Genesis: Creation, Fall, and Dominion

The Present Truth

Transcript: AI Transcript

Professor: John Weaver

Subject: Old Testament Studies

Genre: Sermon

Dictation Name:

Date: 2015-12-11

Synopsis: John Weaver expounds 2 Peter 1:12–15, emphasizing the need for believers to be established in the 'present truth'—the truth God sets before them through the preached Word. He distinguishes between revelation (now complete in Christ) and progressive illumination, where the Holy Spirit enlightens minds to already-revealed truth. The present truth is that which is under attack in the current age and is proclaimed by God's men as necessity is laid upon them. Believers must receive preaching as the Word of God, not as human opinion, and apply it to their lives.

[John Weaver] 2 Peter chapter 1. Verses 12 through 15. 2 Peter chapter 1 verses 12 through 15. I want to bring a message which I've entitled the present truth. Look, if you would, 2 Peter 1, beginning with verse 12. Peter writes, wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them. and be established in the present truth. Yea, I think it is meet as long as I am in this tabernacle to stir up you by putting you in remembrance, knowing that shortly I must put off this tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ has shown me. Moreover, I will endeavor that you may be able after my decease to have these things always in your remembrance." Peter instructs us in a very important principle. If you look at verse 12, Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth." Interestingly, Peter states that he does not wish to be negligent by not putting them into remembrance of truth, even though he realizes they already know the truth.

[John Weaver] There are a number of wonderful points here. Let me just give you several to begin with. First of all, I think it should be obvious based upon verse 12 that truth needs to be heard over and over again. And Peter said, I'm not about to neglect my duty by not repeating truth. It's only as we hear the truth over and over that we're actually grounded and settled and established in the truth.

[John Weaver] That's one reason why you should read your Bibles over and over. Once you read through all the way one time, wonderful. Start all over again and do it. It's amazing what you can see and what you can learn and what you can remember just by rereading. I've had people tell me many times, well, I find it difficult to memorize Scripture. I said, there's a very easy way.

[John Weaver] All you have to do is take a small book of the Bible. say Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, doesn't matter. You take that one book and you read that book all the way through every day for 30 days. And interestingly, you'll only begin to see the purpose of the book, the author of the book, numbers of things about that book. But two things will actually happen. The first one is this. After 30 days, your Bible will automatically open that book. And number two, you will have memorized Scripture without even really trying to memorize Scripture because you're just going over and over. You see, rehearsing truth forces us to analyze and to reinforce that truth in our lives.

[John Weaver] It basically enables us to examine ourselves. You remember the Apostle Paul said in 2 Corinthians 13 and verse 5, examine yourselves, whether you be in the faith or not. Know your own hearts or know your own self, that Jesus Christ be in you, except you be reprobates. So we're commanded then to examine our own selves. So we must hear truth over and over. The second thing we should point out here is that repetition aids learning. And it was not onerous to Peter to be able and to find it absolutely necessary to retreat, re-preach and re-teach the same truth. Many times I've had our own people come up to me and said, Pastor, you remember that message you preached a year or two ago? I said, yes. We would like you to repreach that message. And I would repreach the message and they would say, you know, we got far more out of it the second time than we ever got out of the first time. And it's true. When you hear a message over and over, it's amazing how much more you get out of it.

[John Weaver] It's the same thing with reading the Scripture. So Peter is saying, look, I know you're settled in this truth. I know you understand this truth, but you need to hear it again. And so the principle is simply this. The more you hear truth, basically, the more you understand truth. Do you understand that one of our reasons that we constantly forget scripture and truth is because we do not hear it repeated enough?

[John Weaver] Thirdly, undoubtedly, Peter, Learn this method of instruction from master teacher, the Lord Jesus Christ himself. There's a tremendous passage in Mark chapter 10 and verse one. The Bible says concerning Christ and he arose from fits and cometh into the coast of Judea by the farther side of Jordan.

[John Weaver] Now, listen, and the people resort unto him again. And as he was want, he taught them again. So he comes into Judea, and the same people come to him again. And as he was warned, or as he was accustomed to, he taught them again. In all probability, he not only taught the same people, he probably taught the same truths. He just simply taught them over and over.

[John Weaver] So, we must hear truth repeatedly. I want you to hold, 2 Peter, but look in your Bibles very quickly to the book of Hebrews, chapter 2. And verse one, just back a few pages, Hebrews two and verse one. Notice, if you would, what the scripture says, here's an interesting passage. Here, the author of the book of Hebrews says, therefore, we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. Now, note, if you would, please, he said we should give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard. That's past tense. Do you realize there's a tendency to forget those things that you have been taught?

[John Weaver] If you don't use them, you lose them, as I said last night. Obviously, there's a tendency. And the older you get, the greater that tendency.

[John Weaver] Now, I'm sure that not every one of you has had the experience that you get up from your desk or you go from one room to another room in the house, and then you have to stop and pause and say, Now, why did I come into this room? What am I looking for? Well, the older you get, you understand that. It's not that we are going lame. The older you get, just the more information you have and the longer it takes to process it, you see, like a computer.

[John Weaver] But notice he said you have to be careful lest you forget those things which you have heard. So back in Second Peter, chapter one in verse 12, let me point this out. Peter says, wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them and be established in the present truth. Now, what Peter is saying is this. I want to make sure that you're established in the present truth.

[John Weaver] The word established here It's the Greek words say Rizzo, and it literally means to be steadfast, to be fixed, to be confirmed, to be constant, to be made firm, to be established in one's mind. So Peter is saying, I want the truth to be as firmly established in your mind. I want it to be constant. I want it to be confirmed. I want it to be there.

[John Weaver] You know, the Apostle Paul said in Colossians 2 and verse 7, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. So God, through his word, tells us we have to be established in the truth. Now, I don't know if you understand this or not, but there are certain blessings of being established in truth. I want you to hold 2 Peter chapter 1, but look in your Bibles very quickly to Psalm 112. Psalm 112. And I want to just take the time to read the 10 verses in this Psalm. And I want you to see exactly what I'm talking about, about being established in truth. In Psalm 112, beginning there with verse 1, the Scripture says, Praise ye the Lord.

[John Weaver] Now note, if you would, next. Blessed is the man that fears the Lord. That delighted greatly in his commandments. So we're talking about someone who's established now. His seed shall be mighty upon the earth. The generation of the upright shall be blessed. Wealth and riches shall be in his house and his righteousness endured forever. Unto the upright there riseth light in the darkness. He is gracious and full of compassion and righteous. A good man showeth favor and lendeth.

[John Weaver] He will guide his affairs with discretion. Now watch. Surely he shall not be moved forever. The righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance. He shall not be afraid of evil tidings. His heart is fixed or established, trusting in the Lord. His heart is established. He shall not be afraid until he see his desire upon his enemies. He is dispersed. He is given to the poor. His righteousness endureth forever.

[John Weaver] His horn shall be exalted with honor. The wicked shall see it and be grieved. He shall gnash with his teeth and melt away. The desire of the wicked shall perish. But note, if you would please, here's the man that's established in the truth. He shall not be moved. His heart is established. He's not going to be afraid. Why? He knows what truth is and he knows who God is.

[John Weaver] Now, you have to also consider the opposite. When you look in James one in verse eight, what does God say? A double minded man is unstable in all of his ways. What's a double minded man? Someone who doesn't really know what he believes anyhow. I was remarking today to Brother James. Since I live out in the country. I see so many little squirrels that have gotten run over by cars. And I've probably run over my share of them, not purposefully, not trying to.

[John Weaver] But have you ever noticed how Squirrel tries to cross the road? He runs this way and then he goes back and then he changes his mind. And he does that two or three times until the tires hit him. If he had just kept going, he never would have gotten hit. Or if once he turned and went back and stayed, he never would have gotten hit. In other words, he's double minded. He doesn't know which way to move. He doesn't know which way to go.

[John Weaver] And he gets run over. And that's the way it is with fallen man. Fallen man is double minded. And a man that's not established in the truth is double minded as well. But I want you to look back to 2 Peter chapter 1 because again, let me go a little bit further because Peter says this very clearly in verse 12. Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established In the present truth. The present truth. Here's my question. What exactly is the present truth? What is Peter talking about? Let me tell you what the word present means. It's the Greek word. And it literally means to be at hand, to be by. or to be present.

[John Weaver] I can break it down for you and explain it like this. It's that truth which is right in front of you.

[John Weaver] Now, let me show you what I mean by that. And the way I'm going to show you is I want to show you at least two other passages in the Scripture where the same Greek word is used. If you would look in your Bibles to Luke 13 and verse 1. Luke 13 and verse 1. Here is the exact same Greek word, perimi, and it's translated exactly the same. Notice Luke chapter 13 in verse 1.

[John Weaver] There were present at that season some that told him of the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. Now note that scripture. There were present at that season some that told him of the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. So here were people telling our Lord Jesus what Pilate had done to the Galileans, how he had murdered them. But the Bible said they were present there. What does that mean?

[John Weaver] They were standing right in front of him. They were talking to him. They were telling him they were there. They were at hand. They were present. If you would turn in your Bibles to Second Corinthians, Chapter 10. Here it is again, Second Corinthians, Chapter 10. And notice, if you would please, verse 11. 2 Corinthians 10 and verse 11. The Apostle Paul writes the Corinthians and he says this. Let such in one thing this that such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will be also indeed when we are present. You remember what they said of Paul, that rascal. Oh, he's mighty vociferous and strong in his letters, but in his speech, he's weak and contemptible. Paul said, let me tell you something. Exactly the way I am in letters when I write to you, when I'm standing right in front of you, when I'm present with you, that's exactly the way I'm going to be. So each time you see the word present, it refers to that which is right in front of you.

[John Weaver] And if you look back to 2 Peter chapter one in verse 12, here's an amazing truth again. Peter says, wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things. Watch, though you know them and be established in the present truth. So Peter was absolutely sure then that these people were established in the present truth. That is, they understood and they applied the truth in their lives. They understood and they applied the preaching and the teaching. Now we're talking about the present truth. So let me tell you to begin with tonight what I do not mean by using the phrase the present truth. OK. Negatively, first of all, I do not mean that truth is relative. I do not mean that truth changes with situations, conditions, circumstances, or the progress or the erosion of society.

[John Weaver] God's law does not change. God does not change. His definition of sin has not changed. Man cannot change that which is wicked, perverted, and rebellious into that which is lawful and just. It's impossible. That which was sin in the first century is still sin in the 21st century. That which was good and right and holy in the first century is still that which is good and right and holy in the 21st century.

[John Weaver] Many individuals hold on what they call a situation ethics. No. And what they're saying is that everything is just relative. It depends upon the situation. It depends upon the circumstance. No. God is absolute. His word is absolute. It is certain. It is fixed. It is unchanging. Psalm 119, verse 89. Forever, O Lord, is thy word settled in the heavens. And then our Lord said in John 17, 17, sanctified them through thy truth. Thy word is truth. So when I talk about the present truth, I'm not trying to say that truth is relative, that it changes. No, that is not what I'm saying. And that is not what I mean when I use the term the present truth. Secondly, when I use the term the present truth, I'm not saying that there is such a thing as new truth. The phrase the present truth does not imply new truth.

[John Weaver] Let me tell you something. If a revelation is new, it is not true. Because there is no such thing as new truth. Why? Well, we have the full and final revelation of God in Jesus Christ. You remember what John said in John 1 in verse 17? The law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.

[John Weaver] Now, let me ask you a question. The law came by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. Was there no grace in the Old Testament? Well, of course there was. No one found grace in the eyes of the Lord. Anyone who's ever been saved has been saved by grace. Brother Yancey made that clear. You cannot be saved any other way. Was there no truth in the Old Testament? Of course. Everything that God reveals is truth.

[John Weaver] I'm going to explain that just momentarily. But what does it mean then when it says the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ? It means this, that Jesus Christ is the apex. He's the epitome. He's the fullness of grace and truth. There's nothing above or beyond him. He is it.

[John Weaver] Now, let me show you. Look in your Bibles to the book of Hebrews chapter one. Let's go there. Hebrews chapter one. I'm just trying to explain to you that the phrase the present truth does not imply new truth. Here's why. Watch carefully. Hebrews chapter one, verse one, God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times past of the fathers by the prophets, by the way, When you look at the word divers manners, you know, the Bible says our Lord healed divers diseases. You know what that is? I never will forget hearing I was traveling and the radio was on and it was an old black preacher preaching and he said, it takes the grace of God to heal them divers diseases.

[John Weaver] Only Jesus can do that. I thought, what's he talking about? He said, you know, them divers diseases, when it comes time to go to church and you just dive back under them covers. Well, that's a good interpretation. But the word divers just means various or manifold of different kinds. So he says, God, who at sundry times and in different manners, spake unto the times past of the fathers by the prophets, watch, hath in these last days spoken of us by His Son, who made the appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds, who, being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high." Did you hear that God, in times past, in the Old Testament and sometimes in the New Testament, spoke to the prophets in different ways, sometimes with a dream, sometimes with trance, sometimes with a vision.

[John Weaver] But He hath in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things. Now, listen to me. For someone to believe in new truth, for someone to believe in additional truth, They have to deny that Jesus Christ is the fullness and the apex and the epitome of truth. For you to say that there is a new truth, then what you're saying is this, that Jesus Christ is not sufficient. For anyone who thinks that they now need visions and dreams and horoscopes and astrology, and forecasters and false prophets and fake and spurious religious writings or anything and everything above and beyond the Lord Jesus Christ and the Word of God. Listen, that is really blasphemy because it is saying that Jesus Christ is not the fullness of everything. Wow. So when I speak about the present truth, I'm not saying there's such a thing as new truth. I'm not saying there's such a thing that truth is relative and it changes. No, not by anything whatsoever. Well, what do I mean by the term the present truth?

[John Weaver] What did Peter mean when he wrote about the present truth? Well, you have to understand something. God did not simply dump all of his truth upon us at one time. Stop and think about this. Did you know the Bible was written over a period of 1600 years by 40 different authors? I'm glad our brother spoke. From Genesis chapter three, I'm going to quote that verse a little bit later, but I do want you to turn in your Bibles to Isaiah 28. I want you to look there because Brother Barber referred to this the other night. But I want you to see it and I want you to understand, because I'm about to teach you and share with you what is known as progressive revelation. Notice, if you would, in Isaiah chapter 28, and let's begin reading there with verse nine, Isaiah 28 in verse nine. You see, God did not dump all of his truth upon us at one time, there was a progressive unfolding of the truth. He gave it little by little. So in Isaiah 28 and verse 9, the scripture says this, Whom shall he teach knowledge and whom shall he make to understand doctrine?

[John Weaver] Them that are weaned from the milk and drawn from the breast for precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept, line upon line, line upon line, here a little and there a little. You know, that's exactly the way God revealed truth here, little and very little. Let's take this idea and apply it to the Lord Jesus Christ. Our brother tonight spoke from Genesis three and verse 15.

[John Weaver] That is known as the prote evangelium. The prote evangelium is just simply the first promise of the Messiah in the Bible. And there's a number of things that could be pointed out in adversity. pointed out a number as well. But the only thing that you find about the Messiah in Genesis 3 verse 15 is, number one, that he's going to be born of a woman. Number two, that he's going to defeat his enemy. Number three, that he would be wounded. Or you could say, number four, that it implies a first coming and a second coming. There are a number of things that could be brought out of that verse. But the only thing that you really see in that verse, just reading that verse is the Messiah is going to come of a woman. Do you realize it is only when you get to Genesis chapter 49 and verse 10 that you find that the Messiah is going to be from the tribe of Judah? So he's going to be born of a woman, but he's going to come from the tribe of Judah.

[John Weaver] It was many years later. In 2 Samuel, chapter 7, verses 12 through 13, that you find out the Messiah is going to be from the seed of David. So he's going to be of a woman of the tribe of Judah, of the seed of David. And finally, when you get to Isaiah 7 in verse 14, he's going to be born of a virgin. And then when you get to Micah 5 in verse 2, he's going to be born in Bethlehem of Judea.

