Words of Encouragement -- Ajay Chakravarthy & Dave Bertsch -- June 27, 2021
http://rlcf.church/media/words-of-encouragement River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker warns against spiritual complacency, using scripture to caution that those who become lukewarm risk falling away, much like a boat drifting without an anchor. He emphasizes that believers are called to be untainted witnesses in the world, interacting with people who are struggling with hidden pain. Ultimately, the lasting impact of a godly life is that even those who don't follow may remember the witness and experience a spiritual turning point later.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Taking heed so we do not fall awayThe speaker warns that wayward influences can bring down even mighty men if believers do not take heed to spiritual truths and guard against becoming lukewarm.Proverbs 7:26
Let him who thinks he stands take heedBelievers must examine their own hearts and anchor themselves in spiritual things to prevent gradual spiritual drift.1 Corinthians 10:12
The ruler of this world has nothing in JesusJesus testified that the ruler of darkness was coming but had nothing in Him, remaining entirely separate from darkness just as oil and water do not mix.John 14:30
Matthew calling his friends to meet JesusWhen Jesus called Matthew the tax collector, Matthew hosted a large reception where Jesus interacted with tax collectors and sinners.
Being a godly witness among people who are hurtingBelievers live among people facing deep struggles, depression, and brokenness, and they are called to be an unforgettable witness of a godly life.
The lasting fruit of testimony seen in Simon of Cyrene's familySimon of Cyrene was pressed into carrying Jesus' cross, and years later his sons Rufus and his mother are greeted by Paul as choice men in the Lord.Mark 15:21
Rescuing those held captive by the devilGod uses weak believers to rescue people from the snare of the devil with gentleness, granting them repentance and knowledge of the truth.
Isaiah's response of humility before the LordUpon seeing the vision of the Lord, Isaiah immediately recognized his uncleanness and responded with complete willingness to be sent by God.
John the Baptist as a voice bearing witness to the lightThough he performed no miracles, John the Baptist considered himself merely a voice crying in the wilderness to bear witness to the true light.
Apollos humbles himself to learn the way of God more perfectlyThough eloquent and mighty in the scriptures, Apollos humbly accepted correction from Aquila and Priscilla to understand the way of God more completely.Acts 18:24–26
Paul laying hands on disciples who had not yet heard of the Holy GhostPaul encountered disciples who only knew John's baptism, leading them to be baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus and receive the Holy Ghost.Acts 19:1–6
Walking in the kingdom of light by the Holy SpiritTo walk in the kingdom of light, believers must remain open to the ongoing work and revelation of the Holy Spirit without keeping hidden spots.
