These are my sermon notes for Sunday morning, March 22. They’re not a full manuscript—just a listening guide to help our Tabernacle Church family to follow along. I encourage you to add your own notes as you listen each week. The service will be available on YouTube by Sunday afternoon. You can find Sermon Notes, Family Devotional Guides, our Prayer List, and more on our church website.

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1 Samuel 19:1–24

INTRO

• Time has passed, but Saul’s heart has not changed
• Saul is determined to eliminate David
• God has already determined David will be king
• God’s plan advances despite opposition

Jonathan Intervenes – vv.1–7

• Saul commands David’s death
• Jonathan warns David and intercedes
• Jonathan speaks truth and confronts sin
• God uses people and relationships to protect

Saul Attacks – vv.8–10

• David succeeds in battle again
• Saul’s jealousy reignites
• Saul attempts to kill David again
• God limits evil and preserves David

Michal Protects – vv.11–17

• Saul sends men to kill David
• Michal warns David and helps him escape
• God uses unexpected and imperfect people
• God works through ordinary means

The Spirit Overrules – vv.18–24

• David flees to Samuel
• Saul sends messengers—God stops them
• Saul himself is overcome by the Spirit
• God directly intervenes to protect His plan

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TRUTHS TO EMBRACE

• God is sovereign—His plan cannot fail
• God is providential—working through people and events
• God uses means—people, decisions, and timing
• God’s purposes cannot be overturned

THE WHAT NOW

• Trust God’s plan in uncertainty
• Speak truth with courage (be a Jonathan)
• Recognize God’s hand in all circumstances
• Do not resist what God is doing

These are my sermon notes for Sunday morning, March 15. They’re not a full manuscript—just a listening guide to help our Tabernacle Church family to follow along. I encourage you to add your own notes as you listen each week. The service will be available on YouTube by Sunday afternoon. You can find Sermon Notes, Family Devotional Guides, our Prayer List, and more on our church website.

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1 Samuel 18:1–30

Introduction

• David’s victory over Goliath begins shaping the future of Saul’s kingdom.
• The chapter reveals the hearts of three leaders.
• Our hearts reveal who we truly are and the direction of our lives.

Jonathan — A Humble Heart – vv.1–5

• Son of the king with influence and prestige.
• His soul is knit to David — v.1
• He makes a covenant with David — v.3
• He gives David his robe and armor — v.4
• Jonathan sees God’s hand on David and joins God’s work.

Jonathan is a leader who is right with God. Humble, Open to God’s Working, Servant’s heart. Sees God and work and joins Him.

Saul — A Jealous Heart – vv.6–13a

• The people celebrate David’s victory — v.7
• Saul becomes angry and jealous — v.8
• Saul watches David with suspicion — v.9
• Saul attempts to kill David — vv.10–11
• Saul fears David because the LORD is with him — v.12
• Saul removes David from his presence — v.13a

Saul is a leader who is NOT walking… seeking after God. He is prideful, paranoid, jealous, and murderous. Notice the progression of Saul.

He shows no sensitivity to the workings of God (Cannot determine God’s will and purpose).

David — A Faithful Heart -vv.13b–30

• David is placed over the army and leads well — v.13b
• David succeeds because the LORD is with him — v.14
• Saul fears him, but the people love him — vv.15–16
• David responds humbly — vv.17–18
• David remains steady and faithful — vv.19–23
• David acts courageously — vv.24–27
• David continues acting wisely — vv.28–30

Walks humbly with the Lord, serves faithfully where he is placed, and lives wisely because the Lord is with him.

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The What Now

• Walk humbly — trust God’s timing.
• Remain faithful — serve the Lord steadily.
• Live wisely — let your life reflect the Lord’s presence.

A few weeks ago in our study of Gospel of Mark we examined the Sabbath controversy between Jesus and the Pharisees. In that passage, Jesus confronted a rigid and legalistic understanding of the Sabbath and reminded the people that “the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath” (Mark 2:27, ESV).