[John Weaver] All I'm saying is here was a progressive unfolding of the truth concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. Each stage of a revelation would have been at one time a present truth concerning Jesus Christ.

[John Weaver] Now, let me try to show you this in the Bible. I want you to look in your Bible to the book of Acts chapter 18. Let's go there first, Acts chapter 18. There are a number of illustrations of what you and I would call present truth. So look at Acts chapter 18 and let's begin reading there with verse 24. Acts 18 verse 24. And you'll see what I'm talking about. Acts 18 verse 24.

[John Weaver] And a certain Jew named Apollos, born in Alexandria, an eloquent man and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus. Now, I want you to note he was a mighty man. He was an eloquent man, mighty in the scriptures. Watch verse 25, This man was instructed in the way of the Lord, and being fervent in spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue, whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them and expounded in him the way of God more perfectly.

[John Weaver] And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him, who, when he was come, helped them much who had believed through grace. For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, showing by the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ."

[John Weaver] Now, so Aquila and Priscilla hear Apollos preach, but all he knows is John said that he was to come and that whom he baptized was him. He knew nothing else. Aquila and Priscilla said, listen, there's a lot that has happened since then. Of course, they were friends of Paul. They were tent makers, just like Paul. And so they took him and expounded unto him the things more perfectly, that is, they filled him in on the present truth at that particular time concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. And he, of course, then convinced everybody scripturally.

[John Weaver] Now, Another illustration is found in Acts chapter 19. Look at verses 1 through 5 there. And it came to pass that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul, having passed through the upper coast, came to Ephesus and finding certain disciples. And he said to them, Have you received the Holy Ghost since or when you believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.

[John Weaver] And he said unto them, Unto what then were you baptized? And they said unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John barely baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying on the people they should believe on him which should come after him, that is on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. So here were people that only knew the preaching of John. They did not know anything after that Christ had come, had died, was buried, resurrected, and the descent of the Holy Spirit.

[John Weaver] That was a present truth. I could go to extend don't have to, but you remember the. Trance that Peter got in up on that roof. And when God let the sheet down from heaven. And he told Peter, rise and eat, Peter said, not so, Lord, I've not eaten anything clean or common or unclean. And the Lord says that which I've cleansed don't call that thou common or unclean. It was done three times and by the time He got through, there was a knock at the door and here are these men saying, from Cornelius, come and share the word of God with us. And of course, you know, the outcome of that in Acts chapter 11, in verse 18, when he reported back to Jerusalem, they said, then if God also through the Gentiles granted repentance unto the life, that was the present truth.

[John Weaver] I mean, they had not known that before. Now, listen to me. There was in the Bible, and even as the Bible was written, a progressive unfolding of the truth. Now, there is no more progressive unfolding of the truth. In fact, there is no more revelation. God is not revealing anything and will not reveal anything above and beyond his son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Revelation has ended because revelation is complete. You say, well, if revelation is ended and there is no more progressive revelation, then there's no more present truth. No, that's not true. There is still a present truth. You say, well, if revelation is ended and there's no more progressive revelation, how can there be a present truth? And here's the answer. Because there is a progressive illumination. See, most people get revelation and illumination mixed up. I have people call me all the time and say, Brother Weaver, let me share with you what God just revealed to me. And I say. Let me let's get some things straight before you share with me.

[John Weaver] God didn't reveal anything to you. He just opened your eyes to that which was already revealed. Do you understand the difference? Listen to this revelation is the act of God whereby he reveals truth never known before to the human mind. Let me give you an example. Who wrote the book of Genesis? Moses. Wrote the first five books. You know what's contained in Genesis one through three? Not only the creation, but the fall of man. Now, here's my question. How did Moses know what happened in creation? He wasn't there. How did Moses know what happened at the fall of Adam and Eve? He wasn't there. The answer is God revealed it to him. God not only revealed it to him, he inspired him to write that. And the Bible is the inspired, inerrant, infallible word of God. That's revelation. Revelation is when God reveals truth never known before to the human mind. Illumination is the act of God, the Holy Spirit, whereby he enlightens us and illuminates our mind to understand that truth that has already been revealed.

[John Weaver] So God doesn't reveal things to us. He illuminates us and enlightens us and enables us to understand his revelation of the truth. So there is a progressive illumination because, listen to me. God does not enlighten our minds or illuminate our minds To all of this truth at one time. Do you understand there is no one? That understands all truth. Not one. And I don't care if you take 20 Baptist preachers.

[John Weaver] Who study the scriptures for years? You're going to find disagreements among them. Because not all of them understand all truth. God does not show his truth to everyone at the same time. Let me show you. Look in your Bibles to the book of Mark, chapter four. Mark, chapter four, verses 33 and 34. Mark, chapter four. Verses thirty three and thirty four.

[John Weaver] Now, I want you to pay attention to what I'm saying. If you understand this, it's going to help you not only in witnessing, it's going to help you in teaching. Notice in Mark, chapter four, beginning there, verse thirty three. Here's an interesting verse. Mark four, verse thirty three, and with many such parables, spake he the word unto them. Watch. As they were able to hear it. But without a parable speaking, not in them.

[John Weaver] And when they were alone, he expounded all things into his disciples. But no, he spake unto them as they were able to hear it.

[John Weaver] Now, let me ask you a question. I watched Brother Yancy with his little son tonight telling him to come to him, and the little boy looked at him and then he just walked on over to him. Suppose he got that little one-year-old boy and said, now, son, I want to explain to you supralapsarianism and infralapsarianism. I want to teach you the difference between dichotomy and trichotomy. Is that little boy going to understand anything that his daddy says? No, not at all. And I got news for you, there are times in your life That you're not able to receive certain truths from God's word.

[John Weaver] God has to prepare you. God has to prepare you. And he gives truth as you were able to receive it. If you really want to receive more truth and if you really want to understand it, then you have to do like the disciples. You have to get along with him and let him explain it to you.

[John Weaver] Now, if you look in your Bibles of John chapter 16. Let me go a little bit further. Look in John chapter 16, beginning there with verse 12, John 16, verse 12. Look what our Lord tells his disciples, John 16, verse 12. He says, I have yet many things to say unto you, but you cannot bear them now. Isn't that amazing? He's talking to his disciples. I've got many things to say to you, but you can't bear them now. You can't handle them now. Wow. Verse 13, how be it when he the spirit of truth has come, he will guide you in all truth, for he shall not speak of himself, but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak, and he will show you things to come. He shall glorify me and he shall receive of mine and shall show it unto you. So the Lord Jesus is saying, look, I've got many things to tell you. You can't handle them right now. But the Holy Spirit is going to be his ministry. To illuminate your mind, enlighten you and teach you things to come.

[John Weaver] Now, let me explain something to you. If you understand that there is a progressive illumination and if you understand that not everybody is able to receive truth. Or at least the same truth. Then it's going to make you far more patient and far more understanding and cut down on your frustration and cut down on your impatience. I had a dear brother in our church. He was an older man, older than me, and I was in this church for 15 years. And I taught the doctrines of grace In that one church for 15 years, I never will forget.

[John Weaver] I invited a preacher to come down. John Riesinger, some of you may have known old John. He was great on the doctrine of election. And he spoke five nights on the doctrine of election. And after the fifth night, This dear brother came up to me and he says, Pastor, this is just absolutely wonderful. This is wonderful. He said, my question to you is this, why haven't you been preaching this for all these years? And I said, brother, my question to you is this, is where have you been all these years? I have been preaching it. But he didn't see it, didn't hear it until that particular night or that particular week. So the point I'm trying to make is you have to understand that when you read the book of First John, how does John divide believers?

[John Weaver] He divides them into babes, to young men and to fathers. A babe is not going to act like a young man and a young man is not going to act like a father. And the understanding of each one of them is different. So if I'm going to go and teach a babe, I'm not going to start out with the doctrine of reprobation. I'm just not going to do it. I'm going to start out with something else, probably. Because obviously, I mean, he's a babe, you have to feed them food that's convenient to them. You don't take a year old baby and feed him a T-bone steak or six month old baby. No, you feed them food which is convenient.

[John Weaver] And you have to understand that not everybody is able to receive truth at one time. Now, I'm talking about the present truth because There is a progressive enlightening and illumination of our minds. One of the problems that we experience as Christians is this. We're not accustomed to receiving truth as the present truth. By that I mean that we are comfortable with our salvation. We're comfortable with our understanding of certain doctrines, whether it's creation or salvation or justification or election. You know, we're comfortable with those things, and we really don't put the emphasis upon the preached Word of God the way we should.

[John Weaver] In fact, the average individual attaches absolutely no importance to the amount of time and study and effort and prayer that goes into the preparation of a message. The average Christian thinks this about their preaching. of their preacher. Easy come, easy go. All I got to do is go sit down and listen. That's fine with me. Get up and walk out. If I don't get it next Sunday, I'll get it next time he preaches it or next time he teaches on the subject. They have no earthly idea of the prayer and the study that's going. You know, the thing that gets me is this, and I'll be absolutely honest.

[John Weaver] I've had people ask me questions that personal questions, burning questions, questions that they really needed answered. And I say, well, let me think about this and I'll try to deal with it. And so I will bring a message answering all of their questions. And they're not there. And they're not there. The point I'm trying to make is this, folks. If we viewed and if we understood the phrase, the present truth. We would look.

[John Weaver] Far more differently at preaching. And we would accept it far more graciously and far better than we do. Let me try to explain it like this. If you were alive in the first century during the cult of emperor worship in the Roman Empire, the present truth would be the Lordship of Jesus Christ. You would either both serve and worship either Christ or Caesar. There is an application to the present truth. If you were alive in Germany in the 1500s, the present truth would be justification by faith alone, and you would either side with Luther and the Reformers, or you would hold to salvation by works as taught by the Roman Catholic Church. If you were alive in France or Geneva, Switzerland, In the 1500s, especially toward the middle of that era, the present truth would be the sovereignty of God. And you would either be joining with Calvin and the Reformers, or you would be holding to a humanistic position of the divine right of kings. If you were alive in Scotland during the 1500s, the present truth would be the kingship of Jesus Christ.

[John Weaver] You would either stand with John Knox and the Reformers, or you would hold a statist position. If you were alive in England in the 1700s, the present truth would be the purity of the church. And you would either hold the Puritans, who wanted to purify the church, or you would be standing with the status quo in the old church. Which later on, by the way, when the church was not purified, and it was not coming to pass, there was a separatist movement, and so they left the church. And if you were alive during that time, you would either have separated yourself in order to have a pure worship, or you would have stayed there.

[John Weaver] For there was a mixture of paganism with it. Now watch this. Here we are in 2015. And do you realize the present truth today still involves the Lordship of Jesus Christ and still involves the superiority of His Word? Let me make this exceedingly plain to you. You will either worship and obey the Lord Jesus Christ and the Bible Or you will follow the humanist in sodomy and fornication and adultery and aborticide and social and governmental sins. You will be a politically correct individual if you do not stand with the Lord Jesus Christ. You will either stand for liberty and freedom or you will be swallowed up by tyrannical, despotic government. There is a present truth.

[John Weaver] I'm going to explain it just momentarily. Martin Luther said this, listen carefully. All the preachers know this quote, but listen to what Martin Luther said. If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the truth of God, except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ. however boldly I may be professing Christ.

[John Weaver] For the battle rages, there the loyalty of the soldiers proved, and to be steady on all the battlefields besides is mere flight and disgrace if he flinches at that point." Did you hear what he said? What he said teaches a present truth. He said, if I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the truth of God except That one little portion that is being attacked by the world. What I have done is effectively denied Christ and His Word, even though I profess with the loudest voice the rest of it. Well, I hope you understand there is a present truth. The truth that must be professed is that where the battle is raging. It does no good to profess truth if there is no battle, because no one's going to be listening, because there is a fight for truth in a battle. The question that you have to ask is this, how do we ascertain the present truth?

[John Weaver] OK, let me answer that first. It is a truth from God's word. that is under attack by the liberals, the humanists and the unbelievers. All you have to do is look around. Ascertain what truth is being attacked by the left. Fine. That's the spot where you need to stand. You need to say they're attacking life. I'm going to be pro-life. They're attacking the right of self-defense. I will be pro-self-defense. They're attacking Marriage, I'm going to stand for marriage. You have to fight and you have to stand where the enemy is attacking. Secondly, listen carefully. I would answer that the present truth, which is being the present truth, is that which is being proclaimed by God's men from God's word as necessity is laid upon them in the providence of God. And mind you, When I say God's men, I'm not talking about mama called and papa said ear tickling preachers, but real genuine men of God. Think about this. In fact, let me show you look in Titus chapter one, Titus chapter one, watch carefully.

[John Weaver] Titus chapter one, beginning there in verse one. Here's an interesting truth, Titus one, verse one. Here it is, Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect and acknowledging the truth, which is after godliness in hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lie promised before the world began. When did God promise it? Before the world began. Were you there? No.

[John Weaver] Well, how do you know about this? Look in verse three. But have in due times manifested his word through preaching. which is committed unto me according to the commandment of our God and Savior. How does God manifest his word? It is through preaching. Do you know the Bible says in Amos 3 and verse 7, surely the Lord God will do nothing except he reveal it to his servants, the prophets. Do you know what the present truth is? The present truth is that which is being laid on the heart of God's men in the providence of God as necessities placed upon them.

[John Weaver] Let me give you an example. Just recently, I was in a chaplain's conference in Virginia. When I was invited to come up and preach, I instantly knew the message that I was going to preach. I knew it. I knew exactly what God would have me preach. So when I got there, I was the very first preacher. There were six other men, I believe, five or six. I was the first one. And I brought a message on the judgment of God. Do you know something? The rest of that day and the next day, those other five or six preachers all brought messages on the judgment of God. What?

[John Weaver] I said to the people, you better be paying attention. God is giving you a warning. You better listen. Because here were godly men, all of us preaching the same thing.

[John Weaver] Now, let me show you. I want you to turn to two passages. The first one is Nehemiah chapter eight. We're going to look at Nehemiah chapter eight. I'm going to show you what preaching is. And I'm going to start in the middle of verse 7. And the reason I'm going to start in the middle of verse 7 is because that way I don't have to pronounce all the names of the Levites. OK, so look in Nehemiah chapter 8 and the middle of verse 7. Here's what real preaching is.

[John Weaver] There's very little of it in our country today, but here it is. Nehemiah chapter 8 beginning with verse 7 in the middle and the Levites. You see that. Find that. Nehemiah chapter 8. The middle of verse seven and the Levites. Here we go. And the Levites calls the people to understand the law and the people stood in their place. Now, watch. How did they do that? So they read in the book of the law of God distinctly. That's exposition. And gave the sense that's explanation and cause them to understand the reading that's application. What is preaching? It's exposition. Explanation. And application. You know, when I first started preaching over 50 years ago.

[John Weaver] I quoted an awful lot of scripture in my preaching, sometimes I would quote as many as 100 to 200 verses as I preached, I just quoted. You didn't turn to him. I quoted him because I wanted I wanted to put all the scripture out I could. And you know what was happening? Here's what was happening. I'd walk out the door and folks would shake my hand, say, wow, you can really quote that scripture. I wasn't quoting scripture so they could find out that I could quote scripture.

[John Weaver] And it dawned on me one day. God's people. Do not need scriptures quoted to them. If that's all they need, they can get a record or CD. What they need is the word of God expounded, explained and applied. He said that's what real preaching is. Would you listen to this? When you have the Word of God expounded and explained and applied, God is going to give that to you for your blessing.

[John Weaver] For your benefit and for your warning. It is that truth that is laid upon God's preachers in his providence as necessity is laid upon them. And they are presenting it to you. Out of his word. When I was 17 years old, after I got out of high school, I went to boot camp in Fort Jackson, South Carolina. I was raised on a farm. I went in the mess hall that morning.

[John Weaver] And I saw something they were trying to feed me. that I could not identify. It was cream beef on toast. There's a lot of different names for that in the service, I can assure you. But being raised on a farm, we had eggs, grits, biscuits, gravy, meat, potatoes. And I looked at that cream beef on toast I said, I am not going to eat that slop. And I didn't. I just sat there.

