Endurance in Faith
Endurance in Faith16
I Pray Not That Thou Shouldst Take Them Out of the World
By C.H. Spurgeon0JHN 17:15PHP 1:23C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that while believers long for the day they will be with Jesus, He does not pray for their immediate removal from the world. Instead, Christ desires His followers to remain on earth to fulfill their purpose and to be a blessing to others. Spurgeon warns against the selfish desire to escape troubles, urging Christians to focus on glorifying God through their lives, even amidst struggles. He reminds us that our time on earth is valuable and that we should trust in God's timing for our ultimate homecoming. The sermon encourages believers to embrace their earthly journey while relying on God's strength to endure.
Consider Him
By K.P. Yohannan0EPH 1:17K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of fixing our eyes on Jesus to avoid losing heart amidst life's challenges. He illustrates how early Christians endured severe persecution by remembering Jesus, drawing strength from their faith in Him rather than their circumstances. The sermon highlights that true endurance comes from a personal relationship with Christ, as seen in the lives of Stephen, Paul, and the psalmist who found hope and clarity by considering the Lord. Yohannan shares his own journey of rediscovering Jesus amidst ministry pressures, underscoring that our greatest need is to keep Jesus at the center of our lives. Ultimately, he encourages believers to pursue a deep, personal connection with Christ as the source of strength and hope.
Running Life's Race
By A.W. Tozer0HEB 12:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the Christian life as a race that requires patience and endurance, urging believers to focus on their personal journey rather than competing with one another. He highlights the importance of understanding that while the race may be challenging, there is a victor's reward for those who persevere. Tozer warns against the dangers of losing sight of Jesus and encourages believers to support one another rather than engage in competition. The sermon serves as a reminder that the Christian race is a collective journey of faith, not a rivalry among churches.
Permanency of the Covenant
By Bill Stafford1.3K54:54HEB 6:13Bill Stafford emphasizes the permanency of God's covenant, explaining that it is everlasting because it is rooted in God's unchanging nature and His promises. He illustrates how God swore by Himself to Abraham, highlighting the importance of endurance in the covenant relationship. Stafford encourages believers to recognize the fullness of life in Christ, asserting that true fulfillment comes from understanding our covenant with God rather than seeking external validation. He stresses that the Holy Spirit empowers us to live out this covenant, making us responsible for our commitment to God. Ultimately, Stafford calls for a deeper awareness of our identity in Christ and the transformative power of living in covenant relationship with Him.
All the Days of My Warfare Would I Wait, Till
By F.B. Meyer0EPH 6:102TI 2:4F.B. Meyer emphasizes the Christian life as a soldier's campaign, urging believers to endure hardships and remain focused on pleasing Jesus without getting entangled in worldly affairs. He highlights the constant nature of spiritual warfare, where vigilance and prayer are essential, and encourages taking up the full armor of God to withstand evil. Meyer reassures that a time of release will come for those who fight the good fight, drawing parallels to the courage required in both action and waiting. He illustrates that sometimes the greatest battle is the patience to endure and remain steadfast in faith. Ultimately, believers are reminded that their efforts will be rewarded by the righteous Judge.
The Hermit Crab
By David Wilkerson0PSA 55:4David Wilkerson reflects on King David's weariness and desire for peace amidst struggles, paralleling it with the life of hermit crabs that abandon their fight for survival. He emphasizes that while some crabs seek safety in discarded shells, they ultimately lose their strength and vitality, illustrating the spiritual truth that believers must engage in their struggles to grow stronger in faith. Just as crabs that continue to fight develop resilience, Christians who face their challenges with trust in Jesus find true refuge and strength. Wilkerson encourages believers to embrace their battles rather than retreating into false safety, as true growth comes from enduring hardships.
Jesus as the First and the Last (Rev. 1:11, 17; 2:8)
By Mike Bickle161:12:17Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of Jesus being the 'First and the Last' in Revelation, highlighting that this title encapsulates both His divine sovereignty and His human experience. He explains that understanding these titles equips believers to endure hardships and remain steadfast in their faith. Bickle stresses that Jesus' humanity allows Him to empathize with our struggles, and His resurrection assures us of eternal rewards for our faithfulness. The sermon calls for a deeper revelation of Jesus to transform our lives and align our hearts with His eternal purpose.
The Grace That Is in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 2
By John Nelson Darby0ROM 1:3EPH 4:112TI 2:1HEB 10:25John Nelson Darby emphasizes the importance of strength in grace for Timothy's service, urging him to endure hardships and focus on spiritual labor rather than worldly affairs. He discusses the dual nature of the gospel, highlighting God's promises and the necessity of personal purity amidst the challenges of false teachings and infidelity within the Church. Darby warns against entanglement in foolish disputes and encourages a commitment to righteousness and faith, while recognizing the need for discernment in fellowship. He reassures that despite the Church's decline, God's grace remains active and sufficient for believers, and the Scriptures provide enduring guidance. Ultimately, he calls for a steadfast pursuit of godliness and unity among those who genuinely seek the Lord.
