Words of Encouragement - Olu Talabi & David Lane - November 25, 2018
http://rlcfchurch.org/words-of-encouragement River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The central message is that true spiritual growth comes not just from hearing sermons, but from actively and diligently studying God's Word. The speaker encourages the congregation to take the message heard and go back to the Bible to search for deeper truths, allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal personal applications. This diligent labor in scripture leads to spiritual maturity, stability, and bearing the fruit of the Spirit, contrasting with those who are passive recipients of teaching.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The Endless Depths of God's WordThe psalmist notes that God's word is exceedingly broad and has no end, building on a recent message about the lesser-known biblical name Zoar.
Two Ways to Respond to a SermonChristians either passively listen to a message and forget it until next Sunday, or they dig into the Bible themselves to search out deeper truths.
The Labor of Spiritual NourishmentJust as the lazy do not eat, Christians must put in the joyous labor of studying scripture so the Holy Spirit can reveal hidden secrets.2 Thessalonians 3:10
The Fruit of Meditating on ScriptureThose who meditate on God's word day and night are like trees planted by streams of water, prospering and producing steady spiritual fruit.
Looking Diligently Against Bitter RootsBelievers must look diligently to ensure no root of bitterness springs up in the heart and defiles many through hidden attitudes and complaints.
Learning Humility from JesusThe surefire way to fail the grace of God is through a lack of true humility, which Jesus specifically invites believers to learn from Him.
Destroying the Amalekites and the FleshGod commanded Israel to utterly destroy the Amalekites, serving as a picture of dealing radically with the flesh and stopping minor sins before they grow.
Viewing Others Through the Eyes of JesusWhen negative thoughts or complaints arise against God's people, believers must look to Jesus, recognize others as God's children, and die to those destructive attitudes.
