How to Maintain Fellowship With God
Michael Durham teaches that maintaining fellowship with God requires embracing our identity as sinners saved by grace, walking in the light of God's holiness, and relying on the cleansing power of Jesus' blood.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of walking in the light of God's truth, maintaining fellowship with Him through courageous confession of sin, and understanding the depth of Christ's sacrifice for believers. It highlights the need to agree with God about sin, embrace His forgiveness, and experience the freedom and assurance that come from being in right relationship with Him.
Sermon Outline
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I. God Is Holy
- God is light with no darkness at all
- Holiness defines God's moral character
- God's holiness demands recognition of our sinfulness
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II. Christianity's Essence Is Fellowship With God
- True fellowship requires walking in the light
- Walking in darkness breaks fellowship
- Fellowship is restored through confession and cleansing
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III. Fellowship Is Based on the Death of Jesus
- The blood of Jesus cleanses from all sin
- Confession leads to forgiveness and cleansing
- Denial of sin deceives and breaks fellowship
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IV. Christians Are Light Yet Still Battle Darkness
- Believers are sanctified but remain sinners
- Grace is essential for ongoing transformation
- Rejoicing in grace fuels perseverance in faith
Key Quotes
“God's goal tonight for the rest of your life here and beyond this world is for you to rejoice in this fact that you are a sinner saved by grace.” — Michael Durham
“God is light and in him is no darkness at all.” — Michael Durham
“You are a saint, but you are still yet a sinner that needs nothing but grace.” — Michael Durham
Application Points
- Regularly confess your sins to maintain a close fellowship with God.
- Keep God as the center of your thoughts and life to avoid self-centeredness.
- Rejoice daily in the grace that saves and sustains you despite your ongoing sinfulness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that God is light?
God being light means He is holy, pure, and without any darkness or sin in His character.
How can I maintain fellowship with God?
By walking in the light, confessing sins, and relying on the cleansing power of Jesus' blood.
Why is it important to recognize that I am still a sinner after salvation?
Recognizing ongoing sinfulness keeps us humble and dependent on God's grace for continual cleansing and growth.
What should I do if I don't feel lost or guilty of sin?
Pray earnestly for God to reveal your true condition and make you aware of your need for His grace.
Can theological knowledge alone sustain my spiritual life?
No, theological accuracy must be accompanied by experiential reality and a living relationship with God.