[John Weaver] We got up, went outside. That's when I found out. They had planned for us that day a five mile hike with full field packs. You know, about nine o'clock that morning, That cream on toast got the look looking very appetizing. I wish I'd eaten it.

[John Weaver] Now listen to me carefully. The cooks, neither the cooks nor the sergeants came around at five that morning said now. Private Weaver, what would you like for breakfast today? They never asked me. They knew what they had planned. They put all the protein and the carbohydrates out for me to eat. And I refused it. And I'm the one that suffered. The point I'm trying to make is this, you don't get to tell God's preachers necessarily what to preach. You may like it or you may not like it. But if it is exposition and explanation and application, God has put it there for you. And you better eat it. You better take it because it is the present truth for you.

[John Weaver] God sets in front of his people that which they need for that week to face their test and their trials and their tribulations and their tasks. And if you refuse it, you're the loser. And you say, well, I get mad. I get upset. I don't like that. I don't care. You're the one that loses. He's in charge, not you. And he knows what you need.

[John Weaver] Now, I want you to look in Jeremiah, chapter three. Jeremiah, chapter three, just a few more verses and we're done. But look in Jeremiah, chapter three. Jeremiah, chapter three, verses 14 and 15. Watch carefully. Jeremiah 3. Beginning there, verse 14. Here it is. God says, turn, O backsliding children, saith the Lord, for I am married unto you, and I will take you, one of a city and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion. Look at this promise.

[John Weaver] And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge an understanding. What's God saying? I'll give you pastors according to my heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding. And the knowledge and understanding they feed you is that which he gives them. And that is the present truth for you.

[John Weaver] Now, just two applications, the first one is this. Are you establishing the present truth? Do you have any idea what the present truth is? Tonight, the present truth happens to be the present truth. You should know what Peter is talking about from second Peter, chapter one in verse 12. You should know what it means to be established in the present truth. Not just things that you have heard in times past, you ought not to forget them, but you surely should make application of that what you've heard tonight and this week. And what you'll hear next week and the week after. Now, let me show you one last passage. Turn in your Bibles to First Thessalonians, chapter two. Let me show you how you should receive the present truth. Watch this carefully, because this will determine whether or not you receive the present truth or not.

[John Weaver] So what is your attitude then toward the preached word? Do you realize a lot of people say when it comes to preaching, ho hum or hurry up, let's get this thing over with. Well, I've got a roast in the oven, you better let me out by 12. You know, most people never come to get in with God, they come to get out. If you ever got in, you wouldn't really care what time you ever got out.

[John Weaver] But let me show you how you should receive the present truth. Here it is. First Thessalonians, chapter two, look in verse 13. The Apostle Paul says, For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because when you receive the word of God, which you heard of us, you received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you believe.

[John Weaver] So you didn't say, ah, that's Brother Ashwood's opinion. That's what Brother Barber thinks. That's what Brother Weaver thinks. No, no. Paul said, when you heard the word that we preached, you didn't receive it as the word from Paul or the word from Silas or the word from Barnabas. You received it as it is in truth, the word of God. which effectually worketh also in you that believe." So here's my question. When you hear the exposition and explanation and application from the Word of God, do you really and truly receive it as the Word of God?

[John Weaver] This is God's will for my life. This is how I'm to live. This is how I'm to direct my life. This is how I'm to make the application. This is what I'm to do in my work and my family. Do you really receive it as the Word of God? Peter said, I want you to be established in the present truth. And the present truth is not court decisions.

[John Weaver] It's not the ravings of lawyers. It's not the acts of legislative bodies. It's that which God's word declares from God's man in the providence of God as necessities laid upon him. And when you hear it, you must receive it. As it is in truth, the Word of God, which effectually worketh also on you who believe. The present truth is that which is right in front of you. Are you established?

The Present Truth

John Weaver | SermonAudio

Lecture Metadata	Details
Speaker	John Weaver
Source	SermonAudio
Media ID	12121594584
Subject	Old Testament Studies
Course	Genesis: Creation, Fall, and Dominion
Genre	Sermon
Date	2015-12-11
Dictation Name
Book	Book 076: Genesis: Creation, Fall, and Dominion — Chapter 5
Source Timed Segments	87

Formatted Transcript

Introduction: Peter’s Concern for Remembrance

Peter writes to remind believers of truths they already know, emphasizing that he will not be negligent in stirring them up by repetition.

2 Peter chapter 1, verses 12 through 15. I want to bring a message which I've entitled "The Present Truth." Look, if you would, 2 Peter 1, beginning with verse 12. Peter writes,

Scripture Reading — 2 Peter 1:12-15

"Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth. Yea, I think it is meet as long as I am in this tabernacle to stir up you by putting you in remembrance, knowing that shortly I must put off this tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ has shown me. Moreover, I will endeavor that you may be able after my decease to have these things always in your remembrance." Peter instructs us in a very important principle. If you look at verse 12, "Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth."

Interestingly, Peter states that he does not wish to be negligent by not putting them into remembrance of truth, even though he realizes they already know the truth.

The Necessity of Repeated Truth

Truth must be heard over and over to be grounded and established; repetition aids learning and prevents forgetfulness.

There are a number of wonderful points here. Let me just give you several to begin with. First of all, I think it should be obvious based upon verse 12 that truth needs to be heard over and over again. And Peter said, I'm not about to neglect my duty by not repeating truth. It's only as we hear the truth over and over that we're actually grounded and settled and established in the truth. That's one reason why you should read your Bibles over and over. Once you read through all the way one time, wonderful. Start all over again and do it. It's amazing what you can see and what you can learn and what you can remember just by rereading. I've had people tell me many times, "Well, I find it difficult to memorize Scripture." I said, "There's a very easy way."

All you have to do is take a small book of the Bible—say Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, doesn't matter. You take that one book and you read that book all the way through every day for 30 days. And interestingly, you'll only begin to see the purpose of the book, the author of the book, numbers of things about that book. But two things will actually happen. The first one is this: After 30 days, your Bible will automatically open to that book. And number two, you will have memorized Scripture without even really trying to memorize Scripture because you're just going over and over. You see, rehearsing truth forces us to analyze and to reinforce that truth in our lives.

It basically enables us to examine ourselves. You remember the Apostle Paul said in 2 Corinthians 13:5, "Examine yourselves, whether you be in the faith or not. Know your own hearts or know your own self, that Jesus Christ be in you, except you be reprobates." So we're commanded then to examine our own selves. So we must hear truth over and over. The second thing we should point out here is that repetition aids learning. And it was not onerous to Peter to be able and to find it absolutely necessary to re-preach and re-teach the same truth. Many times I've had our own people come up to me and say, "Pastor, you remember that message you preached a year or two ago?" I said, "Yes." They would say, "We would like you to re-preach that message." And I would re-preach the message and they would say, "You know, we got far more out of it the second time than we ever got out of the first time." And it's true. When you hear a message over and over, it's amazing how much more you get out of it.

It's the same thing with reading the Scripture. So Peter is saying, "Look, I know you're settled in this truth. I know you understand this truth, but you need to hear it again." And so the principle is simply this: The more you hear truth, basically, the more you understand truth. Do you understand that one of our reasons that we constantly forget Scripture and truth is because we do not hear it repeated enough? Thirdly, undoubtedly, Peter learned this method of instruction from the master teacher, the Lord Jesus Christ himself. There's a tremendous passage in Mark chapter 10 and verse 1. The Bible says concerning Christ, "And he arose from thence and cometh into the coasts of Judea by the farther side of Jordan."

Now, listen, "and the people resort unto him again. And as he was wont, he taught them again." So he comes into Judea, and the same people come to him again. And as he was wont, or as he was accustomed to, he taught them again. In all probability, he not only taught the same people, he probably taught the same truths. He just simply taught them over and over.

Christ’s Example of Repetition

Jesus taught the same people again as was His custom, modeling the method of repeating truth.

Thirdly, undoubtedly, Peter learned this method of instruction from the master teacher, the Lord Jesus Christ himself. There's a tremendous passage in Mark chapter 10 and verse 1. The Bible says concerning Christ,

Scripture Reading — Mark 10:1

"And he arose from thence and cometh into the coasts of Judea by the farther side of Jordan."

Now, listen,

Scripture Reading — Mark 10:1

"and the people resort unto him again. And as he was wont, he taught them again."

So he comes into Judea, and the same people come to him again. And as he was wont, or as he was accustomed to, he taught them again. In all probability, he not only taught the same people, he probably taught the same truths. He just simply taught them over and over.

So, we must hear truth repeatedly. I want you to hold 2 Peter, but look in your Bibles very quickly to the book of Hebrews, chapter 2, and verse 1. Just back a few pages, Hebrews 2 and verse 1. Notice, if you would, what the Scripture says. Here's an interesting passage. Here, the author of the book of Hebrews says, "Therefore, we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip." Now, note, if you would, please, he said we should give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard. That's past tense. Do you realize there's a tendency to forget those things that you have been taught?

The Danger of Letting Truth Slip

Hebrews 2:1 warns that we must give earnest heed to what we have heard, lest we let it slip; there is a tendency to forget.

If you don't use them, you lose them, as I said last night. Obviously, there's a tendency. And the older you get, the greater that tendency. Now, I'm sure that not every one of you has had the experience that you get up from your desk or you go from one room to another room in the house, and then you have to stop and pause and say, "Now, why did I come into this room? What am I looking for?" Well, the older you get, you understand that. It's not that we are going lame. The older you get, just the more information you have and the longer it takes to process it, you see, like a computer.

But notice he said you have to be careful lest you forget those things which you have heard. So back in 2 Peter, chapter 1 and verse 12, let me point this out. Peter says, "Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them and be established in the present truth." Now, what Peter is saying is this: I want to make sure that you're established in the present truth.

The Meaning of 'Established'

The Greek word 'sterizo' means to be steadfast, fixed, confirmed, constant; Peter wants believers firmly established in the present truth.

Scripture Reading — Colossians 2:7

The word "established" here—it's the Greek word "sterizo," and it literally means to be steadfast, to be fixed, to be confirmed, to be constant, to be made firm, to be established in one's mind. So Peter is saying, "I want the truth to be as firmly established in your mind. I want it to be constant. I want it to be confirmed. I want it to be there." You know, the Apostle Paul said in Colossians 2:7, "Rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving." So God, through his Word, tells us we have to be established in the truth. Now, I don't know if you understand this or not, but there are certain blessings of being established in truth. I want you to hold 2 Peter chapter 1, but look in your Bibles very quickly to Psalm 112. Psalm 112. And I want to just take the time to read the 10 verses in this Psalm. And I want you to see exactly what I'm talking about, about being established in truth. In Psalm 112, beginning there with verse 1, the Scripture says, "Praise ye the Lord."

Blessings of Being Established (Psalm 112)

Psalm 112 describes the established man: he shall not be moved, his heart is fixed, he is not afraid of evil tidings.

Now note, if you would, next: "Blessed is the man that fears the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments." So we're talking about someone who's established now. "His seed shall be mighty upon the earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed. Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth forever. Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. A good man showeth favor, and lendeth." "He will guide his affairs with discretion." Now watch: "Surely he shall not be moved forever: the righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance. He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord. His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies. He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth forever."

"His horn shall be exalted with honor. The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish." But note, if you would please, here's the man that's established in the truth. He shall not be moved. His heart is established. He's not going to be afraid. Why? He knows what truth is and he knows who God is.

Now, you have to also consider the opposite. When you look in James 1:8, what does God say?

Scripture Reading — James 1:8

"A double minded man is unstable in all of his ways."

What's a double minded man? Someone who doesn't really know what he believes anyhow. I was remarking today to Brother James, since I live out in the country, I see so many little squirrels that have gotten run over by cars. And I've probably run over my share of them, not purposefully, not trying to.

The Danger of Double-Mindedness

James 1:8 warns that a double-minded man is unstable; like a squirrel indecisively crossing the road, he gets run over.

But have you ever noticed how a squirrel tries to cross the road? He runs this way and then he goes back and then he changes his mind. And he does that two or three times until the tires hit him. If he had just kept going, he never would have gotten hit. Or if once he turned and went back and stayed, he never would have gotten hit. In other words, he's double minded. He doesn't know which way to move. He doesn't know which way to go.

And he gets run over. And that's the way it is with fallen man. Fallen man is double minded. And a man that's not established in the truth is double minded as well. But I want you to look back to 2 Peter chapter 1 because again, let me go a little bit further because Peter says this very clearly in verse 12: "Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth." The present truth. Here's my question: What exactly is the present truth? What is Peter talking about? Let me tell you what the word "present" means. It's the Greek word "pareimi," and it literally means to be at hand, to be by, or to be present.

Defining 'Present Truth'

The Greek 'pareimi' means 'at hand' or 'right in front of you'; it is the truth immediately before you, not relative or new truth.

I can break it down for you and explain it like this: It's that truth which is right in front of you. Now, let me show you what I mean by that. And the way I'm going to show you is I want to show you at least two other passages in the Scripture where the same Greek word is used. If you would look in your Bibles to Luke 13 and verse 1. Luke 13 and verse 1. Here is the exact same Greek word, "pareimi," and it's translated exactly the same. Notice Luke chapter 13 in verse 1.

"There were present at that season some that told him of the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices." Now note that Scripture: "There were present at that season some that told him of the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices." So here were people telling our Lord Jesus what Pilate had done to the Galileans, how he had murdered them. But the Bible said they were present there. What does that mean? They were standing right in front of him. They were talking to him. They were telling him they were there. They were at hand. They were present. If you would turn in your Bibles to 2 Corinthians, chapter 10. Here it is again, 2 Corinthians, chapter 10. And notice, if you would please, verse 11. 2 Corinthians 10 and verse 11. The Apostle Paul writes the Corinthians and he says this:

Scripture Reading — 2 Corinthians 10:11

"Let such an one think this, that such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present."

You remember what they said of Paul, that rascal: "Oh, he's mighty vociferous and strong in his letters, but in his speech, he's weak and contemptible." Paul said, "Let me tell you something. Exactly the way I am in letters when I write to you, when I'm standing right in front of you, when I'm present with you, that's exactly the way I'm going to be." So each time you see the word "present," it refers to that which is right in front of you.

What Present Truth Is Not

It is not relative truth or new truth; God’s Word is absolute and unchanging, and revelation is complete in Christ.

And if you look back to 2 Peter chapter 1 in verse 12, here's an amazing truth again. Peter says, "Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things." Watch: "though you know them and be established in the present truth." So Peter was absolutely sure then that these people were established in the present truth. That is, they understood and they applied the truth in their lives. They understood and they applied the preaching and the teaching. Now we're talking about the present truth. So let me tell you to begin with tonight what I do not mean by using the phrase "the present truth." OK. Negatively, first of all, I do not mean that truth is relative. I do not mean that truth changes with situations, conditions, circumstances, or the progress or the erosion of society.

God's law does not change. God does not change. His definition of sin has not changed. Man cannot change that which is wicked, perverted, and rebellious into that which is lawful and just. It's impossible. That which was sin in the first century is still sin in the 21st century. That which was good and right and holy in the first century is still that which is good and right and holy in the 21st century.

Many individuals hold to what they call a situation ethics. No. And what they're saying is that everything is just relative. It depends upon the situation. It depends upon the circumstance. No. God is absolute. His Word is absolute. It is certain. It is fixed. It is unchanging. Psalm 119:89, "Forever, O Lord, is thy word settled in the heavens." And then our Lord said in John 17:17, "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." So when I talk about the present truth, I'm not trying to say that truth is relative, that it changes. No, that is not what I'm saying. And that is not what I mean when I use the term "the present truth." Secondly, when I use the term "the present truth," I'm not saying that there is such a thing as new truth. The phrase "the present truth" does not imply new truth.

Let me tell you something. If a revelation is new, it is not true. Because there is no such thing as new truth. Why? Well, we have the full and final revelation of God in Jesus Christ. You remember what John said in John 1:17? "The law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ."