That moment raises an important question for believers today: How should Christians understand the Sabbath and the Lord’s Day?

The following study takes a deeper look at worship, rest, and how the Sabbath fits within the unfolding covenants of Scripture, ultimately pointing us to the rest that is found in Christ.

I. The Sabbath is in Creation

Genesis 2:2–3

• God rested on the seventh day after creation.
• This establishes the pattern of divine rest.
• The pattern anticipates the greater rest God would provide for His people.

II. The Sabbath as a Sign of the Mosaic Covenant

Exodus 20:8–11; Exodus 31:12–17; Deuteronomy 5:12–15

• The Sabbath command is given specifically to Israel.
• It functions as a covenant sign between God and Israel.
• It distinguished Israel from the surrounding nations
• It reminded Israel of creation and redemption from Egypt.

III. The Sabbath Pointed Forward to Greater Rest

Psalm 95:7–11; Hebrews 3–4

• Israel observed the Sabbath but had not yet entered God’s ultimate rest.
• The promise of rest remained open… points to the future.
• Hebrews 4:9–10 – “There remains a Sabbath rest for the people of God.”

IV. Christ Fulfills the Sabbath

Matthew 11:28–30; Mark 2:27–28

• Jesus declares Himself Lord of the Sabbath.
• He offers the true rest the Sabbath anticipated.
• His redemption accomplishes what the law could not.
• Matthew 11:28  “Come to me… and I will give you rest.”

V. The Mosaic Covenant Has Reached Its Fulfillment

Colossians 2:16–17

• Sabbaths were part of the covenant structure given to Israel.
• These observances were shadows pointing forward to Christ.
• The shadow gives way to the substance.
• Colossians 2:17 – “These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ.”

VI. The Church Gathers on the Lord’s Day

Acts 20:7; 1 Corinthians 16:2; Revelation 1:10

• The early church gathered on the first day of the week.
• This day commemorates the resurrection of Jesus.
• The resurrection signals the beginning of the new creation.

THE WHAT NOW

• The church gathers on the Lord’s Day. Believers assemble on the first day of the week to worship Christ, hear the Word, and encourage one another (Acts 20:7; Hebrews 10:24–25).
• Christians are not under the Mosaic Sabbath law. The Sabbath was a covenant sign for Israel that pointed forward to Christ (Colossians 2:16–17).
• True rest is found in Christ. The Sabbath anticipated the greater rest fulfilled in Him (Matthew 11:28–30; Hebrews 4:9–10).

Off-Season Devotion

Every coach knows the off-season matters.

That is where strength is built. Fundamentals are sharpened. Weaknesses are addressed. Teams that win in the fall usually worked the hardest months earlier.

The same principle applies to a man’s spiritual life.

There are seasons when the pace slows a little. Those moments are an opportunity to reset and focus on what matters most: your walk with Jesus, your family, and your personal character before the Lord.

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Your Walk with Jesus

Before a man leads anyone else well, he must walk closely with Christ.

John 15:5 (ESV)
“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.”

A strong life does not begin with activity. It begins with abiding in Christ.

Use quieter seasons to strengthen your devotion.

• Open the Word.
• Spend time in prayer.
• Slow down long enough to listen to the Lord.

A man who meets with God daily gains clarity, conviction, and strength that carries into every part of life.

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Your Family

Scripture is clear that leadership begins at home.

1 Timothy 3:4–5 (ESV)
“He must manage his own household well… for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?”

Your family is not a side responsibility. It is your first ministry.

Use the off-season to invest intentionally.

• Pray with your wife.
• Spend time with your children.
• Open the Scriptures together.
• Lead your home toward Christ.

The influence you have in your family will shape far more than a season of life.

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Your Character and Holiness

God is not only concerned with what you accomplish. He is shaping who you are becoming.

1 Peter 1:15–16 (ESV)
“But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct.”

Holiness grows through daily decisions.

