14th January 2018 - True Faith And The Fear Of God In These Times
14th January 2018 - True Faith And The Fear Of God In These Times (Heb-11:7)
Summary
The message centers on defining and emphasizing true faith, drawing heavily from Hebrews 11:7. The speaker explains that faith is the assurance and conviction of things unseen, which is necessary to understand God's Word and ways. He uses the example of Noah building the ark based on a warning of things not yet visible.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Opening praise to the Lamb of GodThe congregation gathers to sing praises to the Lord, celebrating being a redeemed people saved by His blood.
God is just the same todayReflecting on the descent of the Holy Spirit, the speaker notes that the God who sent the Spirit remains unchanged in His power and presence.
Preparing for prayerThe speaker invites the congregation to bow their heads and quiet their spirits to focus entirely on the presence of the Lord.
A prayer of worship and praiseThe speaker begins by praising God as the faithful Shepherd and interceding for the congregation and upcoming conferences.
What is true faith?Using Hebrews 11, the speaker defines faith as the assurance of things hoped for and explains that it is necessary to understand God's ways.
Trusting God's control over all thingsThe speaker argues that because God controls even the smallest details, like a dog's bark, believers can remain at peace even when facing false reports or harm.
Learning from the faith of NoahNoah lived by faith in things not yet seen, acting as a herald of righteousness even when his warnings seemed unbelievable to others.
How faith comes through hearing ChristTrue faith is not achieved by self-determination or just understanding truth, but by listening to God's word concerning Jesus and maintaining a direct connection with Him.
Seeking a testimony of reverenceThe speaker expresses a desperate desire to live in the fear of God, noting that God keeps a book of remembrance for those who esteem His name.
True understanding must lead to the fear of GodUsing Malachi 2, the speaker argues that knowing the New Covenant is meaningless unless it increases our reverence and fear for God.
The danger of a spiritual deep sleepDrawing from Isaiah 29, the speaker warns that God may shut the eyes of those who honor Him with lips but remove their hearts from Him.Isaiah 29:10–13
The emptiness of the prosperity gospelThe speaker critiques the prosperity gospel, noting that it only benefits those in the pulpit while leaving the poor in the pews even poorer.
The consequences of lacking the fear of GodA lack of fear toward God results in wickedness, unrestrained sin, and a life of destruction, much like the world during the time of Noah.
The blessings of a godly manLiving in fear of the Lord brings immense benefits, including divine protection, instruction in the right way, and being hidden in God's secret place.
Responding to the Word with godly sorrowTrue reverence is demonstrated when we take God's word to heart, allowing a godly sorrow to lead us to sincere repentance and a renewed relationship with Him.