Now, let me ask you a question. The law came by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. Was there no grace in the Old Testament? Well, of course there was. Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. Anyone who's ever been saved has been saved by grace. Brother Yancey made that clear. You cannot be saved any other way. Was there no truth in the Old Testament? Of course. Everything that God reveals is truth.

I'm going to explain that just momentarily. But what does it mean then when it says the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ? It means this, that Jesus Christ is the apex. He's the epitome. He's the fullness of grace and truth. There's nothing above or beyond him. He is it.

Now, let me show you. Look in your Bibles to the book of Hebrews chapter 1. Let's go there. Hebrews chapter 1. I'm just trying to explain to you that the phrase "the present truth" does not imply new truth. Here's why. Watch carefully. Hebrews chapter 1, verse 1:

Scripture Reading — Hebrews 1:1-3

"God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times past unto the fathers by the prophets."

By the way, when you look at the word "divers manners," you know, the Bible says our Lord healed divers diseases. You know what that is? I never will forget hearing—I was traveling and the radio was on and it was an old black preacher preaching and he said, "It takes the grace of God to heal them divers diseases."

Progressive Revelation in Scripture

God revealed truth progressively over 1600 years; examples include the unfolding of Messianic prophecies and the instruction of Apollos.

"Only Jesus can do that." I thought, "What's he talking about?" He said, "You know, them divers diseases, when it comes time to go to church and you just dive back under them covers." Well, that's a good interpretation. But the word "divers" just means various or manifold of different kinds. So he says, "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds; who, being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high." Did you hear that? God, in times past, in the Old Testament and sometimes in the New Testament, spoke to the prophets in different ways, sometimes with a dream, sometimes with a trance, sometimes with a vision.

But He hath in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things. Now, listen to me. For someone to believe in new truth, for someone to believe in additional truth, they have to deny that Jesus Christ is the fullness and the apex and the epitome of truth. For you to say that there is a new truth, then what you're saying is this, that Jesus Christ is not sufficient. For anyone who thinks that they now need visions and dreams and horoscopes and astrology, and forecasters and false prophets and fake and spurious religious writings or anything and everything above and beyond the Lord Jesus Christ and the Word of God—listen, that is really blasphemy because it is saying that Jesus Christ is not the fullness of everything. Wow. So when I speak about the present truth, I'm not saying there's such a thing as new truth. I'm not saying there's such a thing that truth is relative and it changes. No, not by anything whatsoever. Well, what do I mean by the term "the present truth"?

What did Peter mean when he wrote about the present truth? Well, you have to understand something. God did not simply dump all of His truth upon us at one time. Stop and think about this. Did you know the Bible was written over a period of 1600 years by 40 different authors? I'm glad our brother spoke. From Genesis chapter 3, I'm going to quote that verse a little bit later, but I do want you to turn in your Bibles to Isaiah 28. I want you to look there because Brother Barber referred to this the other night. But I want you to see it and I want you to understand, because I'm about to teach you and share with you what is known as progressive revelation. Notice, if you would, in Isaiah chapter 28, and let's begin reading there with verse 9. Isaiah 28 and verse 9. You see, God did not dump all of His truth upon us at one time; there was a progressive unfolding of the truth. He gave it little by little. So in Isaiah 28 and verse 9, the Scripture says this: "Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine?"

Scripture Reading — Genesis 3:15

"Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breast. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little." You know, that's exactly the way God revealed truth: here a little, and there a little. Let's take this idea and apply it to the Lord Jesus Christ. Our brother tonight spoke from Genesis 3:15. That is known as the protevangelium. The protevangelium is just simply the first promise of the Messiah in the Bible. And there's a number of things that could be pointed out in that verse. I pointed out a number as well. But the only thing that you find about the Messiah in Genesis 3:15 is, number one, that He's going to be born of a woman. Number two, that He's going to defeat His enemy. Number three, that He would be wounded. Or you could say, number four, that it implies a first coming and a second coming. There are a number of things that could be brought out of that verse. But the only thing that you really see in that verse, just reading that verse, is the Messiah is going to come of a woman. Do you realize it is only when you get to Genesis chapter 49 and verse 10 that you find that the Messiah is going to be from the tribe of Judah? So He's going to be born of a woman, but He's going to come from the tribe of Judah.

It was many years later, in 2 Samuel chapter 7, verses 12 through 13, that you find out the Messiah is going to be from the seed of David. So He's going to be of a woman, of the tribe of Judah, of the seed of David. And finally, when you get to Isaiah 7:14, He's going to be born of a virgin. And then when you get to Micah 5:2, He's going to be born in Bethlehem of Judea. All I'm saying is here was a progressive unfolding of the truth concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. Each stage of revelation would have been at one time a present truth concerning Jesus Christ.

Now, let me try to show you this in the Bible. I want you to look in your Bible to the book of Acts chapter 18. Let's go there first, Acts chapter 18. There are a number of illustrations of what you and I would call present truth. So look at Acts chapter 18 and let's begin reading there with verse 24. Acts 18 verse 24. And you'll see what I'm talking about. Acts 18 verse 24.

"And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus." Now, I want you to note he was a mighty man. He was an eloquent man, mighty in the scriptures. Watch verse 25: "This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly." "And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace: for he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, showing by the scriptures that Jesus was the Christ."

Now, so Aquila and Priscilla hear Apollos preach, but all he knows is John said that He was to come and that whom He baptized was Him. He knew nothing else. Aquila and Priscilla said, "Listen, there's a lot that has happened since then." Of course, they were friends of Paul. They were tent makers, just like Paul. And so they took him and expounded unto him the things more perfectly, that is, they filled him in on the present truth at that particular time concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. And he, of course, then convinced everybody scripturally.

Now, another illustration is found in Acts chapter 19. Look at verses 1 through 5 there.

Scripture Reading — Acts 19:1-5

"And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, he said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost." "And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ."

So here were people that only knew the preaching of John. They did not know anything after that Christ had come, had died, was buried, resurrected, and the descent of the Holy Spirit.

That was a present truth. I could go to extend—don't have to, but you remember the trance that Peter got in up on that roof. And when God let the sheet down from heaven, and He told Peter, "Rise and eat," Peter said, "Not so, Lord, I've not eaten anything clean or common or unclean." And the Lord says, "That which I've cleansed, don't call that thou common or unclean." It was done three times and by the time He got through, there was a knock at the door and here are these men saying, "From Cornelius, come and share the word of God with us." And of course, you know, the outcome of that in Acts chapter 11, in verse 18, when he reported back to Jerusalem, they said, "Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life." That was the present truth.

Progressive Illumination Today

Though revelation is complete, the Holy Spirit progressively illuminates our minds to understand truth as we are able to bear it.

I mean, they had not known that before. Now, listen to me. There was in the Bible, and even as the Bible was written, a progressive unfolding of the truth. Now, there is no more progressive unfolding of the truth. In fact, there is no more revelation. God is not revealing anything and will not reveal anything above and beyond His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Revelation has ended because revelation is complete. You say, "Well, if revelation is ended and there is no more progressive revelation, then there's no more present truth." No, that's not true. There is still a present truth. You say, "Well, if revelation is ended and there's no more progressive revelation, how can there be a present truth?" And here's the answer: Because there is a progressive illumination. See, most people get revelation and illumination mixed up. I have people call me all the time and say, "Brother Weaver, let me share with you what God just revealed to me." And I say, "Let me—let's get some things straight before you share with me."

"God didn't reveal anything to you. He just opened your eyes to that which was already revealed." Do you understand the difference? Listen to this: Revelation is the act of God whereby He reveals truth never known before to the human mind. Let me give you an example. Who wrote the book of Genesis? Moses. Wrote the first five books. You know what's contained in Genesis 1 through 3? Not only the creation, but the fall of man. Now, here's my question: How did Moses know what happened in creation? He wasn't there. How did Moses know what happened at the fall of Adam and Eve? He wasn't there. The answer is God revealed it to him. God not only revealed it to him, He inspired him to write that. And the Bible is the inspired, inerrant, infallible Word of God. That's revelation. Revelation is when God reveals truth never known before to the human mind. Illumination is the act of God the Holy Spirit whereby He enlightens us and illuminates our mind to understand that truth that has already been revealed.

So God doesn't reveal things to us. He illuminates us and enlightens us and enables us to understand His revelation of the truth. So there is a progressive illumination because, listen to me, God does not enlighten our minds or illuminate our minds to all of this truth at one time. Do you understand there is no one that understands all truth? Not one. And I don't care if you take 20 Baptist preachers. Who study the Scriptures for years? You're going to find disagreements among them. Because not all of them understand all truth. God does not show His truth to everyone at the same time. Let me show you. Look in your Bibles to the book of Mark, chapter 4. Mark, chapter 4, verses 33 and 34. Mark, chapter 4, verses 33 and 34.

Now, I want you to pay attention to what I'm saying. If you understand this, it's going to help you not only in witnessing, it's going to help you in teaching. Notice in Mark, chapter 4, beginning there, verse 33. Here's an interesting verse. Mark 4, verse 33:

Scripture Reading — Mark 4:33-34

"And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it. But without a parable spake he not unto them." "And when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples."

But note, he spake unto them as they were able to hear it.

Now, let me ask you a question. I watched Brother Yancy with his little son tonight telling him to come to him, and the little boy looked at him and then he just walked on over to him. Suppose he got that little one-year-old boy and said, "Now, son, I want to explain to you supralapsarianism and infralapsarianism. I want to teach you the difference between dichotomy and trichotomy." Is that little boy going to understand anything that his daddy says? No, not at all. And I got news for you, there are times in your life that you're not able to receive certain truths from God's Word. God has to prepare you. God has to prepare you. And He gives truth as you are able to receive it. If you really want to receive more truth and if you really want to understand it, then you have to do like the disciples. You have to get along with Him and let Him explain it to you.

Now, if you look in your Bibles to John chapter 16, let me go a little bit further. Look in John chapter 16, beginning there with verse 12. John 16, verse 12. Look what our Lord tells His disciples. John 16, verse 12: He says,

Scripture Reading — John 16:12-14

"I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now."

Isn't that amazing? He's talking to His disciples.

Scripture Reading — John 16:12-14

"I've got many things to say to you, but you can't bear them now. You can't handle them now."

Wow. Verse 13:

Scripture Reading — John 16:12-14

"Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you."

So the Lord Jesus is saying,

Scripture Reading — John 16:12-14

"Look, I've got many things to tell you. You can't handle them right now. But the Holy Spirit is going to be—His ministry is to illuminate your mind, enlighten you, and teach you things to come."

Now, let me explain something to you. If you understand that there is a progressive illumination and if you understand that not everybody is able to receive truth—or at least the same truth—then it's going to make you far more patient and far more understanding and cut down on your frustration and cut down on your impatience. I had a dear brother in our church. He was an older man, older than me, and I was in this church for 15 years. And I taught the doctrines of grace in that one church for 15 years. I never will forget. I invited a preacher to come down. John Reisinger, some of you may have known old John. He was great on the doctrine of election. And he spoke five nights on the doctrine of election. And after the fifth night, this dear brother came up to me and he says, "Pastor, this is just absolutely wonderful. This is wonderful." He said, "My question to you is this: Why haven't you been preaching this for all these years?" And I said, "Brother, my question to you is this: Where have you been all these years? I have been preaching it." But he didn't see it, didn't hear it until that particular night or that particular week. So the point I'm trying to make is you have to understand that when you read the book of First John, how does John divide believers?

Application: Receiving the Present Truth

Believers must receive preaching as the Word of God, not as man’s opinion, and be established in the truth that is under attack in our day.

He divides them into babes, to young men, and to fathers. A babe is not going to act like a young man and a young man is not going to act like a father. And the understanding of each one of them is different. So if I'm going to go and teach a babe, I'm not going to start out with the doctrine of reprobation. I'm just not going to do it. I'm going to start out with something else, probably. Because obviously, I mean, he's a babe, you have to feed them food that's convenient to them. You don't take a year-old baby and feed him a T-bone steak or a six-month-old baby. No, you feed them food which is convenient.

And you have to understand that not everybody is able to receive truth at one time. Now, I'm talking about the present truth because there is a progressive enlightening and illumination of our minds. One of the problems that we experience as Christians is this: We're not accustomed to receiving truth as the present truth. By that I mean that we are comfortable with our salvation. We're comfortable with our understanding of certain doctrines, whether it's creation or salvation or justification or election. You know, we're comfortable with those things, and we really don't put the emphasis upon the preached Word of God the way we should. In fact, the average individual attaches absolutely no importance to the amount of time and study and effort and prayer that goes into the preparation of a message. The average Christian thinks this about the preaching of their preacher: "Easy come, easy go. All I got to do is go sit down and listen. That's fine with me. Get up and walk out. If I don't get it next Sunday, I'll get it next time he preaches it or next time he teaches on the subject." They have no earthly idea of the prayer and the study that's going. You know, the thing that gets me is this, and I'll be absolutely honest.

I've had people ask me questions—personal questions, burning questions, questions that they really needed answered. And I say, "Well, let me think about this and I'll try to deal with it." And so I will bring a message answering all of their questions. And they're not there. And they're not there. The point I'm trying to make is this, folks: If we viewed and if we understood the phrase "the present truth," we would look far more differently at preaching. And we would accept it far more graciously and far better than we do. Let me try to explain it like this. If you were alive in the first century during the cult of emperor worship in the Roman Empire, the present truth would be the Lordship of Jesus Christ. You would either both serve and worship either Christ or Caesar. There is an application to the present truth. If you were alive in Germany in the 1500s, the present truth would be justification by faith alone, and you would either side with Luther and the Reformers, or you would hold to salvation by works as taught by the Roman Catholic Church. If you were alive in France or Geneva, Switzerland, in the 1500s, especially toward the middle of that era, the present truth would be the sovereignty of God. And you would either be joining with Calvin and the Reformers, or you would be holding to a humanistic position of the divine right of kings. If you were alive in Scotland during the 1500s, the present truth would be the kingship of Jesus Christ.

You would either stand with John Knox and the Reformers, or you would hold a statist position. If you were alive in England in the 1700s, the present truth would be the purity of the church. And you would either hold with the Puritans, who wanted to purify the church, or you would be standing with the status quo in the old church. Which later on, by the way, when the church was not purified, and it was not coming to pass, there was a separatist movement, and so they left the church. And if you were alive during that time, you would either have separated yourself in order to have a pure worship, or you would have stayed there. For there was a mixture of paganism with it. Now watch this. Here we are in 2015. And do you realize the present truth today still involves the Lordship of Jesus Christ and still involves the superiority of His Word? Let me make this exceedingly plain to you. You will either worship and obey the Lord Jesus Christ and the Bible, or you will follow the humanist in sodomy and fornication and adultery and aborticide and social and governmental sins. You will be a politically correct individual if you do not stand with the Lord Jesus Christ. You will either stand for liberty and freedom or you will be swallowed up by tyrannical, despotic government. There is a present truth.

I'm going to explain it just momentarily. Martin Luther said this—listen carefully. All the preachers know this quote, but listen to what Martin Luther said: "If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the truth of God, except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ, however boldly I may be professing Christ." "For the battle rages, there the loyalty of the soldier is proved, and to be steady on all the battlefields besides is mere flight and disgrace if he flinches at that point." Did you hear what he said? What he said teaches a present truth. He said, "If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the truth of God except that one little portion that is being attacked by the world, what I have done is effectively denied Christ and His Word, even though I profess with the loudest voice the rest of it." Well, I hope you understand there is a present truth. The truth that must be professed is that where the battle is raging. It does no good to profess truth if there is no battle, because no one's going to be listening, because there is a fight for truth in a battle. The question that you have to ask is this: How do we ascertain the present truth?