• Confess sin quickly.
• Guard your mind.
• Choose obedience even when it is difficult.

Character is built in private long before it is seen in public.

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Use the Season Well

The off-season is not wasted time. It is preparation.

• Strengthen your walk with Christ.
• Invest deeply in your family.
• Pursue holiness in your life.

PRESS ON MEN…YOU GOT THIS!

Check out coachesmin.org for more resources

Yesterday in 1 Samuel 17, we saw the Philistines’ defiance and the fear of Saul and the Israelites (Point 1 of the sermon). That scene still speaks to us today. As the world grows increasingly bold in its defiance of God, it is easy for God’s people to become fearful. Yet Scripture reminds us that until Christ returns, the gospel will continue to advance even as the world continues in rebellion. The church is called to remain faithful and press on until the King returns.

The Gospel Will Advance

• Matthew 24:14 “This gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.”
• Revelation 7:9 A great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language will stand before the throne.

The church continues to grow, the gospel continues to save, and Christ continues to build His church (Matthew 16:18).

The World Will Grow Increasingly Evil

At the same time, Scripture repeatedly warns that the moral and spiritual climate of the world will worsen.

• 2 Timothy 3:1–5 “In the last days there will come times of difficulty… people will be lovers of self…”
• 2 Timothy 3:13 “Evil people and impostors will go on from bad to worse.”
• Matthew 24:12 “Because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.”
• 2 Thessalonians 2:3–4 A great rebellion precedes Christ’s return.

The Biblical Picture

The New Testament presents two simultaneous realities:

• The kingdom is advancing – the gospel continues to save people from every nation.

• The world system is deteriorating – rebellion against God increases.

The wheat and the weeds grow together until the harvest (Matthew 13:24–30).

How we should live

• 1 Corinthians 15:58 – Be steadfast in the Lord’s work.
• 2 Timothy 4:2 – Preach the word.
• Matthew 28:18–20 – Make disciples of all nations.

These are my sermon notes for Sunday morning, March 8. They’re not a full manuscript—just a listening guide to help our Tabernacle Church family to follow along. I encourage you to add your own notes as you listen each week. The service will be available on YouTube by Sunday afternoon. You can find Sermon Notes, Family Devotional Guides, our Prayer List, and more on our church website.

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1 Samuel 17:1-58

INTRO

• 1 Samuel 17 is one of the most familiar stories in Scripture, but it is often misread as a simple motivational story… GO KILL YOUR GIANT.
• This chapter is not about “be David and conquer your giants,” but about God rescuing His people.
• Goliath’s challenge is public defiance against the LORD, and Israel’s fear exposes their need for a deliverer.
• God raises David to stand as Israel’s champion, and the victory shows that “the battle is the LORD’s.”
• The account points beyond David to Jesus Christ, the greater Champion who delivers His people for God’s glory.

Defiance and Fear – vv. 1–30

• Armies gather; Goliath issues the champion challenge… open defiance against the LORD (vv. 1–10).
• Israel is intimidated and paralyzed; “choose a man” exposes failed leadership and fear (v. 11).
• David arrives and hears the defiance; God is already providing rescue (vv. 12–24).
• David names the real issue… an “uncircumcised” enemy defying the living God and His people (vv. 25–30).

God’s Deliverance – vv. 31–40

• David offers to fight, confident the LORD will deliver; courage grounded in God’s past help (vv. 31–37).
• Saul’s armor represents man-centered strength; David refuses what is untested (vv. 38–39).
• David advances with sling and stones… ordinary means, dependence on the LORD alone (v. 40).

Victory and God Glorified – vv. 41–58

• Goliath mocks and threatens; the conflict is openly spiritual (vv. 41–44).
• David confronts in the LORD’s name so all may know the LORD saves (vv. 45–47).
• Goliath falls…  the Philistines flee; Israel shares the victory (vv. 48–53).
• Saul asks, “Who is he?” This says much about both. (vv. 54–58).

