Be a Church Without Compromise to Gain Christ — Dave Bertsch & Allan Daniel — January 14, 2024
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker reflects on the messages given to the seven churches in Revelation, emphasizing the danger of compromise even when the church outwardly professes faith. He warns the congregation to guard against subtle worldliness, such as gossip or neglecting first love, because the Lord's critique is more important than outward appearance. The message concludes with an exhortation to maintain purity in faith, drawing a parallel to the blind man who, after receiving his sight, immediately followed Jesus.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What is the Lord saying about us?Instead of just asking what the Lord is saying to us, we should consider what He says about our local church when looking at the seven churches in Revelation.
The faithfulness and faults of PergamusJesus commends the church in Pergamus for holding fast His name during intense persecution, but rebukes them for tolerating false teachings and immorality.
Watch out for sneaky compromise and gossipBelievers must guard against worldliness and subtle sins like gossip, noting that Jesus never indulged in gossip even among His closest disciples.
What do you want me to do for you?When Jesus asked blind Bartimaeus what he wanted, Bartimaeus asked for his sight, received it, and immediately chose to follow Jesus on the hard road.
Examining the underlying motives of our prayersWhen we bring requests to God—such as for healing or promotion—we must check whether our goal is earthly ease or ultimately to gain Christ and follow Him.
My grace is sufficient for youWhen Paul pleaded for his thorn in the flesh to be removed, God answered by giving him sufficient grace rather than physical healing.2 Corinthians 12:8–9
Conformed to the image of ChristWhether God grants our specific requests or not, the ultimate destination and end goal of every trial is to be conformed to the image of Christ.Romans 8:29