OK, let me answer that first. It is a truth from God's Word that is under attack by the liberals, the humanists, and the unbelievers. All you have to do is look around. Ascertain what truth is being attacked by the left. Fine. That's the spot where you need to stand. You need to say, "They're attacking life. I'm going to be pro-life. They're attacking the right of self-defense. I will be pro-self-defense. They're attacking marriage. I'm going to stand for marriage." You have to fight and you have to stand where the enemy is attacking. Secondly, listen carefully. I would answer that the present truth, which is being the present truth, is that which is being proclaimed by God's men from God's Word as necessity is laid upon them in the providence of God. And mind you, when I say God's men, I'm not talking about mama-called and papa-sent ear-tickling preachers, but real genuine men of God. Think about this. In fact, let me show you—look in Titus chapter 1. Titus chapter 1, watch carefully.

Titus chapter 1, beginning there in verse 1. Here's an interesting truth. Titus 1, verse 1: Here it is,

Scripture Reading — Titus 1:1-3

"Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; in hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began."

When did God promise it? Before the world began. Were you there? No. Well, how do you know about this? Look in verse 3:

Scripture Reading — Titus 1:1-3

"But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour."

How does God manifest His Word? It is through preaching. Do you know the Bible says in Amos 3:7, "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." Do you know what the present truth is? The present truth is that which is being laid on the heart of God's men in the providence of God as necessity is placed upon them.

Let me give you an example. Just recently, I was in a chaplain's conference in Virginia. When I was invited to come up and preach, I instantly knew the message that I was going to preach. I knew it. I knew exactly what God would have me preach. So when I got there, I was the very first preacher. There were six other men, I believe, five or six. I was the first one. And I brought a message on the judgment of God. Do you know something? The rest of that day and the next day, those other five or six preachers all brought messages on the judgment of God. What?

I said to the people, "You better be paying attention. God is giving you a warning. You better listen." Because here were godly men, all of us preaching the same thing. Now, let me show you. I want you to turn to two passages. The first one is Nehemiah chapter 8. We're going to look at Nehemiah chapter 8. I'm going to show you what preaching is. And I'm going to start in the middle of verse 7. And the reason I'm going to start in the middle of verse 7 is because that way I don't have to pronounce all the names of the Levites. OK, so look in Nehemiah chapter 8 and the middle of verse 7. Here's what real preaching is.

There's very little of it in our country today, but here it is. Nehemiah chapter 8, beginning with verse 7 in the middle: "and the Levites." You see that. Find that. Nehemiah chapter 8, the middle of verse 7: "and the Levites." Here we go. "And the Levites caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place." Now, watch. How did they do that? "So they read in the book of the law of God distinctly"—that's exposition—"and gave the sense"—that's explanation—"and caused them to understand the reading"—that's application. What is preaching? It's exposition, explanation, and application. You know, when I first started preaching over 50 years ago,

I quoted an awful lot of Scripture in my preaching. Sometimes I would quote as many as 100 to 200 verses as I preached. I just quoted. You didn't turn to them. I quoted them because I wanted—I wanted to put all the Scripture out I could. And you know what was happening? Here's what was happening. I'd walk out the door and folks would shake my hand, say, "Wow, you can really quote that Scripture." I wasn't quoting Scripture so they could find out that I could quote Scripture.

And it dawned on me one day: God's people do not need Scriptures quoted to them. If that's all they need, they can get a record or CD. What they need is the Word of God expounded, explained, and applied. He said that's what real preaching is. Would you listen to this? When you have the Word of God expounded and explained and applied, God is going to give that to you for your blessing. For your benefit and for your warning. It is that truth that is laid upon God's preachers in His providence as necessity is laid upon them. And they are presenting it to you out of His Word. When I was 17 years old, after I got out of high school, I went to boot camp in Fort Jackson, South Carolina. I was raised on a farm. I went in the mess hall that morning.

And I saw something they were trying to feed me that I could not identify. It was creamed beef on toast. There's a lot of different names for that in the service, I can assure you. But being raised on a farm, we had eggs, grits, biscuits, gravy, meat, potatoes. And I looked at that creamed beef on toast, I said, "I am not going to eat that slop." And I didn't. I just sat there. We got up, went outside. That's when I found out they had planned for us that day a five-mile hike with full field packs. You know, about nine o'clock that morning, that creamed beef on toast got to looking very appetizing. I wish I'd eaten it.

Now listen to me carefully. The cooks—neither the cooks nor the sergeants came around at five that morning and said, "Now, Private Weaver, what would you like for breakfast today?" They never asked me. They knew what they had planned. They put all the protein and the carbohydrates out for me to eat. And I refused it. And I'm the one that suffered. The point I'm trying to make is this: You don't get to tell God's preachers necessarily what to preach. You may like it or you may not like it. But if it is exposition and explanation and application, God has put it there for you. And you better eat it. You better take it because it is the present truth for you.

God sets in front of His people that which they need for that week to face their test and their trials and their tribulations and their tasks. And if you refuse it, you're the loser. And you say, "Well, I get mad. I get upset. I don't like that." I don't care. You're the one that loses. He's in charge, not you. And He knows what you need.

Now, I want you to look in Jeremiah, chapter 3. Jeremiah, chapter 3, just a few more verses and we're done. But look in Jeremiah, chapter 3. Jeremiah, chapter 3, verses 14 and 15. Watch carefully. Jeremiah 3, beginning there, verse 14. Here it is. God says, "Turn, O backsliding children, saith the Lord; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion." Look at this promise.

"And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding." What's God saying? "I'll give you pastors according to my heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding." And the knowledge and understanding they feed you is that which He gives them. And that is the present truth for you. Now, just two applications. The first one is this: Are you established in the present truth? Do you have any idea what the present truth is? Tonight, the present truth happens to be the present truth. You should know what Peter is talking about from 2 Peter chapter 1 and verse 12. You should know what it means to be established in the present truth. Not just things that you have heard in times past—you ought not to forget them—but you surely should make application of that what you've heard tonight and this week. And what you'll hear next week and the week after. Now, let me show you one last passage. Turn in your Bibles to 1 Thessalonians, chapter 2. Let me show you how you should receive the present truth. Watch this carefully, because this will determine whether or not you receive the present truth or not.

So what is your attitude then toward the preached Word? Do you realize a lot of people say when it comes to preaching, "Ho hum" or "Hurry up, let's get this thing over with. Well, I've got a roast in the oven, you better let me out by 12." You know, most people never come to get in with God, they come to get out. If you ever got in, you wouldn't really care what time you ever got out.

But let me show you how you should receive the present truth. Here it is. 1 Thessalonians, chapter 2, look in verse 13. The Apostle Paul says, "For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe."

So you didn't say, "Ah, that's Brother Ashwood's opinion. That's what Brother Barber thinks. That's what Brother Weaver thinks." No, no. Paul said, "When you heard the word that we preached, you didn't receive it as the word from Paul or the word from Silas or the word from Barnabas. You received it as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe." So here's my question: When you hear the exposition and explanation and application from the Word of God, do you really and truly receive it as the Word of God? "This is God's will for my life. This is how I'm to live. This is how I'm to direct my life. This is how I'm to make the application. This is what I'm to do in my work and my family." Do you really receive it as the Word of God? Peter said, "I want you to be established in the present truth." And the present truth is not court decisions.

It's not the ravings of lawyers. It's not the acts of legislative bodies. It's that which God's Word declares from God's man in the providence of God as necessity is laid upon him. And when you hear it, you must receive it as it is in truth, the Word of God, which effectually worketh also in you who believe. The present truth is that which is right in front of you. Are you established?

Study Guide

Major Themes

Repetition of Truth

Summary: Truth must be heard repeatedly to be established in the believer’s mind; repetition aids learning and prevents forgetfulness.

Evidence: Peter said, 'I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them.'

The Nature of Present Truth

Summary: Present truth is the truth immediately before us, not relative or new, but the unchanging Word of God applied to the current battle.

Evidence: The Greek word 'pareimi' means 'at hand' or 'present'; it is that truth which is right in front of you.

Progressive Illumination vs. Revelation

Summary: Revelation is complete in Christ, but the Holy Spirit progressively illuminates believers to understand already-revealed truth.

Evidence: Jesus said, 'I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.'

The Role of Preaching

Summary: God manifests His Word through preaching, which involves exposition, explanation, and application; believers must receive it as God’s Word.

Evidence: Nehemiah 8:8 shows the Levites read distinctly, gave the sense, and caused understanding; 1 Thessalonians 2:13 says to receive preaching as the Word of God.

Standing for Truth Under Attack

Summary: The present truth is that which is being attacked by the world; believers must confess Christ precisely at the point of battle.

Evidence: Martin Luther: 'If I profess...every portion of the truth of God, except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ.'

Spiritual Maturity and Reception of Truth

Summary: Believers are at different stages (babes, young men, fathers) and can only receive truth as they are able; God prepares them progressively.

Evidence: Mark 4:33: 'And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it.'

Key Arguments

Truth must be repeated to be established

Summary: Peter’s example shows that even those who know the truth need constant reminding to be grounded and steadfast.

Evidence: 2 Peter 1:12: 'Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth.'

Forgetfulness is a real danger

Summary: Hebrews 2:1 warns that we must give earnest heed to what we have heard, lest we let it slip; there is a natural tendency to forget.

Evidence: Hebrews 2:1: 'Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.'

Present truth is not relative or new

Summary: God’s truth is absolute and unchanging; there is no new revelation beyond Christ, who is the fullness of grace and truth.

Evidence: Psalm 119:89: 'Forever, O Lord, is thy word settled in the heavens.' John 1:17: 'Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.'

God reveals truth progressively in Scripture

Summary: The Bible was written over 1600 years with progressive unfolding; examples include Messianic prophecies and the instruction of Apollos.

Evidence: Isaiah 28:10: 'For precept must be upon precept...line upon line...here a little, and there a little.' Acts 18:24-26 shows Apollos being taught more perfectly.

Illumination is progressive, not revelation

Summary: The Holy Spirit enlightens believers to understand truth already revealed, but not all at once; we must grow in ability to bear it.

Evidence: John 16:12-13: 'I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now...the Spirit of truth...will guide you into all truth.'

Preaching is God’s means of manifesting present truth

Summary: God manifests His Word through preaching that expounds, explains, and applies Scripture; believers must receive it as God’s Word for their current need.

Evidence: Titus 1:3: 'But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching.' 1 Thessalonians 2:13: 'Ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God.'

The present truth is where the battle rages

Summary: Believers must identify the truth under attack in their generation and stand firmly on it, or they effectively deny Christ.

Evidence: Luther’s quote: 'If I profess...every portion of the truth of God, except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ.'

Rejecting present truth leads to personal loss

Summary: Like a soldier refusing the meal provided before a march, believers who reject the preached Word suffer spiritual loss; God provides what is needed.

Evidence: Illustration of refusing creamed beef on toast before a five-mile hike; God sets before His people what they need for the week.

Scripture References

2 Peter 1:12-15

Context: Peter’s commitment to remind believers of truth and his desire for them to be established in the present truth.

2 Corinthians 13:5

Context: Paul’s command to examine ourselves whether we be in the faith; rehearsing truth enables self-examination.

Mark 10:1

Context: Jesus taught the people again as was His custom, modeling the repetition of truth.

Hebrews 2:1

Context: Warning to give earnest heed to what we have heard lest we let it slip; danger of forgetfulness.

Colossians 2:7

Context: Believers are to be rooted, built up, and established in the faith.

Psalm 112:1-10

Context: Description of the man who fears the Lord: his heart is established, he shall not be moved or afraid.

James 1:8

Context: A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways; contrast to being established.

Luke 13:1

Context: Use of 'present' (pareimi) to mean those standing right in front of Jesus.

2 Corinthians 10:11

Context: Paul uses 'present' to mean being physically present with the Corinthians.

Psalm 119:89

Context: God’s Word is forever settled in heaven; truth is unchanging.

John 17:17

Context: Jesus prayed, 'Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.'

John 1:17

Context: The law came by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ; Christ is the fullness of truth.

Hebrews 1:1-3

Context: God spoke in times past by prophets, but in these last days by His Son; no new revelation beyond Christ.

Isaiah 28:9-10

Context: Precept upon precept, line upon line; God reveals truth little by little.

Genesis 3:15

Context: The protevangelium, first promise of the Messiah; progressive revelation of Christ.

Acts 18:24-28

Context: Apollos knew only John’s baptism; Aquila and Priscilla expounded the way of God more perfectly—present truth.

Acts 19:1-5

Context: Disciples at Ephesus knew only John’s baptism; Paul taught them about Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

Mark 4:33-34

Context: Jesus spoke the word as they were able to hear it; truth is given progressively according to ability.

John 16:12-14

Context: Jesus had more to say but disciples couldn’t bear it; the Spirit would guide into all truth.

Titus 1:1-3

Context: God manifests His Word through preaching committed to Paul; preaching is the means of present truth.

Historical References

Martin Luther and the Reformation (1500s Germany)

Context: The present truth of that era was justification by faith alone; believers had to side with Luther or the Roman Catholic works-based salvation.

John Calvin and the Reformation in Geneva (1500s)

Context: The present truth was the sovereignty of God; believers had to join Calvin or hold to humanistic divine right of kings.

John Knox and the Scottish Reformation (1500s)

Context: The present truth was the kingship of Jesus Christ; believers had to stand with Knox or hold a statist position.

The Puritans and Separatists in England (1700s)

Context: The present truth was the purity of the church; believers had to purify or separate from the mixed church.

Martin Luther quote on confessing Christ at the point of battle

Context: Luther stated that to avoid the truth under attack is to deny Christ, regardless of other bold professions.

Important Quotes

Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth.

Significance: This is the key verse of the sermon, establishing the theme that believers need constant reminding to be grounded in the truth that is immediately before them.

If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the truth of God, except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ, however boldly I may be professing Christ.

Significance: Luther’s quote defines the concept of present truth as the truth under attack, which must be confessed or else Christ is denied.

For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

Significance: This verse teaches the proper reception of preaching—as God’s Word, not human opinion—and is the application for believers.

I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.

Significance: Jesus’ words show that truth is given progressively as believers are able to receive it, supporting progressive illumination.

A double minded man is unstable in all of his ways.

Significance: This contrasts with being established; the double-minded person lacks firmness in truth and is easily swayed.

Discussion Questions

Why does Peter feel it necessary to remind believers of truths they already know? What does this teach us about our own need for repetition?

Context: Peter says he will not be negligent to put them in remembrance, though they know and are established in the present truth.

What is the difference between revelation and illumination? How does understanding this distinction affect our view of 'new truth' claims?

Context: Weaver explains that revelation is complete in Christ, but the Holy Spirit progressively illuminates our minds to understand Scripture.

How can we identify the 'present truth' in our own generation? What truths are currently under attack that require our bold confession?

Context: Weaver gives historical examples and states that present truth is where the battle rages; believers must stand there.

In what ways do we treat preaching as merely the word of men rather than the Word of God? How can we cultivate a more receptive attitude?

Context: 1 Thessalonians 2:13 is cited to show that believers should receive preaching as God’s Word, which effectually works in them.

Why is it dangerous to be 'double-minded'? How does being established in truth protect us from instability?

Context: James 1:8 and the squirrel illustration show the peril of indecision; Psalm 112 shows the security of the established heart.

How does the concept of progressive illumination affect our patience with other believers who may not yet grasp certain doctrines?

Context: Weaver notes that believers are at different stages (babes, young men, fathers) and can only receive truth as they are able.

Applications

Receive preaching as God’s Word

Summary: When you hear the exposition, explanation, and application of Scripture, receive it not as the preacher’s opinion but as the Word of God for your life.

Evidence: 1 Thessalonians 2:13: 'Ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God.'

Be established in the present truth

Summary: Know what truth is under attack in your day and stand firmly on it; do not flinch at the point of battle.

Evidence: Luther’s quote: 'If I profess...except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ.'

Do not neglect repetition of truth

Summary: Read Scripture repeatedly, re-listen to sermons, and rehearse truth to be grounded and to prevent forgetfulness.

Evidence: Peter’s example: 'I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance.' Hebrews 2:1 warns against letting truth slip.

Accept the preached Word as God’s provision

Summary: Like the soldier who needed the meal before a march, trust that God provides the truth you need each week through preaching; do not reject it.

Evidence: Illustration of refusing creamed beef on toast; God sets before His people what they need for their tests and trials.

