“A Powerful Word”

God has always said “No” to man “thou shalt not eat of it” Gen.2:17 Ex. 20 – Ten Commandments  8 are negative  “thou shalt not”

Nyet Nada Na Non

 Negative Sermon “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” Matt. 16:24 Abstain

“NO” is a little word, but It takes a BIG person to use it  Saying “No” is difficult “ And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Rom. 12:1-2 1

“NO” is a little word, but It takes a BIG person to use it  Saying “No” is difficult “Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one's slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?” Rom. 6:16 1

“NO” is a little word, but It takes a BIG person to use it  One captive said “No” - Daniel 1

Saying “NO” is the key To Personal Strength  Samson – strongest man - Jud  Only strong when he said “NO”  It is easy to say “Yes” 2

“NO” has kept many from Sin and Evil Companions “My son, if sinners entice you, Do not consent.” Prov. 1:10 “Evil companionships corrupt good morals.” 1 Cor.15:33 3

“NO” is the word that Protects Virtue Gen. 39:7-10 Joseph said “No” God gives us strength To say NO 4

“NO” is the word that Challenges the Status Quo “Follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He who does good is of God, but he who does evil has not seen God” 3 Jn. 11 5

“NO” is the word that Challenges the Status Quo  Numbers 25 - Phinehas  “No more. That’s enough” 5

“NO” is the word that Protects our Honor  Uriah knew how to say “No”  “...as you live, and as your soul lives, I will not do this thing.” 2 Sam. 11:11 6

“NO” is the word that Protects Justice  Pilate gave in to the crowd  Did not have courage to say “NO”  Matt. 27:24 “I am innocent” 7

“NO” is the word that keeps us from violating God’s Word Let us say “No” to every request to violate God’s Word, no matter from whom it comes, or how reasonable they make it sound 8

“A Small Word” But a Powerful Word

“...may know how to refuse the evil, and choose the good.” Isaiah 7:15

Learn what to say “No” to And what to say “Yes” to Say “Yes” to Jesus Say “No” to things of world

GOD’S SIMPLE PLAN FOR SALVATION hear believe repent confess baptism ACTS 3:22 JN. 6:29 LK. 13:3 JN. 12:42 1 PET. 3:21 Rev. 2:10