1. WHAT WAS THE CHURCH LIKE? a) Weak (v8) b) Faithful (v8 & v10) c) Undergoing opposition (v9) 2. HOW DOES CHRIST ADDRESS THE CHURCH? a) The holy one (v7) b) The true one (v7) c) The one who knows (v8) 3. HOW DOES CHRIST ENCOURAGE THE CHURCH? a) The open door (v7) b) The…
Principles of mission: Take the gospel to people groups not political nations The gospel has power in itself. The spread of the gospel is by those in the local culture People have to be sent – missionaries Who sends these missionaries? The Holy Spirit & the local church There are two paths of mission:…
1. Be Strong… in the Lord (2 Chronicles 20:1-12) 2. Stand Firm (2 Chronicles 20:13-22) IS BEING A CHRISTIAN EASY? 1. Expect Opposition 2. Don’t underestimate the spiritual forces of evil. 3. Fight the spiritual battle with spiritual weapons
1) LORD DELIVER US! (1 Pet 5:8-9, Mark 7:20-23) From the evil one From our evil hearts 2) LORD DEFEND US! (Psalm 25:1, 16-18; Psalm 27:1,5) From our enemies 3) LORD DISPLAY US! (Eph 3:10, Col 1:21, Jude 25) Before the angels
1. Elders’ Pay Policy (5:17-18) Respect and Remuneration 2. Elders’ Disciplinary Policy (5:19-21) Avoid the Frivolous; Address the Serious 3. Elders’ Recruitment Policy (5:22-25) Don’t go on Instinct, go on Godly Insight 4. Workplace Behaviour Policy (6:1-2) Respect your Boss because your Lord’s reputation is at stake (v1) Don’t take Liberties; Show your Love (v2)
The Foundational Truths: 1. God is Light 2. God is Love “Doctrinal orthodoxy that neglects holy living does not lead to congregations that demonstrate the gospel. Wrong living is as much a denial of the gospel as wrong thinking.” 1. Christ, our Life, is eternal (v1) 2. Christ was made visible (v2) 3….