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The What Now

• Do not live in fear… measure life by God’s promises, not outward appearances.
• Trust Jesus, the greater Champion…  rest in His finished victory.
• Obey and testify… take the next faithful step and speak of His greatness.

Tabernacle Baptist will host a Men of Faith Conference featuring a Paul Tripp simulcast, designed to encourage men to grow in Christ and lead faithfully in their homes, church, and community.

Paul Tripp’s teaching focuses on the heart and the transforming power of the gospel. This conference will remind us that lasting change does not come through effort alone, but through the grace of Christ at work in us. It will also be a valuable time for fellowship and encouragement as men gather around God’s Word and strengthen one another in faith.

There is no cost to attend. If you would like to enjoy the catered meal from Sonny’s BBQ on Friday evening, the cost is $20. Please indicate on the sign-up sheet if you would like the meal option. You may also email the church office to sign up for the meal at lholloman@tbcmacon.com.

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Schedule

Friday, March 27
6:00 PM — Fellowship Meal (catered by Sonny’s BBQ. $20 a person. You must sign up)
7:00 PM — Session 1
8:00 PM — Dismissal

Saturday, March 28
8:15 AM — Coffee and light breakfast
9:00 AM — Session 2
9:45 AM — Break
10:00 AM — Session 3
10:45 AM — Dismissal

My Bible study notes for Wednesday night, March 4. Remember, these are my personal study notes and not a manuscript of the sermon. They are provided as an outline each week for our Tabernacle Church family. You can find Sermon Notes, Family Devotional Guides, Prayer List, and other resources at our Church Website.

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Mark 3:7–22

INTRO

• As Jesus’ authority spreads, people are forced to respond.
• Mark contrasts shallow enthusiasm, demonic recognition, growing hostility, and true discipleship.

The Crowd – Drawn to miraculous (Emotion) – vv. 7–10

• Massive crowds gather from Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, Idumea, beyond the Jordan, and the regions of Tyre and Sidon (vv. 7–8).
• People press toward Jesus seeking healing and relief (vv. 9–10).
• Many are attracted to what Jesus can do, but true faith follows Him in repentance and submission.

The Unclean Spirits – (Right Confession… not followship) – vv.11–12

• Demons fall before Jesus and confess, “You are the Son of God.”
• Their recognition is accurate but not submissive.
• Jesus silences them, controlling the revelation of His identity.
• Knowing the truth about Jesus is not enough; saving faith bows to His authority.

The Apostles – (Called and obeyed) – vv.13–19

• Jesus sovereignly calls “those whom he desired” (v. 13).
• Their first calling is to be with Him before they are sent out (v. 14).
• They are commissioned to preach and exercise authority over demons (vv. 14–15).
• The Twelve are ordinary men, including Judas, who will later betray Him.
• Discipleship begins with being with Christ, grows through growth in Christ, and results in being sent by Christ.

The Family — (Misunderstanding of Mission) – vv. 20–21

• Ministry pressure becomes intense and constant.
• Jesus’ family believes He is out of His mind.
• Those closest to Him fail to understand His mission.
• Following Christ can strain relationships when we fail to keep an eye on the Gospel purpose and mission.

The Scribes – (Hardened Rejection) – vv – 3:22

• Religious leaders accuse Jesus of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul.
• They attribute the work of the Spirit to Satan.
• Opposition to Jesus escalates from skepticism to hostility.
• Rejection of Christ is a sign of spiritual blindness and hardened unbelief.

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THE WHAT NOW

• Discipleship is more than an emotional experience.
• Confessing Christ is not the same as following Him.
• Losing sight of the gospel mission can affect and distort our relationships.

Sources:

• Crossway Expository Commentary on Mark
• John MacArthur Commentary on Mark
• Expositor’s Bible Commentary on Mark
• ChatGPT (“EZRA”)— my digital scribe for clarity and grammar.