Of Patience.
By John Gill0ISA 30:18ROM 5:3ROM 12:121TH 1:3HEB 12:1JAS 1:3JAS 5:71PE 2:212PE 1:5REV 3:10John Gill emphasizes the vital role of patience in the Christian life, asserting that without it, one cannot truly submit to God's will, endure adversity, or express gratitude. He explains that patience is essential for bearing afflictions, enduring reproach for Christ, and waiting for divine answers, and it is a grace that must be actively pursued and exercised. Gill highlights that patience is a gift from God, cultivated through trials and the scriptures, and is necessary for spiritual growth and the fulfillment of God's promises. He encourages believers to look to Christ as the ultimate example of patience and to draw strength from the hope of eternal glory. The sermon serves as a reminder that patience is not only a virtue but a crucial aspect of faith that leads to spiritual maturity.
Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Our Faith
By Mike Bickle1553:08HEB 12:1Mike Bickle emphasizes Jesus as the master builder and leader of our faith, reflecting on over 32 years of ministry and the divine orchestration behind it. He encourages believers to endure through challenges and obstacles, reminding them that Jesus is both the author and finisher of their faith, guiding them towards their corporate destiny. Bickle highlights the importance of keeping our focus on Jesus rather than the blessings or challenges we face, as God's plan unfolds in ways we may not fully understand. He shares prophetic insights from Bob Jones about the future of the church and the coming challenges, urging believers to remain steadfast and united in their pursuit of God's calling.
1 Peter 4:5
By John Gill0ROM 14:101PE 4:5John Gill emphasizes the accountability of all individuals before God, who will judge every blasphemy and harsh word spoken against Him, Christ, the Gospel, and righteous individuals. This message serves to comfort believers, encouraging them to endure slander and not seek personal vengeance, but rather to trust in God's righteous judgment. Gill reminds the congregation that Jesus Christ is appointed as the judge of both the living and the dead, and that the day of judgment is imminent, urging believers to remain steadfast in their faith.
1 Peter 2:19
By John Gill01PE 2:19John Gill emphasizes that enduring suffering for the sake of a good conscience towards God is commendable and reflects God's grace. He explains that such endurance, even in the face of unjust treatment, is acceptable to God and demonstrates a deep commitment to faith and righteousness. Gill highlights that this suffering can manifest through harsh words, reproaches, or physical harm, yet it should be met with patience and resignation to God's will. The sermon encourages believers to maintain their integrity and faithfulness in challenging circumstances, as it ultimately glorifies God.
Grace Must Change Us
By C.H. Spurgeon02TI 2:20C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that grace must transform us into valuable vessels for God's use, comparing us to silver and gold that withstands trials, unlike wooden or earthen vessels that are easily damaged or broken. He warns that nominal Christians are susceptible to being led astray by false teachings, which can ruin their character and faith. Spurgeon reflects on the sad reality of those who once appeared strong but succumbed to temptation, becoming like broken pots outside the house of Christ. The sermon calls for a deep, transformative grace that equips believers to endure challenges and serve honorably in the church.
If God Doesn't Tempt Me, Who Does?
By Shane Idleman1528:08JAS 1:12Shane Idleman addresses the pervasive issue of temptation in his sermon 'If God Doesn't Tempt Me, Who Does?', emphasizing that while God does not tempt us, we are often led astray by our own desires, the world, and the devil. He highlights the importance of enduring temptation and making wise choices, reminding us that the consequences of giving in to temptation can lead to sin and ultimately death. Idleman encourages the congregation to bring their struggles to light, seek God's help, and understand that temptation is a normal part of life that can be overcome with faith and discipline. He stresses the need for humility and reliance on God to resist temptation and make choices that align with spiritual wisdom.
The Book of Revelation - Mystery or Illumination? (Part 1)
By Shane Idleman111:10:36LAM 3:22MAT 24:36ROM 8:181TH 4:162TI 4:7HEB 10:36JAS 1:121PE 5:8REV 1:3REV 21:4Shane Idleman explores the complexities of the Book of Revelation, emphasizing that it is both a mystery and a source of illumination. He discusses the historical context of eschatology, the importance of endurance and perseverance in faith, and the dangers of deception in understanding biblical prophecy. Idleman encourages believers to hold their eschatological views loosely, recognizing the diversity of interpretations while affirming the certainty of Christ's return and the need for spiritual readiness. He concludes by urging the church to seek God earnestly and prepare for potential trials ahead.
Does God Have a Wonderful Plan for You?
By Shane Idleman101:10:08MAT 10:16Shane Idleman addresses the misconception that God's wonderful plan for our lives equates to a life free of suffering and challenges. He emphasizes that while God does have a wonderful plan, it often involves trials and tribulations that can lead to spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with Him. Idleman warns against false conversions that arise from unrealistic expectations of a problem-free faith, urging believers to understand the cost of discipleship and the importance of enduring through hardships. He encourages the congregation to find joy and value in their relationship with God, regardless of life's difficulties, and to recognize that true faith is not based on circumstances but on the character of God.