account of EVERYTHING that God had done. Here is a brilliant idea. We should record, make a record, list, jot down, note, and memorialize the awesome deeds and answers to prayers of all that God has done in our lives. Start today.4) James then identifies some early church distinctions between believers. He does NOT note that some of these truths that are being emphasized are wrong. Instead, he encourages Paul to “Put To Rest” that the apostle has no respect for the Law. That was not true. He even wrote that the things written before were for our benefit. But people take bits and pieces of someone’s message, like the government, the media, and academia, and twist what is being said to communicate something more egregious. And we thought that things were different now. Oh boy.

The David Spoon Experience 1-4-24 part 1

A) In 2nd Corinthians chapter 12, verse 5, Paul references his out-of-body experience. He aims to clarify that he’s not boasting about himself but merely recounting an event. When God performs a uniquely miraculous act for us or with us, it’s not an opportunity to claim superiority in Christian maturity or a badge of honor. Only God can bring these things about in our lives. We can’t command them, only receive them.B) Paul emphasizes this point by stating he doesn’t want anyone to credit him with more than he deserves because of something he hears, sees, or a surpassingly great revelation. This is crucial as many teachers receive profound insights and share them. These insights are not a result of their brilliance but of grace. There’s no reason for pride since, without God’s gift, these insights wouldn’t exist.C) The apostle then transitions to a section that, in my humble opinion, has been greatly misunderstood. He mentions that to prevent him from becoming conceited, he was given a thorn in his flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment him. Various conclusions have been drawn from this, ranging from incomplete healing to assumptions about his celibacy. It simply states it was a messenger from Satan, a demon, that kept bothering him. That’s all it says, and I won’t add to it.

The David Spoon Experience 1-3-24 part2

1) I’ve often spoken about the joy I derive from teaching the classics. Today’s discussion is no different. It’s crucial to understand that Christianity is not a carnival. It’s not all about lollipops, rainbows, Skittles, and endless fun. Recognizing that there are ups and downs throughout our faith journey doesn’t make one a negative Nellie.
2) It’s equally important to understand that being in the absolute perfect will of God doesn’t equate to life being an amusement ride. A simple examination of scripture makes this clear. Daniel wasn’t amused when faced with the lion’s den. Joseph wasn’t amused when he was sold, falsely accused, and imprisoned. Jesus certainly wasn’t amused when he took our sins upon himself by sacrificing his life on our behalf.
3) It’s not dishonorable or dishonest to express a desire to escape from time to time. You might say to God, “I would love to step on an elevator and get out of this place.” Or, for some of the older generation, “I’m leaving on a jet plane and don’t know when I’ll be back again.” These sentiments were voiced by King David himself, a ferociously strong and faithful believer in the Lord who also sought escape from time to time.
4) The Lord God gives us three very important keys to honor His name. The first key is “consideration,” which we use to unlock the truth. The second key is “continuation,” which we also use to unlock the truth. The third key is “contending,” which, again, we use to unlock the truth.
5) It’s easy to forget that there’s a prize at the end of this pursuit. But sometimes, the best answer is simply to stand. In Ephesians 6:11-14, Paul encourages us four times in four verses to stand. This isn’t a physical posture but a mental one he's talking about. Stand, stand, stand, and stand. And then stand some more.

The David Spoon Experience 1-3-24 part1

A) Psalm 46:8 boldly proclaims that we should behold the works of the Lord, who brings wars to an end. Amidst the turmoil around us, this offers the ultimate solution we all seek and desire. Prayer, therefore, is our most potent weapon against warfare, physical and spiritual.
B) Verse 10 is a powerful directive for us all: “Be still and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, and I will be exalted above the Earth.” The Lord urges us to pause, to be still in His presence, to quieten our distractions, anxieties, and concerns so that we can find peace in His company.

The David Spoon Experience 1-2-24 part 2

1) As we continue to review what many consider the greatest epistle outside of the Gospels, Paul shares with the Christians in Rome his desire to visit them. He had intended to do so several times but was unable to. It's worth noting that there are many things we aspire to do, which are good and solid in their own right. However, the timing might not align, and it might not be what the Lord intends for us at a particular time.2) Paul then discusses his sense of obligation towards both the Jewish people and people of other cultures. This does not refer to cultures like the 'woke' culture, a fleeting trend akin to political correctness and other self-indulgent, arrogant, man-made whims of the decades. He is actually referring to reaching out to people from different backgrounds, Jews and Gentiles, the educated and the uneducated. God is not impressed by multiple degrees but by a big heart.3) We've arrived at one of the most significant verses in the New Testament, comparable to John 3:16. This was the first sermon I preached, and I hope it will be my last when that time comes. "For I am not ashamed." Nor should you be, nor should we ever be, even when our brother or sister stumbles. We are not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ because this good news is eternal and will always remain good.