Examine yourself by the truth

Summary: Use repeated truth to examine your own heart and life, as Paul commanded in 2 Corinthians 13:5.

Evidence: 2 Corinthians 13:5: 'Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith.'

deepseek | deepseek-v4-pro | clean_readable_transcript | 2026-06-06T00:34:57Z

deepseek | deepseek-v4-pro | weaver_study | 2026-06-06T15:01:25Z

Clean Transcript

The Present Truth

Clean readable transcript. This view follows the Commentary.net cleaned segment text while preserving timestamps for audio follow-along.

2 Peter chapter 1, verses 12 through 15. I want to bring a message which I've entitled "The Present Truth." Look, if you would, 2 Peter 1, beginning with verse 12. Peter writes, "Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth. Yea, I think it is meet as long as I am in this tabernacle to stir up you by putting you in remembrance, knowing that shortly I must put off this tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ has shown me. Moreover, I will endeavor that you may be able after my decease to have these things always in your remembrance." Peter instructs us in a very important principle. If you look at verse 12, "Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth." Interestingly, Peter states that he does not wish to be negligent by not putting them into remembrance of truth, even though he realizes they already know the truth.
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There are a number of wonderful points here. Let me just give you several to begin with. First of all, I think it should be obvious based upon verse 12 that truth needs to be heard over and over again. And Peter said, I'm not about to neglect my duty by not repeating truth. It's only as we hear the truth over and over that we're actually grounded and settled and established in the truth.
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That's one reason why you should read your Bibles over and over. Once you read through all the way one time, wonderful. Start all over again and do it. It's amazing what you can see and what you can learn and what you can remember just by rereading. I've had people tell me many times, "Well, I find it difficult to memorize Scripture." I said, "There's a very easy way."
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All you have to do is take a small book of the Bible—say Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, doesn't matter. You take that one book and you read that book all the way through every day for 30 days. And interestingly, you'll only begin to see the purpose of the book, the author of the book, numbers of things about that book. But two things will actually happen. The first one is this: After 30 days, your Bible will automatically open to that book. And number two, you will have memorized Scripture without even really trying to memorize Scripture because you're just going over and over. You see, rehearsing truth forces us to analyze and to reinforce that truth in our lives.
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It basically enables us to examine ourselves. You remember the Apostle Paul said in 2 Corinthians 13:5, "Examine yourselves, whether you be in the faith or not. Know your own hearts or know your own self, that Jesus Christ be in you, except you be reprobates." So we're commanded then to examine our own selves. So we must hear truth over and over. The second thing we should point out here is that repetition aids learning. And it was not onerous to Peter to be able and to find it absolutely necessary to re-preach and re-teach the same truth. Many times I've had our own people come up to me and say, "Pastor, you remember that message you preached a year or two ago?" I said, "Yes." They would say, "We would like you to re-preach that message." And I would re-preach the message and they would say, "You know, we got far more out of it the second time than we ever got out of the first time." And it's true. When you hear a message over and over, it's amazing how much more you get out of it.
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It's the same thing with reading the Scripture. So Peter is saying, "Look, I know you're settled in this truth. I know you understand this truth, but you need to hear it again." And so the principle is simply this: The more you hear truth, basically, the more you understand truth. Do you understand that one of our reasons that we constantly forget Scripture and truth is because we do not hear it repeated enough?
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Thirdly, undoubtedly, Peter learned this method of instruction from the master teacher, the Lord Jesus Christ himself. There's a tremendous passage in Mark chapter 10 and verse 1. The Bible says concerning Christ, "And he arose from thence and cometh into the coasts of Judea by the farther side of Jordan."
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Now, listen, "and the people resort unto him again. And as he was wont, he taught them again." So he comes into Judea, and the same people come to him again. And as he was wont, or as he was accustomed to, he taught them again. In all probability, he not only taught the same people, he probably taught the same truths. He just simply taught them over and over.
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So, we must hear truth repeatedly. I want you to hold 2 Peter, but look in your Bibles very quickly to the book of Hebrews, chapter 2, and verse 1. Just back a few pages, Hebrews 2 and verse 1. Notice, if you would, what the Scripture says. Here's an interesting passage. Here, the author of the book of Hebrews says, "Therefore, we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip." Now, note, if you would, please, he said we should give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard. That's past tense. Do you realize there's a tendency to forget those things that you have been taught?
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If you don't use them, you lose them, as I said last night. Obviously, there's a tendency. And the older you get, the greater that tendency.
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Now, I'm sure that not every one of you has had the experience that you get up from your desk or you go from one room to another room in the house, and then you have to stop and pause and say, "Now, why did I come into this room? What am I looking for?" Well, the older you get, you understand that. It's not that we are going lame. The older you get, just the more information you have and the longer it takes to process it, you see, like a computer.
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But notice he said you have to be careful lest you forget those things which you have heard. So back in 2 Peter, chapter 1 and verse 12, let me point this out. Peter says, "Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them and be established in the present truth." Now, what Peter is saying is this: I want to make sure that you're established in the present truth.
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The word "established" here—it's the Greek word "sterizo," and it literally means to be steadfast, to be fixed, to be confirmed, to be constant, to be made firm, to be established in one's mind. So Peter is saying, "I want the truth to be as firmly established in your mind. I want it to be constant. I want it to be confirmed. I want it to be there."
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You know, the Apostle Paul said in Colossians 2:7, "Rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving." So God, through his Word, tells us we have to be established in the truth. Now, I don't know if you understand this or not, but there are certain blessings of being established in truth. I want you to hold 2 Peter chapter 1, but look in your Bibles very quickly to Psalm 112. Psalm 112. And I want to just take the time to read the 10 verses in this Psalm. And I want you to see exactly what I'm talking about, about being established in truth. In Psalm 112, beginning there with verse 1, the Scripture says, "Praise ye the Lord."
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Now note, if you would, next: "Blessed is the man that fears the Lord, that delighteth greatly in his commandments." So we're talking about someone who's established now. "His seed shall be mighty upon the earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed. Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth forever. Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous. A good man showeth favor, and lendeth."
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"He will guide his affairs with discretion." Now watch: "Surely he shall not be moved forever: the righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance. He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord. His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies. He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth forever."
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"His horn shall be exalted with honor. The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish." But note, if you would please, here's the man that's established in the truth. He shall not be moved. His heart is established. He's not going to be afraid. Why? He knows what truth is and he knows who God is.
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Now, you have to also consider the opposite. When you look in James 1:8, what does God say? "A double minded man is unstable in all of his ways." What's a double minded man? Someone who doesn't really know what he believes anyhow. I was remarking today to Brother James, since I live out in the country, I see so many little squirrels that have gotten run over by cars. And I've probably run over my share of them, not purposefully, not trying to.
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But have you ever noticed how a squirrel tries to cross the road? He runs this way and then he goes back and then he changes his mind. And he does that two or three times until the tires hit him. If he had just kept going, he never would have gotten hit. Or if once he turned and went back and stayed, he never would have gotten hit. In other words, he's double minded. He doesn't know which way to move. He doesn't know which way to go.
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And he gets run over. And that's the way it is with fallen man. Fallen man is double minded. And a man that's not established in the truth is double minded as well. But I want you to look back to 2 Peter chapter 1 because again, let me go a little bit further because Peter says this very clearly in verse 12: "Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth." The present truth. Here's my question: What exactly is the present truth? What is Peter talking about? Let me tell you what the word "present" means. It's the Greek word "pareimi," and it literally means to be at hand, to be by, or to be present.
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I can break it down for you and explain it like this: It's that truth which is right in front of you.
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Now, let me show you what I mean by that. And the way I'm going to show you is I want to show you at least two other passages in the Scripture where the same Greek word is used. If you would look in your Bibles to Luke 13 and verse 1. Luke 13 and verse 1. Here is the exact same Greek word, "pareimi," and it's translated exactly the same. Notice Luke chapter 13 in verse 1.
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"There were present at that season some that told him of the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices." Now note that Scripture: "There were present at that season some that told him of the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices." So here were people telling our Lord Jesus what Pilate had done to the Galileans, how he had murdered them. But the Bible said they were present there. What does that mean?
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They were standing right in front of him. They were talking to him. They were telling him they were there. They were at hand. They were present. If you would turn in your Bibles to 2 Corinthians, chapter 10. Here it is again, 2 Corinthians, chapter 10. And notice, if you would please, verse 11. 2 Corinthians 10 and verse 11. The Apostle Paul writes the Corinthians and he says this: "Let such an one think this, that such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present." You remember what they said of Paul, that rascal: "Oh, he's mighty vociferous and strong in his letters, but in his speech, he's weak and contemptible." Paul said, "Let me tell you something. Exactly the way I am in letters when I write to you, when I'm standing right in front of you, when I'm present with you, that's exactly the way I'm going to be." So each time you see the word "present," it refers to that which is right in front of you.
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And if you look back to 2 Peter chapter 1 in verse 12, here's an amazing truth again. Peter says, "Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things." Watch: "though you know them and be established in the present truth." So Peter was absolutely sure then that these people were established in the present truth. That is, they understood and they applied the truth in their lives. They understood and they applied the preaching and the teaching. Now we're talking about the present truth. So let me tell you to begin with tonight what I do not mean by using the phrase "the present truth." OK. Negatively, first of all, I do not mean that truth is relative. I do not mean that truth changes with situations, conditions, circumstances, or the progress or the erosion of society.
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God's law does not change. God does not change. His definition of sin has not changed. Man cannot change that which is wicked, perverted, and rebellious into that which is lawful and just. It's impossible. That which was sin in the first century is still sin in the 21st century. That which was good and right and holy in the first century is still that which is good and right and holy in the 21st century.
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Many individuals hold to what they call a situation ethics. No. And what they're saying is that everything is just relative. It depends upon the situation. It depends upon the circumstance. No. God is absolute. His Word is absolute. It is certain. It is fixed. It is unchanging. Psalm 119:89, "Forever, O Lord, is thy word settled in the heavens." And then our Lord said in John 17:17, "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." So when I talk about the present truth, I'm not trying to say that truth is relative, that it changes. No, that is not what I'm saying. And that is not what I mean when I use the term "the present truth." Secondly, when I use the term "the present truth," I'm not saying that there is such a thing as new truth. The phrase "the present truth" does not imply new truth.
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Let me tell you something. If a revelation is new, it is not true. Because there is no such thing as new truth. Why? Well, we have the full and final revelation of God in Jesus Christ. You remember what John said in John 1:17? "The law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ."
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Now, let me ask you a question. The law came by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. Was there no grace in the Old Testament? Well, of course there was. Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. Anyone who's ever been saved has been saved by grace. Brother Yancey made that clear. You cannot be saved any other way. Was there no truth in the Old Testament? Of course. Everything that God reveals is truth.
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I'm going to explain that just momentarily. But what does it mean then when it says the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ? It means this, that Jesus Christ is the apex. He's the epitome. He's the fullness of grace and truth. There's nothing above or beyond him. He is it.
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Now, let me show you. Look in your Bibles to the book of Hebrews chapter 1. Let's go there. Hebrews chapter 1. I'm just trying to explain to you that the phrase "the present truth" does not imply new truth. Here's why. Watch carefully. Hebrews chapter 1, verse 1: "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times past unto the fathers by the prophets." By the way, when you look at the word "divers manners," you know, the Bible says our Lord healed divers diseases. You know what that is? I never will forget hearing—I was traveling and the radio was on and it was an old black preacher preaching and he said, "It takes the grace of God to heal them divers diseases."
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"Only Jesus can do that." I thought, "What's he talking about?" He said, "You know, them divers diseases, when it comes time to go to church and you just dive back under them covers." Well, that's a good interpretation. But the word "divers" just means various or manifold of different kinds. So he says, "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds; who, being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high." Did you hear that? God, in times past, in the Old Testament and sometimes in the New Testament, spoke to the prophets in different ways, sometimes with a dream, sometimes with a trance, sometimes with a vision.
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But He hath in these last days spoken to us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things. Now, listen to me. For someone to believe in new truth, for someone to believe in additional truth, they have to deny that Jesus Christ is the fullness and the apex and the epitome of truth. For you to say that there is a new truth, then what you're saying is this, that Jesus Christ is not sufficient. For anyone who thinks that they now need visions and dreams and horoscopes and astrology, and forecasters and false prophets and fake and spurious religious writings or anything and everything above and beyond the Lord Jesus Christ and the Word of God—listen, that is really blasphemy because it is saying that Jesus Christ is not the fullness of everything. Wow. So when I speak about the present truth, I'm not saying there's such a thing as new truth. I'm not saying there's such a thing that truth is relative and it changes. No, not by anything whatsoever. Well, what do I mean by the term "the present truth"?
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What did Peter mean when he wrote about the present truth? Well, you have to understand something. God did not simply dump all of His truth upon us at one time. Stop and think about this. Did you know the Bible was written over a period of 1600 years by 40 different authors? I'm glad our brother spoke. From Genesis chapter 3, I'm going to quote that verse a little bit later, but I do want you to turn in your Bibles to Isaiah 28. I want you to look there because Brother Barber referred to this the other night. But I want you to see it and I want you to understand, because I'm about to teach you and share with you what is known as progressive revelation. Notice, if you would, in Isaiah chapter 28, and let's begin reading there with verse 9. Isaiah 28 and verse 9. You see, God did not dump all of His truth upon us at one time; there was a progressive unfolding of the truth. He gave it little by little. So in Isaiah 28 and verse 9, the Scripture says this: "Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine?"
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"Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breast. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little." You know, that's exactly the way God revealed truth: here a little, and there a little. Let's take this idea and apply it to the Lord Jesus Christ. Our brother tonight spoke from Genesis 3:15.
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That is known as the protevangelium. The protevangelium is just simply the first promise of the Messiah in the Bible. And there's a number of things that could be pointed out in that verse. I pointed out a number as well. But the only thing that you find about the Messiah in Genesis 3:15 is, number one, that He's going to be born of a woman. Number two, that He's going to defeat His enemy. Number three, that He would be wounded. Or you could say, number four, that it implies a first coming and a second coming. There are a number of things that could be brought out of that verse. But the only thing that you really see in that verse, just reading that verse, is the Messiah is going to come of a woman. Do you realize it is only when you get to Genesis chapter 49 and verse 10 that you find that the Messiah is going to be from the tribe of Judah? So He's going to be born of a woman, but He's going to come from the tribe of Judah.
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It was many years later, in 2 Samuel chapter 7, verses 12 through 13, that you find out the Messiah is going to be from the seed of David. So He's going to be of a woman, of the tribe of Judah, of the seed of David. And finally, when you get to Isaiah 7:14, He's going to be born of a virgin. And then when you get to Micah 5:2, He's going to be born in Bethlehem of Judea.
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All I'm saying is here was a progressive unfolding of the truth concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. Each stage of revelation would have been at one time a present truth concerning Jesus Christ.
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Now, let me try to show you this in the Bible. I want you to look in your Bible to the book of Acts chapter 18. Let's go there first, Acts chapter 18. There are a number of illustrations of what you and I would call present truth. So look at Acts chapter 18 and let's begin reading there with verse 24. Acts 18 verse 24. And you'll see what I'm talking about. Acts 18 verse 24.
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"And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus." Now, I want you to note he was a mighty man. He was an eloquent man, mighty in the scriptures. Watch verse 25: "This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John. And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly."
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"And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace: for he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publicly, showing by the scriptures that Jesus was the Christ."
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Now, so Aquila and Priscilla hear Apollos preach, but all he knows is John said that He was to come and that whom He baptized was Him. He knew nothing else. Aquila and Priscilla said, "Listen, there's a lot that has happened since then." Of course, they were friends of Paul. They were tent makers, just like Paul. And so they took him and expounded unto him the things more perfectly, that is, they filled him in on the present truth at that particular time concerning the Lord Jesus Christ. And he, of course, then convinced everybody scripturally.
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Now, another illustration is found in Acts chapter 19. Look at verses 1 through 5 there. "And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, he said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost."
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"And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ." So here were people that only knew the preaching of John. They did not know anything after that Christ had come, had died, was buried, resurrected, and the descent of the Holy Spirit.
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That was a present truth. I could go to extend—don't have to, but you remember the trance that Peter got in up on that roof. And when God let the sheet down from heaven, and He told Peter, "Rise and eat," Peter said, "Not so, Lord, I've not eaten anything clean or common or unclean." And the Lord says, "That which I've cleansed, don't call that thou common or unclean." It was done three times and by the time He got through, there was a knock at the door and here are these men saying, "From Cornelius, come and share the word of God with us." And of course, you know, the outcome of that in Acts chapter 11, in verse 18, when he reported back to Jerusalem, they said, "Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life." That was the present truth.
