Being Rich Toward God -- Olu Talabi -- December 6, 2020
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon emphasizes the urgency of living for Christ because the return of the Lord is nearer than when believers first accepted faith. Paul urges the congregation to cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light, focusing diligently on the prize which is Christ. The speaker repeatedly stresses that every individual will receive a reward according to their works, urging listeners to remain focused on eternal matters rather than earthly pursuits.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Our salvation is nearer now than when we first believedPaul reminds believers that time is constantly passing and every day brings us closer to the return of the Lord or the end of our lives.Romans 13:11–12
The devil knows his time is shortWhile believers often forget that time is short, the devil never forgets and actively works to distract us with earthly things so we lose focus on Christ.
The biblical reality of rewards for our worksAlthough we serve Christ out of love, the Bible clearly teaches that Jesus is coming back with rewards for each person according to their earthly work.
Bearing eternal fruit for the LordBeyond the foundational fruit of the Spirit, believers must pursue the specific work and service that God has called them to accomplish on earth.
Beware of covetousnessJesus warns believers to watch out for covetousness, which is idolatry and a dangerous distraction that pulls our attention away from eternal things.
Godliness with contentment is great gainPaul warns Timothy that the love of money leads to destruction, reminding believers to be content with daily provision rather than chasing riches.
A man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessionsOur worth and life are not measured by financial status or the things we possess, so we must avoid comparing ourselves to the rich or poor.
The parable of the rich foolJesus tells the parable of a man whose business prospered and who trusted in his earthly goods for many years, only to die that very night without being rich toward God.
Going out to bear fruit that will lastJesus chose and ordained us to go out and bear fruit that will stand when we give an account of our lives before Him.John 15:16
Lifting up our eyes to the harvestJesus points out that the fields are ready for harvest, calling believers to actively participate in planting, watering, and bringing souls into the kingdom.
Those we labor for as our crown of rejoicingPaul's writings show that the people we lead to the Lord and labor for will serve as our crown of joy in the presence of Jesus.1 Thessalonians 2:19
Staying focused and asking the Lord what to doKnowing that time is short and accountability is coming, we must ask the Lord what He wants us to do with our remaining years and stay faithful to Him.
