Honoring the Lord This Year -- Olu Talabi -- January 3, 2021
http://rlcf.church/media/sermons/honoring-lord-this-year River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The sermon emphasizes that God is not a respecter of persons, meaning faithfulness and honoring God are what matter, not status or past achievements. The core message is a call to continue diligently in the things of God, urging the congregation not to rest on past glories but to maintain patient continuance in faith. The speaker stresses that consistent obedience and repentance are what secure God's favor and eternal life.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What Jesus said about Naaman in Luke 4Jesus points the Jews of Nazareth to the stories of Elijah and Elisha, highlighting that God healed Naaman the Syrian rather than people in Israel.Luke 4:25–27
God is no respecter of personsGod does not play favorites based on heritage or past accomplishments; He honors those who honor Him right now.
Current obedience matters more than past worksUsing examples from Ezekiel 18, the speaker explains that even a righteous person who turns away from God will face judgment, while one who repents will live.
Patient continuance in Romans 2Paul writes that eternal life is given to those who patiently continue in well-doing and seeking after God.Romans 2:6–11
Overcoming weariness from the past yearAlthough 2020 left many Christians tired and weary, believers must not give up or doubt God, but go from strength to strength in 2021.
We have need of patienceHebrews 10 teaches that believers need patience to do the will of God and ultimately receive His promise.
God's strict discipline of Moses and AaronGod was ready to deal severely with Moses over disobedience regarding circumcision and nearly destroyed Aaron before Moses interceded.
The consequence of sin in David's houseWhen sin entered David's household, God eventually divided the kingdom and raised up others, showing that faithfulness is always required.
Persuaded of better things for this churchLike the writer of Hebrews, the speaker is persuaded that God's hand will remain on the fellowship as they look forward rather than resting on past work.
The joy of the Lord is our strengthNehemiah 8:10 reminds us that despite living in a rough and confusing time, God supplies daily grace and strength as we walk in a pleasing manner.Nehemiah 8:10
Do not turn backHebrews 10 warns against turning back or getting tired, urging believers to rest in the security and salvation provided in Jesus Christ.
Continuing faithfully to the endThe true Christian walk involves never getting tired but pressing forward from strength to strength so that Jesus is glorified.