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I mean, they had not known that before. Now, listen to me. There was in the Bible, and even as the Bible was written, a progressive unfolding of the truth. Now, there is no more progressive unfolding of the truth. In fact, there is no more revelation. God is not revealing anything and will not reveal anything above and beyond His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Revelation has ended because revelation is complete. You say, "Well, if revelation is ended and there is no more progressive revelation, then there's no more present truth." No, that's not true. There is still a present truth. You say, "Well, if revelation is ended and there's no more progressive revelation, how can there be a present truth?" And here's the answer: Because there is a progressive illumination. See, most people get revelation and illumination mixed up. I have people call me all the time and say, "Brother Weaver, let me share with you what God just revealed to me." And I say, "Let me—let's get some things straight before you share with me."
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"God didn't reveal anything to you. He just opened your eyes to that which was already revealed." Do you understand the difference? Listen to this: Revelation is the act of God whereby He reveals truth never known before to the human mind. Let me give you an example. Who wrote the book of Genesis? Moses. Wrote the first five books. You know what's contained in Genesis 1 through 3? Not only the creation, but the fall of man. Now, here's my question: How did Moses know what happened in creation? He wasn't there. How did Moses know what happened at the fall of Adam and Eve? He wasn't there. The answer is God revealed it to him. God not only revealed it to him, He inspired him to write that. And the Bible is the inspired, inerrant, infallible Word of God. That's revelation. Revelation is when God reveals truth never known before to the human mind. Illumination is the act of God the Holy Spirit whereby He enlightens us and illuminates our mind to understand that truth that has already been revealed.
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So God doesn't reveal things to us. He illuminates us and enlightens us and enables us to understand His revelation of the truth. So there is a progressive illumination because, listen to me, God does not enlighten our minds or illuminate our minds to all of this truth at one time. Do you understand there is no one that understands all truth? Not one. And I don't care if you take 20 Baptist preachers.
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Who study the Scriptures for years? You're going to find disagreements among them. Because not all of them understand all truth. God does not show His truth to everyone at the same time. Let me show you. Look in your Bibles to the book of Mark, chapter 4. Mark, chapter 4, verses 33 and 34. Mark, chapter 4, verses 33 and 34.
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Now, I want you to pay attention to what I'm saying. If you understand this, it's going to help you not only in witnessing, it's going to help you in teaching. Notice in Mark, chapter 4, beginning there, verse 33. Here's an interesting verse. Mark 4, verse 33: "And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it. But without a parable spake he not unto them."
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"And when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples." But note, he spake unto them as they were able to hear it.
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Now, let me ask you a question. I watched Brother Yancy with his little son tonight telling him to come to him, and the little boy looked at him and then he just walked on over to him. Suppose he got that little one-year-old boy and said, "Now, son, I want to explain to you supralapsarianism and infralapsarianism. I want to teach you the difference between dichotomy and trichotomy." Is that little boy going to understand anything that his daddy says? No, not at all. And I got news for you, there are times in your life that you're not able to receive certain truths from God's Word.
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God has to prepare you. God has to prepare you. And He gives truth as you are able to receive it. If you really want to receive more truth and if you really want to understand it, then you have to do like the disciples. You have to get along with Him and let Him explain it to you.
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Now, if you look in your Bibles to John chapter 16, let me go a little bit further. Look in John chapter 16, beginning there with verse 12. John 16, verse 12. Look what our Lord tells His disciples. John 16, verse 12: He says, "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now." Isn't that amazing? He's talking to His disciples. "I've got many things to say to you, but you can't bear them now. You can't handle them now." Wow. Verse 13: "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you." So the Lord Jesus is saying, "Look, I've got many things to tell you. You can't handle them right now. But the Holy Spirit is going to be—His ministry is to illuminate your mind, enlighten you, and teach you things to come."
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Now, let me explain something to you. If you understand that there is a progressive illumination and if you understand that not everybody is able to receive truth—or at least the same truth—then it's going to make you far more patient and far more understanding and cut down on your frustration and cut down on your impatience. I had a dear brother in our church. He was an older man, older than me, and I was in this church for 15 years. And I taught the doctrines of grace in that one church for 15 years. I never will forget.
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I invited a preacher to come down. John Reisinger, some of you may have known old John. He was great on the doctrine of election. And he spoke five nights on the doctrine of election. And after the fifth night, this dear brother came up to me and he says, "Pastor, this is just absolutely wonderful. This is wonderful." He said, "My question to you is this: Why haven't you been preaching this for all these years?" And I said, "Brother, my question to you is this: Where have you been all these years? I have been preaching it." But he didn't see it, didn't hear it until that particular night or that particular week. So the point I'm trying to make is you have to understand that when you read the book of First John, how does John divide believers?
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He divides them into babes, to young men, and to fathers. A babe is not going to act like a young man and a young man is not going to act like a father. And the understanding of each one of them is different. So if I'm going to go and teach a babe, I'm not going to start out with the doctrine of reprobation. I'm just not going to do it. I'm going to start out with something else, probably. Because obviously, I mean, he's a babe, you have to feed them food that's convenient to them. You don't take a year-old baby and feed him a T-bone steak or a six-month-old baby. No, you feed them food which is convenient.
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And you have to understand that not everybody is able to receive truth at one time. Now, I'm talking about the present truth because there is a progressive enlightening and illumination of our minds. One of the problems that we experience as Christians is this: We're not accustomed to receiving truth as the present truth. By that I mean that we are comfortable with our salvation. We're comfortable with our understanding of certain doctrines, whether it's creation or salvation or justification or election. You know, we're comfortable with those things, and we really don't put the emphasis upon the preached Word of God the way we should.
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In fact, the average individual attaches absolutely no importance to the amount of time and study and effort and prayer that goes into the preparation of a message. The average Christian thinks this about the preaching of their preacher: "Easy come, easy go. All I got to do is go sit down and listen. That's fine with me. Get up and walk out. If I don't get it next Sunday, I'll get it next time he preaches it or next time he teaches on the subject." They have no earthly idea of the prayer and the study that's going. You know, the thing that gets me is this, and I'll be absolutely honest.
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I've had people ask me questions—personal questions, burning questions, questions that they really needed answered. And I say, "Well, let me think about this and I'll try to deal with it." And so I will bring a message answering all of their questions. And they're not there. And they're not there. The point I'm trying to make is this, folks: If we viewed and if we understood the phrase "the present truth," we would look far more differently at preaching. And we would accept it far more graciously and far better than we do.
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Let me try to explain it like this. If you were alive in the first century during the cult of emperor worship in the Roman Empire, the present truth would be the Lordship of Jesus Christ. You would either both serve and worship either Christ or Caesar. There is an application to the present truth. If you were alive in Germany in the 1500s, the present truth would be justification by faith alone, and you would either side with Luther and the Reformers, or you would hold to salvation by works as taught by the Roman Catholic Church. If you were alive in France or Geneva, Switzerland, in the 1500s, especially toward the middle of that era, the present truth would be the sovereignty of God. And you would either be joining with Calvin and the Reformers, or you would be holding to a humanistic position of the divine right of kings. If you were alive in Scotland during the 1500s, the present truth would be the kingship of Jesus Christ.
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You would either stand with John Knox and the Reformers, or you would hold a statist position. If you were alive in England in the 1700s, the present truth would be the purity of the church. And you would either hold with the Puritans, who wanted to purify the church, or you would be standing with the status quo in the old church. Which later on, by the way, when the church was not purified, and it was not coming to pass, there was a separatist movement, and so they left the church. And if you were alive during that time, you would either have separated yourself in order to have a pure worship, or you would have stayed there.
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For there was a mixture of paganism with it. Now watch this. Here we are in 2015. And do you realize the present truth today still involves the Lordship of Jesus Christ and still involves the superiority of His Word? Let me make this exceedingly plain to you. You will either worship and obey the Lord Jesus Christ and the Bible, or you will follow the humanist in sodomy and fornication and adultery and aborticide and social and governmental sins. You will be a politically correct individual if you do not stand with the Lord Jesus Christ. You will either stand for liberty and freedom or you will be swallowed up by tyrannical, despotic government. There is a present truth.
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I'm going to explain it just momentarily. Martin Luther said this—listen carefully. All the preachers know this quote, but listen to what Martin Luther said: "If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the truth of God, except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ, however boldly I may be professing Christ."
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"For the battle rages, there the loyalty of the soldier is proved, and to be steady on all the battlefields besides is mere flight and disgrace if he flinches at that point." Did you hear what he said? What he said teaches a present truth. He said, "If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the truth of God except that one little portion that is being attacked by the world, what I have done is effectively denied Christ and His Word, even though I profess with the loudest voice the rest of it." Well, I hope you understand there is a present truth. The truth that must be professed is that where the battle is raging. It does no good to profess truth if there is no battle, because no one's going to be listening, because there is a fight for truth in a battle. The question that you have to ask is this: How do we ascertain the present truth?
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OK, let me answer that first. It is a truth from God's Word that is under attack by the liberals, the humanists, and the unbelievers. All you have to do is look around. Ascertain what truth is being attacked by the left. Fine. That's the spot where you need to stand. You need to say, "They're attacking life. I'm going to be pro-life. They're attacking the right of self-defense. I will be pro-self-defense. They're attacking marriage. I'm going to stand for marriage." You have to fight and you have to stand where the enemy is attacking. Secondly, listen carefully. I would answer that the present truth, which is being the present truth, is that which is being proclaimed by God's men from God's Word as necessity is laid upon them in the providence of God. And mind you, when I say God's men, I'm not talking about mama-called and papa-sent ear-tickling preachers, but real genuine men of God. Think about this. In fact, let me show you—look in Titus chapter 1. Titus chapter 1, watch carefully.
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Titus chapter 1, beginning there in verse 1. Here's an interesting truth. Titus 1, verse 1: Here it is, "Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; in hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began." When did God promise it? Before the world began. Were you there? No.
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Well, how do you know about this? Look in verse 3: "But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour." How does God manifest His Word? It is through preaching. Do you know the Bible says in Amos 3:7, "Surely the Lord God will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets." Do you know what the present truth is? The present truth is that which is being laid on the heart of God's men in the providence of God as necessity is placed upon them.
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Let me give you an example. Just recently, I was in a chaplain's conference in Virginia. When I was invited to come up and preach, I instantly knew the message that I was going to preach. I knew it. I knew exactly what God would have me preach. So when I got there, I was the very first preacher. There were six other men, I believe, five or six. I was the first one. And I brought a message on the judgment of God. Do you know something? The rest of that day and the next day, those other five or six preachers all brought messages on the judgment of God. What?
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I said to the people, "You better be paying attention. God is giving you a warning. You better listen." Because here were godly men, all of us preaching the same thing.
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Now, let me show you. I want you to turn to two passages. The first one is Nehemiah chapter 8. We're going to look at Nehemiah chapter 8. I'm going to show you what preaching is. And I'm going to start in the middle of verse 7. And the reason I'm going to start in the middle of verse 7 is because that way I don't have to pronounce all the names of the Levites. OK, so look in Nehemiah chapter 8 and the middle of verse 7. Here's what real preaching is.
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There's very little of it in our country today, but here it is. Nehemiah chapter 8, beginning with verse 7 in the middle: "and the Levites." You see that. Find that. Nehemiah chapter 8, the middle of verse 7: "and the Levites." Here we go. "And the Levites caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place." Now, watch. How did they do that? "So they read in the book of the law of God distinctly"—that's exposition—"and gave the sense"—that's explanation—"and caused them to understand the reading"—that's application. What is preaching? It's exposition, explanation, and application. You know, when I first started preaching over 50 years ago,
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I quoted an awful lot of Scripture in my preaching. Sometimes I would quote as many as 100 to 200 verses as I preached. I just quoted. You didn't turn to them. I quoted them because I wanted—I wanted to put all the Scripture out I could. And you know what was happening? Here's what was happening. I'd walk out the door and folks would shake my hand, say, "Wow, you can really quote that Scripture." I wasn't quoting Scripture so they could find out that I could quote Scripture.
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And it dawned on me one day: God's people do not need Scriptures quoted to them. If that's all they need, they can get a record or CD. What they need is the Word of God expounded, explained, and applied. He said that's what real preaching is. Would you listen to this? When you have the Word of God expounded and explained and applied, God is going to give that to you for your blessing.
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For your benefit and for your warning. It is that truth that is laid upon God's preachers in His providence as necessity is laid upon them. And they are presenting it to you out of His Word. When I was 17 years old, after I got out of high school, I went to boot camp in Fort Jackson, South Carolina. I was raised on a farm. I went in the mess hall that morning.
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And I saw something they were trying to feed me that I could not identify. It was creamed beef on toast. There's a lot of different names for that in the service, I can assure you. But being raised on a farm, we had eggs, grits, biscuits, gravy, meat, potatoes. And I looked at that creamed beef on toast, I said, "I am not going to eat that slop." And I didn't. I just sat there.
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We got up, went outside. That's when I found out they had planned for us that day a five-mile hike with full field packs. You know, about nine o'clock that morning, that creamed beef on toast got to looking very appetizing. I wish I'd eaten it.
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Now listen to me carefully. The cooks—neither the cooks nor the sergeants came around at five that morning and said, "Now, Private Weaver, what would you like for breakfast today?" They never asked me. They knew what they had planned. They put all the protein and the carbohydrates out for me to eat. And I refused it. And I'm the one that suffered. The point I'm trying to make is this: You don't get to tell God's preachers necessarily what to preach. You may like it or you may not like it. But if it is exposition and explanation and application, God has put it there for you. And you better eat it. You better take it because it is the present truth for you.
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God sets in front of His people that which they need for that week to face their test and their trials and their tribulations and their tasks. And if you refuse it, you're the loser. And you say, "Well, I get mad. I get upset. I don't like that." I don't care. You're the one that loses. He's in charge, not you. And He knows what you need.
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Now, I want you to look in Jeremiah, chapter 3. Jeremiah, chapter 3, just a few more verses and we're done. But look in Jeremiah, chapter 3. Jeremiah, chapter 3, verses 14 and 15. Watch carefully. Jeremiah 3, beginning there, verse 14. Here it is. God says, "Turn, O backsliding children, saith the Lord; for I am married unto you: and I will take you one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion." Look at this promise.
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"And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding." What's God saying? "I'll give you pastors according to my heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding." And the knowledge and understanding they feed you is that which He gives them. And that is the present truth for you.
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Now, just two applications. The first one is this: Are you established in the present truth? Do you have any idea what the present truth is? Tonight, the present truth happens to be the present truth. You should know what Peter is talking about from 2 Peter chapter 1 and verse 12. You should know what it means to be established in the present truth. Not just things that you have heard in times past—you ought not to forget them—but you surely should make application of that what you've heard tonight and this week. And what you'll hear next week and the week after. Now, let me show you one last passage. Turn in your Bibles to 1 Thessalonians, chapter 2. Let me show you how you should receive the present truth. Watch this carefully, because this will determine whether or not you receive the present truth or not.
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So what is your attitude then toward the preached Word? Do you realize a lot of people say when it comes to preaching, "Ho hum" or "Hurry up, let's get this thing over with. Well, I've got a roast in the oven, you better let me out by 12." You know, most people never come to get in with God, they come to get out. If you ever got in, you wouldn't really care what time you ever got out.
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But let me show you how you should receive the present truth. Here it is. 1 Thessalonians, chapter 2, look in verse 13. The Apostle Paul says, "For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe."
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So you didn't say, "Ah, that's Brother Ashwood's opinion. That's what Brother Barber thinks. That's what Brother Weaver thinks." No, no. Paul said, "When you heard the word that we preached, you didn't receive it as the word from Paul or the word from Silas or the word from Barnabas. You received it as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe." So here's my question: When you hear the exposition and explanation and application from the Word of God, do you really and truly receive it as the Word of God?
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"This is God's will for my life. This is how I'm to live. This is how I'm to direct my life. This is how I'm to make the application. This is what I'm to do in my work and my family." Do you really receive it as the Word of God? Peter said, "I want you to be established in the present truth." And the present truth is not court decisions.
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It's not the ravings of lawyers. It's not the acts of legislative bodies. It's that which God's Word declares from God's man in the providence of God as necessity is laid upon him. And when you hear it, you must receive it as it is in truth, the Word of God, which effectually worketh also in you who believe. The present truth is that which is right in front of you. Are you established?
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deepseek | deepseek-v4-pro | clean_readable_transcript | 2026-06-06T00:34:57Z

The Present Truth

John Weaver | Freedom Ministries

John Weaver expounds 2 Peter 1:12–15, emphasizing the need for believers to be established in the 'present truth'—the truth God sets before them through the preached Word. He distinguishes between revelation (now complete in Christ) and progressive illumination, where the Holy Spirit enlightens minds to already-revealed truth. The present truth is that which is under attack in the current age and is proclaimed by God's men as necessity is laid upon them. Believers must receive preaching as the Word of God, not as human opinion, and apply it to their lives.

