28th February 2021 - Sunday Church Service | Trials Enrich us and Prepare us for Christ's Return
28th February 2021 - Sunday Church Service | Trials Enrich us and Prepare us for Christ's Return
Summary
The message asserts that the purpose of all trials is not to discourage believers but rather to refine them and conform them to the image of Christ, citing Romans 8:28 and 29. Historically, God has used trials, such as exile, to purify His people, bringing out something good from the testing process. Therefore, believers should view trials as a means of spiritual refinement.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Trials enrich us and prepare us for Christ's returnThe purpose of trials is not to discourage us, but to conform us to the image of Jesus Christ.
The wise and foolish virginsWhile both groups had burning lamps representing a good testimony before men, the wise virgins also carried a hidden flask of oil.
What is the extra oil purchased from the dealers?The dealers represent the trials God sends into our lives where we must pay a price to maintain our faith, praise, and readiness.
Learning from Job's testingSatan challenges God by claiming man will curse Him under bodily suffering, exposing whether our love for God surpasses our love for our own lives.
God gives songs in the nightElihu points to God as the One who gives songs in the night of trial, spiritual darkness, and uncertainty.Job 35:10
Jesus singing a hymn before His sufferingImmediately after instituting the New Covenant memorial, Jesus and His disciples sang a hymn right before facing the ultimate agony of the cross.Matthew 26:26–30
Learning the new song by following the LambThe 144,000 learn a unique song because they follow the lamb wherever He goes and enter into the fellowship of His sufferings.
Walking in the footsteps of faith and lovePersonal trials, such as facing false accusations, are opportunities to walk in faith toward God and love toward adversaries.
Redeemed and freed from the earthThose who are redeemed from the earth detach from earthly things, people, and property to love Jesus supremely and become true overcomers.
