Living By Sincere Faith - Anand Thomas
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Summary
The central message is the necessity of cultivating a living and sincere faith, which involves unwavering dependence on the Lord through all life's trials. The speaker contrasts trusting in man or flesh, which leads to spiritual barrenness, with trusting in the Lord, which results in enduring strength like a tree by water. Examples from scripture, including Peter's declaration to Jesus and Peter walking on water, illustrate that true faith requires stepping out in trust based on Jesus' word.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
The importance of a sincere and living faithThe apostles labored to see disciples grow in a sincere faith, which is one of the key things Jesus looks for upon His return.Luke 18:8
Trusting in man versus trusting in the LordJeremiah contrasts the cursed person who trusts in mankind with the blessed person whose trust is completely in the Lord.Jeremiah 17:5–8
Looking to God instead of worldly strengthBelievers often run to human help in times of difficulty like Egypt of old, but God warns that human strength will fail.
Peter's abiding trust in JesusWhen many disciples turned away, Peter declared that Jesus alone has the words of eternal life.
Stepping out in faith like Peter on the waterPeter heard Jesus speak during the storm and stepped out of the safety of the boat to walk on water in faith.
Three possibilities: denial, despair, or dependenceWhen examining our condition regarding faith, we face three possibilities: denial, despair, or dependence.
What is denial?Denial involves living in unreality, acting as though there is no God and that we can do whatever we want.
Pharaoh's denial of the LordPharaoh dismissed God's authority by asking who the Lord was that he should obey His voice.Exodus 5:2
The Pharisee and self-righteous denialThe Pharisee trusted in his own righteousness and viewed others with contempt, exemplifying a subtle form of denial.Luke 18:8
The trap of despairDespair is the false belief that while God is good, our sin is too great for Him to save us.
The tax collector who went home justifiedUnlike the Pharisee, the tax collector humbly cried out for mercy and went down to his house justified.
Jacob's faith as a dying worshipperAt the end of his life, Jacob worshiped God leaning on his staff, having been completely broken and humbled by God.Hebrews 11:21
Jacob's desperate prayer at the JordanJacob acknowledged his unworthiness before God, remembering that he had crossed the Jordan with only his staff.
Choosing to walk by faithInstead of bouncing between denial and despair, we are called to trust God to change our nature and fulfill His purpose.