Introduction: Peter’s Concern for Remembrance

Peter writes to remind believers of truths they already know, emphasizing that he will not be negligent in stirring them up by repetition.

2 Peter chapter 1, verses 12 through 15. I want to bring a message which I've entitled "The Present Truth." Look, if you would, 2 Peter 1, beginning with verse 12. Peter writes,

Scripture Reading — 2 Peter 1:12-15

"Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth. Yea, I think it is meet as long as I am in this tabernacle to stir up you by putting you in remembrance, knowing that shortly I must put off this tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ has shown me. Moreover, I will endeavor that you may be able after my decease to have these things always in your remembrance." Peter instructs us in a very important principle. If you look at verse 12, "Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth."

Interestingly, Peter states that he does not wish to be negligent by not putting them into remembrance of truth, even though he realizes they already know the truth.

The Necessity of Repeated Truth

Truth must be heard over and over to be grounded and established; repetition aids learning and prevents forgetfulness.

Christ’s Example of Repetition

Jesus taught the same people again as was His custom, modeling the method of repeating truth.

Scripture Reading — Mark 10:1

"And he arose from thence and cometh into the coasts of Judea by the farther side of Jordan."

Now, listen,

Scripture Reading — Mark 10:1

"and the people resort unto him again. And as he was wont, he taught them again."

The Danger of Letting Truth Slip

Hebrews 2:1 warns that we must give earnest heed to what we have heard, lest we let it slip; there is a tendency to forget.

The Meaning of 'Established'

The Greek word 'sterizo' means to be steadfast, fixed, confirmed, constant; Peter wants believers firmly established in the present truth.

Scripture Reading — Colossians 2:7

The word "established" here—it's the Greek word "sterizo," and it literally means to be steadfast, to be fixed, to be confirmed, to be constant, to be made firm, to be established in one's mind. So Peter is saying, "I want the truth to be as firmly established in your mind. I want it to be constant. I want it to be confirmed. I want it to be there." You know, the Apostle Paul said in Colossians 2:7, "Rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving." So God, through his Word, tells us we have to be established in the truth. Now, I don't know if you understand this or not, but there are certain blessings of being established in truth. I want you to hold 2 Peter chapter 1, but look in your Bibles very quickly to Psalm 112. Psalm 112. And I want to just take the time to read the 10 verses in this Psalm. And I want you to see exactly what I'm talking about, about being established in truth. In Psalm 112, beginning there with verse 1, the Scripture says, "Praise ye the Lord."

Blessings of Being Established (Psalm 112)

Psalm 112 describes the established man: he shall not be moved, his heart is fixed, he is not afraid of evil tidings.

Now, you have to also consider the opposite. When you look in James 1:8, what does God say?

Scripture Reading — James 1:8

"A double minded man is unstable in all of his ways."

The Danger of Double-Mindedness

James 1:8 warns that a double-minded man is unstable; like a squirrel indecisively crossing the road, he gets run over.

Defining 'Present Truth'

The Greek 'pareimi' means 'at hand' or 'right in front of you'; it is the truth immediately before you, not relative or new truth.

Scripture Reading — 2 Corinthians 10:11

"Let such an one think this, that such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present."

What Present Truth Is Not

It is not relative truth or new truth; God’s Word is absolute and unchanging, and revelation is complete in Christ.

Scripture Reading — Hebrews 1:1-3

"God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in times past unto the fathers by the prophets."

Progressive Revelation in Scripture

God revealed truth progressively over 1600 years; examples include the unfolding of Messianic prophecies and the instruction of Apollos.

Scripture Reading — Genesis 3:15

"Them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breast. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little." You know, that's exactly the way God revealed truth: here a little, and there a little. Let's take this idea and apply it to the Lord Jesus Christ. Our brother tonight spoke from Genesis 3:15. That is known as the protevangelium. The protevangelium is just simply the first promise of the Messiah in the Bible. And there's a number of things that could be pointed out in that verse. I pointed out a number as well. But the only thing that you find about the Messiah in Genesis 3:15 is, number one, that He's going to be born of a woman. Number two, that He's going to defeat His enemy. Number three, that He would be wounded. Or you could say, number four, that it implies a first coming and a second coming. There are a number of things that could be brought out of that verse. But the only thing that you really see in that verse, just reading that verse, is the Messiah is going to come of a woman. Do you realize it is only when you get to Genesis chapter 49 and verse 10 that you find that the Messiah is going to be from the tribe of Judah? So He's going to be born of a woman, but He's going to come from the tribe of Judah.

Now, another illustration is found in Acts chapter 19. Look at verses 1 through 5 there.

Scripture Reading — Acts 19:1-5

"And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, he said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost." "And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ."

So here were people that only knew the preaching of John. They did not know anything after that Christ had come, had died, was buried, resurrected, and the descent of the Holy Spirit.

Progressive Illumination Today

Though revelation is complete, the Holy Spirit progressively illuminates our minds to understand truth as we are able to bear it.

Scripture Reading — Mark 4:33-34

"And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it. But without a parable spake he not unto them." "And when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples."

But note, he spake unto them as they were able to hear it.

Scripture Reading — John 16:12-14

"I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now."

Isn't that amazing? He's talking to His disciples.

Scripture Reading — John 16:12-14

"I've got many things to say to you, but you can't bear them now. You can't handle them now."

Wow. Verse 13:

Scripture Reading — John 16:12-14

"Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you."

So the Lord Jesus is saying,

Scripture Reading — John 16:12-14

"Look, I've got many things to tell you. You can't handle them right now. But the Holy Spirit is going to be—His ministry is to illuminate your mind, enlighten you, and teach you things to come."

Application: Receiving the Present Truth

Believers must receive preaching as the Word of God, not as man’s opinion, and be established in the truth that is under attack in our day.

Titus chapter 1, beginning there in verse 1. Here's an interesting truth. Titus 1, verse 1: Here it is,

Scripture Reading — Titus 1:1-3

"Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; in hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began."

When did God promise it? Before the world began. Were you there? No. Well, how do you know about this? Look in verse 3:

Scripture Reading — Titus 1:1-3

"But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour."

The Present Truth

John Weaver | SermonAudio

Lecture Metadata	Details
Speaker	John Weaver
Source	SermonAudio
Media ID	12121594584
Subject	Old Testament Studies
Course	Genesis: Creation, Fall, and Dominion
Genre	Sermon
Date	2015-12-11
Dictation Name
Book	Book 076: Genesis: Creation, Fall, and Dominion — Chapter 5
Source Timed Segments	87

Lecture Guide

Outline

Introduction: Peter’s Concern for Remembrance: Peter writes to remind believers of truths they already know, emphasizing that he will not be negligent in stirring them up by repetition.
The Necessity of Repeated Truth: Truth must be heard over and over to be grounded and established; repetition aids learning and prevents forgetfulness.
Christ’s Example of Repetition: Jesus taught the same people again as was His custom, modeling the method of repeating truth.
The Danger of Letting Truth Slip: Hebrews 2:1 warns that we must give earnest heed to what we have heard, lest we let it slip; there is a tendency to forget.
The Meaning of 'Established': The Greek word 'sterizo' means to be steadfast, fixed, confirmed, constant; Peter wants believers firmly established in the present truth.
Blessings of Being Established (Psalm 112): Psalm 112 describes the established man: he shall not be moved, his heart is fixed, he is not afraid of evil tidings.
The Danger of Double-Mindedness: James 1:8 warns that a double-minded man is unstable; like a squirrel indecisively crossing the road, he gets run over.
Defining 'Present Truth': The Greek 'pareimi' means 'at hand' or 'right in front of you'; it is the truth immediately before you, not relative or new truth.
What Present Truth Is Not: It is not relative truth or new truth; God’s Word is absolute and unchanging, and revelation is complete in Christ.
Progressive Revelation in Scripture: God revealed truth progressively over 1600 years; examples include the unfolding of Messianic prophecies and the instruction of Apollos.
Progressive Illumination Today: Though revelation is complete, the Holy Spirit progressively illuminates our minds to understand truth as we are able to bear it.
Application: Receiving the Present Truth: Believers must receive preaching as the Word of God, not as man’s opinion, and be established in the truth that is under attack in our day.

Major Themes

Key Arguments

Truth must be repeated to be established

Peter’s example shows that even those who know the truth need constant reminding to be grounded and steadfast.

2 Peter 1:12: 'Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth.'

Forgetfulness is a real danger

Hebrews 2:1 warns that we must give earnest heed to what we have heard, lest we let it slip; there is a natural tendency to forget.

Hebrews 2:1: 'Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.'

Present truth is not relative or new

God’s truth is absolute and unchanging; there is no new revelation beyond Christ, who is the fullness of grace and truth.

Psalm 119:89: 'Forever, O Lord, is thy word settled in the heavens.' John 1:17: 'Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.'

God reveals truth progressively in Scripture

The Bible was written over 1600 years with progressive unfolding; examples include Messianic prophecies and the instruction of Apollos.

Isaiah 28:10: 'For precept must be upon precept...line upon line...here a little, and there a little.' Acts 18:24-26 shows Apollos being taught more perfectly.

Illumination is progressive, not revelation

The Holy Spirit enlightens believers to understand truth already revealed, but not all at once; we must grow in ability to bear it.

John 16:12-13: 'I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now...the Spirit of truth...will guide you into all truth.'

Preaching is God’s means of manifesting present truth

God manifests His Word through preaching that expounds, explains, and applies Scripture; believers must receive it as God’s Word for their current need.

Titus 1:3: 'But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching.' 1 Thessalonians 2:13: 'Ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God.'

The present truth is where the battle rages

Believers must identify the truth under attack in their generation and stand firmly on it, or they effectively deny Christ.

Luther’s quote: 'If I profess...every portion of the truth of God, except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ.'

Rejecting present truth leads to personal loss

Like a soldier refusing the meal provided before a march, believers who reject the preached Word suffer spiritual loss; God provides what is needed.

Illustration of refusing creamed beef on toast before a five-mile hike; God sets before His people what they need for the week.

Scripture References

2 Peter 1:12-15: Peter’s commitment to remind believers of truth and his desire for them to be established in the present truth.
2 Corinthians 13:5: Paul’s command to examine ourselves whether we be in the faith; rehearsing truth enables self-examination.
Mark 10:1: Jesus taught the people again as was His custom, modeling the repetition of truth.
Hebrews 2:1: Warning to give earnest heed to what we have heard lest we let it slip; danger of forgetfulness.
Colossians 2:7: Believers are to be rooted, built up, and established in the faith.
Psalm 112:1-10: Description of the man who fears the Lord: his heart is established, he shall not be moved or afraid.
James 1:8: A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways; contrast to being established.
Luke 13:1: Use of 'present' (pareimi) to mean those standing right in front of Jesus.
2 Corinthians 10:11: Paul uses 'present' to mean being physically present with the Corinthians.
Psalm 119:89: God’s Word is forever settled in heaven; truth is unchanging.
John 17:17: Jesus prayed, 'Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.'
John 1:17: The law came by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ; Christ is the fullness of truth.
Hebrews 1:1-3: God spoke in times past by prophets, but in these last days by His Son; no new revelation beyond Christ.
Isaiah 28:9-10: Precept upon precept, line upon line; God reveals truth little by little.
Genesis 3:15: The protevangelium, first promise of the Messiah; progressive revelation of Christ.
Acts 18:24-28: Apollos knew only John’s baptism; Aquila and Priscilla expounded the way of God more perfectly—present truth.
Acts 19:1-5: Disciples at Ephesus knew only John’s baptism; Paul taught them about Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
Mark 4:33-34: Jesus spoke the word as they were able to hear it; truth is given progressively according to ability.
John 16:12-14: Jesus had more to say but disciples couldn’t bear it; the Spirit would guide into all truth.
Titus 1:1-3: God manifests His Word through preaching committed to Paul; preaching is the means of present truth.

Historical References

Martin Luther and the Reformation (1500s Germany): The present truth of that era was justification by faith alone; believers had to side with Luther or the Roman Catholic works-based salvation.
John Calvin and the Reformation in Geneva (1500s): The present truth was the sovereignty of God; believers had to join Calvin or hold to humanistic divine right of kings.
John Knox and the Scottish Reformation (1500s): The present truth was the kingship of Jesus Christ; believers had to stand with Knox or hold a statist position.
The Puritans and Separatists in England (1700s): The present truth was the purity of the church; believers had to purify or separate from the mixed church.
Martin Luther quote on confessing Christ at the point of battle: Luther stated that to avoid the truth under attack is to deny Christ, regardless of other bold professions.

Important Quotes

Wherefore, I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth.

This is the key verse of the sermon, establishing the theme that believers need constant reminding to be grounded in the truth that is immediately before them.

If I profess with the loudest voice and clearest exposition every portion of the truth of God, except precisely that little point which the world and the devil are at that moment attacking, I am not confessing Christ, however boldly I may be professing Christ.

Luther’s quote defines the concept of present truth as the truth under attack, which must be confessed or else Christ is denied.

For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

This verse teaches the proper reception of preaching—as God’s Word, not human opinion—and is the application for believers.

I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.

Jesus’ words show that truth is given progressively as believers are able to receive it, supporting progressive illumination.

A double minded man is unstable in all of his ways.

This contrasts with being established; the double-minded person lacks firmness in truth and is easily swayed.

Discussion Questions

[Question]

Why does Peter feel it necessary to remind believers of truths they already know? What does this teach us about our own need for repetition?

[Context]

Peter says he will not be negligent to put them in remembrance, though they know and are established in the present truth.

[Question]

What is the difference between revelation and illumination? How does understanding this distinction affect our view of 'new truth' claims?

[Context]

Weaver explains that revelation is complete in Christ, but the Holy Spirit progressively illuminates our minds to understand Scripture.

[Question]

How can we identify the 'present truth' in our own generation? What truths are currently under attack that require our bold confession?

[Context]

Weaver gives historical examples and states that present truth is where the battle rages; believers must stand there.

[Question]

In what ways do we treat preaching as merely the word of men rather than the Word of God? How can we cultivate a more receptive attitude?

[Context]

1 Thessalonians 2:13 is cited to show that believers should receive preaching as God’s Word, which effectually works in them.

[Question]

Why is it dangerous to be 'double-minded'? How does being established in truth protect us from instability?

[Context]

James 1:8 and the squirrel illustration show the peril of indecision; Psalm 112 shows the security of the established heart.

[Question]

How does the concept of progressive illumination affect our patience with other believers who may not yet grasp certain doctrines?

[Context]

Weaver notes that believers are at different stages (babes, young men, fathers) and can only receive truth as they are able.

Applications

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