Words of Encouragement - Ajay Chakravarthy & Dave Bertsch - September 20, 2020
http://rlcfchurch.org/words-of-encouragement River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker urges listeners to examine their lives regarding how they receive God's word, warning against arguing over doctrines when their personal spiritual life lacks fruit. True reception of God's word comes with meekness and humility, recognizing it as the word of God, not man. Furthermore, the message emphasizes submitting to all authorities, both earthly and in the workplace, because God works all things together for the good of His children.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
How do we receive God's word?Instead of arguing over doctrine or trying to find faults to excuse our own sin, we should examine our lives for true spiritual fruit.
The example of the Thessalonian believersThe Thessalonians accepted the gospel message not as human opinion, but truly as the word of God which actively works in believers.
The Pharisees rejecting Jesus through scriptureThe Pharisees and chief priests refused to listen to Jesus and used a selective reading of scripture to argue that no prophet comes from Galilee.John 7:45
Finding the light in IsaiahIf people look for reasons to reject truth they will find them, but a humble heart seeking the light will find the scriptural promise fulfilled in Galilee.
How God uses authorities for our goodGod establishes authorities as ministers for our good, just as the historical census under an ungodly king worked to fulfill scripture in Jesus' life.Romans 13:4
Following the footprints of Jesus in the workplaceServants are called to be submissive and respectful to their masters, even unreasonable ones, following the suffering example of Christ.1 Peter 2:18
Working unto the Lord like DanielBelievers should not despise their forty hours a week in the workplace, but faithfully submit to authority and work as unto the Lord who rewards us.
The origin of rebellionThe devil was the first being to rebel against authority, leading a third of the angels away with his discontentment.
Warnings from Jude and PeterBoth Jude and Peter write sternly about those who despise dominion, speak evil of angelic majesties, and walk after their own corrupt desires.Jude 1:82 Peter 2:10
Miriam's speaking against MosesThe Lord rebuked Miriam for speaking against the appointed leadership of Moses, highlighting how dangerous it is to speak loosely against authority.
Being subject to principalities and powersBelievers are reminded by Paul to be subject to rulers, speak evil of no man, and maintain good works because of God's mercy.Titus 3:1–8
Christ died for us while we were sinnersGod demonstrates His own love toward us in that while we were still helpless sinners, Christ died for the ungodly.
Should we continue in sin that grace may abound?Paul emphatically rejects the idea that believers can keep living in sin just because grace abounds, urging them not to let sin reign in their mortal bodies.
The grain of wheat must dieJesus teaches that unless a corn of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; those who love their lives will lose them.John 12:24
Overcoming by the blood of the LambBelievers overcome the accuser by the blood of the Lamb, the word of their testimony, and by not loving their lives unto the death.