The David Spoon Experience 1-2-24 part 1

A) We now venture into another feeding ministry, similar but not identical to the feeding of the 5000. In this instance, Jesus begins by expressing his compassion for the people. They’ve been with Him for three days and have nothing left to eat. This doesn’t mean they didn’t bring food with them; it just means they’ve run out. Jesus doesn’t want to send them away hungry, as many could faint along the way. Jesus cares about the medical side of things, which is why He’s called the Great Physician, not the great doctor. But He also cares about their tummy hunger. B) The disciples’ response is understandable. They’re in the wilderness, wondering where they’re going to find food. There are no fast-food restaurants, no food court at the mall, no food out there. Ironically, it wasn’t that long ago that they had only five loaves and two fish. So, Jesus asks, “What do you have this time?” They reply, “Seven loaves and a few small fish.” They actually had more on hand than they did during the last miracle, and this crowd was smaller. But they’ve already forgotten the power of offering it up with thanksgiving to the Father so that He can multiply it. They forgot, just like we often forget, the powerful miracles God produces for our benefit.

The David Spoon Experience 12-29-23 part 2

I always enjoy Fridays. The anticipation of the unexpected during the show and the freedom in the teaching process make it exciting. The first observation comes from Isaiah, chapter 8. Some claim that ghosts or unwholesome spirits communicate with them, a common assertion among many false prophets. However, the only way to discern the truth is through the Law and the Testimony, representing God’s written word AND sharing His impact and actions in people’s lives.2) Next, we dive into the book of Judges. There are times when God has simply had enough of egregious behavior. So, He tells the Israelites, who are being oppressed on all sides, to cry out to the gods they chose over Him. Cry out to the idols they worshipped before Him. In essence, this is a depiction of God’s people pushing Him away and God pushing back in response. But only for a short time. 3) Roger again calls in with some thoughts to share and Doctor Dave prayers for our excellent Brother Ace. Then a New Years send off!

The David Spoon Experience 12-29-23 part 1

A) As we enter into James 2:18, we have the age-old argument between people of works and people of faith. It’s really quite ludicrous. I know. I’m not talking about the singer. If a person has faith, it will be demonstrated in their life. If a person says they have faith, but there’s no evidence of that faith, then it’s just a lot of lip service. It’s not difficult to understand that faith, if you believe in Jesus, will be demonstrated by your life. If there’s nothing to show for it, it’s not—God’s fault. B) Then, using a very cool argument, James says you show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. I hope everybody is catching that because you can’t show your faith without any deeds. Your saving faith is a faith that’s continually active in the redeeming work of Jesus Christ. It’s not a one and done, and you never think about it again. It's quite the opposite of this. For the saved, you never stop thinking about it.C) You believe there is a God. You believe that God is one. That’s awesome. James even says good for you, adding a little salt to his sarcasm. He says even the demons believe that. It might be hard to fathom for some people, but Satan believes in God. He doesn’t believe God. He believes in God because it’s impossible to deny God since God is the one who cast him to the Earth. And he can’t escape or do anything without God’s permission. Believing God and believing in God are not the same.D) The key to the entire argument is simply that faith works together with our actions. Those actions demonstrate the faith that’s inside of us. When Peter put his leg over the boat to step on the water, that was faith in action. Faith, in theory, saves no one. Faith in life saves everyone, as long as it’s faith in Jesus. Prayer, believing that the Bible is actually the word of God when you read it, doing anything for somebody in the name of Christ because it honors Jesus. Any of the fruits of the Holy Spirit being active in your life are the works.E) It is amazing to note that in this list that James is giving, he brings up Rahab, the harlot. It’s not the typical person you would think of operating in works that have faith since she was a prostitute. But the bottom line is, it wasn’t what she had done that was wrong that God was looking at. It’s what she had done with faith in acting towards God and His people that God counted.